What's That Rash?

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

Norman, an expert in the effects of alcohol on the body, joins Tegan, who shares insights on how hangovers intensify with age. They discuss the surprising science behind alcohol's impact on health and how oxidative stress and inflammation play a role. Tegan explains why our tolerance decreases as we grow older, leading to more intense hangovers. The duo also highlights the need for awareness about alcohol consumption trends in older adults. Tune in for some eye-opening insights into nurturing your health while enjoying a drink!

We get a LOT of questions about sleep – on everything from cheese dreams to sleep farts.Why do you jerk awake as you're drifting off? Why are you itchy as soon as you get into bed?Norman and Tegan snooze through some sleep-related questions in this rapid-fire special.ReferencesToo Sour to be True? Tart Cherries (Prunus cerasus) and Sleep: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysisDreams of the Rarebit Fiend: food and diet as instigators of bizarre and disturbing dreamsSleeping position during early and mid pregnancy does not affect risk of complicationsThe Relationship between Sleeping Position and Sleep Quality: A Flexible Sensor-Based StudyNocturnal Pruritus: The Battle for a Peaceful Night’s Sleep

It might not seem like it, but we humans are electrical beings. We rely on electrical impulses to stay alive.So can we rely on electrical impulses … to get swole?Norman and Tegan investigate the various claims surrounding electrical muscle stimulation.References Functional Electrical Stimulation and Spinal Cord InjuryEffects of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction on Quadriceps Strength, Function, and Patient-Oriented Outcomes : A Systematic ReviewFeasibility and efficacy of progressive electrostimulation strength training for competitive tennis playersEffects of Whole-Body Electromyostimulation on the Energy-Restriction-Induced Reduction of Muscle Mass During Intended Weight Loss

Norman, a passionate advocate for the Mediterranean diet, joins Tegan, a collaborator eager to explore its culinary richness. They uncover the diet's rich history and health benefits, highlighting the value of minimally processed foods and shared meals. They discuss how cultural identity can enhance health, especially among migrants, and the importance of variety in meals. The duo emphasizes adapting traditional diets for modern lifestyles while tackling challenges like food accessibility, inspiring listeners to incorporate small, nutritious changes into their diets.

In some parts of the world sauna bathing is a daily activity.In Finland, it would even be rude to deny an invitation to get hot and sweaty with a business associate.As well as being culturally significant, the sauna has many touted health benefits – from protecting against cardiovascular disease, to fending off cognitive decline.Norman and Tegan sort through the evidence.ReferencesThe multifaceted benefits of passive heat therapies for extending the healthspan: A comprehensive review with a focus on Finnish saunaAssociation Between Sauna Bathing and Fatal Cardiovascular and All-Cause Mortality EventsCardiovascular and Other Health Benefits of Sauna Bathing: A Review of the Evidence

Many people go through phases of nail biting in childhood, and fewer people continue biting their nails into adulthood.It's a habit that can be difficult to break – especially when anxiety can be a trigger, along with boredom.Norman and Tegan take us through the current treatments available for people who want to stop munching on their cuticles.ReferencesOnychophagia and onychotillomania can be effectively managedPrevalence and correlates of clinically significant body-focused repetitive behaviors in a non-clinical sampleHabit reversal vs. negative practice treatment of nailbitingA review of N-acetylcysteine in the treatment of grooming disorders