What's That Rash?

We haven’t always suppressed our sweat or our natural body odour, but in many cultures now it’s expected we’ll all try to smell our best.You might be seeing more ads for ‘natural’ deodorants that promise to keep you fresh without any harmful ingredients.Norman and Tegan talk through those ingredients, and whether they carry any risks.References:The specific biochemistry of human axilla odour formation viewed in an evolutionary contextUse of Aluminium in Antiperspirants - Australian Department of HealthAntiperspirants/Deodorants and Breast Cancer - National Cancer InstituteAntiperspirants - National Kidney FoundationHow Advertisers Convinced Americans They Smelled Bad - Smithsonian Magazine

Protein is having its moment — walk any supermarket aisle and you'll find product after product boasting its protein content. Do you need to be loading up on protein through powders or processed foods, or can you meet your goals with whole foods?Norman and Tegan unpack why protein is important and how much you need each day. References:Protein - Nutrient Reference Values for Australia and New ZealandTips to boost protein in your diet from Dietitians AustraliaHow much protein can the body use in a single meal for muscle-building? Implications for daily protein distributionAssociation between dietary protein intake and risk of chronic kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Dive into the health hazards of fine particulate air pollution and its sneaky presence in everyday life. Discover how PM2.5 from sources like combustion and bushfires can lead to serious health issues such as strokes and respiratory conditions. The discussion humorously compares air pollution to smoking, while emphasizing the lack of control individuals have over the air they breathe. Plus, enjoy light-hearted personal stories and listener input on tackling calf cramps, blending science with relatable anecdotes.

Cramping muscles are common, whether they’re associated with exercise or not.Knowing what causes them can help people avoid them or treat them, but for many people it's not a simple story.Norman and Tegan talk through some of the theories behind this painful phenomenon, and why magnesium might not be the answer.References:Muscle cramps: A comparison of the two-leading hypothesisInfluence of Hydration and Electrolyte Supplementation on Incidence and Time to Onset of Exercise-Associated Muscle CrampsMagnesium for skeletal muscle cramps - Cochrane ReviewA randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study assessing the efficacy of magnesium oxide monohydrate in the treatment of nocturnal leg crampsPickle Juice Intervention for Cirrhotic Cramps Reduction: The PICCLES Randomized Controlled TrialAustralian Institute of Sport's sports supplement framework: pickle juice

Dive into the world of hair loss as experts unravel the truth behind various treatments. Discover the science of hair growth and the phases that affect it. Explore historical remedies versus modern medical advances. They tackle effective therapies while warning against dubious alternatives. Plus, the discussion takes an unexpected turn into the carnivore diet, weighing its benefits and long-term concerns. Tune in to make sense of what's real in the quest for healthier hair!

The hosts are buzzing with excitement for their upcoming live event at the World Science Festival Brisbane. They encourage listeners to submit health questions in advance for a chance to get answers on stage. Expect a lively mix of playful banter about their seating arrangements and delightful interactions with the audience. Join them for a fun and informative gathering that promises both learning and laughs!

Dive into the fascinating world of functional mushrooms, exploring their medicinal properties and historical use in cultures worldwide. Discover the potential of mushrooms like lion's mane and turkey tail to bolster immune health and support cancer treatment, amid a blend of skepticism and excitement. The podcast highlights the unique challenges in researching these natural wonders, all while sharing humorous anecdotes and personal experiences related to breathing techniques. It's a lively blend of science, history, and community!

The podcast dives into the trendy phenomenon of mouth taping during sleep, exploring its supposed benefits like improved sleep quality and jawline definition. Listeners hear personal experiences and anecdotes about the discomfort some face with this practice. The discussion highlights the importance of nasal breathing and its connection to established methods, such as the Buteyko Method. Anchored in research, the hosts tackle the limited scientific evidence supporting mouth taping and raise concerns about potential health risks, especially for children.

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.