Chris Thompson | Medical company
Chris Thompson
Reviews
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25.01.2022 Im a fan of ABC Life as it brings news to a human response level. Consider adding it to your likes :-) This article from ABC Life is a couple of weeks old now, when we were in the throes of toilet paper buying, and Covid19 hadnt reached our shores. The take-away points though are salient now, that - "As humans we all react to crisis differently, so its unlikely well ever be in complete agreeance about an appropriate emotional response to the coronavirus pandemic. What ...we can do is be more compassionate about where other people are coming from." https://www.facebook.com/abclifeau/
25.01.2022 This news article reads like an ad for Cadbury. It is made newsworthy simply because of a change in packaging - just the same as every other time that Cadbury have changed their packaging over recent years. Were working hard to ensure Cadbury can continue to offer Australians the highest quality chocolate with the same recipe and ingredients at the best possible price. Theres no change to the signature Cadbury chocolate taste or quality that we know Australians love.... Cadbury has become a staple supermarket item for many Australian families. "Why is it so?" - there are many factors, including - Its everywhere - in the aisles; end of aisles; at the counter and junk mail. Perceived value - cheapest per 100gm when compared on the tag and nearly always on special. Emotional - familiarity of the purple, yet novelty of new varieties; the idea of family block and sharing, tv ads from childhood (glass and a half of full cream dairy milk) that many of us grew up on evoking memories of a different time, perhaps pleasant memories. How many times have you bought it when youve been telling yourself "Im not going to buy it today" or simply "I shoudnt"? Chocolate is a product that we may have been told, or tell ourselves, that we shouldnt eat. In doing so, we tend to crave and desire it. Chocolate being positioned as a product that is indulgent, rich, creamy, devilish, luxurious, and generally something to be restricted can lead to it being used in an emotional way - we tend to treat and crave the foods that we most think we shouldnt eat. Paraphrasing (with permission) from a woman that I spoke to just this morning - "I just unconsciously buy it, I dont really think about it, its crazy isnt it?". Its certainly not crazy, its a normal response to the environment that we live in, and companies like Cadbury are exceptionally good at, well, selling chocolate. How often do you find yourself buying more of it just because it is on special? Do you find yourself tucking it under the bananas in the trolley? Does self-service checkouts mean that you are more likely to buy more? Do you to crave chocolate more because you are telling yourself that you shouldnt eat it? I suggest - please consider the many challenges in our environment that nudge us in their own small or large way towards poor health. And, please be aware of choices that are yours to make. Im certainly not saying dont buy chocolate. Im encouraging a decision that is there to make rather than it just a product being put in the trolley. You are in charge! https://www.news.com.au///601eca5010a1d2ef91ea3bdc0689886a
24.01.2022 Our attitudes towards our bodies start when we are young. A great article here about helping kids develop a healthy and positive self-image http://www.abc.net.au//dads-tips-on-how-to-raise-b/9879482
23.01.2022 Might be hard to hear, but most people who would describe battling their weight for years know it to be true.
23.01.2022 "It has been a revelation to learn that saying no does not mean being exiled to the social or professional wilderness but can often be the greatest act of self-care." From - https://www.canberratimes.com.au//mindfulness-is-fine-but-"
21.01.2022 I welcome seeing Scrambled Heads posts on my facebook feed. They are always right on the mark
20.01.2022 If you are walking and want to click with a community, consider trying out this app from The Heart Foundation. Theres also a weekly $100 prize! http://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walk-as-an-individual
19.01.2022 I could quote any amount of what I have just heard, for example, "habits are the best lever we have to adjust our self-image" - but really what I heard was a coherent and practical way to think about and live helpful habits. Looking forward to the book arriving in the post. Take a listen and Id love to hear your thoughts. James Clears Atomic Habits https://www.summertomato.com/james-clear-the-4-laws-of-beha
19.01.2022 Im a big fan of Dr Yoni Freedhoff. One of the best health and medical communicators around. Of course health is complicated, but sometimes its worth thinking about the building blocks that are the foundation habits for our health. He has reduced it to 48 words. What words would you add, take away or clarify?
19.01.2022 Are you someone who does Sunday cook-ups or meal planning for the week ahead? If you do, thats great, as organisation and preparation are two of the keys when it comes to eating well. But not all of us have the inclination to do it. At the other end of the scale, there is the ad-hoc winging it which means near daily trips to the supermarket, way too many take-aways or UberEats. Is there a middle ground which could work? How about Themes for evening meals? I came across ...this article recently and I like the idea. It is not as prescriptive as meal planning may sound or be, and yet can still simplify that decision making that we all need to do. Link is attached and here is a quick sample from it- "For meal planning to work, it really needs to be simple, the authors stressed. Instead of my old way of approaching meal planning (sitting down and sifting through magazines, cookbooks, and a "recipes" folder in my email, waiting to see which recipes struck me), they suggested I use a weekly blueprint to provide an easy framework. We only have so much decision-making power every day, so why waste it on non-value-added decisions like fish or meat today? dArabian says. Instead, create a rubric for yourself that focuses on meal categories versus individual meals. Assign a category to each day and stick with it. (Think: Fish, Vegetarian, Casserole, Poultry, Takeout.) It gives you the right amount of structure without being stifling. Sketch out your categories and simple meal ideas at the beginning of the week (you can use a notebook, a white board, even Google calendar). https://www.epicurious.com//a-better-way-to-meal-plan-arti
18.01.2022 With so much mis-information out there about food, sometimes it is handy to have a refresher on what the evidence says! https://apple.news/AmJxaEu6ORNaWssKhyJ3rRA
18.01.2022 If its not in the diary... it just doesnt get done! Have just started making the most of the Reminders app on the iPhone and can see how its going to work better for me than just adding to-dos and events in the Calendar app. This article is a good wrap on how to make the most of an app that most of us dont even use! https://www.businessinsider.com.au/apple-reminders-app-tips
17.01.2022 I found walking with our daughter around our developing suburb was a great way to start the day - some fresh air in the lungs, and listening to her wonderful babble while I told her stories!
17.01.2022 So thankful to have been working with this team for sooo many years!
17.01.2022 The author of this article writes that "a lot of energy goes into preparing someone for surgery in terms of practical needs (like what to eat, wear, and how to manage pain), but theres not enough focus on emotional needs." I am fortunate to work with a group where there is attention to every aspect of surgery including emotional health - and what a difference it makes. https://www.health.com//depression/depression-after-surgery
16.01.2022 Might come from across the ditch - but this plainly spoken, calmly delivered advice from Psychologist, Nigel Latta on living with social distancing, family life, social media/news and more - is certainly worth a listen. "Sometimes you need to turn off the telly, to put down the devices and stop looking at that stuff. And people need to do that in their lives now. So if you consume the news and you look at the global figures and all that kind of stuff, and youre looking at the... economic doom and gloom stuff, theres nothing you can do about that - thats going to make you feel bad. You have to just keep pulling that focus in. Sometimes that means that you do what you can do in that moment. Get some fresh air, or do something around the house, or go chat with the kids and see how theyre doing. Its like, you just need to bring your focus in, in until you find a simple thing that you can do, and then do that thing". On teenagers " let them run around on the benchtops, do the stuff they need. And for all kids - "Screen time, its useful, dont feel bad about it, its fine." And on teenagers and kids - "and just tolerating a bit more chaos than you might normally tolerate and just going easy on yourself".
16.01.2022 If you had seen a handout headed - Looking after your mental health during a pandemic a few months ago it would have seemed like something from a dystopian Hollywood movie. But, thats what this Australian & New Zealand Mental Health Association publication reads. And it is worth your time too, with practical advice about keeping on top of your self-care, mental and physical health. https://cdn2.hubspot.net//Mental%20Health%20-%20ANZMH%20Do
16.01.2022 I just received a forwarded email from a family member, which started with some FACTS about Covid19 but then ran into some fishy advice, for example - "The virus hates heat and dies if it is exposed to temperatures greater than 80F (27C). Therefore hot drinks such as infusions, broths or simply hot water should be consumed abundantly during the day. These hot liquids kill the virus and are easy to ingest. Avoid drinking ice water or drinks with ice cubes." A quick copy/paste of the text into google quickly identified it as a commonly forwarded HOAX thread. At this time, it is so important to be getting facts, so please be sceptical about what comes your way - and this may include guiding some family members and friends who may be susceptible to such mis-information. https://www.health.gov.au//novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-res
16.01.2022 Has been 4 years since I used this Facebook Page it seems! Will aim to regularly post from now on!
15.01.2022 Have you noticed that your email inbox has been beeping with messages from every business, service and app that youve ever signed up for? Ive found it a helpful way to unsubscribe from quite a few that I no longer have any need for. But, there have been some that have included helpful information, advice, and sometimes offers. This one from Balance Meditation is worth a look. Its 12mths free for their premium subscription - offer ending April 15th. Ive reinstalled the app, and started with just a 3 minute meditation at the start of the day, and intend to make it a daily habit
14.01.2022 Coping with these changed times can be difficult as an adult - and change in routine, time away from friends, being at home rather than structure of school - certainly has its challenges for kids. Have found Jacinda Adherns bubble analogy for the family unit helpful. It alludes to safety and security, which is essential for all children to feel - at any time. Attached is a link to Black Dog Institute with some helpful general advice - https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au//black-dog-institute_
13.01.2022 Read this just now and I like the analogy . Have spoken with people this week who have been in all kinds of weather. Light sprinkles to hurricanes. Some have been reluctant to voice that they are feeling cocooned, safe, isolated yes - but calm. That with the chaos outside of their home, they have felt sanctuary within it. Whether its waves crashing or stillness, and for most somewhere in between - this post succinctly puts forward that reminder to show compassion and understanding to all - especially at this time.
11.01.2022 I tend to only have a glancing look at celebrity news as I scroll quickly past it. But, I had seen reports about Adeles weight loss, and beyond rolling my eyes, and cringing that it even makes its way to print, I didnt give it too much more thought. Russell Brand did. "Weve got to let go of treating each other as objects" he says, and language like I liked her better before is demeaning, disrespectful and dehumanising, and as Russell says (around 8min mark) - "shes not a pet!". For a passionate and compelling argument about how destructive the weight loss narrative is, for everyone, not just celebrities - take a watch.
08.01.2022 There are some very good resources online for helping to maintain mental health during this time. Beyond Blue are a great start. From their page (link attached) - There are a number of ways to support your mental health during periods of self-isolation or quarantine. . Remind yourself that this is a temporary period of isolation to slow the spread of the virus. . Remember that your effort is helping others in the community avoid contracting the virus.... . Stay connected with friends, family and colleagues via email, social media, video conferencing or telephone. . Connect with others via the Beyond Blue forums thread: Coping during the coronavirus outbreak. . Engage in healthy activities that you enjoy and find relaxing. . Keep regular sleep routines and eat healthy foods. Try to maintain physical activity. . Establish routines as best possible and try to view this period as a new experience that can bring health benefits. . For those working from home, try to maintain a healthy balance by allocating specific work hours, taking regular breaks and, if possible, establishing a dedicated work space. . Avoid news and social media if you find it distressing. https://www.beyondblue.org.au//looking-after-your-mental-h
07.01.2022 E-cigarettes may not be as safe as you thought.
07.01.2022 There are countless brilliant individuals and groups working to ensure that we not only remain physically healthy, but also emotionally healthy. This locally developed program brings together some of the best evidence, researchers and clinicians - and technology - to deliver an outstanding online resilience program. The cost? What you choose to pay. Consider checking it out - The SAHMRI Be Well Plan was developed by researchers and mental health professionals from the SAHMRI Wellbeing and Resilience Centre and the rama Institute at Flinders University in Adelaide, Australia. The Wellbeing and Resilience Centre, located within the South Australian Health and Research Institute (SAHMRI), is a not-for-profit organisation with the core mission to build mental health and wellbeing in the community.
06.01.2022 This mindheart.kids worksheet may be a helpful guide to talk about this virus with your children. Seeks to inform in an age appropriate way, draw out and provide opportunity to discuss feelings, reassure and provide some practical tips.
06.01.2022 Sometimes to be able to walk the walk, we need to address our emotional health, mood and self-talk first
05.01.2022 Wonderful article that is well worth the time to read - you may have already come across it in social media feeds. The research and lived experience for those above a healthy weight is heartbreaking. Discrimination, shame, stigma even from those that care - with the "worst discrimination from within families" and health care providers are often unable to see beyond weight and size. A diet culture which judges worth by the numbers on the scale and creates and amplifies binge e...ating and maladaptive eating. Challenges in the environment also, with multinationals extraordinarily resourced and skilled at pumping high energy food and drink into us and our families. The economics of sugar, corn and flour to feed the masses and nutrition becoming a luxury item. . I would add comment to the last last paragraph though, which reads - "Because there is no magical cure. There is no time machine. There is only the revolutionary act of being fat and happy in a world that tells you thats impossible. Body acceptance doesnt mean resignation to the situation and hopelessness. Insight and acceptance can also lead to growth and change. I have been so fortunate to work with people who are ready to make a change for their health, and have been supported by a caring, compassionate, patient centred and health focussed team at Australian Metabolic & Obesity Surgery. Physiological and environmental challenges may seem overwhelming. But, what I see each day is that you can take the opportunity to improve your health. And for some, bariatric surgery can still satisfy the crucial criteria of health focussed and person centred - and bring lasting psychological and physiological benefits. https://highline.huffingtonpost.com//everything-you-know-/
05.01.2022 Another spot on article from @melissaldavey http://www.dailylife.com.au//is-eating-whatever-you-want-t
05.01.2022 Lunchbox staples from when I was at school - Sandwich. Apple. Banana.... Yoplait yoghurt tub. Everyone had Uncle Tobys muesli bars! Frozen cordial bottle slotted on top which acted as a cooler. And there were some kids who ticked a few boxes on a brown paper bag, popped in a few coins, put in in the class tray, and had tuck shop lunches most days. What do you remember from your school days? https://www.abc.net.au//school-lunch-box-photogra/10759890
04.01.2022 "Every problem has the opportunity for something good - you just have to look for it". A well written childrens book has the ability to succinctly convey a complex message. I just came across this book this morning, and it struck me how timely it is. Although it might seem difficult to think about opportunities during difficult times, it might mean that they might just take some finding.... https://www.youtube.com/watch
04.01.2022 I agree wholeheartedly in separating exercise from weight loss. Instead, see movement, activity and exercise as essential for strength, cardio vascular fitness, bone density, mood, social, sleep quality... the list goes on!
03.01.2022 I highly recommend Dr Yoni Freedhoffs Weighty Matters blog and social media feeds. I have been reading for many years, and find him one of the best voices in the area of food and health due to his vast experience, expertise, and evidence approach. Further to that, he is a great communicator and not shy in calling it the way he sees it. If you dont know of Yoni, then a listen to this recent guest podcast may be an ideal way to get introduced to his work. https://www.summertomato.com/dr-yoni-freedhoff-why-you-must
