Loneliness is increasingly described as a modern epidemic - one that affects people of all ages and impacts both physical and mental health. In this episode of Let’s Talk Health, host Natalie Cook speaks with Associate Professor Clare Littleton, a public health researcher and Director of the Centre for Healthy Sustainable Development, to explore how where and how we live shapes our wellbeing.

In this episode, we cover:

• What loneliness really means and why it’s considered a modern epidemic
• How social isolation affects physical, mental and cognitive health across the lifespan
• Why where you live and who you see each day shapes your sense of belonging
• What intergenerational housing looks like in practice (and why it works)
• How the built environment can encourage connection, community and healthier ageing
• Cultural differences in ageing, caregiving and multigenerational living
• How incidental interactions between older adults and children build empathy and resilience
• Why public health researchers see intergenerational design as a key preventative strategy
• The role of policy, community planning and aged care providers in reducing loneliness
• What Australia is learning from global models of intergenerational living

Curious about public health, ageing, or how research is reshaping the way we live? Learn more about Clare and her team's research at the Centre for Healthy Sustainable Development. Interested in public health? Learn more about our programs at https://www.torrens.edu.au/courses/health/master-of-public-health .

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Naturopathy is growing in popularity, but many still don't know what it's really all about. If you've heard the name but want to know more, this episode of Let’s Talk Health is the perfect introduction to the intriguing world of herbal medicine. Natalie is joined by Jasmine King, Clinic Lead and Learning Facilitator in Naturopathy and Western Herbal Medicine at Torrens University Australia, to explore the science, traditions and everyday applications of this holistic approach to wellbeing.

In this episode, we cover:

• What naturopathy is and how it blends biomedicine with holistic practice
• The difference between functional testing and standard pathology tests
• How hormones influence mood, energy, and mental health
• Why women commonly struggle with protein intake (& why it matters)
• The role of blood sugar regulation in fatigue, irritability and brain fog
• How gut health, digestion and nutrient absorption impact overall wellness
• The connection between mould exposure, environmental toxins & endocrine health
• How naturopathy supports mental, emotional and physical well-being
• What to look for when choosing a qualified naturopath
• Why long consultations help identify root causes, not just symptoms
• How herbal medicine, flower essences and targeted nutrients fit into treatment
• Practical lifestyle tips to improve mood, energy, and daily balance

Connect with us and follow our news and stories:
→ Blog and Newsroom: https://www.torrens.edu.au/stories
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In this episode of Let's Talk Health, host Natalie Cook speaks with Associate Professor Fahad Hanna, a public health expert from the Centre for Healthy Futures at Torrens University Australia, to explore the health risks associated with our increasingly sedentary lifestyles. From the convenience of remote work to hours spent in front of screens, the modern world encourages us to sit for prolonged periods, but at what cost?

In this episode, we cover:

• The health risks of prolonged sitting and its effect on musculoskeletal health
• The connection between sedentary behavior and mental health issues, including stress, anxiety, and depression
• How working from home and the virtual lifestyle during COVID-19 exacerbated sedentary behavior
• Tips for combating sedentary lifestyles at work and home
• The role of physical activity in boosting productivity and well-being
• How simple changes to your daily routine can help break the sedentary cycle

Interested in public health? Learn more about our courses here: https://www.torrens.edu.au/courses/health/public-health

Connect with us and follow our news and stories:
→ Blog and Newsroom: https://www.torrens.edu.au/stories
→ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@torrensuni
→ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/torrens-university-australia/
→ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TorrensUni/
→ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torrensuni