What's That Rash?

These days, our mobile phones are rarely far away. Whether it’s in your hand, your pocket, or under your pillow at night.Mobiles do emit radiation in order to connect to phone towers, which enables us to stay in contact with people and the internet.But is that radiation doing us harm?Norman and Tegan talk through the facts – what we do know, don’t know and suspect about our tech companions.What's That Rash? is coming to YouTube! Keep an eye out for the video version of this episode on ABC Science. References:National Cancer Institute - Cell Phones and Cancer RiskMobile phone use and incidence of brain tumour histological types, grading or anatomical location: a population-based ecological studyHas the incidence of brain cancer risen in Australia since the introduction of mobile phones 29 years ago?5G: the new generation of the mobile phone network and health

The podcast dives into the debate surrounding nightshade vegetables like potatoes and tomatoes and their impact on arthritis. It uncovers the myths about their supposed dangers and presents evidence suggesting they may actually be anti-inflammatory. Historical and botanical insights shed light on the medicinal uses of deadly nightshade, highlighting its role in modern medicine. The discussion also includes listener anecdotes on anti-aging strategies, blending health advice with humor.

The quest for eternal youth takes center stage as the hosts delve into the role of NAD+, a promising anti-aging supplement. They dissect the scientific claims of NAD+ and NMN boosters, weighing their potential benefits against safety concerns. Misunderstandings in nutritional science are also highlighted, especially regarding the Vitamin B3 content in Vegemite. The discussion wraps up with a look at the challenges of using these supplements, urging a cautious approach while emphasizing the need for more research.

Vampires and werewolves and zombies, oh my! Where did all these monsters come from?Undiagnosed medical conditions might have fuelled the mythology behind some of these creatures.Norman and Tegan delve into why vampires drink blood, why werewolves howl at the full moon and how a hex might have its intended effect.References:ABC's FrankenScience: Can Vampires Get Syphilis? and Witchcraft or Just a Placebo?All in the Mind: What's behind a paranormal experience?Porphyria and Vampirism—A Myth, SensationalizedMoon and Health: Myth or Reality?The undead in culture and scienceReversibility of apoptosis in cancer cellsMedical practice and placebo response: an inseparable bond?

It’s hay fever season, and as you sniffle away next to an air purifier, you might be wondering why we haven’t cured such a common ailment.Allergic rhinitis, as it’s scientifically known, has plagued people for generations. It's thought up to 24 per cent of Australians suffer from it.Norman and Tegan run through what hay fever is, how we identified it and what can be done to treat it. References:Allergic Rhinitis: A ReviewO Rose thou art sick… history of allergic rhinitisI’m considering allergen immunotherapy for my hay fever. What do I need to know?Ingestion of honey improves the symptoms of allergic rhinitis: evidence from a randomized placebo-controlled trialThe Potential use of Honey as a Remedy for Allergic Diseases: A Mini ReviewCan you adapt to allergies or does the dog have to go?

Many of us are disconnected from nature – we live in cities, work in offices, exercise indoors.There is a hypothesis that our disconnection from the earth itself – the ground – is causing a range of illnesses.But the people selling this hypothesis are also trying to sell you a range of expensive products.Norman and Tegan debunk a pseudoscience that has been gaining traction.References:Electrical Grounding Improves Vagal Tone in Preterm InfantsAssociations between Nature Exposure and Health: A Review of the Evidence

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavour enhancer that often gets a bad wrap.You might know someone who swears it makes them sick, or you yourself might steer clear of foods unless they have that 'no added MSG' label.Norman and Tegan explain why the bad PR around MSG has more to do with shonky research and misconceptions than the ingredient itself.References:MSG in food - Food Standards Australia and New ZealandA review of the alleged health hazards of monosodium glutamateMonosodium glutamate sensitivity in asthmaChinese-Restaurant Syndrome - New England Journal of Medicine

Dive into the world of cortisol and its notorious reputation, often fueled by TikTok trends. Discover the truth behind influencer claims and how they may mislead health perceptions. Explore the gut-brain connection and learn how diet and exercise impact cortisol levels. The conversation brings humor into stress management with funny hangover remedies and the importance of hydration. Get ready for an enlightening discussion that debunks myths while keeping laughter at the forefront!

If you've ever complained about a bad night's sleep, you might've been urged to take melatonin. It's a hormone our bodies naturally produce, and also a supplement that many claim can cure insomnia and leave you better rested. But Norman and Tegan tuck into all the reasons we shouldn't be taking melatonin lightly. ReferencesWhat do we really know about the safety and efficacy of melatonin for sleep disorders?Is melatonin safe for children?Quantity of Melatonin and CBD in Melatonin Gummies Sold in the USClinical trial on the effect of regular tea drinking on iron accumulation in genetic haemochromatosis

Iron deficiency is incredibly common, especially in menstruating women.But this mineral is vital. Our bodies use iron to make haemoglobin, which carries oxygen to our cells.Norman and Tegan take us through what it means to have adequate iron levels, and what it takes.ReferencesA Review of Nutrients and Compounds, Which Promote or Inhibit Intestinal Iron AbsorptionIntermittent iron supplementation for reducing anaemia and its associated impairments in adolescent and adult menstruating womenThe yersiniabactin transport system is critical for the pathogenesis of bubonic and pneumonic plague