I am an active 68-year-old, but suffer from varicose veins in my legs. Can you suggest anything?

Your veins will take time to regenerate, but this is possible with the following remedies. Take the calcium preparation Urticalcin (three tablets twice a day). Also take Aesculus (one tablet a day) - made from horse chestnut, which strengthens and tightens the vein walls - and stroke the legs upwards using Aesculus gel. Do not wear tight clothing, cross your legs or stand for long periods. Take lots of outdoor exercise and put your feet up at every opportunity. Urticalcin (£4.29 for 400 tablets) and Aesculus (£7.99 for 30 tablets; £8.95 for 100g gel), both by Bioforce, 01294 277344.

I am 6ft 4in tall and weigh just over nine stone. I eat a healthy and plentiful vegetarian diet, but want to put on weight. Do I resort to chips and beer?

You do not need to compromise your healthy diet, but certain foods will help you put on weight. Eat potatoes, beans, avocados, bananas, nuts, cheese, soy puddings and full-fat yoghurts. Include lots of polyunsaturated fats (excellent for your skin, hair and immune system, and high in calories) such as flax, safflower, walnut and pumpkin oil, as well as olive oil. Eat wholegrain bread, pasta, biscuits and cereals, and drink lots of pure fruit juices. Eat more - and more often.

Emma Mitchell is a natural health therapist. Send your questions to Wellbeing, Guardian Weekend, 119 Farringdon Road, London EC1R 3ER. Email: weekend@theguardian.com