A new study from the University of Melbourne has shown that women who have a higher intake of junk food may suffer from higher rates of depression and anxiety.

A ‘Western’ diet is typical amongst Australians, with diets consisting of hamburgers, white bread, pizza, chips, soft drinks and lollies. This new study shows that women who had a higher the intake of this food, also had a higher chance of developing depression. Here’s another reason why we need to change our dietary habits.

A recent study has added to a growing body of evidence linking exposure to a pesticide to child cases of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

The US based study has shown that a mother’s exposure to organophophate (OP) pesticides during pregnancy was a strong predictor of attention-related problems in her child. This study is just another in an increasing amount showing just how dangerous ‘common’ chemicals and pesticides can be to our health.

Researchers at the Imperial College in London have suggested in a new study that fast food outlets could provide statin drugs free of charge so that customers can neutralise the heart disease dangers of fatty food.

Statins reduce the amount of unhealthy cholesterol in the blood, so essentially this proposed treatment would ‘cancel out’ the negative effects of the fast food. Sounds like a joke? Unfortunately, it isn’t.

A new study from Perth’s Telethon Institute for Child Health Research has shown an association between ADHD and a ‘Western-style’ diet in adolescents.

A Western Diet is characterised by high intakes of red meat, sugary desserts, high-fat foods, and refined grains. It also contains high-fat dairy products, high-sugar drinks and an abundance of artificial colours, preservatives and flavourings. It has been known for some time that a Western Diet contributes to heart disease, obesity and diabetes, however this is one of the first to show it’s connection with ADHD.

Women who reported a greater use of cleaning products may be at a higher risk of breast cancer than those who use them sparingly.

In this smaller-scale study, researchers found that women who often used chemical based cleaners appeared to be at a higher risk of breast cancer. Given the many dangerous risks involved with the use of chemicals on the skin and around this home, this new research comes as little surprise.

A great-quality multivitamin can do wonders for our health. From boosting energy levels to promoting immunity, a multivitamin can help to ‘fill in the gaps’ in our diet.

A recent study has shed some light on the other benefits of multivitamins. The study, performed by British and Australian researchers has shown that daily supplements of multivitamins and minerals may improve the brain function of children.

Obesity is set to overtake smoking as the leading cause of premature death and illness in Australia.

More than 60 per cent of Australia’s population is now overweight or obese, causing a massive amount of illnesses and deaths and placing a huge burden on the economy. Often regarded solely as a cosmetic issue, obesity is proving to be the main driver of many diseases, and unlike other factors - it is totally preventable.

A recent study has revealed that women who take fish oil supplements may have a 33% decreased risk of developing breast cancer than those who don’t.

This large-scale study highlighted the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in the prevention of illness and disease, adding to a growing body of evidence proving that fish oil really is essential to your health.

There is an epidemic of vitamin D deficiency sweeping the globe, and it shows no sign of slowing down.

A recent study has shown that a huge 60% of the world is vitamin D deficient, with another 25% having extremely low levels. Vitamin D deficiency can be the root cause of a large number of illnesses and diseases, but unlike other deficiencies, just a little bit of sunshine and some smart supplementation is all it takes to cure it.

A common drug used to treat type-2 diabetes has been shown to boost the risk of heart attack by an astounding 39%. This revelation comes after extensive research into the possible dangers of this drug.

Around 80,000 Australians use the drug everyday. With type-2 diabetics already having a 68% higher chance of experiencing a heart attack as compared to non-diabetics, it's time to take a natural approach to reducing or even eliminating the need for dangerous drugs.

A recent study has shown that older adults with low intakes of vitamins B6 and B12 may have a higher risk of developing depression than those who get more of the nutrients.

Depression affects up to 20% of Australians, with many people suffering in silence from this devastating illness with no identifiable cause. This research offers hope for a natural and manageable treatment and even preventative from this common illness.

We are literally starving for vitamin D. Our quest to prevent overexposure and skin cancer has meant that the majority of Australian's are now vitamin D deficient. Recent research has now shown some alarming results for the effects of vitamin D deficiency on the body.

The new research, run by Harvard Medical School has shown that a low intake of Vitamin D boost the risks of heart attacks and stroke by an astonishing 60% - a scary figure considering that most of us are vitamin D deficient.

Winter is here, and with it comes freezing mornings, rainy days and of course - colds and flu. If you listen to the commercials, the best way to reduce your risk of catching the dreaded lurgy is to dose up with drugs and tablets - pity all you’ll be doing is masking the symptoms.

As the flu season unfolds, there is a lot you can do to substantially lower your risk of getting sick. Turn to natural medicine instead to boost your immunity and give yourself the best chance of staying cold and flu-free.

A new study out of Germany, said to be the first clinical trial to evaluate the combination of glucosamine sulfate and omega-3 fatty acids in people suffering from osteoarthritis, has shown that taking a combination of these supplements can dramatically boost results in joint health than taking glucosamine alone.

Glucosamine has long been known for it's beneficial effects on joints, as has omega-3 fatty acids, however this new study highlights the hugely beneficial health effects that can be achieved by taking a combination of both. So if you suffer from arthritis, it's time you invested in some good quality supplements.

Drinking fewer sugar-laden soft drinks may help lower blood pressure, U.S. researchers said on Monday. These findings add to a growing body of evidence supporting the reduction - and elimination - of sweetened drinks in our diet.

According to results taken in 2000, around 3.7 million Australias had high blood pressure or were on medication for this condition - that's around 32% of men and 27% of women. High blood pressure is a major cause of stroke and a main risk for heart disease, and is commonly treated with medicine known for potential side-effects. However, as this research shows, just minor changes to the diet could mean the end for high blood pressure.

According to a new American study, eating bacon, sausages, hot dogs and other processed meats can raise the risk of heart disease and diabetes by as much as 50%.

With heart disease, diabetes and obesity already major causes for illness and death in Australia, it's time that we cut out the contributing factors and take control of our health. First step? Cut out the bacon!

We’ve all heard about cholesterol - we know that keeping out cholesterol levels low is a good thing, and that high cholesterol levels are a bad thing. So you may have heard of it, but do you know what cholesterol is and what it does?

Despite what the ads say, even if you eat a healthy diet, you too may be at risk of high cholesterol. Here we discuss how cholesterol could affect you, and what you can do to lower your levels naturally.

There are many supplements out there - some that promise to shrink your waist, others that will provide superior immunity, and ones that just seem to good to be true.

Unfortunately, in our pursuit for supreme health, the basic vitamins and minerals are overlooked in favour of newer and fancier sounding products. Here, we show you why you simply must take vitamin C - a vitamin that is known for its powerful antioxidant effects and immunity boosting powers.

Drug regulators are urgently investigating whether the seasonal flu vaccine is safe for children. This follows the reported death of 2-year-old Ashley Epapara and over 60 cases of dangerously high fever and convulsions in children who recently received the vaccine.

Australia’s chief medical offer has told doctors to stop giving the seasonal flu vaccine to children pending the investigations.

If the vaccine is the cause of the adverse affects, thousands of children under five could be at risk of convulsions, vomiting, high fever and even death. Let’s hope that this isn’t the case.

A recent Japanese study has revealed some interesting and unexpected results for the effectiveness of vitamin D in the prevention of flu and asthma.

The study revealed that people taking vitamin D were 58% less likely to catch Influenza A, and supplementation dramatically reduced asthma symptoms in asthmatic children.

This is exciting new research that highlights the importance of vitamin D - not only for the prevention of flu and asthma symptoms, but for our overall health and vitality.

A recent inquiry has shown that Australia is fast becoming a nation of pill-poppers, consuming more than 40 million pills a day.

This $14.2 billion a year habit begs the question of whether we rely too heavily on pills to achieve better health. With safe, natural medicine only making up $4 billion of this total, it’s becoming obvious that Australians are turning to prescription drugs for a quick fix - an act that could be very dangerous for many people.

Couch potatoes and lazy bones beware - your sedentary TV time could be killing you.

A new Australian study has revealed that for every hour of sedentary time you partake in everyday, the risk of dying earlier from cardiovascular disease or cancer increases. This interesting new research offers an insight into how deeply a sedentary, unhealthy can affect our bodies - however, it's not too late to change your tune.

Women who take fish oil during pregnancy may give birth to children with improved hand-eye coordination, language skills and behaviour, an Australian study has suggested.

The positive effects of omega-3’s for cognitive development and learning difficulties has been well documented, and this research adds to the expanding list of benefits fish oil has for practically everyone.

A recent review has shown promising results for probiotics in the treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. According to this review, probiotic microbes, or 'good bacteria', could be the most successful treatment for IBD to date, even compared to conventional treatments.

IBD is a group of inflammatory diseases of the colon and small intestine. These ailments can be life-altering - causing pain and restricting a person's lifestyle. With around 100,000 Australians suffering from a form of IBD, the news that probiotics may dramatically ease symptoms will certainly be welcomed with open arms.

Each and every year, Australians spend millions on drug medications to reduce pain and inflammation. We devour these medications, hoping for a quick fix and fast relief from aches, pains and strains.

Though these medications promise rapid relief, they are actually harming your body with most causing side-effects like intestinal ulcers, bleeding from the bowel to reduced bone health, stroke and heart attack. The effective and safe alternative? It all starts with your diet.

Inflammation certainly is our body’s way of dealing with a perceive threat. Normally, it is relatively minor, working quickly to dispel infection. Sometimes it is self-inflicted, like sunburn. However it happens, the tell-tale symptoms of inflammation like swelling, redness and pain have affected most of us at one point or another.

But what happens if chronic inflammation starts affecting our bodies? Can we stop this silent killer, before it is too late? The bad news is that you too could be chronically inflamed, and not even know it.

If you’re looking to shed some body fat and tone up, you may want to follow your workout with a few capsules of fish oil.

Preliminary findings from an Australian study have shown that a combination of exercise and fish oil was effective at reducing body fat and improving cholesterol levels. Combine this with all the other benefits of fish oil and it’s little wonder that omega-3’s are considered vital for good health.

A recent study from China has found that an increase in brain magnesium improves learning and memory in young and old rats.

The study, published in the renowned journal ‘Neuron’, suggests that increasing magnesium intake may be a valid strategy to enhance cognitive abilities. These results support the theory that inadequate levels of magnesium impairs cognitive ability - leading to faster deterioration of memory and thought process in the aging population.

Magnesium is a highly beneficial nutrient that is important for muscle relaxation, energy production, nerve health and inflammatory conditions. This vital nutrient is vital for the health of the human body, however most of us are magnesium deficient.

A recent large-scale study has shown that an increase in magnesium intake could ward off osteoporosis - a devastating condition that affects around 600,000 Australians, in which the bones become fragile and brittle, leading to a higher risk of fracture than in normal bones.

With as little as one supplemental dosage of magnesium a day being all that you need, it is high time that you start taking additional magnesium .

A large Singapore study has revealed that those who drink two or more soft drinks per week have an 87% higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

Excess sugar intake has been linked to many different diseases, including the prevalent diabetes, insulin-resistance, immune-system suppression and vitamin and mineral deficiencies. This research offers an amazing and alarming insight into the true dangers of consuming just a few cans of soft drink per week - something that millions of Australians are guilty of.

A British analysis has shown that maintaining aerobic fitness through middle age and beyond can delay biological ageing by up to 12 years.

According to these results, by completing regular exercise, we can not only live up to 12 years longer - we can also prolong our independence during old age. These amazing results can be achieved by completing a few hours of exercise a week. So what’s stopping you?

Researchers studying the link between vigorous exercise and breast cancer risk reduction have discovered some surprising results in a recent review.

Researchers found that women who engaged in more than 7 hours of exercise a week were a huge 16% less likely to develop breast cancer than those who were inactive. These results offer a promising hope for the one in nine Australian women who are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives.

High levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the blood may slow cellular ageing in people with coronary heart disease, a recent study has suggested.

Researchers from the University of California have discovered that high omega-3 blood levels can actually aid DNA function to improve the ageing and lifespan of healthy cells. This exciting new research shows that adequate omega-3 intake can help prevent cellular death, and, as a result, promote a longer life.

A recent study has revealed some key benefits of vitamin D intake for the heart health of diabetics. The study, performed in 2009, aimed to find the mechanism by which vitamin D deficiency increases cardiovascular disease in patients.

Diabetes affects over 240 million people worldwide, and diabetics are up to four times more likely to develop cardiovascular disease. The risk of mortality is up to 40 times greater in those with diabetes - however as seen in this new study, a little sunshine everyday can make all the difference.

A leading health expert has recently stated that the swine flu scare was a ‘false pandemic’ led by drugs companies that stood to make billions from vaccines.

Wolfgang Wodarg, head of health at the Council of Europe has claimed that major firms organised a ‘campaign of panic’ to pressure the World Health Organisation into declaring a pandemic, thus profiting from the millions of vaccines produced.

This is the latest in a barrage of accusations revealing the misguided profiteering of the big pharmaceuticals companies - multi-billion dollar companies who are now making money from the fear of the general public.

Thanks to lemon concoctions and extreme dieting regimes, detoxing has become a topic of much debate. A lot of us would associate 'detoxing' with starving ourselves for a week to achieve a 'cleaner' body.

Do we really need to detox? Or is healthy eating enough? Correct detoxification can help you achieve a healthier body and mind naturally and help you to shed unwanted body fat. Read on to find out more about how to detox the healthy way and to download your free copy of the exclusive Emed Detoxification E-Book.

The holidays are around the corner, and many of you will be packing your clothes to travel overseas on a much-needed holiday. New food, beautiful destination and exciting experiences - and you want to enjoy every moment of it. What unsuspecting illness could ruin all this? Traveller’s diarrhoea.

Up to 60% of traveller’s will develop diarrhoea, with some cases lasting weeks on end. The good news is that traveller’s diarrhoea is preventable with the use of a good probiotic formula, and it’s not too late to start.

People who take high doses of ibuprofen on a regular basis are an alarming three times more likely to experience bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract than those who do not take any painkillers. This disturbing result is made even more unnerving with the revelation that serious bleeding can begin in as little as 3 days, with some people losing up to 250ml of blood within a short amount of time.

Over-the-counter painkiller abuse is a serious problem within Australia as there are minimal or no restrictions placed on the amount of tablets a person can buy. Each year, many people die from complications after using medications like Nurofen, however as this research shows - only a few tablets could prove fatal.

Acne, dermatitis and psoriasis can affect anyone, leading to rashes, scaly, itchy and often painful skin conditions. Most commercial creams formulated for these conditions contain an array of harsh chemicals that often leave the skin feeling dry, sore and in a poor state.

Goat’ milk soap is now emerging as the saving grace for those with skin conditions. A great quality, natural and gentle goat’s milk soap, like those found on Emed, will allow your skin to heal and rejuvenate without the side-effects. Why? Well, it all comes down to balance. Read on to find out more.

Not many other health issues cause as much controversy as ADHD, and the recent revelation that a leading doctor was paid to push the anti-psychotic drug Ritalin has done little to dispel the media storm.


Following an investigation by the US Congress, it has been found that psychiatrist Dr Joseph Biederman was paid over $1.5 million to taint research of the drug. This worrying breach adds to the mounting skepticism of the true effectiveness of ADHD drugs. With a 25-fold increase in Australia’s prescription rate of Ritalin over the last few years, it’s time to crack down on the amount of prescriptions being handed out.

Before you head down to the doctors to receive your free dose of the Swine Flu Vaccine, it’s important to learn the real risks and benefits of the inoculation.

Despite what the commercials and glossy magazine advertisements say, the H1N1 vaccine is a largely rushed and improperly tested mixture that is designed to protect against this prevalent flu strain. Though the swine flu has almost disappeared, we have all been encouraged to roll up our sleeves and get the jab. Read on to find out the real risks vs. benefits of the vaccine.

Consuming too much alcohol is bad for your heart and arteries, according to a recent study.

It’s well known that over-indulging in alcohol can give you a beer belly, however the results of this study show that drinking heavily can cause high blood pressure, stiff arteries and rigid heart muscles - all dangerous conditions that could lead to fatal heart attacks and strokes.

The results of a survey surprised many researchers recently when it was revealed that high-fat, high-calorie fast food is actually more healthy than some baby foods.

The British food study showed that many popular brands of baby food contained as much fat, salt and artificial colours as an equal piece of a McDonald’s quarter pounder. The baby foods, touted as natural and beneficial, could actually be doing your baby more harm than good.

Recent research has shown that an abnormal response to wheat proteins found in bread, pasta and cereals may be a major cause of type 1 diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes affects an estimated 25 million people worldwide, and requires regular insulin injections to control the disease. There is no known cure, but this research trial offers a promising insight into how this devastating disease can be prevented with simple dietary modifications.

Probiotics are known for their many beneficial effects on the human body, but a recent research study has provided some amazing results for probiotic treatment in the reduction of colon cancer.

Colorectal cancer is responsible for as many as 700,000 deaths worldwide every year, and is showing no signs of slowing down. However, according to this well-controlled Irish study, using a probiotic everyday, along with adopting healthy lifestyle choices could be the saving grace for thousands of Australians.

Urgent health warnings are being announced cautioning the potentially lethal dangers of a new party drug.

Aptly named ‘Giggle’, each tablet contains the equivalent caffeine of 20 cups of coffee, along with a range of ‘herbal’ extras to boost energy. While investigations are pending, the Australian public is being warning to steer clear of legal ‘party’ drugs, however the temptation of these store-bought medications may be too strong for some.

An adverse reactions report released by the Therapeutic Goods Administration has revealed some alarming results for the effects of Ritalin on young children.

The report has shown at least 30 children  have had severe psychotic episodes and have wanted to kill themselves, with a 7-year old boy actually attempting suicide. So why are we putting our children at risk by dosing them up with Ritalin, and is the risk worth the ‘benefits’ of the drug?

A brand new study has shown that selenium could be your most potent ally against cancer.

This trace element has eluded researchers for decades with it's beneficial effects, exhibiting extraordinary results in a multitude of trials. Now, according to a new Australia study, this cancer-combating ingredient has now shown amazingly valuable results by dramatically cutting the incidence of bowel cancer - an illness that kills thousands of Australians every year.

A leading Australian poisons expert has warned of the disturbing trend of children consuming drug medications and energy drinks for improved sporting performance.

This dangerous drug abuse is commonplace amongst children as young as 10; children too young and undeveloped to cope with the potentially lethal side-effects of such medication and high doses of caffeine.

A new scientific study performed in the US recently has provided a strong link between a mercury-based compound used as a vaccine preservative - known as thimerosal - and the occurence of neural damage similar to that seen in autism patients.

According to this study, thimerosal induced signficant neural and cellular toxicity in human cells - scary results given that most vaccines contain dangerous amounts of this toxic additive, including the new Swine Flu Vaccine which is being administered worldwide at the moment.

A recent large-scale study has revealed that some commonly-used heartburn drugs could actually be weakening bones, leading to serious fractures.

The study showed that those over 50 who took the drugs for more than a year had a significant increase in the risk of breaking a hip. These results are even more worrying when it has been revealed that around 1 in 7 Australians use these dangerous medications daily - some after every meal!

Since the swine flu arrived in Australia, over 20 million doses of the vaccine have become available to the Australian public.

This largely untested vaccine may claim to be safe, but despite the safety claims, each dose will contain mercury and squalene - dangerous toxins that have been linked to autism, neurological disorders, paralysis and even death.

One of the most common questions we get asked is "Why should I spend more on fish oil from you, when I can get a cheaper version from the chemist?" The answer is not as simple as just cost.

When you walk into any chemist, pharmacy or even supermarket, you will see the shelves littered with many different brands of fish oils, often carrying ‘budget' and ‘value' stickers that make them seem like value for money. Really, 300 capsules for $9.95 is a bargain, right? WRONG. These budget brands could actually be doing you more harm than good. And here's why.

If you're a regular to Emed, you would've heard us talking about the amazing benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. The reason? An increasing amount of evidence indicates that these healthy fats can prevent a wide range of medical problems, including cardiovascular disease, asthma, arthritis, inflammation and even depression.

With all the attention being on a ‘low-fat' diet, some may wonder why ingesting plenty of ‘fatty acids' can be a good thing. So why are omega-3 fatty acids so good for you? And is fish oil the only source?

A recent Australian survey has shown that a large percentage of Australians aren't drinking anywhere near enough water, and remain confused about how much they should drink everyday.

Our bodies need adequate fluids to remain in optimal condition. Dehydration of as little as 2% can lead to poor performance, concentration, headaches, lethargy and muscle cramping - conditions affecting millions of individuals everyday. This begs the question - how is dehydration affecting you?

If you're one of the 4 million plus people who suffer from arthritis in Australia, you'll know of the pain, stiffness and crippling deformity that it can bring.

We've known for a long time of benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in the treatment and reduction of this inflammatory disease, however new research is showing the benefits of green lipped-mussel extract - and the results are nothing short of amazing.

One brave man  + Giant water slide = Extremely painful result.

This video may not have much to do with natural medicine, and may be fake, but it's still worth a look...

The benefits of whey protein on lean muscle mass and weight loss are well documented, however a new research study has shown amazing new advantages of whey protein for heart health.

Conducted by Glanbia Nutritionals, this randomised, double-blind study has shown that a whey-protein-rich ingredient may improve blood vessel function in healthy individuals. This is a major step forward in the battle against increasing rates of heart attacks and disease plaguing many Australians.

Fish oil is once again proving that it is highly effective in treating and preventing a wide range of conditions - from improving skin, hair and nail health even to preventing prostate cancer.

Recent research has proven that a higher dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids from fish may protect men from prostate cancer - even if they have a strong genetic predisposition to the disease. This is an amazing result that simply shows why we should all be taking a fish oil supplement daily.

This is truly a brilliant ad - you have to see it.

So why are we highlighting a bottled water ad? Not only are the skating babies downright funny, it is reiterating the importance of drinking enough water. Here we discuss why it is so important for you to stay hydrated all day, every day.