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Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus: Are we losing sight of overall health? Here’s what the science says

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/aude-bandini-1488512">Aude Bandini</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/universite-de-montreal-1743">Université de Montréal</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jean-philippe-drouin-chartier-1533338">Jean-Philippe Drouin-Chartier</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/universite-laval-1407">Université Laval</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/pierre-marie-david-1375228">Pierre-Marie David</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/universite-de-montreal-1743">Université de Montréal</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/remi-rabasa-lhoret-1533515">Rémi Rabasa-Lhoret</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/universite-de-montreal-1743">Université de Montréal</a> The craze for new drugs in the GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide 1) and GIP (Gastric inhibitory polypeptide) analogue class, better known under the trade names Ozempic and Wegovy, is remarkable, but it’s not totally unprecedented in the history of pharmaceutical blockbusters. The volume of prescriptions and the budget allocated to them by public health insurance schemes are exploding, as are the <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/roberthart/2024/05/02/ozempic-maker-novo-nordisk-beats-profit-forecasts-amid-weight-loss-drug-frenzy/">profits of the companies that manufacture them</a>. Part of the popularity of these drugs owes to social networks, but these are not always the best source for health information. When it comes to the subject of weight loss, both fantasy and prejudice come into play. This works to the detriment of everyone’s well-being, but particularly those who are already stigmatized. As specialists in the philosophy of medicine (Université de Montréal), nutrition and food science (Université Laval), the sociology of medication (Université de Montréal) and endocrinology (Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal), we feel it’s necessary to step back and take stock of both the promises and the limitations of these new treatments. <h2>The best of both worlds</h2> GLP-1/GIP analogues were originally developed to regulate glycemia (blood sugar levels) in people with Type 2 diabetes, thereby preventing the complications associated with this disease. When studies were carried out to assess their safety and efficacy, it was discovered that these drugs also led to weight loss. This prompted new research which showed that at higher doses, the drugs could lead to <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38078870/">very significant weight loss</a>, from 15 to 25 per cent of the starting weight. The mode of action of these drugs on blood sugar regulation is clear: they simulate incretin hormones which, in turn, increase insulin secretion. Weight loss, on the other hand, was only explained after the fact: in addition to the pancreas, these molecules also act on the brain by regulating the sensation of satiety and, indirectly, on the stomach by slowing gastric emptying. These two combined effects reduce appetite and lead to weight reduction. This is how a new use for the drug appeared, at which point the company Novo Nordisk began marketing the same drug under two different names: Ozempic to treat Type 2 diabetes, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/considering-taking-wegovy-to-lose-weight-here-are-the-risks-and-benefits-and-how-it-differs-from-ozempic-237308">Wegovy to manage obesity</a>. <h2>A new era</h2> GLP-1/GIP analogues are a welcome therapeutic breakthrough at a time when the <a href="https://www.diabetes.ca/advocacy---policies/advocacy-reports/national-and-provincial-backgrounders/diabetes-in-canada">prevalence of Type 2 diabetes</a> and <a href="https://www.statcan.gc.ca/o1/en/plus/5742-overview-weight-and-height-measurements-world-obesity-day">obesity</a> is exploding and affecting people younger and younger. These diseases particularly affect women, members of racialized groups and socio-economically disadvantaged populations. The physical and mental suffering these cause and the costs associated with treating them are both considerable. So the arrival of new weapons in the therapeutic arsenal is a source of hope. Draconian changes in lifestyle are certainly effective. But they are very difficult to implement and maintain over time for reasons that go beyond the individual sphere; on the one hand, genetic predisposition plays a major role in the development of Type 2 diabetes and obesity; on the other, because these conditions are <a href="https://obesitycanada.ca/managing-obesity/">multifactorial</a>, management of them must be comprehensive to be effective and long lasting: it must combine medical interventions but also nutritional, functional, psycho-social, environmental and even institutional interventions. Support services of this kind do exist, but only in large university hospital centres to which many people do not have access. Nor do many people have easy access to <a href="https://health-infobase.canada.ca/health-inequalities/index">healthy and varied food options</a>, sports facilities or social and psychological support. <h2>Treating the effects but not the causes</h2> To be effective over the long term, GLP-1/GIP analogues must be taken continuously: without drastic lifestyle changes, the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35441470/">weight that was lost is regained within a year of stopping</a>, and glycemic control is compromised once again. In other words, the drugs treat the effects of Type 2 diabetes and obesity but not their causes. And yet some of these causes are modifiable: for example, according to <a href="https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/75-006-x/2023001/article/00013-eng.htm">Statistics Canada</a>, less than half the Canadian population (49.2 per cent for adults; 43.9 per cent for young people and children) achieves the recommended amount of weekly physical activity. According to the same source, <a href="https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/75-006-x/2023001/article/00013-eng.htm">food insecurity</a> affects around 14 per cent of the Québec population (22 per cent in Alberta). Pharmacological treatment, even if it allows an individual to eat less, does not necessarily mean that person will <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10837702/">eat better</a>. Similarly, losing weight does not mean one will become more active or healthier. So these new drugs do not cure Type 2 diabetes or obesity. Nor do they prevent these diseases from developing, although they do help to limit the many complications to which they give rise. <h2>Prescribe and treat</h2> A drug such as Mounjaro is as effective at weight loss as bariatric surgery. Much easier to administer and much less risky, it could be a real game changer in the treatment of obesity. Prescribed directly by family doctors and dispensed in pharmacies, it would also be much more accessible and easier to administer for those who need it. This raises the question of costs and reimbursement, but not only that: prescribing is not the same as treating. Here, the manufacturers are following the recommendations of the health authorities: this treatment must be preceded by a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10748770/">careful assessment</a>, then management, and above all a close and regular monitoring of diet, physical activity, mental health, and if necessary, socio-economic assistance. This requires not only time that GPs do not have, but also co-ordination with other players in the health-care network. The problem is not whether the treatment will be effective, but what can happen if it is. Losing 25 per cent of your body weight in just a few months has serious consequences, which are not always beneficial: it involves a loss of body fat, but also of muscle mass, which is associated with intense fatigue. Nor should we underestimate the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37990685/">challenge of adapting physically and psychologically</a> to a body transformation of this scale. Losing weight doesn’t solve everything, and expectations must remain realistic. <h2>What lessons can we learn?</h2> The clinical effectiveness of GLP-1/GIP analogues in reducing the complications associated with Type 2 diabetes and obesity is indisputable. However, these drugs are not suitable for everyone, and they are certainly not miracle cures that will make it possible for one to regain health without making any changes to lifestyle or environment. We must bear in mind that their success, both commercial and medical, is also the result of a failure: that of our societies to prevent these diseases, to promote healthy lifestyles and to develop environments conducive to the health of all.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/238484/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/aude-bandini-1488512">Aude Bandini</a>, Professeure agrégée, Philosophie (épistémologie et philosophie de la médecine), <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/universite-de-montreal-1743">Université de Montréal</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jean-philippe-drouin-chartier-1533338">Jean-Philippe Drouin-Chartier</a>, Professeur agrégé, Faculté de pharmacie, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/universite-laval-1407">Université Laval</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/pierre-marie-david-1375228">Pierre-Marie David</a>, Professeur adjoint à la faculté de pharmacie, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/universite-de-montreal-1743">Université de Montréal</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/remi-rabasa-lhoret-1533515">Rémi Rabasa-Lhoret</a>, Professeur de médecine et de nutrition, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/universite-de-montreal-1743">Université de Montréal</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/ozempic-wegovy-rybelsus-are-we-losing-sight-of-overall-health-heres-what-the-science-says-238484">original article</a>. </div>

Body

Simon Dorante-Day calls for "four-way paternity test" to prove royal lineage

Simon Dorante-Day has called for a "four-way paternity test" to prove his royal lineage, while also casting doubt on if Prince William and Prince Harry are actually sons of the monarch. The Queensland man, who has been claiming to be the secret son of King Charles and Queen Camilla since 2005, has called for an official DNA test to prove his claims in a lengthy Facebook post. Dorante-Day's post highlights a photo comparison of himself, King Charles and William and Harry as evidence supporting his demand for answers from the royal family. “This comparison of William, Myself, Charles, and Harry demonstrates something very clearly, there is no consistency. The fact that the left side of my face identically matches Charles whilst neither William nor Harry’s does, raises the obvious question, just who are Charles’s real sons?” "This is why my wife, Dr. Elvianna, and I believe a 4-way Paternity test is the only way to resolve this issue once and for all. The truth of the game that has been played by the Monarchy, the Government, and the Establishment for 58 years needs to be exposed." "It's not just what happened to me as a child, and what I remember from growing up in England, but it’s also what’s happened since to myself, my wife, and my children in Australia that supports our argument. These covert and illegitimate activities that are targeted towards us constantly are an attempt to stop us on this journey, nothing more. They will not succeed. They will only strengthen our argument and provides us with evidence to demonstrate what has occurred, in a court room, to judges." "My question to all of you is how will you truly react when you hear the truth of what has occurred? Would you still want them on the throne?" Dorante-Day was born in Portsmouth in the UK in 1966, and was adopted at just eight months old. According to his claims, his adoptive mother, who worked for Queen Elizabeth II confessed on her death bed that he was the son of Charles and Camilla. Image credits: Facebook

Family & Pets

"What do you say?" TV host's heartbreaking parenting plea

An Aussie TV host has shared a heartfelt plea for advice after revealing that his 12-year-old daughter has been bullied at school. Barry Du Bois, co-host of The Living Room, shared an emotional post on Instagram admitting he is struggling to help Arabella with the bullying issue, and asked other parents for advice. “I just watched my little girl walk out the gate of our home, a place where I know she is safe and feels a sense of security and belonging,” Barry said. “She is heading to a place that doesn’t offer that same security, her school. As a parent, I’m supposed to protect and guide her through difficult times, but this morning, I am lost.” “Yesterday, Arabella came home from school claiming she was sick,” he continued. "This isn’t the first time it has happened. She wasn’t actually sick but is instead being bullied again.” Barry then asked for help from his followers on how to help his daughter, asking, “What do you say to a child when you’ve already said, ‘Don’t let them upset you. Just keep being kind. You are not the horrible things they say’.” “She said, ‘I don’t want to be special; I just want to be liked’,” the TV star added before revealing he felt “weak, angry, confused and a little fearful”. The touching post encouraged some of his famous friends to share their own stories of helping their kids deal with bullying. “My mate sent his daughter to Jiu Jitsu after being bullied. She fell in love with it and gained another level of confidence,” wrote The Bachelor Australia star Tim Robards. “Sometimes you’ve just got to go up to the parents and say, ‘your kid bullies mine’,” added Married At First Sight’s Ryan Gallagher. Image credits: Instagram

Family & Pets

Strength training has a range of benefits for women. Here are 4 ways to get into weights

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/erin-kelly-1497598">Erin Kelly</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-canberra-865">University of Canberra</a> Picture a gym ten years ago: the weights room was largely a male-dominated space, with women mostly doing cardio exercise. Fast-forward to today and you’re likely to see women of all ages and backgrounds confidently navigating weights equipment. This is more than just anecdotal. According to data from the <a href="https://app.powerbi.com/view?r=eyJrIjoiZGU1YWFhZDgtMmRhZi00YTgyLThhMzItYjc2ODk5NTg0MTg1IiwidCI6IjhkMmUwZjRjLTU1ZjItNGNiMS04ZWU3LWRhNWRkM2ZmMzYwMCJ9">Australian Sports Commission</a>, the number of women <a href="https://www.clearinghouseforsport.gov.au/research/ausplay/results#portal">participating in weightlifting</a> (either competitively or not) grew nearly five-fold between 2016 and 2022. Women are discovering what research has long shown: strength training offers benefits beyond sculpted muscles. <h2>Health benefits</h2> <a href="https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/osteoporosis">Osteoporosis</a>, a disease in which the bones become weak and brittle, affects more women than men. Strength training increases <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/strength-training/art-20046670">bone density</a>, a crucial factor for <a href="https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1741-7015-8-47">preventing osteoporosis</a>, especially for women negotiating menopause. Strength training also improves <a href="http://link.springer.com/10.1007/s40279-015-0379-7">insulin sensitivity</a>, which means your body gets better at using insulin to manage blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Regular strength training contributes to better <a href="https://doi.org/10.1139/apnm-2020-0245">heart health</a> too. There’s a mental health boost as well. Strength training has been linked to reduced symptoms of <a href="https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2018.0572">depression</a> and <a href="http://link.springer.com/10.1007/s40279-017-0769-0">anxiety</a>. <h2>Improved confidence and body image</h2> Unlike some forms of exercise where progress can feel elusive, strength training offers clear and tangible measures of success. Each time you add more weight to a bar, you are reminded of your ability to meet your goals and <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/2159676X.2019.1634127">conquer challenges</a>. This sense of achievement doesn’t just stay in the gym – it can change how women see themselves. A <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1755296623000194">recent study</a> found women who regularly lift weights often feel more empowered to make positive changes in their lives and feel ready to face life’s challenges outside the gym. Strength training also has the potential to positively impact <a href="https://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr/abstract/2002/11000/Relations_of_Strength_Training_to_Body_Image_Among.25.aspx">body image</a>. In a world where women are often judged on appearance, lifting weights can shift the focus <a href="http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0193732502238256">to function</a>. Instead of worrying about the number on the scale or fitting into a certain dress size, women often come to appreciate their bodies for what they can do. “Am I lifting more than I could last month?” and “can I carry all my groceries in a single trip?” may become new measures of physical success. Lifting weights can also be about challenging outdated ideas of how women “should” be. Qualitative <a href="https://journals.humankinetics.com/view/journals/wspaj/aop/article-10.1123-wspaj.2022-0088/article-10.1123-wspaj.2022-0088.xml">research</a> I conducted with colleagues found that, for many women, strength training becomes a powerful form of rebellion against unrealistic beauty standards. As one participant told us: <blockquote> I wanted something that would allow me to train that just didn’t have anything to do with how I looked. </blockquote> Society has long told women to be small, quiet and not take up space. But when a woman steps up to a barbell, she’s pushing back against these outdated rules. One woman in our study said: <blockquote> We don’t have to […] look a certain way, or […] be scared that we can lift heavier weights than some men. Why should we? </blockquote> This shift in mindset helps women see themselves differently. Instead of worrying about being objects for others to look at, they begin to see their bodies as capable and strong. Another participant explained: <blockquote> Powerlifting changed my life. It made me see myself, or my body. My body wasn’t my value, it was the vehicle that I was in to execute whatever it was that I was executing in life. </blockquote> This newfound confidence often spills over into other areas of life. As one woman said: <blockquote> I love being a strong woman. It’s like going against the grain, and it empowers me. When I’m physically strong, everything in the world seems lighter. </blockquote> <h2>Feeling inspired? Here’s how to get started</h2> 1. Take things slow Begin with bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges and push-ups to build a foundation of strength. Once you’re comfortable, add external weights, but keep them light at first. Focus on mastering <a href="https://theconversation.com/what-are-compound-exercises-and-why-are-they-good-for-you-228385">compound movements</a>, such as deadlifts, squats and overhead presses. These exercises engage multiple joints and muscle groups simultaneously, making your workouts more efficient. 2. Prioritise proper form Always prioritise proper form over lifting heavier weights. Poor technique can lead to injuries, so learning the correct way to perform each exercise is crucial. To help with this, consider working with an exercise professional who can provide personalised guidance and ensure you’re performing exercises correctly, at least initially. 3. Consistency is key Like any fitness regimen, consistency is key. Two to three sessions a week are plenty for most women to see benefits. And don’t be afraid to occupy space in the weights room – remember you belong there just as much as anyone else. 4. Find a community Finally, join a community. There’s nothing like being surrounded by a group of strong women to inspire and motivate you. Engaging with a supportive community can make your strength-training journey more enjoyable and rewarding, whether it’s an in-person class or an online forum. <h2>Are there any downsides?</h2> Gym memberships can be expensive, especially for specialist weightlifting gyms. Home equipment is an option, but quality barbells and weightlifting equipment can come with a hefty price tag. Also, for women juggling work and family responsibilities, finding time to get to the gym two to three times per week can be challenging. If you’re concerned about getting too “bulky”, it’s very difficult for <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/epub/10.1177/0031512520967610">women</a> to bulk up like male bodybuilders without pharmaceutical assistance. The main risks come from poor technique or trying to lift too much too soon – issues that can be easily avoided with some guidance.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/221307/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/erin-kelly-1497598">Erin Kelly</a>, Lecturer and PhD Candidate, Discipline of Sport and Exercise Science, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-canberra-865">University of Canberra</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/strength-training-has-a-range-of-benefits-for-women-here-are-4-ways-to-get-into-weights-221307">original article</a>. </div>

Body

4 ways to cut down on meat when dining out – and still make healthy choices

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> .<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/laura-marchese-1271636">Laura Marchese</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/katherine-livingstone-324808">Katherine Livingstone</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a> Many of us are looking for ways to eat a healthier and more <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-sustainable-is-your-weekly-grocery-shop-these-small-changes-can-have-big-benefits-234367">sustainable diet</a>. And one way to do this is by reducing the amount of meat we eat. That doesn’t mean you need to become a <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-you-should-eat-a-plant-based-diet-but-that-doesnt-mean-being-a-vegetarian-78470">vegan or vegetarian</a>. Our <a href="https://jn.nutrition.org/article/S0022-3166(24)00333-X/fulltext">recent research</a> shows even small changes to cut down on meat consumption could help improve health and wellbeing. But not all plant-based options are created equal and some are <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30744710/">ultra-processed</a>. Navigating what’s available when eating out – including options like tofu and fake meats – can be a challenge. So what are your best options at a cafe or restaurant? Here are some guiding principles to keep in mind when cutting down on meat. <h2>Health benefits to cutting down</h2> Small amounts of lean meat can be part of a healthy, balanced diet. But the majority of Australians <a href="https://cancer.org.au/about-us/policy-and-advocacy/prevention/obesity/related-resources/meat-and-cancer#consumption">still eat more meat</a> than recommended. Only a small percentage of Australians (10%) are vegetarian or vegan. But an <a href="https://www.foodfrontier.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Food-Frontier-Hungry-For-Plant-Based-Australian-Consumer-Insights.pdf">increasing</a> number opt for a <a href="https://theconversation.com/love-meat-too-much-to-be-vegetarian-go-flexitarian-73741">flexitarian</a> diet. <a href="https://theconversation.com/whats-the-difference-between-vegan-and-vegetarian-225275">Flexitarians</a> eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, while still enjoying small amounts of meat, dairy, eggs and fish. Our <a href="https://jn.nutrition.org/article/S0022-3166(24)00333-X/fulltext">recent research</a> looked at whether the average Australian diet would improve if we swapped meat and dairy for plant-based alternatives, and the results were promising. The study found health benefits when people halved the amount of meat and dairy they ate and replaced them with healthy plant-based foods, like tofu or <a href="https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/blog/why-you-need-legumes-in-your-life">legumes</a>. On average, their dietary fibre intake – which helps with feeling fuller for longer and digestive health – went up. Saturated fats – which increase our blood cholesterol levels, a risk factor for heart disease – went down. Including more fibre and less saturated fat helps reduce the risk of <a href="https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/healthy-living/healthy-eating/healthy-eating-to-protect-your-heart">heart disease</a>. Achieving these health benefits may be as simple as swapping ham for baked beans in a toastie for lunch, or substituting half of the mince in your bolognese for lentils at dinner. <h2>How it’s made matters</h2> For a long time we’ve known processed meats – such as ham, bacon and sausages – are bad for your health. Eating high amounts of these foods is associated with poor <a href="https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/healthy-living/healthy-eating/protein-and-heart-health">heart health</a> and some forms of <a href="https://cancer.org.au/cancer-information/causes-and-prevention/diet-and-exercise/meat-and-cancer-risk">cancer</a>. But the same can be true of many processed meat alternatives. Plant-based alternatives designed to mimic meat, such as sausages and burgers, have become readily available in supermarkets, cafes and restaurants. These products are ultra-processed and can be <a href="https://theconversation.com/we-looked-at-700-plant-based-foods-to-see-how-healthy-they-really-are-heres-what-we-found-222991">high in salt and saturated fat</a>. Our study found when people replaced meat and dairy with ultra-processed meat alternatives – such as plant-based burgers or sausages – they ate more salt and less calcium, compared to eating meat or healthy plant-based options. So if you’re cutting down on meat for health reasons, it’s important to think about what you’re replacing it with. The <a href="https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/sites/default/files/2022-09/n55g_adult_brochure.pdf">Australian Dietary Guidelines</a> recommend eggs, legumes/beans, tofu, nuts and seeds. Tofu can be a great option. But we recommend flavouring plain tofu with herbs and spices yourself, as pre-marinated products are often ultra-processed and can be high in salt. <h2>What about when dining out?</h2> When you’re making your own food, it’s easier to adapt recipes or reduce the amount of meat. But when faced with a menu, it can be difficult to work out what is the best option. Here are our four ways to make healthy choices when you eat out: 1. Fill half your plate with vegetables When cutting down on meat, aim for half your plate to be vegetables. Try to also eat <a href="https://theconversation.com/were-told-to-eat-a-rainbow-of-fruit-and-vegetables-heres-what-each-colour-does-in-our-body-191337">a variety of colours</a>, such as leafy green spinach, red capsicum and pumpkin. When you’re out, this might look like choosing a vegetable-based entree, a stir-fry or ordering a side salad to have with your meal. 2. Avoid the deep fryer The Australian Dietary Guidelines <a href="https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/sites/default/files/files/the_guidelines/n55a_australian_dietary_guidelines_summary_130530.pdf">recommend limiting</a> deep fried foods to once a week or less. When dining out, choose plant-based options that are sautéed, grilled, baked, steamed, boiled or poached – instead of those that are crumbed or battered before deep frying. This could mean choosing vegetarian dumplings that are steamed not fried, or poached eggs at brunch instead of fried. Ordering a side of roast vegetables instead of hot chips is also a great option. 3. Pick wholegrains Scan the menu for wholegrain options such as brown rice, wholemeal pizza or pasta, barley, quinoa or wholemeal burger buns. Not only are they good sources of protein, but they also provide more <a href="https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/food-essentials/five-food-groups/grain-cereal-foods-mostly-wholegrain-and-or-high-cereal-fibre">dietary fibre</a> than refined grains, which help keep you fuller for longer. 4. If you do pick meat – choose less processed kinds You may not always want, or be able, to make a vegetarian choice when eating out and with other people. If you do opt for meat, it’s better to steer clear of processed options like bacon or sausages. If sharing dishes with other people, you could try adding unprocessed plant-based options into the mix. For example, a curry with lentils or chickpeas, or a vegetable-based pizza instead of one with ham or salami. If that’s not an option, try choose meat that’s a lean cut, such as chicken breast, or options which are grilled rather than fried.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/236505/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/laura-marchese-1271636">Laura Marchese</a>, PhD candidate at the Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/katherine-livingstone-324808">Katherine Livingstone</a>, NHMRC Emerging Leadership Fellow and Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/4-ways-to-cut-down-on-meat-when-dining-out-and-still-make-healthy-choices-236505">original article</a>. </div>

Food & Wine

Holiday protesters are missing the big picture – there are ways to make tourism work for everyone

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/brendan-canavan-228682">Brendan Canavan</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-nottingham-1192">University of Nottingham</a> As tourists sip their drinks at sunny pavement cafes this summer, they may feel slight unease that perhaps their presence isn’t entirely welcome. This season has seen a <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/videos/c0dm9w2ey7po">renewed wave of major protests</a> against tourists for pushing out residents and homogenising culture in popular destinations. Anti-tourist placards and gatherings have appeared in <a href="https://www.portugalresident.com/sintra-residents-finally-say-enough-to-mass-tourism-traffic-chaos/">Portugal</a>, <a href="https://uk.news.yahoo.com/greek-city-begs-no-more-095204268.html">Athens</a>, <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/07/22/travel/mass-protest-on-spanish-island-mallorca-calls-for-limits-on-tourism/index.html">Mallorca</a> and <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/thousands-protest-spains-canary-islands-over-mass-tourism-2024-04-20/">Tenerife</a>. Tourists have even been sprayed with <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/business/travel/barcelona-protesters-throw-items-spray-travelers-water-shouting-touris-rcna160883">water pistols</a> by angry inhabitants of Barcelona. Anti-tourism protests are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2017/aug/10/anti-tourism-marches-spread-across-europe-venice-barcelona">not new</a>, and they do not always share the same <a href="https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/IJTC-09-2022-0211/full/html#sec014">motivations</a>. But one <a href="https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/IJTC-09-2022-0211/full/html#sec014">common grievance</a> is that local economies are not improved by tourism, while the social costs of hosting mount. But are these anti-tourism sentiments justified? Tourism contributes around <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/00472875211028322">5% of EU economic activity</a>, supporting jobs and businesses both directly and indirectly. Without tourism many places would be economically poorer. But protesters in <a href="https://news.sky.com/story/your-paradise-our-nightmare-thousands-attend-anti-tourism-protest-in-majorca-13183160">Mallorca</a> have argued that tourists take up space on beaches, put a strain on public services and drive the cost of housing above a level that residents can afford. The economic pros and cons of tourism suggest the protesters have a point. But they are also missing the bigger picture. An estimated <a href="https://studytravel.network/magazine/news/0/30772#:%7E:text=Globally%2C%20there%20were%201.3%20billion,data%20quoted%20in%20the%20report.">1.3 billion</a> international tourist trips took place in 2023. These tourists spent over <a href="https://x.com/UNWTO/status/1796821487971905590">US$1.5 trillion</a> (£1.2 trillion) on their trips. For comparison, that is roughly the size of the Spanish economy. If tourism were a nation, it would be a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_by_GDP_(nominal)">G20 member</a>. What’s more, because international travellers earn money in their home country and spend it in another, international tourism is counted as an export. In 2022 international tourists spent almost <a href="https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/urban-rural-and-regional-development/data/oecd-tourism-statistics/receipts-and-expenditure_c4170878-en?parentId=http%3A%2F%2Finstance.metastore.ingenta.com%2Fcontent%2Fcollection%2F2b45a380-en">€370 billion</a> (£312 billion) in the 27 EU countries, for example. This export income helps to balance the cost of imports and pay for things such as food and fuel not available locally. Nonetheless, there remains a concern that such economic inputs come at too high a cost. In January the then head of Florence’s Galleria dell’Accademia controversially criticised how the city had <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/01/30/travel/italy-florence-prostitute-tourism-intl-scli/index.html">sold its soul</a> to tourists. But <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/00472875231203395">tourism revenues</a> help provide foreign exchange earnings, create jobs, encourage infrastructure investments and boost tax revenues. In turn these inputs promote economic development and increase welfare, as well as reduce <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ImtQ9YQS7UrYJ_PItcgeFhFUidcxTwkC/view">income inequality</a>. Globally, the tourism industry is a significant source of employment. In 2019, prior to the pandemic, travel and tourism accounted for <a href="https://wttc.org/research/economic-impact">10.5%</a> of all jobs. In some <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/08/destinations-rely-most-on-tourism-travel/">Caribbean islands</a> more than 90% of all jobs are in the tourism sector. Crossover benefits of hosting tourists are felt in other industries too. <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/00472875231203395">Food and drink</a> producers sell their products to tourists, for example, and <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/13/13/7164">farmers</a> can diversify their incomes by offering tourist experiences such as wine-tasting tours. Tourism generates a large amount of economic activity, therefore. But research shows that the income that remains in a destination is often limited by <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Cristina-Joensson/publication/293487803_Economic_leakages_in_tourism/links/56b8f33608ae3b658a88b7a4/Economic-leakages-in-tourism.pdf">leakage rates</a>. There are estimates that for every US$1 million spent by tourists in the Seychelles, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160738315000468?casa_token=-hjGHa9NHPMAAAAA:irVmwVrFbZvnTNzDPKcE90_dK4mwuwVBIkO4_nPs34IdGM12w9i4r8GCR_1K_0IIrJznxx2b">less than half</a> of this stays in the local economy. This income can <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1470-6431.2007.00606.x?casa_token=bentpmB1dE8AAAAA%3A72smahI3xNJB2Y7_PDj-lcZG6nmW7fqPgOv59G4Dr-DBfzWfxjtxRU9qytrdpOWmaLom6oe6dM_U0oA">leak out</a> from the destination because of imports such as food and fuel that are not available locally. Leakage also occurs when tourist facilities are foreign owned. <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/S-p-YGNXEnY?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> There are undoubtedly <a href="https://www.euronews.com/travel/2024/07/08/fake-signs-and-hunger-strikes-whats-behind-europes-backlash-against-overtourism">downsides</a> to tourism development. The influx of people into popular destinations can add to issues of crowding in public services and shared spaces. Tourism is also often accused of causing urgent economic problems, such as forcing up the cost of housing for locals. But these are often driven by more complex and alternative factors. Research in <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/0042098020970865">London</a>, a city facing an extreme problem of supply scarcity and growing numbers of <a href="https://theconversation.com/surging-property-prices-when-will-europes-cities-become-affordable-again-230256">“generation rent”</a>, found that Airbnb plays a relatively insignificant part in increasing housing costs. A study in <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/13683500.2019.1711027?casa_token=YYKyikeJrXYAAAAA:ktQVCuNoseTdiAC89hl98rdclxE7I68CqkYW6xHUFkzH_TLfabdFOuNfKDQiiIzkOdag7cuQTrho">South Carolina</a> in the US meanwhile showed that short-term holiday rentals can boost hospitality micro-entrepreneurs and help residents to maximise the economic potential of their homes by renting out spare rooms. <h2>What can tourists do?</h2> Ultimately, what unites many anti-tourism protesters is a <a href="https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20240522-the-worlds-revolt-against-bad-tourists">demand for respect</a>. Indeed, <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/10941665.2020.1768129?casa_token=4DR7vsQpGtcAAAAA:0QIzenTi9LAaVNH8w0JkT46D5_okuotUR5C-wP2NyxxT5bC0UiG2gMBfLHt5G3rveVre7gu8kEIB">research</a> has shown that over-tourism is not merely an issue of overcrowding, but a long-term issue resulting from inappropriate treatment of residents in the process of tourism development. Tourists can demonstrate that they respect hosts and help to alleviate anti-tourism feelings by finding ways to ensure their holiday is as economically beneficial to the destination as possible. <ul> <li> Spending money at smaller-scale and locally owned businesses puts more money into the local economy. Large multinationals can out-compete local businesses and worsen <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ImtQ9YQS7UrYJ_PItcgeFhFUidcxTwkC/view">economic inequality</a>. <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/1354816616654244?casa_token=YQU0aoDhdP8AAAAA:bX_7TEc0S4zhkl2eduKZqitorJKlbRMMSnaJAZJBPCm8bAk-uQMI518KvZX09oI0iLs13NULXYoX">Foreign-owned businesses</a> typically increase leakage rates as they send profits back to their headquarters. </li> <li> Choosing more sustainable operators, services and destinations tends to bring economic positives. In <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1354816616664249?casa_token=vr7pQyvIVAgAAAAA%3ATLHqmXTyGeHpmL8j9K2cNjb4doB4w_0CNH0IspadKHEPSt5PsFLWVngRQsj81tvE3vIJMpPWGm31&journalCode=teua">Mauritius</a>, for instance, the government has invested in sustainable tourism planning, enhancing economic growth and bringing benefits for residents. </li> <li> Visiting places that are less typically touristic spreads economic advantages around. In Scotland, nature tourism supports around <a href="https://www.nature.scot/professional-advice/social-and-economic-benefits-nature/tourism">39,000 full-time jobs</a>. </li> </ul> It can be easy to scapegoat tourists and tourism for deeper-seated economic problems. Tourists are a highly visible, and frequently very annoying, presence. But without them destinations would be poorer, while persistent economic problems would likely remain. Challenging governments, policy-makers, corporations or institutions might be a better use of protesters’ energy.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/235614/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/brendan-canavan-228682">Brendan Canavan</a>, Senior Lecturer in Marketing, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-nottingham-1192">University of Nottingham</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/holiday-protesters-are-missing-the-big-picture-there-are-ways-to-make-tourism-work-for-everyone-235614">original article</a>. </div>

Travel Trouble

Planning a country escape these school holidays? 4 ways to avoid clogging up the emergency department

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/katherine-riley-1499452">Katherine Riley</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-wollongong-711">University of Wollongong</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/rebekkah-middleton-314433">Rebekkah Middleton</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-wollongong-711">University of Wollongong</a> Winter school holidays are either here or coming up, depending on where in Australia you live. Maybe you’re planning a <a href="https://www.tra.gov.au/en/domestic/domestic-tourism-results">rural escape</a>. Rural tourism is crucial for job growth and sustainability of small rural towns. However, for rural emergency departments, <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/am/holiday-medico-shortages-in-rural-and-remote-australia/103266540">school holidays</a> are often the busiest times. No-one plans a trip to the emergency department on holidays. But if you need health care, there are often other ways of accessing it than turning up at a rural hospital. Here’s why it’s so important to leave rural emergency departments for life-threatening illness or injuries, and some other options for seeking care. <h2>We’re short of doctors and nurses</h2> The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare <a href="https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/rural-remote-australians/rural-and-remote-health">reports</a> a significant shortfall of nurses and specialist doctors in rural towns compared with staffing levels in big cities. This means many small rural emergency departments only have nurses on staff, with doctors on call or consulted remotely from a larger hospital. In a <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1755599X2300143X">study</a> published earlier this year, my colleagues and I discovered this dynamic was especially challenging for rural emergency nurses when critically ill patients presented. One nurse told us: "We need more staff. I mean, I look at these emergency TV shows, and you see them in Kings Cross at the big hospitals there or overseas, they get a phone call […] there’s a resus coming in. Everyone’s standing around the bed with all their signs on, the airway/circulation/team leader […] and here, we have two people. It’s just so different. It’s just a false sense of reality. It’s ridiculous." So emergency departments should be used for <a href="https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Hospitals/Going_To_hospital/Publications/keep-ed-emergencies.pdf">emergencies only</a>. These include: <ul> <li>sudden collapse</li> <li>chest pain or pressure lasting more than ten minutes</li> <li>breathing difficulty</li> <li>serious mental health condition</li> <li>uncontrollable bleeding.</li> </ul> When emergency departments are used responsibly, this can reduce the pressure on staff. It ensures the most seriously ill receive the care they need promptly. <h2>What are my alternatives?</h2> Here are four ways you and your family can be better prepared for your rural holiday and avoid an unnecessary visit to the emergency department. 1. Pack your scripts and medical history summary Bring essential scripts and medications with you. This reduces the need to visit the local emergency department and ensures you have what you need during your stay. Do you have a chronic condition or have had a recent illness or surgery? Make sure you speak to your GP before you go. They can provide a medical health summary that includes your recent treatments and medications. Alternatively, if you have access to <a href="https://www.digitalhealth.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/my-health-record">My Health Record</a>, ask your GP to prepare a shared health summary and upload it to your record. If you need medical care, this summary will assist in a timely assessment. 2. Call Healthdirect, NURSE-ON-CALL or 13HEALTH depending on where you are <a href="https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/how-healthdirect-can-help-you">Healthdirect</a> is a 24-hour telephone health advice line (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria or 13HEALTH in Queensland). By calling the relevant number, you will be connected to a registered nurse who will ask a series of questions and provide evidence-based advice and guidance. The Healthdirect website also offers an interactive <a href="https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/symptom-checker">symptom checker</a> to advise whether you should see a GP, go to an emergency department, or manage your symptoms at home (or in this case, on holidays): <ul> <li> <a href="https://www.healthdirect.gov.au">Healthdirect</a> - 1800 022 222 </li> <li> <a href="https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/nurse-on-call">NURSE-ON-CALL</a> (Vic) - 1300 60 60 24 </li> <li> <a href="https://www.qld.gov.au/health/contacts/advice/13health">13HEALTH</a> (Qld) - 13 43 25 84. </li> </ul> 3. Need a GP? How about GP telehealth services? For minor health concerns or non-urgent issues, <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/how-emily-took-advantage-of-one-of-the-few-good-things-to-come-out-of-covid-20240507-p5fpg3.html">GP telehealth services</a> are a remote-access option that can be used when away from home. Before you go away, check with your GP to see if they offer a <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/topics/health-technologies-and-digital-health/about/telehealth">telehealth service</a>. 4. Go to an Urgent Care Clinic The Australian government has funded the opening of <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/find-a-medicare-ucc/about">Urgent Care Clinics</a> across the country. These clinics provide medical assessment and care for urgent illnesses or injuries. They have been created as a solution to divert people away from busy emergency departments. But these Urgent Care Clinics are not suitable for people experiencing emergency or life-threatening conditions. Urgent Care Clinics are ideal for illnesses and injuries that would require urgent treatment such as gastroenteritis, minor infections, lacerations and back pain. Check <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/find-a-medicare-ucc">here</a> to find your closest clinic. <hr /> Please keep the emergency department for life-threatening illnesses or injuries, and if needed, call 000 for an ambulance immediately.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/232262/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/katherine-riley-1499452">Katherine Riley</a>, Lecturer, School of Nursing, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-wollongong-711">University of Wollongong</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/rebekkah-middleton-314433">Rebekkah Middleton</a>, Associate Professor, School of Nursing, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-wollongong-711">University of Wollongong</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/planning-a-country-escape-these-school-holidays-4-ways-to-avoid-clogging-up-the-emergency-department-232262">original article</a>. </div>

Domestic Travel

10 ways to make those stage 3 tax cuts count

You’re already used to living without these extra dollars. So, you won’t miss them by continuing to do so. Consider the various options available and which best suits your circumstances, then devise a plan of action to put that money to work. <ol> <li>Check tax brackets</li> </ol> Not only are some income tax rates falling, but the thresholds for others are increasing - potentially pushing you into a lower tax bracket. For example, Alice currently earns $130,000 and this tips her into marginal tax rate of 37 per cent. The Stage 3 changes will increase the 37 per cent tax threshold to $135,001. As such, Alice drops to a lower tax bracket. Not only this, her new tax bracket will have its marginal tax rate reduced from 32.5 per cent to 30 per cent. It’s a double win for Alice! This shouldn’t change your money habits but is still good to know. <ol start="2"> <li>Update your plan</li> </ol> Check <a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/about-ato/new-legislation/in-detail/individuals/individual-income-tax-rates-and-threshold-changes">what your new tax rate will be</a> to calculate your new take-home pay (or simply look at your first full pay cycle in the new financial year). Plot your new income into your household spending and investment plan. Now you know what you have to play with. <ol start="3"> <li>Check your pay</li> </ol> Most employers use digital payroll systems which automatically update tax rates. But not all do. And even then, mistakes can happen. From July, double check that your pay is adjusted correctly. If you notice a mistake, speak up – not only will you and your colleagues benefit, but you could save your employer from costly penalties for an innocent mistake. <ol start="4"> <li>Monitor expenses</li> </ol> Don’t let ballooning expenses wipe out any tax cut gains. Avoid pre-spending those gains too. The additional income is spaced out over each pay; it’s not a lump sum you can blow on a spending spree. <ol start="5"> <li>Automatic redirects</li> </ol> Consider setting up an automated redirect of the difference in your pay as soon as it hits your account. The money could be diverted into a high-interest savings account or used to top up your emergency fund. <ol start="6"> <li>Super contributions</li> </ol> Tax cut cash can be used in combination with super contribution rules to supercharge retirement earnings. Low income earners may be eligible for <a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/super-for-individuals-and-families/super/growing-and-keeping-track-of-your-super/how-to-save-more-in-your-super/government-super-contributions/super-co-contribution">government co-contributions</a> while <a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/super-for-individuals-and-families/super/growing-and-keeping-track-of-your-super/how-to-save-more-in-your-super/spouse-super-contributions">spouse contributions</a> can offer further tax benefits. This may be particularly useful for anyone <a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/super-for-individuals-and-families/super/growing-and-keeping-track-of-your-super/caps-limits-and-tax-on-super-contributions/concessional-contributions-cap#ato-Carryforwardunusedcontributioncapamounts">trying to catch-up</a> after time out of the workforce (e.g., raising kids or caring for relatives) or repaying <a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/about-ato/research-and-statistics/in-detail/super-statistics/early-release/covid-19-early-release-of-super">early withdrawals during COVID</a>. <ol start="7"> <li>Pay down debt</li> </ol> Every extra dollar spent paying off debt will save on future interest and clear it faster. Prioritise higher interest debts (like credit cards). Consider consolidating multiple debts into one with a lower rate (e.g., your mortgage) to reduce total interest and simplify repayments. <ol start="8"> <li>Invest in yourself</li> </ol> The old saying goes “you’ve got to spend money to make money”. Nowhere are the returns typically better than from self improvement. That could be undertaking new qualifications or additional training, enabling you to secure pay rises or transition to a higher-paying industry. Or it may be investing in your health and wellbeing, to reduce medical expenses, improve job prospects and productivity, and enhance your decision-making abilities (including about money matters). <ol start="9"> <li>Lodge returns promptly</li> </ol> This applies to every tax year: the sooner you lodge your tax return, the sooner you access your tax refund. Even if you’re facing a tax bill, getting it done sooner means less interest accruing and no late payment penalties. <ol start="10"> <li>Revisit strategies</li> </ol> While making changes to incorporate these tax cuts, take the opportunity to re-evaluate your overall finances. Revisit investment strategies to ensure they are delivering optimal returns. Check superannuation thresholds and performance. Scrutinise total tax liabilities (for instance, lower tax rates may mean you won’t qualify for the same level of tax deductions). Make updates where necessary. Keeping on top of your finances will mean better bang for your buck now while streamlining your affairs in future years. Helen Baker is a licensed Australian financial adviser and author of On Your Own Two Feet: The Essential Guide to Financial Independence for all Women. Helen is among the 1% of financial planners who hold a master’s degree in the field. Proceeds from book sales are donated to charities supporting disadvantaged women and children. Find out more at <a href="http://www.onyourowntwofeet.com.au/">www.onyourowntwofeet.com.au</a> Disclaimer: The information in this article is of a general nature only and does not constitute personal financial or product advice. Any opinions or views expressed are those of the authors and do not represent those of people, institutions or organisations the owner may be associated with in a professional or personal capacity unless explicitly stated. Helen Baker is an authorised representative of BPW Partners Pty Ltd AFSL 548754. Image credits: Shutterstock

Money & Banking

Anti-cellulite products are big business – but here’s what the science says

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/rebecca-shepherd-423135">Rebecca Shepherd</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-bristol-1211">University of Bristol</a> Although <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jocd.14815">90% of women have cellulite</a>, we’re yet to see it represented as a normal anatomical characteristic in popular culture. In Greta Gerwig’s 2023 Hollywood blockbuster, for instance, Stereotypical Barbie, played by Margot Robbie, develops dimples on her upper thigh as part of her existential crisis – along with other human faults such as halitosis, flat feet and irrepressible thoughts of death. When Stereotypical Barbie asks doll sage Weird Barbie what the dimples are, she explains: “That’s cellulite. That’s going to spread everywhere. Then you’re going to start getting sad and mushy and complicated.” Barbie’s perfect smooth plastic perfection is marred. Despite its prevalence, then, cellulite has been constructed as a flaw in need of correction. Consumers, it seems, agree, especially when fed a diet of the <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/21604851.2021.1913827">photoshop smoothed skin</a> of models, social media influencers – and Hollywood stars. <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rmThigh1i8s?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe><figcaption>“NO!” Barbie shouts when Weird Barbie tells her she has cellulite.</figcaption></figure> Cellulite’s usually found in areas that have greater amounts of subcutaneous fat, when fat deposits push through the connective tissue beneath the skin, leading to a lumpy appearance. It is common, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0738081X1300076X?via%3Dihub">usually painless</a> and harmless. The human skin is the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-skin-is-a-very-important-and-our-largest-organ-what-does-it-do-91515">body’s largest organ</a>, made up of three layers. At the surface, the epidermis acts as our first line of defence against the environment. This outermost, impermeable layer is made up of cells that are constantly renewed and shed, protecting our body from external elements. Beneath the epidermis lies the dermis, a robust layer containing fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing essential proteins such as collagen and elastin. These proteins provide structure and elasticity, contributing to the skin’s strength and flexibility. Deeper still is the hypodermis, also known as the subcutaneous layer. This layer is rich in adipose tissue – mostly made up of fat, which plays a crucial role in cushioning and insulating the body, as well as storing fat that can be used when needed. Beneath these three layers of skin, there is muscle. Running from the muscle to the dermis are <a href="https://journals.lww.com/amjdermatopathology/fulltext/2000/02000/cellulite__from_standing_fat_herniation_to.7.aspx">bands of connective tissue</a>, that holds the adipose tissue in “pockets”. Cellulite does not affect health, although some people report that it affects their <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/07853890.2018.1561731">self-esteem and body image</a> but that’s more to do with the social pressure on women to be physically perfect – or spend money, time and energy trying to be as close to perfect as possible. Cellulite, then, has become big business for the beauty industry. In the lead up to summer especially, companies will promote <a href="https://www.asa.org.uk/advice-online/weight-control-cellulite.html">all manner of products</a> from creams and serums to gadgets and pills, all aimed at creating perfectly smooth limbs. The most popular question seems to be, “Do these treatments work?” but as an anatomist I think the more pressing question is, “Why are healthy women’s bodies considered something to treat, cure or correct?” The beauty and wellness industry has long capitalised on societal standards of beauty. The idea that cellulite is undesirable and <a href="https://journals.lww.com/dermatologicsurgery/abstract/1978/03000/So_Called_Cellulite.9.aspx">should be corrected</a> has been perpetuated since Vogue magazine was the <a href="https://archive.vogue.com/article/1968/4/cellulite-the-new-word-for-fat-you-couldnt-lose-before">first English language magazine</a> to use the term “cellulite”, introducing the concept to thousands of women. This marketing strategy taps into the insecurities of consumers, particularly women, and promotes an endless pursuit of “perfection” for bodies that have normal anatomical variation. By framing cellulite as a condition that needs treatment, companies can sell a wide range of products and services, bolstered by celebrity endorsements, which lend credibility and aspirational value to pseudo-medical “smoothing” products. However, there is limited scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of these supplements in treating cellulite. In fact, the <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1524-4725.1978.tb00416.x">first scientific paper</a> on cellulite, published in 1978, referred to it as “so called cellulite: the invented disease”. Recent product launches include, <a href="https://lemmelive.com/en-gb/products/lemme-smooth-capsules?variant=45597048111318">Lemme Smooth</a>, Kourtney Kardashian-Barker’s latest addition to her vitamin and supplement range. The product’s promotional materials claim that the capsule “visibly reduces cellulite in 28 days”. But what does the science tell us? Supplements like Lemme Smooth claim to improve skin texture and reduce cellulite from within. Kardashian-Barker’s supplement contains a mixture of <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10298-015-0977-4">french cantaloupe melon</a>, hyaluronic acid, chromium and vitamin C among other ingredients. The body’s ability to absorb and utilise these ingredients in a way that would impact cellulite is still a subject of debate. There is evidence that <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4110621/#:%7E:text=In%20a%20randomized%2C%20double%2Dblind,in%20part%2C%20to%20the%20skin.">ingested hyaluronic acid</a> can migrate into the skin, stimulating the production of collagens within the dermis – and vitamin C has been shown to <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-72704-1">thicken the surface layer</a> of the skin. However, the lack of standardisation in testing for the use of these ingredients in the treatment of cellulite means it’s still not clear if they will have a <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1467-2494.2006.00318.x">significant effect</a>. Other products marketed to reduce the appearance of cellulite include topical creams and lotions, containing ingredients like <a href="https://karger.com/books/book/763/chapter-abstract/5600478/Specific-Use-Cosmeceuticals-for-Body-Skin-Texture?redirectedFrom=fulltext">caffeine, retinol, and herbal extracts</a>. Cosmetic products are not able to penetrate the epidermis enough to significantly affect the underlying fat deposits and connective tissue. Some invasive treatments, such as <a href="https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/fat-removal/cellulite-treatments-what-really-works">laser therapy, subcision, and acoustic wave therapy</a> can offer more promising results. These procedures work by breaking down the connective tissue bands that cause dimpling and stimulating collagen production in the dermis to improve skin elasticity. While these methods <a href="https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/fat-removal/cellulite-treatments-what-really-works">may be more effective</a>, they are often expensive, require multiple sessions to achieve results – and aren’t without risk. Maintaining a healthy diet, drinking lots of water, and regular physical activity can help improve the overall appearance of the skin and reduce the visibility of cellulite. Losing weight and strengthening the muscles in the legs, buttocks and abdomen may make cellulite less noticeable, but it won’t make it <a href="https://jndc-chemistryarticles.info/ijn/article/318">disappear altogether</a>. The bottom line, though, is that cellulite does not need to be treated. It’s a normal anatomical variation that’s been transformed into a condition driving a lucrative market for cures <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40257-015-0129-5">that don’t exist</a>. My top expert advice in the run up to summer? Be wary of claims from cosmetic companies and save your money. <hr /> The Conversation has approached the Lemme Live brand for comment.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/232318/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/rebecca-shepherd-423135">Rebecca Shepherd</a>, Senior Lecturer in Human Anatomy, School of Anatomy, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-bristol-1211">University of Bristol</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/anti-cellulite-products-are-big-business-but-heres-what-the-science-says-232318">original article</a>. </div>

Body

10 ways to cruise as a senior

Just because you’re older, that doesn’t mean you can’t experience all that a cruising holiday has to offer. Follow our simple tips for a fun filled holiday on the water. 1. Choose the right ship Cruise ships today carry anywhere from six to 6,000 people. The larger megaliners tend to be geared towards families with plenty of crazy rides and high-energy activities. They’ll also probably be crowded with kids. Smaller boutique ships operate at a slower pace and are generally stocked with an older crowd. Do your research and find one to suit you. 2. And the right cabin Do you need an accessible cabin? Do you want to reduce walking with a cabin close to the elevators? Is it important for you to have some outside space of your own? These are all important questions that you’ll need to answer when you book. The right cabin can make or break a cruise. 3. Pick an appropriate itinerary You’ll need to decide if you want to visit new places every day or spend more time onboard the ship. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Port heavy itineraries, where you’re stopping at a new destination every day, can be tiring. On the other hand, you might get bored with too many days at sea. Think realistically about your needs and make the right choice for you. 4. Research your dates One of the best things about being a senior traveller is that you are (generally) no longer bound by things like school holidays. By avoiding these times you’ll not only save money, you won’t be on a ship with an unusually high proportion of children. When cruising in the Caribbean, you’ll also need to keep in mind the US college holidays so you’re not trapped with a bunch of boozy spring breakers. 5. Allow extra time It’s a sad fact of ageing that you’re not as quick on your feet as you used to be. That means you’ll need to factor in extra time for just about everything. Ships can be huge, so you don’t want to be rushing to make a dinner reservation or spa appointment. This applies on shore too. If you’re really late, the ship will leave without you so don’t cut it too fine. 6. Choose the right shore excursions Before you book, have a chat with the shore excursions team and get a good idea of the physical requirements. What they consider minimal walking might not be the same as what you consider minimal walking. These tours aren’t cheap, so you want to be sure that you can enjoy everything it involves. 7. Look at onboard activities You might not want to get off at every port (which can be exhausting) but still want to be entertained onboard. And adventurous activities like skydiving simulators and giant waterslides may not be your thing any more. Many cruise lines offer fantastic enrichment programs onboard where you can listen to world-class lecturers, learn new skills or watch performances from the likes of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts or the Lincoln Centre. 8. Give yourself time to relax You’re on holiday! If you want to spend a day in bed, watching movies and ordering room service then do exactly that. Don’t feel any pressure to be up and about every day. 9. Travel with the right companions Solo, couple, friends or family, there’s a cruise for every group. Cruising is hugely popular with multi-generational groups as there something for everyone to do, but it might not make for the most relaxing holiday. If you’re a solo traveller, you can book a single cabin all to yourself or find a room mate with any number of matching services. Just think carefully – because once you’re onboard with your travel buddy, there’s no getting off. 10. Think about medical care Be realistic about any medical needs you may have. Most ships have a decent medical centre, but if you are spending multiple days at sea or cruising to very remote destinations and something happens it might not be enough to help you. If you are concerned, choose cruises that stay close to shore or visit developed countries where you can get proper treatment quickly. Image credits: Shutterstock

Cruising

5 ways to fake a clean bathroom

Got a friend popping around for a catch up, and, your bathroom is less than sparkling? Don’t stress. Follow our foolproof tips to fake it so no one knows you didn’t have time to do a proper clean. 1. Scrub the loo The toilet is often a telltale sign that your bathroom is in need of a clean. If you haven’t already invested in a leave-in cleaner for your bowl, simply get in there with some toilet cleaner and give a good squirt under the rim. Leave it to do its job while you get on with the rest of the bathroom. Then when it’s had a few minutes to soak, give it a once over with the toilet brush. Grab some toilet paper (or an antibacterial wipe) and give the rim and the top of the toilet a once over to remove any dust. 2. Eliminate any obvious mould and grime Find yourself some good-quality mould spray that you can apply and then leave to work its magic while you move on to other areas of the bathroom. After 10 minutes (check your packet for the optimal time) you should be able to spray it with warm water from the shower and then wipe it clean. 3. Do a quick dust bust Grab yourself a clean cloth or antibacterial wipe and go over the shelves and basin to get rid of any dust or dirt you can see. 4.Change your bathmat and hand towel There’s nothing like a fresh and clean bathmat to trick your guests into thinking that you’ve just finished scrubbing the bathroom. Add a clean hand towel to complete the look. 5.Add a sweet scent Give your bathroom a look of freshness by popping a small vase of flowers in there. You can also try a scented candle on top of the toilet to give off a nice scent and hide any odours. Image credits: Shutterstock

Home & Garden

5 ways your sleep affects what you eat

We know a good night’s sleep is good for us but logging in those hours of sleep can be a difficult task. Without quality shut-eye, our productivity decreases, immune system weakens and even our dietary health is negatively affected. You eat more when you sleep less A Mayo Clinic study comparing the eating habits of people who slept as much as they needed and those who only slept two-thirds of their required rest time for eight days, found the subject who were sleep-deprived ended up eating an average of 549 extra calories each day. You snack more, especially at night A lack of sleep can lead to decrease in physical activity and an increase in snacking behaviour. Such behaviours typically leads to weight gain. You crave extra carbs and fatty foods The foods we’re snacking on aren’t usually the healthy variety. A 2013 study found that when we’re tired we not only crave unhealthy, -carbohydrate, and high-fat foods but we’re less likely to consider the consequences of such food choices over time. Disrupted sleep cycle equal changing eating patterns Your internal clock guides both your sleep patterns and your eating patterns – aka when you feel hungry during the day. A 2011 study found that people who are “late sleepers” tend to delay their meals throughout the day and end up consuming more calories than the average meal. Those late-eating habits affect sleep and perpetuates the cycle. You don’t eat the right foods A 2013 study found that sleep-deprived subjects ate half the fruit and vegetable servings of a normal sleeper. This meant losing key nutrients from their diet, which can lead to dietary imbalances and effect the regular functioning of the body. Image credits: Shutterstock

Body

"Taken way too soon": TV star's brother breaks silence after shocking death

The grieving brother of slain TV star Johnny Wactor has broken his silence over his brother's untimely death. Johnny Wactor, 37, was <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/caring/soap-star-killed-in-robbery-gone-wrong" target="_blank" rel="noopener">killed</a> in Los Angeles in the early hours of Saturday morning when he intercepted a group of men trying to steal the catalytic converter from his vehicle, and was shot dead at the scene. Now, Wactor's brother Grant has shared more details on the events surrounding his Johnny's death, telling <a href="https://people.com/general-hospital-actor-johnny-wactors-brother-speaks-out-on-killing-taken-way-too-early-8654340" target="_blank" rel="noopener">People</a> magazine that he had finished a shift working as a bartender at the time he was shot. After his shift finished at about 3:25am local time, he walked to his car with a female co-worker when he noticed that his car had been “jacked up or lifted in some way”. Initially, the actor thought his car was being towed away, but quickly realised the people surrounding his car were not tow-truck drivers. Grant said his brother physically shielded his female colleague to prevent her from being hurt and had his hands up in the air when he was shot. “He did not confront them,” he told the publication. “He did not try to stop them. He was just trying to diffuse the situation by stepping back.” After the shooting the men fled the scene in a different car, and LAPD officer Jeff Lee said the suspects were “still outstanding”. Grant Wactor said his family were “hoping and praying” that the killers were found and brought to justice. “We just want (them to be found) as quickly as possible and correctly,” he said, describing his brother as “a good person”. “He was taken way too early, and no one should be taken like this at all,” he said. “He touched a lot of people. He believed in his core values to the end, and he lived life to the fullest the way he wanted to. And he was happy doing that.” Image credits: Instagram / Ouzounova / Shutterstock Editorial

Family & Pets

Want to reduce your dementia risk? Eat these 4 foods, says new study

If you are what you eat, this might make you hungrier for foods that are bright in every sense. Research has shown that living, vibrant foods can slow down aging at a cellular level; while fruit and vegetables in particular have been associated with lower incidence of cognitive decline as individuals age. However, research has been relatively lacking on just how much of these brain-healthy foods you really need and which fruit and vegetables are best for the job. In collaboration with public health experts at Harvard University, medical researchers at China’s Zhejiang University School of Medicine conducted a meta-analysis that’s slated to be published in the June 2024 issue of The Journal of Nutrition, Health, and Aging. They combined data from two large-scale population-representative studies that analysed the diets and cognitive function of more than 10,000 participants ages 55 and older from China and the US. <h2>What daily diets revealed</h2> The data included diet questionnaires that honed in on the average of participants’ total daily intake of several different types of foods, including fruit and vegetables, and also broke them down into sub-types like green leafy vegetables and berries. Over a period of five years, the participants also took part in activities designed to assess their cognitive function and the average rate of cognitive decline. Overall, participants who included the most fruit and vegetables in their daily diets performed best on the brain tests and maintained those results over time. This suggested that both fruit and vegetables had protective elements that slowed cognitive decline. <h2>Vegetables that help protect cognition</h2> Interestingly, certain types of vegetables appeared to be more beneficial than others—say the researchers: “Our findings support the potential beneficial roles of VF, especially cruciferous vegetables, green leafy vegetables, and red and yellow vegetables, in maintaining cognitive function and slowing cognitive decline in middle-aged and older adults.” The researchers pointed to several reasons these particular vegetables might have shown a substantial impact, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidation nutrients like flavonoids and various vitamins or even gut improvements that have been shown to help improve or protect cognition. While beans didn’t figure prominently in both studies, they showed a protective element in the US study, so they are also worth keeping on your plate. (Beans are also thought to be one of the top foods for longevity.) <h2>Fruit that pack a punch</h2> As for fruit, while some didn’t show as much of a protective effect across the board, berries and apples are two examples of fruit that experts have previously said provide major polyphenol and antioxidant effect. Participants whose brains maintained performance were shown to have eaten three or more servings of vegetables and two or more servings of fruit per day. This is on par with the five servings of vegetables and two servings of fruit recommended we eat every day. Image credits: Shutterstock This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/healthsmart/want-to-reduce-your-dementia-risk-eat-these-4-foods-says-new-study" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Mind

Never say never: Ash Barty's surprising new career move

Ash Barty is set for a return to Wimbledon this year, but not in the way you'd expect. The Aussie legend who retired from competitive tennis in 2022 at the age of 25, has been persistent about not returning to the court. Since her retirement, she <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/relationships/game-set-and-match-ash-barty-ties-the-knot" target="_blank" rel="noopener">married </a>her long-term partner Garry Kissick, and the pair welcomed <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/best-year-yet-ash-barty-shares-pregnancy-announcement" target="_blank" rel="noopener">their son</a> Hayden in July 2023. She has also written some books and played a few golf tournaments around the world. In November 2022, when promoting her memoir My Dream Time, Barty was asked if she’d ever consider a move into the commentary box, to which she replied: “No, never.” But now, she is making her return into the spotlight, particularly the commentary box as she has been announced as part of the BBC’s team for Wimbledon. “A host of Wimbledon champions will be joining the studio," BBC’s content boss Charlotte Moore said. Barty will be joining Nick Kyrgios and former Aussie Wimbledon champ Pat Cash for the Summer of Sport event in London. “This will include John McEnroe, Martina Navratilova, Billie Jean King and Pat Cash, alongside Tim Henman, Tracey Austin, Annabel Croft and Johanna Konta," Moore said. “Joining the line-up this year will be 2021 champion Ashleigh Barty and, if he’s not playing, 2022 Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios, so anything could happen there.” While her attitude towards taking a commentary role has changed, she has not changed her stance on making a comeback on the court. “I don’t have the time – I don’t have the time to train, I don’t have the time to prepare, and I have so many great memories out on this court and now I just get to create new memories,” she said late last year. “I’m certainly not coming out of retirement.” Image: JONO SEARLE/EPA-EFE/ Shutterstock Editorial

4 ways to avoid foot pain when travelling

Whether it’s caused by a hectic day of sightseeing or a mad rush through the airports, there’s nothing quite as annoying as foot pain when you’re on holidays. And when you consider how easy it is to avoid (so long as you take the correct preventative measures) you’ll feeling like kicking yourself for putting up with it for all these years. Here are four ways to avoid foot pain when travelling. 1. Choosing the right pair of shoes Out of all the fashion statements, shoes are probably responsible for more chronic foot pain than anything else. So make sure you choose the right pair of shoes for your trip. For example, if you’re going to be walking around all day sightseeing it might be an idea to ditch the stiletto heels for a pair of joggers (even if they’re not quite so aesthetically pleasing). Dr Robert Mathews from Cremorne Medical in NSW says, “I recommend wearing supportive shoe such as running shoes. If you want to wear something more stylish then consider buying some gel insoles to slip in your shoes, you can get a wide variety of these from your local chemist.“ 2. Manage your feet on flights Foot swelling can become quite a big problem on long haul flight, so managing your feet becomes crucial. Simple, preventative measures anyone can take, like wearing support stocks, standing up every so often to move around or even just flexing your feet and wriggling your toes, can make a big difference and greatly reduce the chance of swelling. 3. Slip, slop and slap So many island holidays have been soured by the blistering pain of sunburnt feet. If you’re staying at a resort or near a beach and your feet are exposed, don’t forget to apply sunscreen everywhere. Otherwise you’re going to want to have some aloe vera gel handy! 4. Take time to rest While you’re probably in a mad rush to see everything, fear of missing out can put significant strain on your feet. So make sure you set aside plenty of time every day to put your feet up and rest. It also might be worth considering some extra pampering, like a foot bath or even a half hour massage. You are on holidays after all, so why not treat yourself! Dr Matthews adds, “It may also be worth taking with you some thick band aids in case you develop any blisters from long walks.” Image credits: Shutterstock

Travel Tips

5 ways to avoid going overboard on a cruise

Falling overboard is the stuff of cruising nightmares (and it happens surprisingly more frequently than you might think. Just this year we’ve brought you two stories about passengers falling overboard, but this fishy fate is by no means unavoidable. Here are five ways to ensure you keep your feet dry. 1. Limit your alcohol intake If the prices weren’t enough of a reason to go easy on the sauce on your cruise, perhaps the risk of tipping over the balcony will persuade you. Think of it this way – the effect of alcohol on a cruise is the same as the effect of alcohol on dry land, but when you’re on a cruise you’re travelling through sometimes heavy seas at about 20 knots. 2. Stay in your room during inclement weather If your ship is sailing into dicey conditions, you’re better off keeping to your quarters. You never know how a cruise liner is going to stand up to the ocean’s wrath, and even if you want a good view of Mother Nature’s nasty side, you’re safer below deck. 3. Keep clear of dark corners It’s not a very pleasant thing to think about, but when there are 4,000 passengers on a cruise they’re not all going to be good eggs. Be aware of your surroundings, just as you would be on land, and be sure to report any suspicious activity to a crew member. 4. Pay attention during the practice drills Even if you’ve been on 20 cruises it’s a good idea to pay attention during the practice drills. This will reinforce what you need to do in an event of an emergency, and might just save your life (or someone else’s by knowing where to find the safety gear). 5. Don’t re-enact the Titanic scene Because going overboard will make you look like anything but, “The king of the world.” Have you ever been on a cruise? Did you ever feel unsafe at any point? Let us know in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you. Image credits: Getty Images

Cruising

Best friends on the way to a wedding identified in fatal crash

The best friends who were on their way to a wedding when they were struck in a fatal crash in Brisbane have been identified. Lily Galbraith, 24, and Emma McLean, 23, were travelling in a silver sedan through the Legacy Way tunnel on Wednesday at 3pm when they were hit by a black Audi. Ms Galbraith, a South Australian nurse who was originally from the Northern Territory, died in the crash, while Ms McLean is still fighting for her life in hospital after suffering critical injuries. The driver of the Audi, who also died in the crash, has been identified as former police officer Bruce Daley. After the Audi collided with the sedan, police believe the impact of the crash then pushed the sedan into a small truck, causing serious injuries to the driver of the truck. Mr Daley, who was medically retired from the Queensland Police Service in December 2014, had posted online about relationship struggles and loneliness over several years. Inspector Hansel said speed would be a “focus” of the investigation, with claims the Audi hit speeds of up to 200km/h before the crash. The Nurses and Midwives Memorial Page Australia paid tribute to Ms Galbraith on Thursday. “Rest in peace, Lily. Thank you for your service. Condolences to your family, friends and colleagues,” the post read. “All the very best for Emma and sending love to her family as they wait to see how her progress is. We are also thinking of the bride, groom and any wedding guests also mourning.” Image credits: Instagram / Facebook

Caring

Kochie reveals the simple way to halve your grocery bill

David Koch has revealed the simple trick to help you save big bucks at the supermarket as the cost of living crisis continues to hit hard. Kochie, who is the Compare the Market's economic director, calculated that Aussies can save up to $100 per trip to the grocery shop by making the switch to home brands. According to research of major Australian supermarkets, the average household can save big bucks by choosing not to buy well-known brands, which can lead to a saving of $5,000 per year. "So, when you're doing your supermarket shop, what's in a brand name? Well, let me tell you - plenty," Kochie said in a video posted to the Compare the Market Instagram account. "You are paying plenty more for that loyalty to a brand that you love." <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C57UwVrvSZ5/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C57UwVrvSZ5/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Compare the Market AU (@comparethemarket_aus)</a> </div> </blockquote> Compare the Market took to a major supermarket and bought 25 items from big name brands, and another 25 similar items from a challenger supermarket selling cheaper home brands. Based on substituting big-brand products for lesser-known labels, grocery bills would fall from $201.19 a week to $103.51, taking the weekly saving up to $97.68. "Now, multiply that weekly shop over a whole year and that's a saving of over $5,000." "Almost three return economy airfares to London." Everyday Aussies are continuing to struggle with the rising cost of groceries, with the price of bread and cereal increasing by 7.3 per cent in the year to March, an official monthly measure of inflation showed. Image credits: Instagram

Money & Banking

"There's no way": Man receives $52 billion tax bill

An American man has been left confused after receiving a letter from the government claiming he owed $52 billion in unpaid taxes. Barry Tangert got two letters in the mail from the state of Pennsylvania, opening the first to find a refund check from the federal government for over $900. His joy was short-lived though as he opened the second letter to find the income billing notice from the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue claiming that he owed a jaw-dropping $52,950,744,735.28 ($34,576,826,561.47 AUD). “I knew it was an obvious blunder. I don’t even make over $100,000 a year, so there’s no way I could owe anywhere near that,” Barry Tangert told local outlet News 8. The total sum was so large it didn’t even fit on a single line on the document. Tangert immediately knew it was a mistake, with the astonishing number being more than triple the $11 billion America’s richest man Elon Musk says he owed the government in 2022. How the error made it all the way to his doorstep is still a mystery to Tangert. “I don’t know if it was a computer glitch in the transmission or if it was an input error from my tax preparer,” Tangert said, noting that his tax preparer filed an amendment after noticing an error on his 2022 return. He reached out to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue’s customer service line, which also provided little help to the baffled man. “The first thing he said was, ‘You had a good year.’ And I said, ‘I wish,’” Tangert said. Fortunately, the state department has since resolved the issue, which it chalked up to wrong numbers simply being put into the system. Image credits: WGAL News 8

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Kochie reveals the simple way to halve your grocery bill

"There's no way": Man receives $52 billion tax bill

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