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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
- Is it harder to lose weight when you’re older? With a few lifestyle changes, maintaining a healthy weight doesn’t have to be hard as you age, says dietitian and exercise physiologist Caitlin Reid. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/food-diet/nutrition/is-it-harder-to-lose-weight-when-older
- Detoxing: the path to wellness or waste of time? Detoxing devotees believe the practice cleanses the body, and can promote weight loss. Does the science support these claims? https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/food-diet/nutrition/detoxing-the-path-to-wellness-or-waste-of-time
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- Why stretch? And 3 easy exercises to get you started https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/three-easy-stretches
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- First aid basics we should all know Accidents happen. Do you know how to help someone who’s injured? Learn how. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/giving-back/first-aid-basics-we-should-all-know
- The vaccination conversation: when families disagree When it comes to the health and wellbeing of a child, disagreements can be a problem. Here’s some expert advice on starting the conversation. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/the-vaccination-conversation-when-families-disagree
- Medical tourism: what are the risks? The risks of travelling overseas for surgery, particularly cosmetic surgery. Does insurance cover you? And will you really save money? https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/medical-tourism-what-are-the-risks
- Do you know how to treat minor burns? How to know if you have a minor burn and how to treat it correctly. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/do-you-know-how-to-treat-minor-burns
- Childhood vaccination: The facts What you need to do to keep your child on track with the vaccination schedule, and the truth about vaccination side effects. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/childhood-vaccination-the-facts
- Health checks by age: the tests you should be having Your guide to staying on top of your health, through every stage of life. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/health-checks-by-age-the-tests-you-should-be-having
- Preparing your child for hospital Here’s how to make the hospital experience less stressful for you and your child. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/preparing-your-child-for-hospital
- The anti-vaccination movement: myths vs facts https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/the-anti-vaccination-movement-myths-vs-facts
- Do you avoid visiting the dentist? If you’re worried about the cost, or anxious about dental treatment, you’re not alone. Tackling these issues head on is the way forward. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/do-you-avoid-visiting-the-dentist
- Prescription meds It starts innocuously enough. You have your wisdom teeth out and are given an opioid like oxycodone for pain relief. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/prescription-medications
- Your guide to important check-ups for children The best time to get your child’s hearing, sight and teeth checked, including the screening programs in Australia. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/your-guide-to-important-check-ups-for-children
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- Common diet mistakes What are the top diet mistakes people make? Why do they happen? Healthy eating tips from dietitians help you avoid these poor diet habits. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/food-diet/nutrition/diet-mistakes
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- Tendonitis: what it is and how to treat it The pain of tendonitis can be treatable, and it doesn’t have to mean giving up the activities you love. Find out more about this common condition. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/what-is-tendonitis
- Are there health benefits to later retirement? https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/are-there-health-benefits-to-delaying-retirement
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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/body-mind/mental-health/breathing-exercises-for-anxiety
- 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/body-mind/mental-health/5-ways-to-boost-your-energy-levels
- 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 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
- 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-improve-your-bone-health
- 5 ways to save with your private health cover Private health cover should never be set and forget. Try these tips to help get more value and greater peace of mind for your health. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/reduce-cost-of-private-health-insurance
- How to get the most out of your GP appointment Maximising your time with your doctor can bring real health benefits. Here’s why preparation is key to getting more out of your GP appointments. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/how-to-get-the-most-out-of-your-gp-visit
- Prostate cancer: treatment options Prostate cancer treatment, if detected early, can be highly effective, with many options now available. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men in Australia. Here’s what you need to know. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/prostate-cancer-treatment
- Healthy food and alcohol swaps for the festive season Keep healthy this festive season with our healthy food and alcoholic swap ideas to stay on track without spoiling the fun. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/food-diet/nutrition/healthy-food-swaps-for-the-festive-season
- Prevention is best: how to get more back with HCF extras Your private health cover isn’t just for when you’re sick – it can also keep you healthier for longer. Here’s how to get more value out of your HCF extras. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/hcf-extras-value
- Sugar’s impact on your body: 9 hidden side effects Rising levels of obesity and type 2 diabetes are highlighting concerns about sugar’s impact on your body. Discover the impact of consuming too much sugar and how to curb your sweet tooth. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/food-diet/nutrition/impact-of-sugar-on-body
- The benefits of walking for mental health and brain function There’s more to walking than just staying fit. It can also enhance your mental health, boost cognitive function and keep your brain healthy for longer. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/walking-for-mental-brain-health
- 5 ways your health cover can help improve your wellbeing From extras that will keep you moving to essential health checks and programs that support your wellbeing, here’s how your health cover can help improve your wellbeing. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/staying-healthy-private-health-cover
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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