What's That Rash?

The discussion uncovers the historical roots of brain fog and its resurgence during the pandemic. Personal experiences reveal the cognitive challenges associated with long COVID and chronic fatigue. The complexities of diagnosing brain fog are highlighted, showcasing its subjective nature and ongoing research efforts. The impact of psychological factors, stress, and exercise on brain fog is examined, emphasizing the need for serious medical attention. Insights into automatic behaviors during stress reveal the crucial role of daily habits in managing this elusive condition.

Seed oils like canola and sunflower spark intriguing debates about health. The hosts dissect misconceptions, linking them to modern diet trends like paleo. They explore the balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, arguing that negative views on omega-6 may be overstated. Historical context adds depth to the discussion, especially how dietary fats have evolved over time. Plus, a quirky segment on Tudor-era hygiene practices lightens the mood, showcasing humorous contrasts with today's standards.

The podcast dives into the fascinating debate over daily showering, especially in the heat of Australian summer. It unravels the evolution of hygiene practices through history and cultural perspectives. Experts weigh in on maintaining skin health versus cleanliness, discussing the microbiome's role. The conversation highlights varying global showering habits and the ecological impact of personal hygiene routines. Plus, they bust myths around cleanliness and diet, emphasizing the real benefits of hand-washing and keeping clothes clean.

Explore the intriguing blood type diet, rooted in 90s hype but lacking solid scientific backing. Discover how blood types relate to genetics and health outcomes. The hosts debunk myths linking blood types to personality traits with a humorous twist. They also highlight the importance of blood donation and the real impacts it has on research. Tune in for witty discussions and engaging listener feedback that reveal deeper insights into diet and health.

There are MANY books out there on habit formation. Are they all saying the same thing?Some habits are more complicated than others. Some habits require us to untangle one automatic set of behaviours and replace them with another.It can be a long process — much longer than the 21 days that's often promised.  Norman and Tegan tell us how to form a new habit, in far less than 300 pages, so you can get started. ReferencesNeurobiology of habit formationHow the brain controls our habits - MITBridging the gap between striatal plasticity and learningBasal ganglia and beyond: The interplay between motor and cognitive aspects in Parkinson’s disease rehabilitationYou are what you repeatedly do: Links between personality and habitHow are habits formed: Modelling habit formation in the real worldHow does habit form? Guidelines for tracking real-world habit formationThe role of habit in compulsivityGoal-Directed and Habitual Control in Human Substance Use: State of the Art and Future Directions

'Tis the season to indulge. As you sit down with family and friends, an age-old debate might arise: does drinking a single glass of red wine make you healthier?In this episode first published May 1, 2024, Norman and Tegan try to find out the answer once and for all. References: The French paradox: Lessons for other countriesModerate Wine Consumption and Health: A Narrative ReviewHealth Effects of Red Wine Consumption: A Narrative Review of an Issue That Still Deserves Debate

Dive into the colorful world of light therapy! Discover how red, blue, and ultraviolet lights are not just for futuristic gadgets but have real health benefits. Explore the surprising effectiveness of blue light against acne and learn how bright white light can brighten our moods for seasonal affective disorder. The conversation also shines a light on infrared's role in cancer treatment and the risks associated with UV therapy. With humor and science, this discussion illuminates the possibilities and myths of treating our ailments with light.

Life can be exhausting, and while a nap might be in order, it’s rare you’ve got time to take one.Caffeine can come to the rescue, but you might not be a fan of tea of coffee. Energy drinks are an alternative, but are they any good for you?Norman and Tegan explain what modern energy drinks contain, and what the ingredients do.What's That Rash? is on YouTube! Subscribe to ABC Science to watch the podcast. References:Prevalence and Amounts of Common Ingredients Found in Energy Drinks and ShotsInternational society of sports nutrition position stand: energy drinks and energy shotsConsumption of energy drinks by children and young people: a systematic review examining evidence of physical effects and consumer attitudesEnergy Drinks and Their Adverse Health Effects: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysisA randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trial of a decaffeinated energy drink shows no significant acute effect on mental energyTaurine deficiency as a driver of agingThis scientist treated her own cancer with viruses she grew in the lab

Many people live sedentary lives, sitting in an office all day then coming home to sit on the couch all night.What are the health harms of too much sitting? And do they compare to smoking as some headlines claim?Norman and Tegan settle in to explain the risks, and what you can do to avoid them.What's That Rash? is on YouTube! Subscribe to ABC Science to watch the podcast. References:Evaluating the Evidence on Sitting, Smoking, and Health: Is Sitting Really the New Smoking?Trends in Self-Reported Sitting Time by Physical Activity Levels Among US Adults, NHANES 2007/2008–2017/2018Recent Trends in Sedentary Time: A Systematic Literature ReviewSedentary behaviour and health in adults: an overview of systematic reviewsAround 10,000 steps a day may counteract health risks of high sedentary time

Explore the buzz around collagen supplements and their role in skin health. The hosts humorously dissect the effectiveness of these trendy products compared to natural food sources. Discover the impact of diet and exercise on collagen production. They also share insights on melatonin and listener experiences with skincare. Expect a fun, informative take on navigating health trends and achieving that youthful glow!