Salad

Welcome to your regular dose of SALAD (Short Answer Long Answer Day). We've covered a range of health related topics for those who either want the short answer (too long; didn’t read) or prefer to nerd out with a more detailed long answer and associated source material.

Do I need probiotics or prebiotics?

Short answer: Probiotics and prebiotics can both be very effective in improving a range of gut health and other health issues in the body, with the right approach required to ensure the right types are given where necessary.

Long answer:

A lot of gastrointestinal problems can stem from not having the right level of good…

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How does a lack of sleep affect me?

Short answer: If you are sleep deprived, studies show you are at risk both physically and mentally, with your safety and quality of life, as well as those around you, at risk of being affected.

Long answer:

Our daily waking life is impacted by our sleep, both overnight and long-term. While we…

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What is intermittent fasting and how does it work?

Short answer: Intermittent fasting is an eating plan that alternates phases of eating with set intervals without eating any food (fasting) on either a daily or regular basis, ranging from a few hours to fasting for a whole day.

Long answer:

Intermittent fasting is the process of only eating within a specific timeframe as a means…

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Why do I gain weight when I’m stressed?

Short answer: External stressors (work, relationships, finances, etc) can affect our hormones that regulate our hunger, resulting in us often eating calorie dense foods (sugars, fats, etc) as a quick energy source to feel better and thereby manage the stressor.

Long answer:

When we become stressed, our bodies release stress hormones including cortisol and adrenaline that in…

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How Do I Achieve My New Year’s Resolution?

Short answer: A New Year’s resolution is a promise to oneself to change a habit or behaviour, in order to accomplish a personal goal, achieved through planning, simplicity, accountability and ongoing support

Long answer:

Every year, millions of people make New Year’s resolutions, hoping to spark positive change. The…

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What is Lymphoedema?

Short answer: Lymphoedema (pronounced lim-fe-dema) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the lymphatic system – a crucial part of the immune system – which circulates infection-fighting fluid (lymph) around the body.

Long answer:

Lymphoedema is a complex condition which is not broadly researched or understood, even throughout the…

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Can I survive the silly season indulgences and still be kind to my health?

Short answer: By taking care of our gut and mental health in the days and weeks prior to the big festivities, we can set ourselves up to enjoy ourselves and all the indulgences that go with the festive season, giving ourselves the best chance of a quick recovery and preparation for a healthy and happy New Year.

Long answer:

This time of year is called the silly season for a reason. It is the…

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What is the NDIS?

Short answer: The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a scheme of the Australian Government that funds costs associated with disability.

Long answer:

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an initiative implemented by the National Disability Insurance…

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What is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD

Short answer: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a preventable and treatable lung disease characterised by persistent respiratory symptoms like progressive breathlessness and cough.

Long answer:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an umbrella term that includes a number of long-term…

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Does altered gut health contribute to autism?

Short answer: A recent Australian study has concluded that a dysfunctional gut microbiome may exacerbate some detrimental autistic behaviours but is more likely to be a consequence of, rather than the cause of autism

Long answer:

There has been much written about the relationship between our gut and brain. Some research…

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