DEAR DR. GOTT: I'm from Australia. While visiting a friend in America, I read your column in the newspaper about chronic constipation. My son-in-law, who suffered with this for years, told me about a very good and natural remedy. Scrub the "fur" off the skin of a kiwi fruit. Do not peel the skin off. Remove the hard ends, and cut the fruit into four sections. Eat the kiwi, skin and all, first thing each morning until regular. This needs to be repeated only as required.

After major surgery, my husband tried this to avoid any straining, and it worked for him, too!

DEAR READER: Kiwi fruit is rich in water-soluble vitamins, antioxidants, flavonoids and minerals. It is reported to contain more vitamin C than oranges, as much potassium as bananas and a good amount of beta carotene. It is rich in dietary fiber, which is likely the reason it cured the problem of chronic constipation for your son-in-law and husband. Foods high in fiber are known to reduce cholesterol levels, help diabetes, lower the likelihood of heart attack and improve conditions for those suffering from cardiovascular disease.

Constipation can occur for a variety of reasons, including poor diet, a lack of exercise, an insufficient intake of water, electrolyte abnormalities and changes in one's lifestyle. Disorders such as thyroid conditions, hemorrhoids, fissures, and neurological disorders, including stroke and Parkinson's disease, can contribute to the problem. A number of medications, primarily narcotics, antacids, antidepressants and those used for hypertension and heart ailments could also be to blame.

If kiwi works for your family, I recommend they stick with this delectable fruit. Others might consider drinking eight glasses of water daily, increasing physical activity, limiting foods high in fat and sugar and cutting back on dairy products.

If these steps don't work to satisfaction, speak with a physician or gastroenterologist for further direction.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Constipation and Diarrhea." Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped No. 10 envelope and a check or money order for $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

DEAR DR. GOTT: What is the reason some people perspire on their heads so profusely? I know several men, women, youngsters, seniors, thin and heavy people who sweat so much that their heads and hair are wet but their bodies aren't perspiring. It's embarrassing. People look as though they have just stepped out of the shower. Two of my grandchildren and I suffer from this absurd condition. Is there any help for us?

DEAR READER: A person who sweats excessively is known as having hyperhydrosis. Common areas include the hands, face and underarms. A less likely area is the head, which contains sweat glands that play an important role in the management of regulating body temperatures.

A possible cause for your condition is a thyroid disorder. Another could be a side effect of any medication you might be on. There's even the chance you wash your hair too frequently.

Speak with your physician and ask his or her opinion regarding lab testing to rule out a thyroid disorder. If you are on any medications, ask whether a side effect might be causing the problem. And, when possible, refrain from wearing a hat so your head can breathe better.

Dr. Peter Gott is a retired physician and the author of the book "Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Diet," available at most chain and independent bookstores, and the recently published "Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Cookbook."