Articles from ‘elocal magazine’ in ‘Health’

Food safety authorities have launched an official investigation into allegations that supplement retailer NZ Muscle may have breached food safety regulations, following a series of claims that have gained widespread attention online. · New Zealand Food Safety (NZFS) confirmed it is investigating allegations arising from a recently released YouTube video that detailed a range of concerns about the company's practices. Report by elocal · Acting…

The government has announced a $35 million funding package over four years aimed at strengthening New Zealand's ambulance services, with new Auckland hubs, upgraded technology and additional frontline support planned as part of Budget 2026. By elocal Health Desk: Source RNZ Health Correspondent Kate Green · The announcement was made in Auckland by Health Minister Simeon Brown and Associate Health Minister Casey Costello, who said the investment…

We all know that ultra-processed foods are bad for us, but what ingredients should we particularly try to avoid? And what are they doing to our bodies? · Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) might taste good and provide an easy hunger fix, but their long-term health consequences are starting to scare nutrition experts. By Holly McHugh · These foods are often high in added sugars, salt and saturated fats, while being low in protein, fibre and essential…

Some observers will inevitably ask whether New Zealand could be experiencing similar trends beneath the surface. While no direct comparison has been established, the question is likely to gain traction given New Zealand followed a broadly similar vaccination timeline and public health approach. If comparable data patterns were emerging locally, it would raise serious questions about monitoring, transparency, and whether long-term outcomes are…

Frequent sexual fantasies are linked with neuroticism – a personality trait that could put you at risk of a range of physical and mental health problems – according to a study from Michigan State University, US. Credit: Getty images · Researchers surveyed more than 5,000 US adults about their sexual fantasies and personality traits. · The scientists used the Big Five framework, which is widely used in psychology to measure open-mindedness,…

A large portion of our personal and the nation’s healthcare expenditures occurs during hospitalization. For our senior citizens, each hospitalization generally means a decrement in health status without a return to baseline. So it should be a goal for all of our seniors to avoid the hospital altogether in 2026. AlterAI assisted with this review. By Peter A. McCullough, MD, MPH · Practical Strategies for Seniors to Avoid Hospitalization in 2026…

Every January, many of us unwittingly follow a familiar pattern. We enter the month convinced we will stick to our most hardcore resolutions, such as those concerning a specific diet or workout plan. But by “Quitters Day” – the second Friday of January and the point at which most people have abandoned their New Year’s resolutions – our commitment to four workouts a week has dwindled to one at best, while the hardcore keto diet has incorporated…

Coffee is one of the most widely consumed psychoactive substances on the planet, yet despite more than two billion cups being drunk each day, its impact on heart health remains surprisingly complex – and often misunderstood. It's been blamed for heart palpitations, anxiety and poor sleep, while at the same time praised for helping to deliver focus, better moods and lower chronic disease risk. In 2025, a handful of new studies helped us cut…

Resveratrol is a compound found in red wine that was once touted as a longevity miracle. What does current research say about its ability to extend human life? What about other health benefits, like reducing inflammation and lowering the risk of cognitive decline? Can you get it from food without consuming wine, and are supplements worth it? By Ocean Robbins · In 1981, a trio of French scientists coined the term “French Paradox” to describe…

Christmas is upon us and most have opened stockings hoping for little bit of chocolate. Should we feel guilty indulging over the holidays? This review was assisted by AlterAI. The Top Five Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate (70% Cocoa and Higher) — A Christmas Delight By Peter A. McCullough, MD, MPH · Few foods carry as much paradoxical charm as dark chocolate. On one hand, it’s indulgent—a symbol of sweetness, comfort, and festivity. On the…