Latest news with #ZacTurner
Courier-Mail
24-05-2025
- Health
- Courier-Mail
Dr Zac Turner reveals if cheese can give you nightmares
Don't miss out on the headlines from Eat. Followed categories will be added to My News. Welcome to Ask Doctor Zac, a weekly column from This week, Dr Zac Turner explores the truth about cheese. QUESTION: Dear Dr Zac, I've heard this crazy rumour that eating cheese before bed can give you nightmares. I love eating cheese and crackers after dinner while a watch a good movie, but lately, I've been waking up from some pretty whack dreams. – Effie, 29, Bankstown, NSW ANSWER: Double cream or troubled dreams? Let's slice into the truth. Blame it on Charles Dickens. In A Christmas Carol, Ebenezer Scrooge famously blames his ghostly visions on 'a crumb of cheese.' But is your cheesy snack really to blame? In 2005, the British Cheese Board set out to investigate. They gave 200 people different cheeses before bed and tracked their dreams. The verdict? No link between cheese and nightmares. In fact, some cheeses — especially cheddar — were even associated with more pleasant dreams. Brie-lliant, you said? Still, plenty of people swear their dreams go wild after a cheese-fuelled snack. So let's look at what might really be happening under the rind. Cheese contains tyramine, a naturally occurring compound that, in theory, can stimulate the brain by triggering the release of norepinephrine — a chemical linked to alertness, and potentially, disrupted sleep. Can cheese cause nightmares? Picture: iStock But here's the thing: • Most people eat 30–50 grams of cheese per sitting — just a few slices or cubes. • That delivers only a tiny amount of tyramine — nowhere near enough to whip your brain into dream overdrive. • And unless you're taking a rare class of antidepressants called MAO inhibitors, your body breaks it down just fine. In other words, your late-night snack is far more likely to be creamy than dreamy. And let's not forget: cheese is rarely eaten solo. If you're working your way through a cheese board with a few glasses of wine during that movie, alcohol could be the issue. Alcohol: it's a major sleep disrupter: • It suppresses REM sleep early on, then triggers REM rebound, leading to vivid, intense dreams. • The result? You wake feeling like you've been drowning in an ocean of fondue all night. Alcohol is a major sleep disrupter. Picture: iStock So if your dreams are melting into madness, it might not be the blue … but the red, rose, or white that's at the wheel. Additionally, high-fat meals — especially those rich in saturated fats — can throw off your sleep. Studies show these foods are linked to lighter, more fragmented sleep and reduced deep sleep, which can lead to frequent wakings and more vivid or unsettling dreams. Bottom line? Unless you're on a rare medication that affects how you process tyramine, your cheese is off the hook. If anything, it's the rich meals, late timing, and alcohol pairings that stir up those surreal night narratives. And remember: Cheese is best paired with unpressed grapes and an early night. Sweet dreams — and yes, you can still keep your crackers. – Dr Zac Got a question? Email askdrzac@ Follow Dr Zac on Instagram Dr Zac Turner is a medical practitioner specialising in preventative health and wellness. He has four health/medical degrees – Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery at the University of Sydney, Bachelor of Nursing at Central Queensland University, and Bachelor of Biomedical Science at the University of the Sunshine Coast. He is a registrar for the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine, and is completing a PhD in Biomedical Engineering (UNSW). Dr Zac is the medical director for his own holistic wellness medical clinics throughout Australia, Concierge Doctors. Originally published as Dr Zac Turner reveals the truth about cheese and nightmares
News.com.au
04-05-2025
- Health
- News.com.au
Dr Zac reveals the truth about common bathroom habits
Welcome to Ask Doctor Zac, a weekly column from This week, Dr Zac Turner explores the smelly truth about farts. QUESTION: Hey, Dr Zac, I have a bit of a weird one for you – why do some people poo like clockwork every day, while others might only go a couple of times a week? I thought not going at least once a day was a sign something was wrong. And while we're at it, someone once told me that if your farts don't smell, it means you're basically a health guru. Is that true, or are they just talking rubbish? – Clara, 36, New Farm, Brisbane. ANSWER: Great question, Clare – poo and farts. Let's face it, we all deal with them, but they're not the topics you bring up at a dinner party. Still, your digestive system can reveal a lot about your overall health, and getting to know how it works could make all the difference in how you feel day-to-day. Let's take a deep dive into what's normal and when it's time to worry. How often should you be doing a poo? The first question everyone wonders about: how often should you poo? The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Medical guidelines suggest that anywhere between three times a week and three times a day is perfectly normal. So, whether you're in the 'I'm going multiple times a day' camp or the 'I haven't been since last Tuesday' group, it doesn't automatically mean something's wrong – unless you're experiencing discomfort or other digestive issues. What really matters is how your body feels. If you're not experiencing pain or discomfort, then chances are your body is functioning just fine. But if things are feeling off, it's time to listen up. The trouble with too much pooing Some people seem to live in the bathroom, with multiple trips a day becoming their routine. If you're going more than three times a day, it could signal an underlying issue, even if you feel okay otherwise. It could be caused by dietary triggers like spicy foods, dairy, or too much caffeine. These foods irritate the digestive system and make things move a little faster than you'd like. Another possible cause is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which can lead to urgent, loose stools. IBS isn't just a bit of an upset stomach – it can impact your daily life and routine. If you're noticing consistent discomfort, you might be dealing with this common digestive disorder. Sometimes, it's not IBS at all but a gut infection causing the issues. If you're experiencing fever, vomiting, or general misery along with loose stools, a stomach bug could be at fault. Certain medications – especially antibiotics – can also mess with your gut's delicate balance, causing more frequent bathroom breaks. If you're spending more time in the bathroom than anywhere else and it's affecting your quality of life, don't ignore it. Long-term diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, cramps, and nutrient malabsorption. Struggling to go? Here's what that means On the flip side, some people struggle with the opposite issue – constipation. If you're only going a couple of times a week or find yourself straining to go, it could be time to talk to a doctor. Constipation is usually marked by hard, dry stools. When stool moves too slowly through the colon, it becomes compact and hard, making it painful to pass. If you're straining to go, that's another red flag. It's not just uncomfortable – it can also lead to more serious issues. Bloating and abdominal discomfort are also common signs, as your system tries to move things along but gets stuck. Chronic constipation can lead to more serious complications, including haemorrhoids, anal fissures, or even fecal impaction, so it's worth addressing sooner rather than later. The myth about farting: Do odourless farts mean you're healthy? Let's unpack your question: if your farts don't smell, does it mean you're a health guru. As with most myths, it's not quite that simple. The truth is that the odour of your farts comes down to what you eat. Certain foods – like beans, cabbage, and dairy – are known for producing more gas and, let's be honest, some pretty stinky bum burps! If your farts are odourless, it could just mean your digestive system is processing these foods without much bacterial fermentation. But that doesn't necessarily mean you're healthier than the next person. It just means your gut is doing a good job of keeping things neutral. However, if you're experiencing excessive gas, bloating, or discomfort, it could signal an underlying gut issue like Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) or IBS. In that case, it's worth checking in with a doctor. Tips for a happy gut (and more tolerable farts) Now that we've covered the basics, here's how to keep your digestive system – and your farts – happy: • Eating plenty of fibre, staying hydrated, and getting regular physical activity can all help keep your system running smoothly. Fibre, found in foods like oats, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, adds bulk to stool and helps things move through your system. Just be sure to increase your fibre intake gradually to avoid bloating. • Drinking enough water is crucial, too. Without enough hydration, your stool can become hard and difficult to pass. Aim for at least 8 cups of water a day, especially if you're eating more fibre. • Physical activity is also important. Regular exercise helps stimulate digestion, so even a walk after meals can make a big difference. • If bloating or digestive discomfort is a problem, probiotics might be worth a try. These beneficial bacteria help balance your gut and improve digestion. Look for strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus for diarrhoea or Bifidobacterium for constipation. • And finally, don't hold it in. When you feel the urge to go, don't ignore it! Putting off bowel movements can lead to harder stools and make things even more uncomfortable later on. So, Clara, if you're not experiencing pain, bloating, or discomfort, your digestive system is probably working just fine. But if something feels off – whether it's blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, or consistent pain – it's time to see a doctor. Dr Zac Turner is a medical practitioner specialising in preventative health and wellness. He has four health/medical degrees – Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery at the University of Sydney, Bachelor of Nursing at Central Queensland University, and Bachelor of Biomedical Science at the University of the Sunshine Coast. He is a registrar for the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine, and is completing a PhD in Biomedical Engineering (UNSW). Dr Zac is the medical director for his own holistic wellness medical clinics throughout Australia, Concierge Doctors.
Yahoo
04-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Bird flu leads to pet food recalls as experts urge caution
A Washington company has recalled pet food products amid the ongoing bird flu outbreaks. On March 1, Wild Coast Raw of Olympia, Washington, has recalled its frozen Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula raw pet food for cats, according to a March 1 announcement from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The product could potentially contain the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1, the statement cautioned. Animals who eat contaminated food can contract the virus. New Bird Flu Strain Detected On Poultry Farm As Experts Monitor Mutations The recall affects 16 oz. and 24 oz. sizes of the product. Lot numbers are listed on the FDA's website. The announcement comes days after the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) warned pet owners that at least two domestic, indoor cats have tested positive for the HPAI strain of bird flu. Read On The Fox News App "One of the cats was euthanized due to the severity of the illness," the WSDA stated in the Feb. 26 announcement. "The second cat is being treated by a veterinarian." Minnesota Declares State Of Emergency As Diseases Cripple Midwestern Farms "This is a difficult situation — we love our pets, and it's devastating when they fall ill," WSDA field veterinarian Dr. Zac Turner said. "If your cat is showing symptoms, consult a veterinarian as soon as possible." Pet owners whose animals ate any of the recalled products should monitor for any bird flu symptoms, including fever, lethargy, low appetite, reddened or inflamed eyes, discharge from the eyes and nose, difficulty breathing, and neurological signs like tremors, stiff body movements, seizure, lack of coordination or blindness, according to the FDA's announcement. Pets with these symptoms should be seen by a veterinarian. "Cats have previously been seen to become infected with bird flu through presumed contact with infected birds," David J. Cennimo, MD, professor of infectious diseases at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, told Fox News Digital. "More recently, ingesting raw food that was made with chickens or other birds that were infected with avian influenza has resulted in cat infections. This is why raw food poses some danger and should be recalled if contaminated with avian influenza." There have not been cases reported of infections transmitted by cooked bird products, Cennimo noted, "so these remain safe for pets as well as humans." There have been no reports of humans contracting bird flu after handling raw pet food, but there is the potential for transmission if the virus enters the eyes, nose or mouth, the FDA warned. To prevent this, the agency recommends that people wash their hands after handling the raw product and sanitizing contact surfaces such as countertops, refrigerators, bowls or utensils. "People who handled contaminated products should watch for symptoms of bird flu, including eye redness or irritation (conjunctivitis), cough, sore throat, sneezing, runny/stuffy nose, muscle/body aches, headaches, fatigue, fever, trouble breathing, seizures, rash, diarrhea, nausea, and/or vomiting," the FDA recommended. Click Here To Sign Up For Our Health Newsletter "People exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare provider and local health department." Experts also recommend that pet owners isolate sick animals and use proper precautions when caring for them. The WSDA advises against feeding raw pet food or raw milk to animals, its announcement stated. "Public health monitors all people exposed to animals infected with HPAI through 10 days following their last exposure," the agency stated. For more Health articles, visit More than 80 domestic cats have been confirmed to have contracted bird flu since 2022, according to KFF Health News. Fox News Digital reached out to Wild Coast Raw requesting article source: Bird flu leads to pet food recalls as experts urge caution
Fox News
03-03-2025
- Health
- Fox News
Bird flu leads to pet food recalls as experts urge caution
A Washington company has recalled pet food products amid the ongoing bird flu outbreaks. On March 1, Wild Coast Raw of Olympia, Washington, has recalled its frozen Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula raw pet food for cats, according to a March 1 announcement from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The product could potentially contain the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1, the statement cautioned. Animals who eat contaminated food can contract the virus. The recall affects 16 oz. and 24 oz. sizes of the product. Lot numbers are listed on the FDA's website. The announcement comes days after the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) warned pet owners that at least two domestic, indoor cats have tested positive for the HPAI strain of bird flu. "One of the cats was euthanized due to the severity of the illness," the WSDA stated in the Feb. 26 announcement. "The second cat is being treated by a veterinarian." "This is a difficult situation — we love our pets, and it's devastating when they fall ill," WSDA field veterinarian Dr. Zac Turner said. "If your cat is showing symptoms, consult a veterinarian as soon as possible." Pet owners whose animals ate any of the recalled products should monitor for any bird flu symptoms, including fever, lethargy, low appetite, reddened or inflamed eyes, discharge from the eyes and nose, difficulty breathing, and neurological signs like tremors, stiff body movements, seizure, lack of coordination or blindness, according to the FDA's announcement. Pets with these symptoms should be seen by a veterinarian. "Cats have previously been seen to become infected with bird flu through presumed contact with infected birds," David J. Cennimo, MD, professor of infectious diseases at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, told Fox News Digital. "More recently, ingesting raw food that was made with chickens or other birds that were infected with avian influenza has resulted in cat infections. This is why raw food poses some danger and should be recalled if contaminated with avian influenza." There have not been cases reported of infections transmitted by cooked bird products, Cennimo noted, "so these remain safe for pets as well as humans." There have been no reports of humans contracting bird flu after handling raw pet food, but there is the potential for transmission if the virus enters the eyes, nose or mouth, the FDA warned. To prevent this, the agency recommends that people wash their hands after handling the raw product and sanitizing contact surfaces such as countertops, refrigerators, bowls or utensils. "If your cat is showing symptoms, consult a veterinarian as soon as possible." "People who handled contaminated products should watch for symptoms of bird flu, including eye redness or irritation (conjunctivitis), cough, sore throat, sneezing, runny/stuffy nose, muscle/body aches, headaches, fatigue, fever, trouble breathing, seizures, rash, diarrhea, nausea, and/or vomiting," the FDA recommended. "People exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare provider and local health department." Experts also recommend that pet owners isolate sick animals and use proper precautions when caring for them. The WSDA advises against feeding raw pet food or raw milk to animals, its announcement stated. "Public health monitors all people exposed to animals infected with HPAI through 10 days following their last exposure," the agency stated. For more Health articles, visit More than 80 domestic cats have been confirmed to have contracted bird flu since 2022, according to KFF Health News. Fox News Digital reached out to Wild Coast Raw requesting comment.
Yahoo
28-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Bird flu confirmed in Washington cats amid contaminated pet food investigation
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Two cases of bird flu have been confirmed in cats in Washington amid investigations into potentially contaminated pet food, the Washington State Department of Agriculture announced Wednesday. WSDA is alerting pet owners of the two cases from domestic indoor cats in King and Snohomish counties, noting more cats are being tested for highly pathogenic avian influenza, also known as bird flu. Officials said pet owners reported feeding their cats potentially contaminated Wild Coast Raw pet food, which was previously under a public health alert earlier in February after the food was linked to bird flu cases in Oregon cats. In the two recent Washington cases, one of the cats was euthanized because of the severity of the illness and the other cat is being treated by a veterinarian, officials said. The Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory reported the presumptive positive results for both cats on Monday, and the WSDA received the confirmed test results on Tuesday from the National Veterinary Services Laboratory. WSDA says common signs of bird flu in cats include lethargy, low appetite, fever, hypothermia, pneumonia, and neurologic abnormalities, along with upper respiratory infection. DON'T MISS: Washington sanctuary re-opening after deadly bird-flu outbreak strikes big cats WSDA advises pet owners to contact a vet if their pet has consumed the pet food and is experiencing the above symptoms. Pet owners are also advised to alert the vet of the symptoms before arriving at a clinic to avoid spreading the infection. 'This is a difficult situation, we love our pets, and it's devastating when they fall ill,' WSDA Field Veterinarian Dr. Zac Turner said. 'If your cat is showing symptoms, consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.' According to WSDA, there have been no human bird flu cases following exposure to an infected cat or contaminated pet food, noting the current strain of the virus that is circulating is considered a low risk to the public. However, there is a greater risk for people who handle contaminated raw pet food or who care for infected animals. Floating shanty visible from I-205 removed from the Columbia River WSDA warns that people can become infected with bird flu if the virus enters their eyes, nose, or mouth. This includes cases in which people handle contaminated pet food or touch contaminated surfaces without thoroughly washing their hands afterward. Officials said sick animals should be isolated to prevent the spread of the disease to other animals and people in the home, adding that caretakers should wear a well-fitted face mask and practice good hygiene when caring for infected pets. The WSDA is investigating and monitoring the situation – urging vets and pet owners to report any additional illnesses that could be linked to the contaminated product. Amid the investigation, WSDA does not recommend feeding raw pet food or raw milk to pets. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
