Coffee is one of the most popular and safest stimulants that we consume. But during pregnancy, and potentially even when planning a pregnancy, it is one ‘legal drug’ where advice for women becomes a little more prescriptive. Alcohol, soft cheeses, raw fish and even raw sprouts are all foods that are best to limit or avoid during pregnancy. So, should coffee be added to the list … [Read more...] about Caffeine and conception: navigating the coffee in pregnancy dilemma
The alkaline diet delusion
What if I told you that all it takes to lose weight, boost energy and prevent diseases like arthritis, osteoporosis and cancer is to eat the right foods to keep the pH of your body in the alkaline zone? Well, if I were prepared to throw out every bit of scientific knowledge that I have on how the human body works to buffer against acidity and alkalinity then sure, I could tell … [Read more...] about The alkaline diet delusion
Is organic food a better choice?
Buying organic is a booming food trend. It is also a trend that comes with a health halo for being more nutritious, healthier and tastier than conventional produce. But how do these claims stack up when you look at the research behind them? And is the price premium you pay for organic worth it? In this blog post, I look at the health merits of going organic and unpick those … [Read more...] about Is organic food a better choice?
Hangover cures: does anything work?
Hangovers are the body's way of reminding us about the hazards of overindulgence. In this blog post, I’ll delve into what goes on behind the scenes to cause a hangover. I’ll then explore what science has to say about all those supposed ‘hangover cures’. And finally, I’ll outline the practical things that are in your control to help prevent and treat a hangover.The dreaded … [Read more...] about Hangover cures: does anything work?
Collagen supplements: a promising aid in tendon repair
Tendons are collagen-infused super-strong bridges that connect muscles to bones helping you to move your limbs. When overused, overloaded or damaged, these same tendons can cause us a lot of pain and movement impairment. Aside from medical treatments and physiotherapy rehabilitation programs that help tendon injuries heal, there has been growing interest in how specialised … [Read more...] about Collagen supplements: a promising aid in tendon repair
Nightshade vegetables: health hazard or nutritional powerhouse?
Heard of nightshades? They are a group of plants that include some very commonly eaten foods. Tomatoes, eggplants, capsicums and potatoes are all nightshades. These are staple foods eaten all around the world. But if you go digging into ‘health and wellness’ advice on the Internet, you’ll come across all sorts of alarming health warnings about nightshades. Digestive issues and … [Read more...] about Nightshade vegetables: health hazard or nutritional powerhouse?