Savina

Should I try fasting to lose weight or be healthier?

Fasting has some research support but is highly individual; if someone can't sustain it long-term or compensates by overeating afterward, it's not worthwhile for them.

What should I stock up on for a long pantry life in case of shortages?

Keep canned and dried legumes/lentils, potatoes and sweet potatoes, rice and whole grains, and frozen fruit and vegetables, which are snap-frozen and often fresher than fresh produce that has travelled far.

How can I keep food tasting good without relying on a lot of salt?

Use garlic, chili, and garlic-infused olive oil for flavour instead of excess salt or processed sauces; salt is less of a concern if you aren't eating lots of ultra-processed food.

Is it worth getting genetic or blood tests to optimise my diet?

Don't waste money on genetic testing for diet optimisation at this stage; most people just need to focus on eating more vegetables and fruit, and should see a doctor if they suspect an actual medical issue.

When should I see a doctor versus a dietitian?

If you feel something is medically wrong, see a doctor first rather than researching online; for ongoing chronic condition dietary support you can get a GP referral to access a dietitian under Medicare, though a referral isn't required to see one directly.

Should I take vitamin C supplements to prevent or shorten colds?

You generally don't need vitamin C supplements if you eat enough fruit (like an orange); excess vitamin C is largely just 'expensive urine', though adequate levels may help shorten a cold's duration.