Long chain omega-3 fatty acids are the technical term for what we usually just call fish oil. Fish are more than just their oil of course and “fish oil” can be found beyond fish. Regardless, there’s now little doubt that long chain omega-3 can benefit our heart and brain and its importance in pregnancy and early life is also an area of active investigation. Let’s look at how we can reap its benefits in our lives.

Magnesium is a hard worker. Low grade underconsumption is common in diets lacking whole plant foods. So, if you aren’t tip top but can’t put your finger on why, you should consider whether magnesium might be an issue.

Vitamin K is possibly the least discussed vitamin. It sits off to the side, absent from nutrition panels and with a weird name, so no one ever thinks much about it unless they have a blood clot or rat bait poisoning. But behind the scenes, research has been finding vitamin K is valuable beyond blood clotting, possibly protecting against against cardiovascular disease, dementia, diabetes and osteoporosis.

Calcium is undeniably important for bone strength but it’s not the only show in town. How much we need is contested but, in any case very few Australian adults get anywhere the recommendations. Certainly, for women at least, it’s not for want of lifelong pressure to consume more calcium. So, should we try harder? Admit defeat and supplement? Or a bit of both? This one is complex but, by the end, I hope you feel you’ve replaced your chronic low-grade calcium guilt with a plan.  

The festive season is on us, which is a significant religious holiday of course. But also: bottoms up! In December, Australians drink 70% more than the their average intake over the other 11 months of the year. And the rest of the Summer (and most of Autumn) is one long jolly as well. We know heavy drinking is unwise but what are the health effects of light drinking? And are they the same for everyone? Let’s find out.