Professor of Community Health & Wellbeing @UQMedicine @UQHealth, Director @UQCCHW, @NHMRC Investigator. Championing knowledge leadership for a better world.
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Articles by L. Ball
Would subsidising weight loss drugs make health care fairer?
GLP-1 medicines such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro have transformed the treatment of obesity, but access to them in Australia increasingly depends on something much less medical: whether you can afford them. Around half a million Australians are now using GLP-1 medicines. Nearly half access these medicines privately, paying between A$200 and $700 a month out of pocket. Read more: Mounjaro is more effective for weight loss than Ozempic. So how does it work? And why does it cost so much?
Can you eat too much tinned tuna?
Tinned tuna is a lunchbox staple for many people. It’s affordable, high in protein and doesn’t need cooking, making it a nutritious and convenient option for busy days. But if you’re eating tuna most days, you might have wondered whether it’s possible to have too much. Or perhaps you’ve watched your child happily eat a tuna sandwich every day for a week and wondered if that’s too much of a good thing. The concern usually comes down to mercury.
Worried your toddler isn’t getting enough iron? Here’s what parents need to know Original
The devastating recent deaths of three toddlers in Queensland, linked to low iron levels, have understandably left many parents wondering whether their own child is getting enough iron. The good news is that life-threatening iron deficiency is uncommon. But being low in iron is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies in young children. So it’s worth understanding why iron matters and how to tell if they’re getting enough. There are simple ways to help children meet their iron needs.
Australians live longer than previous decades but spend more years in poorer health
A new snapshot of the nation’s health, released today by the Australian Institute Health and Welfare, shows Australians are living longer than in previous decades. Australia’s long-term life expectancy growth is one of the great successes of modern medicine, public health and improved living conditions. But living longer doesn’t necessarily mean living well. The report shows the average time spent in poor health also rose since 2003.
The new Vegemite Kids has 50% less salt. No, that’s not ‘un‑Australian’ Original
This week, Vegemite launched a new product specifically for children called Vegemite Kids that contains 50% less sodium (salt) than the traditional iconic spread. Reactions have been divided. Some have called it “un-Australian”, said it would make kids less resilient, and called for Vegemite to be left alone. Others thought a lower-salt option was a good idea. Vegemite is among Australian children’s most frequently eaten discretionary breakfast items.
Don’t throw it out! How to cook using ingredients too good to waste Original
Australians are feeling the pressure of rising grocery prices. At the same time, we throw away huge amounts of perfectly edible food every year. Some food spoils before we can use it. But we waste plenty of food by throwing away parts of ingredients we simply don’t think to use. Many of these leftovers are nutritious, tasty and surprisingly versatile. So using more of what you already buy can help stretch your grocery budget further while reducing waste.
What is lipoprotein(a) cholesterol, or Lp(a)? And can you lower yours? Original
Most people know about “good” and “bad” cholesterol. But few realise there is another type called lipoprotein(a). It can raise the risk of heart attacks and strokes, even in people who do everything right. This lesser-known cholesterol particle, often written as Lp(a), is gaining increasing attention from researchers and drug companies. Lp(a) isn’t included in routine cholesterol tests and there’s currently little we can do about it. That may now be changing. What is lipoprotein(a)?
Will retatrutide help me lose weight or look ‘shredded’? Original
Injectable peptides are generating a lot of buzz online. One of these is retatrutide, a drug that’s being described as the next big thing in weight loss. Some say it may be even more powerful than Ozempic or Wegovy, two other popular weight loss drugs. Beyond health care, gym-goers are using it to try to get leaner, faster. This trend is sometimes dubbed “leanmaxxing”. But there’s a catch. Retatrutide is still experimental.
Money’s tight but food prices are up. Here’s how to save on your grocery bill
Another interest rate rise and a spike in fuel prices is placing increasing pressure on household budgets. Many households are also seeing the impact of the war in the Middle East on the price of groceries. Now the weekly food shop requires more planning, brand swaps and deciding whether to cut back on non-essentials. So how can you reduce grocery costs without compromising taste and nutrition?
Is dark chocolate healthier than milk chocolate? 2 dietitians explain Original
Easter chocolate is all over supermarket shelves. Some people reach straight for milk chocolate eggs while others pause at the darker varieties, assuming they’re healthier. Dark chocolate has gained a reputation as the “better” choice because it usually contains more cocoa and less sugar than milk chocolate. But is dark chocolate actually healthier? Let’s see how the evidence stacks up. How do they compare? All chocolate begins with the cocoa (or cacao) bean.
Which nut butter is healthiest – peanut, almond or cashew?
Once, the only nut butter on the supermarket shelf was peanut butter. Now you can also buy almond, cashew, hazelnut and macadamia nut butters, or blends. So which is the healthiest nut butter to spread on your toast? As we’ll see, the healthiest is not just about the actual nut. It’s also about what else goes in the jar. What do they all have in common? All nut butters are made from ground nuts that provide healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, plant-based protein, fibre.
Will drinking hot water help me lose weight, clear my skin or treat cramps?
You may have noticed an unexpected wellness trend gaining traction online. People are claiming a daily cup of hot water (with nothing else in it) can deliver everything from weight loss and clearer skin to relief from menstrual cramps and sore throats. The practice is often presented as simple and natural. But are these benefits real, or is drinking hot water just another viral wellness fad?
Prioritising protein? What the new US dietary guidelines get right - and wrong - according to 2 nutrition experts
Last week, United States health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr released the government’s revamped dietary guidelines for 2025 to 2030. These recommendations on healthy eating are updated every five years and help shape food policy and education for millions of Americans. Under the slogan “eat real food”, the new guidelines recommend people “prioritise protein at every meal”, eat full-fat dairy and plenty of whole grains, and limit ultra-processed foods.
What is ‘oatzempic’? Does it actually work for weight loss? Original
If you’ve spent any time on TikTok or Instagram lately, you may have seen people blending oats with water or juice and calling it “oatzempic.” The name is a nod to Ozempic, a prescription medication used primarily for type 2 diabetes that also suppresses appetite. Videos of the oatzempic drink usually promise easy weight loss, effortless fullness and a “natural alternative” to medication. But is oatzempic supported by science? The short answer is no. Let’s unpack why. What exactly is oatzempic?
Should I kick my diet soft-drink habit? Where do I start? Original
The average Australian drinks almost 60 litres of soft drink a year. Many people see diet soft drinks as a “healthier” choice than regular ones, and when it comes to sugar, that’s true. For example, a 375 millilitre can of Coca-Cola contains about (almost to 40 grams). That’s close to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) daily recommended limit for added sugars of 50g. In comparison, the is sweetened with artificial sweeteners such as aspartame and does not contain sugar.
Yes, you can be intolerant to fruit and veg
For most people, eating a wide variety of fruit and vegetables is the cornerstone of a healthy diet. But for people with hereditary fructose intolerance, even a couple of bites of juicy watermelon or some sun-dried tomatoes in a salad can cause serious health problems. This rare condition isn’t a food allergy or sensitivity. But it can lead to serious health problems if not identified and correctly managed. What is hereditary fructose intolerance?
Why do doctors run late? Original
You’ve turned up at the doctor’s clinic on time. But you’re scrolling on your phone, watching the clock tick past your appointment time. By the time you’re called in, you’re running late for work or school pick-up, and you’re getting stressed. Yes, it can be frustrating. It might seem like your doctor’s always running late. But your doctor isn’t delayed because they disrespect your time. There are many reasons for running late, some unrelated to your doctor or the clinic.
Do TikTok ‘anti-inflammatory diets’ really work? Original
“Cut out all dairy. Ditch gluten. Never touch sugar again.” More than 20 million people have watched TikTok videos listing these kinds of rules under the banner of “anti-inflammatory diets.” The promise is simple: avoid entire food groups and you’ll lose weight, banish bloating and transform your health. But while the idea of eating to reduce inflammation has a scientific foundation, the social media version strips out nuance and risks becoming unnecessarily restrictive. Let’s check what’s going on.
Latest data suggests Australia is overcoming its sugar addiction
Australia is now meeting the World Health Organization’s (WHO) guidelines on sugar, which recommend keeping sugar below 10% of daily energy intake. New data published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) shows there is less sugar in our diet from food and drinks than three decades ago. In 1995, sugar – either added to foods or drinks by manufacturers, or found naturally in honey and fruit juices – made up about 12.5% of the energy (or kilojoules) we ate each day.
Matcha latte for the likes: how ‘performative eating’ is changing our relationship with food
Ever ordered a salad on a first date when you really wanted the burger? Many of us eat differently when we’re around other people, often without realising it. Our food choices shift depending on who’s at the table, who’s watching, or who might see our food if it’s shared online. This isn’t just about manners or appetite. Experts are increasingly interested in the ways in which meals aren’t just eaten, but are curated. Psychologists and nutrition researchers call this “performative eating”.
Can I eat instant noodles every day? What does it do to my health?
Instant noodles are cheap, quick and comforting – often a go-to snack or meal for students, busy workers, families and anyone trying to stretch their grocery budget. In Australia, the instant noodle market continues to grow, as food costs rise and the popularity of Asian cuisines soars. But what happens if they become an everyday meal? Can you survive, and thrive, on a daily diet of instant noodles?
‘Sometimes you need to eat an entire cucumber’: nutrition experts on the viral TikTok trend
“Sometimes you need to eat an entire cucumber.” So begins a series of viral videos by TikTok “cucumber guy” Logan Moffitt, who has raked in millions of views for his cucumber salad videos. He’s also inspired thousands of copycat videos showcasing cucumbers as a hero ingredient in salads and other dishes. This trend has reportedly caused a surge in cucumber demand, leading to cucumbers being sold out in several stores in Australia and internationally.
Quels légumes sont les plus riches en fibres et pourquoi il est important d’en consommer suffisamment ?
Notre apport quotidien en fibres reste insuffisant alors que les données s’accumulent sur leurs bénéfices pour la santé, notamment pour prévenir certaines maladies chroniques (cancers, diabètes de type 2, pathologies cardiovasculaires…). Mieux connaître les différents types de fibres, solubles ou non, et les principales sources alimentaires peut aider à augmenter sa consommation.
Are eggs good or bad for our health?
You might have heard that eating too many eggs will cause high cholesterol levels, leading to poor health. Researchers have examined the science behind this myth again, and again, and again – largely debunking the claim. A new study suggests that, among older adults, eating eggs supports heart health and even reduces the risk of premature death. Let’s unpack the details. What was the study?
Some vegetables are pretty low in fibre. So which veggies are high-fibre heroes?
Many people looking to improve their health try to boost fibre intake by eating more vegetables. But while all veggies offer health benefits, not all are particularly high in fibre. You can eat loads of salads and vegetables and still fall short of your recommended daily fibre intake. So, which vegetables pack the biggest fibre punch? Here’s what you need to know. What is fibre and how much am I supposed to be getting?
People on Ozempic may have fewer heart attacks, strokes and addictions - but more nausea, vomiting and stomach pain
Ozempic and Wegovy are increasingly available in Australia and worldwide to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. The dramatic effects of these drugs, known as GLP-1s, on weight loss have sparked huge public interest in this new treatment option. However, the risks and benefits are still being actively studied.
Is thirst a good predictor of dehydration?
Water is essential for daily functioning and health, and we can only survive a few days without it. Yet we constantly lose water through sweat, urination and even evaporation when we breathe. This is why we have evolved a way to regulate and maintain water in our bodies. Like other animals, our survival relies on a strong biological drive that tells us to find and drink water to balance fluid loss. This is thirst – a sensation of dryness in the mouth signalling we need to have a drink.
Scurvy is largely a historical disease but there are signs it’s making a comeback
Scurvy is is often considered a historical ailment, conjuring images of sailors on long sea voyages suffering from a lack of fresh fruit and vegetables. Yet doctors in developed countries have recently reported treating cases of scurvy, including Australian doctors who reported their findings today in the journal BMJ Case Reports. What is scurvy? Scurvy is a disease caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which is essential for the production of collagen.
Está pensando em tomar Wegovy para perder peso? Veja os riscos e benefícios - e como ele difere do Ozempic
O medicamento para perda de peso Wegovy, já disponível no Brasil, é administrado em forma de injeção uma vez por semana e foi aprovado especificamente para o controle de peso. Ele deve ser usado em combinação com uma dieta com baixo teor energético e aumento da atividade física. Então, como o Wegovy funciona e quanto peso você pode esperar perder enquanto o toma? E quais são os possíveis riscos - e custos - para quem o utiliza? Vamos dar uma olhada no que a ciência diz. O que é Wegovy?
Considering taking Wegovy to lose weight? Here are the risks and benefits - and how it differs from Ozempic
The weight-loss drug Wegovy is now available in Australia. Wegovy is administered as a once-weekly injection and is approved specifically for weight management. It’s intended to be used in combination with a reduced-energy diet and increased physical activity. So how does Wegovy work and how much weight can you expect to lose while taking it? And what are the potential risks – and costs – for those who use it? Let’s look at what the science says. What is Wegovy?
Cottage cheese is back and all over TikTok. Two dietitians explain why social media’s obsessed
You might remember cottage cheese from your childhood. Back then, it was considered “diet food”. You ate it out of the tub, with celery or spread it on crackers for a low-calorie snack. Then cottage cheese went out of fashion. But cottage cheese is having a resurgence. In recent months, Google searches for “cottage cheese” have risen to the highest levels since 2004.
Cheeky diet soft drink getting you through the work day? Here’s what that may mean for your health
Many people are drinking less sugary soft drink than in the past. This is a great win for public health, given the recognised risks of diets high in sugar-sweetened drinks. But over time, intake of diet soft drinks has grown. In fact, it’s so high that these products are now regularly detected in wastewater. So what does the research say about how your health is affected in the long term if you drink them often? What makes diet soft drinks sweet?
Michael Mosley used science communication to advance health and wellbeing. We can learn a lot from his approach
Overnight, we learned of the tragic passing of Michael Mosley, who went missing last week while on holiday on the Greek island of Symi. The British celebrity doctor was a household name in many countries, including Australia. Mosley was well known for his television shows, documentaries, books and columns on healthy eating, weight management, physical activity and sleep. During the days he was missing and once his death was confirmed, media outlets have acknowledged Mosley’s career achievements.
I can’t afford olive oil. What else can I use?
If you buy your olive oil in bulk, you’ve likely been in for a shock in recent weeks. Major supermarkets have been selling olive oil for up to A$65 for a four-litre tin, and up to $26 for a 750 millilitre bottle. We’ve been hearing about the health benefits of olive oil for years. And many of us are adding it to salads, or baking and frying with it. But during a cost-of-living crisis, these high prices can put olive oil out of reach.
No, beetroot isn’t vegetable Viagra. But here’s what else it can do
Beetroot has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. Supply issues in recent months have seen a shortage of tinned beetroot on Australian supermarket shelves. At one point, a tin was reportedly selling on eBay for more than A$65. But as supplies increase, we turn our attention to beetroot’s apparent health benefits. Is beetroot really vegetable Viagra, as UK TV doctor Michael Mosley suggests?
Considering taking a weight-loss drug like Ozempic? Here are some potential risks and benefits
Hundreds of thousands of people worldwide are taking drugs like Ozempic to lose weight. But what do we actually know about them? This month, The Conversation’s experts explore their rise, impact and potential consequences. After weight-loss drugs like Ozempic exploded onto the market, celebrities and social media influencers were quick to spruik their benefits, leading to their rapid rise in use.
If you’re worried about inflammation, stop stressing about seed oils and focus on the basics
You’ve probably seen recent claims online seed oils are “toxic” and cause inflammation, cancer, diabetes and heart disease. But what does the research say? Overall, if you’re worried about inflammation, cancer, diabetes and heart disease there are probably more important things to worry about than seed oils. They may or may not play a role in inflammation (the research picture is mixed).
Why ban ham from school canteens? And what are some healthier alternatives for kids’ lunches?
Western Australia has introduced a limit on ham in school canteens. Parents are reportedly confused and frustrated. So what has changed and what evidence is it based on? Reclassifying processed meats The WA Department of Health has reconfigured its system for classifying food and drink in public schools. It uses a traffic light approach, allocating green, amber or red colours to foods and drinks. Ham and other processed red meats have been moved from an “amber” label to a “red” label.
Pickle, anyone? 3 possible reasons women get cravings during pregnancy
From pickles and french fries to oranges and ice cream, women and other people who are pregnant report craving a range of foods while they’re expecting. A food craving is a strong urge to eat a specific food. The intense desire to eat is not necessarily related to hunger and can be difficult to ignore or resist. Think: “I must have this now!”.
Got period pain or cramps? What to eat and avoid, according to science Original
Painful periods are common. More than half of people who menstruate have some pain for up to three days a month, typically throbbing or cramping in the lower abdomen. Digestive changes – such as vomiting, gas, bloating, diarrhoea and a “bubbling gut” – are also common around the time of menstruation. There are many treatments for period pain (known medically as dysmenorrhoea). Not all these treatments are well-tolerated or work for everyone.
Comment fabrique-t-on le café décaféiné ? Et est-il vraiment sans caféine ?
Le café est une des boissons les plus prisées au monde, et sa forte teneur en caféine est un des facteurs de sa popularité. C’est un stimulant naturel qui procure un regain d’énergie, et les gens ne peuvent s’en passer. Toutefois, certaines personnes préfèrent limiter la caféine pour des raisons de santé ou autres. On trouve du café décaféiné, ou déca, un peu partout, et sa consommation serait en hausse.
How is decaf coffee made? And is it really caffeine-free? Original
Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world, and its high levels of caffeine are among the main reasons why. It’s a natural stimulant that provides an energy buzz, and we just can’t get enough. However, some people prefer to limit their caffeine intake for health or other reasons. Decaffeinated or “decaf” coffee is widely available, and its consumption is reported to be on the rise.
Psyllium, probiotiques : les suppléments sont-ils efficaces pour réguler son cholestérol ?
Votre médecin vous dit que votre taux de cholestérol est élevé. Vous avez six mois pour modifier votre régime alimentaire afin de voir si cela peut améliorer vos résultats, puis vous examinerez les différentes options qui s’offrent à vous. Est-ce que cela vaut le coup de prendre des suppléments pendant cette période ?
Can coffee help you avoid weight gain? Here's what the science says Original
Coffee is well recognised as having a positive impact on long-term health. Drinking the equivalent of three to four cups of instant coffee a day reduces the risk of many health conditions including heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. Most people gain small amounts of weight each year as they age. But can coffee help prevent this gradual weight gain?
Is TikTok right - will eating three carrots a day really give me a natural tan? Original
A beauty trend gaining popularity on TikTok, dubbed the “carrot tan”, claims eating three carrots a day will give you a natural tan. But can this really give you a natural glow? And is it healthy? Read more: Explainer: why are carrots orange? Why would carrots affect your skin tone? Carotenoids are natural pigments that give red, orange and yellow colours to fruits and vegetables. Think of them as nature’s paint. There are many carotenoids including lutein, lycopene, alpha-carotene and beta-carotene.
How can I lower my cholesterol? Do supplements work? How about psyllium or probiotics?
Your GP says you have high cholesterol. You’ve six months to work on your diet to see if that’ll bring down your levels, then you’ll review your options. Could taking supplements over this time help? You can’t rely on supplements alone to control your cholesterol. But there’s some good evidence that taking particular supplements, while also eating a healthy diet, can make a difference. Read more: Got high cholesterol? Here are five foods to eat and avoid Why are we so worried about cholesterol?
Calories and kilojoules: how do we know the energy content of food, and how accurate are the labels?
Everything we consume contains energy our bodies use to move, grow and maintain health. To work out how much energy is in different foods and drinks, we need to first look at a few core concepts. Firstly, you’ve probably heard of the units of measurement for energy – calories – as well as the metric equivalent, which is joules. One calorie is defined as the amount of energy required to raise the temperature of 1 gram of water by 1℃.
9 signs you have inflammation in your body. Could an anti-inflammatory diet help? Original
There is a lot of health buzz around the term “inflammation” right now. From new scientific discoveries to celebrities and social media influencers, it seems like everyone is talking about this important bodily process and its potential impact on our health. “Inflammaging” is a specific term you may also have seen. It’s an age-related increase in persistent, low-grade inflammation in blood and tissue, which is a strong risk factor for many conditions and diseases.
Coronation Quiche anyone? You'll need to fork out A$35. Here are cheaper and healthier options
If you are a monarchist, or just enjoy the tradition of the royal family, you may have heard about the Coronation Quiche – made with spinach, broad beans and tarragon. The idea is for us to make it and share it with friends and family during the coronation celebrations in May. King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla have just shared a recipe. As dietitians, we’re interested in the quiche’s nutritional value.
What to eat when you have COVID - and why reaching for the chicken soup is not a bad idea
Got COVID? Again? Deciding what to eat can be mentally taxing, especially when you are not feeling well. However, our diet plays a role in preventing and managing poor health, including COVID. Having a healthy diet is associated with a reduced risk of COVID. And, if you do have COVID, a healthy diet is associated with milder symptoms. Read more: Don't listen to Gwyneth Paltrow – IVs are not a shortcut to good health What should I eat during COVID infection?
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