What's That Rash?

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!

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