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- Fasting – does it really help you lose weight? Fasting, or intermittent fasting, where you severely limit your food intake, is claimed to have many health benefits. We find out whether it could work for you https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/food-diet/nutrition/the-truth-about-fasting
- The truth about soy: is it good for you? Is soy a healthy source of protein or does it have health risks? We sort the facts from the fiction, including the best types of soy products to eat and advice from a dietitian. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/food-diet/nutrition/the-truth-about-soy-is-it-good-for-you
- Are carbs bad for you? Not all carbs are created equal. Here’s how to make the right carbohydrate choices for good health and weight loss. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/food-diet/nutrition/carbohydrates-in-your-diet
- What are whole foods? In a world of trending diets and food fads, don’t forget the benefits of simply eating wholefoods. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/food-diet/nutrition/what-are-wholefoods
- Foods that can boost your immunity Can food boost immunity? We find foods to eat during the cold and flu season that may help you stay healthy. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/food-diet/nutrition/foods-to-boost-immunity
- How to make resolutions that last Christmas and the holiday season can be stressful – whether it's financial, time, or family issues. We ask the experts for their advice on how to plan ahead. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/make-resolutions-that-last
- The science behind motivation What is motivation? We find out how our brain becomes, and stays, motivated, to help us achieve our goals with expert tips from a neuroscientist. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/science-behind-motivation
- When perfectionism turns into anxiety: what are the signs? What are the health benefits of green space? Here’s why getting outdoors in nature can reduce stress and anxiety and improve wellbeing. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/understanding-perfectionism-and-anxiety
- The importance of fitness in your 40s If you’re in (or edging close to) your 40s take note; building exercise into your life can boost your health, now and in the future. Learn how. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/the-importance-of-fitness-in-your-40s
- Is running good for you? Depending on who you ask, running will either add years to your life or age you prematurely. Here are the facts https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/is-running-good-for-you
- What kind of exerciser are you? From people player to weekend warrior, find the key to enjoying your workouts and sticking at them. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/what-kind-of-exerciser-are-you
- Struggling to stay fit? We’ve got solutions for common exercise excuses Simple, easy ways to add exercise to your life no matter how busy you are, and even if you hate the gym. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/struggling-to-stay-fit-we-got-solutions-for-common-exercise-excuses
- Why Australians need to be sun smart Australia has some of the highest UV radiation levels in the world, increasing our skin cancer risk. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/why-australians-need-to-be-sun-smart
- How to identify toxic relationships What is a toxic relationship? How does it impact your health? What are the signs? And how can you handle it, or step back if required? https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/toxic-relationships
- How ‘green space’ can improve your health What are the health benefits of green space? Here’s why getting outdoors in nature can reduce stress and anxiety and improve wellbeing. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/green-space-can-improve-health
- Dementia: reduce your risk Simple lifestyle changes could help lower your risk of dementia. Find out what you can do. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/dementia
- How easy is it to damage your hearing? Are you damaging your hearing without knowing it? Here’s how to find out, including types of hearing loss and how to prevent hearing loss. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/hearing-damage
- Migraines: more than a bad headache What is a migraines? If you suffer from these severe headaches there are ways to treat them, and possibly prevent them from occurring. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/migraines
- Knee replacement A knee replacement can seem daunting, but it can give you a new lease on life. Here are the factors to consider with knee surgery, including info from surgeons. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/knee-replacement
- Autoimmune diseases An autoimmune disease may mean a change in lifestyle habits, diet and exercise. We explain three autoimmune diseases: MS, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/autoimmune-diseases
- Conquering Crohn's Lower your risk of heart disease: which lifestyle changes you should make to reduce your chances of heart disease, with advice from the Victor Chang Institute. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/conquering-crohns
- Heart disease lower your risk Lower your risk of heart disease: which lifestyle changes you should make to reduce your chances of heart disease, with advice from the Victor Chang Institute. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/heart-disease-lower-your-risk
- Sun safety myths Before heading outdoors this summer, brush up on your 'slip, slop, slap, seek and slide’ knowledge. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/sun-safety-myths
- 4 reasons to see an orthodontist (it's not just about braces) There are many different reasons to see an orthodontist, from smile alignment to treating sleep apnoea. Should you consider a visit? https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/4-reasons-to-see-an-orthodontist
- Shedding a light on lesser known cancers These forgotten cancers can be hard to spot, with some not showing symptoms until later stages. Find out more about these forgotten cancers, including symptoms. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/forgotten-cancers
- Doctors prescribing vegies for better health Most of us still aren’t eating enough vegetables. Now some doctors are driving the message home by writing vegie prescriptions. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/food-diet/nutrition/doctors-prescribing-vegies-for-better-health
- 5 simple ways to try outdoor fitness activities Many of us are experiencing a disruption to our ‘normal’ life, including our exercise routines. But we know it’s so important to keep active for our physical and mental health. Get busy with our five ideas for outdoor fitness activities. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/top-outdoor-fitness-activities
- How to talk to your teen about drugs (…and not make it awkward) As the music festival season begins, how do parents talk to kids about drugs and their risks? Here’s what you need to know and how can you support your kids. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/how-to-talk-to-your-teen-about-drugs-and-not-make-it-awkward
- Why stretch? And 3 easy exercises to get you started https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/three-easy-stretches
- Health issues you’ve always wanted to ask about Some health issues can feel embarrassing to talk about, from farting to erectile dysfunction. We ask an expert what’s normal and when to see your doctor. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/embarrassing-health-issues
- Group fitness gains: the benefits of working out with friends How group exercise can help you stick to your goals, boost your fitness and help improve social connections. Includes tips from health experts. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/group-fitness
- Finding the right sports shoe for you Sports shoes: do you know which one is right for your favourite form of fitness? Do you need special running shoes or sneakers? Here’s some expert advice. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/finding-the-right-sports-shoe
- Do wearables really work? Are wearable fitness trackers worthwhile, and how can you make the most of them to achieve your health and fitness goals? https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/wearables-and-your-health
- Why mixing up exercise is good for you Bored of your exercise routine? Here’s why you shouldn’t just stick to one kind of workout, and a personal trainer with tips on changing up your fitness. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/mix-up-your-exercise-routine
- Mythbusting: 6 fitness claims put to the test Here are fitness myths busted as we analyse six claims about exercise, from the number of steps to take a day to stretching before a workout. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/fitness-myths
- The top reasons you should exercise When the temperature soars, your usual workout may not be as comfortable or easy. We ask the experts for their advice on keeping cool while staying fit in summer. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/seven-reasons-you-should-exercise
- How to exercise safely in the heat When the temperature soars, your usual workout may not be as comfortable or easy. We ask the experts for their advice on keeping cool while staying fit in summer. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/how-to-exercise-safely-in-the-heat
- Understanding your heart rate to maximise your work out What does heart rate have to do with exercise intensity? We find out how to measure your heart rate plus how to calculate your target heart rate for exercise. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/heart-rate-maximise-work-out
- Why core strength is important It’s easy to fit core strength exercises into your day. We examine why a strong core is so important for good health and discover simple core exercises to do at home. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/why-core-strength-is-important
- Do home remedies really work? When the temperature soars, your usual workout may not be as comfortable or easy. We ask the experts for their advice on keeping cool while staying fit in summer. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/home-remedies
- Exercise dos and don’ts Stay motivated and reduce your risk of injury with these tips from an exercise physiologist. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/exercise-dos-and-donts
- Why men avoid going to the doctor Men seek out medical help a lot less than women, which can have a huge impact on their health and longevity. Here's why it's important we start the conversation to reduce stigma around male health. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/why-men-avoid-doctors
- The back-to-school health checks to book now Along with new drink bottles and uniforms, here are the health checks that are important for kids in the new school year. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/work-life/family/back-to-school-health-checks
- 7 men's health checks to book now Protect your mental health and reduce the risk of conditions like heart disease and bowel cancer with these 7 essential men’s health checks. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/key-health-checks-for-men
- How to talk to family and friends about changing your drinking habits If you’ve made the choice to change the way you drink, or give up alcohol completely, you may struggle with how to navigate certain social situations. These go-to responses will help you feel confident in your decision. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/changing-your-drinking-habits
- Do you need to update your private health cover? Get the most out of your cover by making sure your private health insurance is right for you and your life stage. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/when-to-update-your-health-insurance-policy
- How your health cover can help you look after your body We all have different health needs and conditions – here’s how your health cover can help you to maintain your physical health, long term. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/staying-healthy-private-health-cover
- Top 7 reasons to have private health cover With the rising cost of living, investing in your health is one of the best ways you can future-proof your wellbeing, get treatment faster and even save money. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/reasons-to-get-private-health-insurance
- Skin cancer checks: how to spot the signs If caught early, skin cancer can often be successfully treated so checking your skin regularly – and knowing what to look for – is vital. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/your-skin-check-checklist
- Tests during pregnancy: what to expect Getting tests during pregnancy is important for both your and your baby’s health. Here’s what to expect with each medical test, when you’ll be tested and how to prepare. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/pregnancy-birth-perinatal/tests
- Incidental activity: focus on movement instead Incidental activity is a movement mindset may help you achieve your fitness goals. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/movement
- THREE EASY WAYS TO PREVENT OSTEOPOROSIS Osteoporosis is common in women and men over 50, but prevention is possible. Here are simple tips to reduce your risk factors and keep your bones strong for life. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/conditions/reduce-risk-osteoporosis
- How to take care of your joints while exercising Protecting your joints when playing sport can support our wellbeing at every age. Read our tips on caring for your joints while exercising. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/conditions/exercise-joints-care
- Can sex boost your health? Sex can makes you happier… but it can also makes you healthier. We explain why sex is good for your heart, stress levels and brain. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/sex-boost-health
- The science of a break up: What happens to our bodies? The end of your romantic relationship can make a real dent in your physical health. But with the right coping strategies, it can also lead to positive change. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/how-to-deal-breakup
- 5 ways to boost your energy levels At this time of the year, the mental load can feel overwhelming for women. We explore five common causes of tiredness and ask a GP for simple strategies to help. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/5-ways-to-boost-your-energy-levels
- 7 effects of sleep deprivation – and how to fix it Not getting enough shut-eye can be harmful to your health. Here’s how to improve your sleep. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/coping-with-sleep-deprivation
- A guide to health cover for over 50s Growing older can bring unique health priorities and challenges like chronic diseases, weight management and joint issues. Here’s how to maximise your health cover to get the best value in your 50s and beyond. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/health-cover-over-50s
- Breathing exercises for anxiety Anxiety can be overwhelming and knowing how to handle it can be hard. These breathing exercises for anxiety can help you control those feelings of anxiety. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/mental-health/breathing-exercises-for-anxiety
- 7 simple ways to improve your memory Having good recall of information, objects and events isn’t down to good luck – there are lots of things you can actively do to keep your brain sharp. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/7-ways-to-improve-memory
- All about warts: the good, the bad & the ugly Warts may look ugly and be a little embarrassing but the good news is they’re mostly harmless and treatment can be simple and effective. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/all-about-warts
- Leukaemia and other blood cancers: causes, symptoms and treatment Leukaemia, lymphoma and other blood cancers can affect everyone from young children to older adults. Thankfully, there are often ways to treat blood cancer. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/the-three-main-types-of-blood-cancers
- How to build healthy screen time habits for kids What are the negative effects of too much screen time for kids? Here are some tips on how to reduce screen time and stop short-sightedness in children. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/screen-time-and-eyesight-in-children
- Does hair loss treatment work? What causes hair loss and how can you treat it? Here are the facts about hair loss and baldness in men and women, and what you can do to reduce the risk. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/does-hair-loss-treatment-work
- COVID-19 and vaccine questions answered With new developments every day, we understand it can be difficult to keep up with the latest guidelines and health advice around COVID-19 and the vaccine. Find answers to your COVID-19 and vaccine questions. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/covid-vaccine-questions
- Surgery recovery: Preparation is key What can you do before your upcoming surgery to put your body in the best position for a strong recovery? https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/can-prehab-prepare-you-for-surgery
- THREE EASY WAYS TO PREVENT OSTEOPOROSIS Osteoporosis is common in women and men over 50, but prevention is possible. Here are simple tips to reduce your risk factors and keep your bones strong for life. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/how-to-reduce-risk-of-osteoporosis
- Warm-up tips for netball lovers According to experts, taking the time to warm up before you exercise can enhance performance and help reduce the risk of injury. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/netball-warm-ups
- What does my dental cover pay for? Need some help with understanding exactly how dental cover works? We explain what can and can’t be covered, and how you can get the best value from your cover. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/dental-insurance-cover
- Heart health – what women need to know With regular heart health checks and some heart-friendly lifestyle changes, here’s how women can protect themselves and reduce their chances of having a heart attack. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/heart-health-checks-for-women
- 5 benefits of a regular dental check Regular visits to your dentist can help you avoid dental decay, fear of the dentist and even keep your heart healthy. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/benefits-of-regular-dentist-check-ups
- 7 ways to get the most value from your health cover From 100% back on popular extras to joining our health and wellbeing programs, here are seven key ways to get more value from your health cover. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/benefits-of-hcf-cover
- Do blue light glasses work? Many people believe blue light from screens harms your eyes. Experts explain what blue light is, if blue light glasses work and how to protect your eyes from strain. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/blue-light-filters-for-glasses
- How you could prevent a stroke What is a stroke? And how could you prevent a stroke? Here are stroke risk factors, stroke signs to watch for, treatment and more, with expert advice. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/how-to-prevent-a-stroke
- Why HCF dental centres offer high-quality care Since opening our first HCF dental centre in 1987, we’ve always been committed to the wellbeing and care of our patients, both young and old. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/HCF-dental-centres-high-quality-care
- Walking vs running: Which is better for your health? If you want to enjoy the health benefits of gym-free cardio exercise, walking and running are both great options, but which is the better workout? https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/walking-vs-running-health-benefits
- The 5 keys of workplace wellbeing Positive and productive environments where we feel valued and want to be at work are beneficial for workers and employers alike. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/work-life/work/workplace-wellbeing
- How to eat well for less Eating well doesn’t have to be expensive. Forget pricey ingredients and choose seasonal produce and ingredients that can make your meals stretch further. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/food-diet/nutrition/how-to-eat-well-for-less
- How to improve your bone health There’s more to strong bones than drinking milk. Here are five surprising ways to improve your overall bone health. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/how-to-get-strong-bones-why-dancing-is-the-key
- Recover at your own pace It’s hard to imagine the impact having an accident or illness can have on your life. What’s more unexpected are recovery expenses like taxis, babysitters and extra rehab. Here’s how HCF can help with the cost of recovery. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/recover-cover
- Vasectomy: everything you need to know about getting “the snip” While having a vasectomy can be daunting, it’s a simple, routine procedure to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Here’s an overview to help you understand the essentials and make a decision. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/vasectomy-everything-you-need-to-know
- Nutrition for kids: getting a healthy start Nutrition is vital at every stage of kids' development and parents play a key role inencouraging healthy eating habits from a young age. Here’s how. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/work-life/family/nutrition-for-kids
- How to cut down your average sugar intake Many of us eat a lot more than the recommended sugar intake. Here’s how to eat less sugar without giving up your favourite sweets. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/food-diet/nutrition/cut-down-your-sugar-intake
- Cyber safety for kids: tweens and tech The online world is a big part of our teens’ and tweens’ lives. Here’s how to set boundaries and have the conversation about respectful, positive and productive habits and behaviour online. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/work-life/family/cybersafety-for-kids
- Should You Be Drinking Alcohol Around Babies/Children? Youngsters learn many behaviours from their parents. So what does the effect of drinking in front of your children have? https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/alcohol-and-children
- Could you be allergic to dust mites? For the squeamish among us, dust mites are not a pleasant thought. They’re tiny bugs that feed off discarded human skin scales, house dust, and other microscopic food sources like pollen and fungal spores, and are a common allergen. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/dust-mite-allergy
- What is hearing loss and what can you do about it? Have trouble following conversations in a noisy room? You might be one of the many Australians affected by hearing loss. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/hearing-loss
- Ultra-processed foods: what are the health risks? Ultra-processed foods are everywhere these days. But what exactly are they? We explore the health risks and offer simple, heathier food swaps. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/food-diet/nutrition/eating-less-processed-food
- Healthy habits: How to prepare your kids for a stress-free dentist visit A positive first dental visit can help your kids overcome or avoid fear of the dentist later on. Here are some tips for preparing you and your child. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/how-to-help-your-kids-overcome-dental-anxiety
- All your questions about brushing kids’ teeth answered Brushing our teeth twice a day is something most of us do without even thinking about it. Throw kids into the mix, however, and it’s a whole new ball game. We put your questions to HCF Dentist Dr Chris Ho. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/all-your-questions-about-brushing-kids-teeth-answered