Doctor busts common cold and flu myths

Menopause linked to mental health spike in Australian women

A recent Australian study reveals a significant correlation between menopause and increased hospital admissions for serious mental health conditions including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and severe depression. The research suggests women with pre-existing mental health vulnerabilities may require more proactive monitoring during menopause, with anxiety and depression often appearing as early perimenopause markers. Separate research demonstrates that combining 90-120 minutes of weekly strength training with cardiovascular exercise can reduce mortality risk by 20%, with benefits observed even when exercise programmes begin in mid-50s. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Healthy homemade takeaway alternatives for the weekend

Weekend nutritionist Sarah DiLorenzo demonstrates healthy homemade alternatives to popular takeaway meals, including a high-protein breakfast muffin made with wholemeal bread and chicken mince, cauliflower-based pizza with vegetable toppings, sweet potato hash browns, and a honey soy chicken dish with cauliflower rice. Each recipe focuses on swapping refined ingredients for wholegrains, lean proteins and vegetables while maintaining familiar flavours. The homemade versions are more cost-effective than delivery services and provide significantly higher nutritional value. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Lawnmower man walks 45km for heart kids

Nathan Stafford, known for transforming neglected yards for strangers in need, completed a 45-kilometre walk from Campbelltown Stadium to Leichhardt Oval whilst pushing a lawnmower to raise funds for Heart Kids Australia. Inspired by his son Benji who underwent open heart surgery for pulmonary valostenosis, the 14.5-hour challenge drew support from NRL players, celebrities including Larry Emdur, and heart families. The fundraising effort supports Heart Kids, an organisation that assists families with children requiring cardiac care, with Nathan's partner Kelly and heart mum Jolene coordinating the event logistics. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Dangerous products disguised as toys sold online

Consumer group Choice has uncovered dangerous products being sold on major online marketplaces including Amazon, eBay, Temu and AliExpress. These hazardous items include cigarette lighters disguised as children's toys and banned tongue studs that pose choking and inhalation risks. Choice is calling on the ACCC to investigate and for the government to introduce a general safety provision requiring companies to ensure product safety before sale, similar to regulations in the EU and UK. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Small business owners feel unsupported by budget

Small business owners express concern about the recent federal budget, citing a lack of consultation and support for their sector. The Prime Minister has defended budget reforms in a speech at Australia's Economic Outlook, committing to hard decisions for long-term national interest. Small business owner Alison Leonard, who manufactures fashion brand Philosophy Australia in Sydney, represents the concerns of a sector that comprises 97% of Australian businesses, calling for greater advocacy and policy adjustments to address immediate challenges during the cost of living crisis. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.