

What's That Rash?
ABC Australia
Get answers to the health questions everyone's asking. Our experts give you the information you need to feel good and make the best decisions for your brain and body.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 30, 2024 • 18min
Is being an Olympian bad for your health?
If you're glued to your couch watching the Paris Games, you know that elite athletes are beyond impressive.But does that mean they're healthy? Not necessarily.Norman and Tegan unpack the positive and negative impacts of elite-level sport on the body and the mind.ReferencesFemale and male US Olympic athletes live 5 years longer than their general population counterparts: a study of 8124 former US OlympiansLong-term function, body composition and cardiometabolic health in midlife former athletes: a scoping reviewThe mental health of Australian elite athletesAdaptation to life after sport for retired athletes: A scoping review of existing reviews and programs

Jul 23, 2024 • 18min
Are office jobs ruining our bodies?
Exploring the impact of office jobs on our bodies, the hosts debunk myths about posture and back pain. Comparing sitting to smoking, they emphasize the importance of physical activity to combat sedentary work. Practical tips are shared for promoting physical and mental health in office environments, accompanied by humorous listener stories about toothbrushes.

Jul 16, 2024 • 12min
What does sneezing have to do with orgasms?
Discover the bizarre link between sneezing and orgasms, investigate the connection between saying 'bless you' and sneezing, explore unusual post-orgasm reactions and potential health concerns, and learn about the side effects of orgasms and a 'N equals one' study.

Jul 9, 2024 • 16min
Norman tried an ice bath so you don't have to
You've either seen it, or you've tried it. Ice baths are all the rage right now, in part because they claim to be an effective health and wellbeing booster.Is this just a fad, or is there solid evidence that dipping into freezing cold water can improve your immune system, calm down inflammation and better your mood?Norman went for the plunge – and lived to tell Tegan the tale.Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you!ReferencesDoes the Wim Hof Method have a beneficial impact on physiological and psychological outcomes in healthy and non-healthy participants? A systematic reviewGetting colder ... the invigorating effect of ice baths - The Health Report

Jul 2, 2024 • 17min
How risky is sharing a toothbrush?
Delving into the risks of sharing a toothbrush, the podcast explores the complexities of the oral microbiome and its connection to oral health. It discusses the transmission of cariogenic bacteria from mothers to babies, the importance of dental hygiene, and the dangers of attempting DIY medical treatments.

Jun 25, 2024 • 17min
Is gluten really the enemy?
There's no doubt people with coeliac disease should stay away from gluten, but what about the rest of us?There is nothing inherently harmful about gluten when it doesn’t cause you gut trouble.Norman and Tegan talk us through why a gluten-free diet is not necessarily a healthy one.Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you!ReferencesAvoiding gluten when you’re not a coeliac - Health ReportCoeliac disease: review of diagnosis and managementGluten-Free Diet: Gaps and Needs for a Healthier DietGluten-free diet may increase risk of arsenic, mercury exposure

Jun 18, 2024 • 12min
Phlegm — better out than in?
Delving into the purpose and impact of phlegm in lung health, the podcast explores the significance of coughing up phlegm in disease prevention and historical medical traditions. It also discusses the historical role of phlegm in ancient medicine, its influence on humor balance, and addresses listeners' queries about coughing up phlegm. Additionally, the podcast explores the intriguing world of 'short sleepers' who can function on minimal sleep.

Jun 11, 2024 • 18min
Is botox worth a shot?
Unpacking the rise of botox from anti-aging to preventative measures for younger adults. Exploring the safety and effectiveness of botox for frown lines and aging skin. Delving into the mysteries of a botulism outbreak and discussing the health benefits of vinegar, including apple cider vinegar.

Jun 4, 2024 • 16min
Should we all be vegetarian?
For the meat eaters still out there, you may be wondering how much is too much when it comes to your health.You will have to weigh up the benefits and the harms.Norman and Tegan take us through the recommendations, and the science to back them up.References:Health effects associated with consumption of unprocessed red meat: a Burden of Proof studyRed Meat and Processed Meat Consumption and All-Cause Mortality: A Meta-AnalysisPlant-based diets and long-term health: findings from the EPIC-Oxford study

6 snips
May 28, 2024 • 18min
Is apple cider vinegar a cure-all tonic?
Explore the health benefits of apple cider vinegar, including weight loss and gut health. Learn about its origins and historical uses, as well as its potential risks. Join the hosts in a taste test and discuss the intriguing history and marketing of this popular health tonic.


