Should Teachers Police Lunch Boxes? The Debate Over Healthy Eating in Schools

By Robert Heyward

As schools across Australia strive to promote healthier eating habits among students, an emerging debate questions whether teachers should have the authority to regulate what children bring in their lunch boxes. Parents and dietitian’s argue that while encouraging nutritious choices is important, strict food policies—such as sending food home or preventing children from eating packed items—could do more harm than good, especially amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

Lunch Box Scrutiny: Parents Speak Out

Marissa Waters, a mother from Clear Mountain in Moreton Bay, has encountered firsthand the scrutiny that some schools apply to children’s lunches. She recalls instances where her children’s snacks, considered harmless by her standards, were deemed inappropriate by school staff.

“They might have a treat—if you’d even call it that—like a muesli bar or an oat slice, and it would get sent home,” she explained. “My son, who’s in Grade One, wasn’t even allowed to eat it.”

Her daughter, currently in kindergarten, faced a different challenge. “She’s a slow eater, and they wouldn’t let her eat the sweet treats until she finished her entire lunch. But because of the time constraints, she missed out altogether.”

For Waters’ son, who has additional needs and struggles with certain foods, the rigid approach has only made mealtime more difficult.

“For them to say, ‘Pack cucumber’—I can tell you now, he won’t eat it,” she said. “They need to consider the individual needs of children, especially those with dietary sensitivities. If half the lunch goes uneaten and comes home, it’s just wasteful.”

The Psychological Impact of Food Policing

Paediatric dietitian Fiona Nave warns that imposing restrictions on children’s lunches could have unintended psychological consequences.

“We never want to associate shame with food choices,” she said. “Sending an item home or forbidding a child from eating it creates an emotional connection to food that we should be avoiding.”

Waters has also noticed inconsistencies in her son’s school’s approach to healthy eating.

“A child in his class brought cupcakes for a birthday, and they were sent home,” she said. “Yet, the tuckshop sells chocolate chip cookies, brownies, meat pies, and other ‘red food’ items. It doesn’t make sense.”

Nave agrees that schools should ensure tuckshops align with their own messaging.

“Tuckshops work hard to provide variety, but they should consider how they can make healthier swaps,” she suggested. “For example, using high-quality lean meat in sausages and serving them on wholemeal bread instead of hot dogs. Even swapping breaded chicken for grilled chicken can make a difference.”

Who Decides What’s in the Lunch Box?

Waters believes that ultimately, it should be parents who decide what their children eat. Nave, while advocating for balanced nutrition, agrees that communication between teachers and parents is key.

“Teachers have the best intentions, but if there are concerns about a child’s nutrition, conversations should be approached with sensitivity,” she said. “No parent should feel judged, but they should also be mindful of how food choices impact their child’s learning and energy levels.”

Education Queensland has clarified that while schools can encourage healthy eating, the contents of a child’s lunch box remain the responsibility of parents.

“Our Smart Choices strategy provides guidelines for tuckshops but does not regulate home-packed meals,” a spokesperson said.

What Makes a Healthy Lunch Box?

For parents aiming to pack a nutritious and balanced meal, Nave offers a simple formula:

• Fruits and vegetables: Crunchy options like tomatoes, cucumbers, snow peas, or raw carrots
• Protein: Lean meats such as grilled chicken, falafel, cheese cubes, or yoghurt
• Carbohydrates: Wholegrain sandwiches, rice, or pasta

When it comes to discretionary foods, she stresses the importance of balance.

“Forty percent of children’s diets come from processed, low-nutrient foods,” she noted. “If a child isn’t getting enough nutritious food at school, parents should look for opportunities to introduce fruits and vegetables at other times of the day.”

As the debate continues, one question remains: where is the line between promoting healthy habits and over-policing children’s diets? With the cost of living on the rise, ensuring every child gets enough to eat—without shame or restriction—should be the priority.

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Public Health Alert: Suspected Case of Botulism Linked to Unregulated Anti-Wrinkle Injections

By Ian Rogers

NSW Health Issues Urgent Warning Over Cosmetic Injection Risks

NSW Health has issued a public health alert following a suspected case of botulism in a Sydney woman, believed to be linked to an unregulated anti-wrinkle injection administered at a private residence. The woman is currently receiving intensive care at a Sydney hospital as health authorities investigate the case.

Authorities are urging the public to ensure that cosmetic procedures, including anti-wrinkle injections, are only performed by appropriately registered and licensed practitioners. NSW Health is working closely with the Health Care Complaints Commission and NSW Police to examine the circumstances surrounding this incident.

Dr. Jeremy McAnulty, Executive Director of Health Protection at NSW Health, emphasized the severe health risks associated with unregulated cosmetic procedures.

“Cosmetic injections, when improperly administered, can cause severe health complications, including life-threatening conditions,” Dr. McAnulty stated. “Although botulism is rare, it can be fatal, which is why it is crucial to receive cosmetic treatments only from authorised medical professionals.”

Understanding the Risks: Symptoms of Botulism

Botulism is a serious condition caused by toxins that affect the nervous system, leading to progressive muscle paralysis. Symptoms may appear up to two weeks after exposure and can worsen rapidly. NSW Health is urging anyone who has recently undergone cosmetic injections, especially from unregulated sources, to be vigilant for the following symptoms:

• Progressive muscle weakness
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Drooping eyelids (ptosis)
• Blurred or double vision (diplopia)
• Difficulty breathing

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention by visiting the nearest emergency department or calling Triple Zero (000) for emergency assistance.

The Importance of Choosing Licensed Practitioners

The incident highlights the risks associated with cosmetic procedures performed outside of accredited medical facilities. NSW Health advises consumers to verify the credentials of any practitioner before undergoing treatment. Only registered professionals with appropriate training should be performing cosmetic injections.

“The use of botulinum toxin in cosmetic treatments requires expert knowledge to ensure patient safety,” Dr. McAnulty stressed. “Unregulated providers may not only lack the necessary expertise but may also be using unsafe or counterfeit products.”

Where to Seek Advice and Assistance

For non-emergency health concerns, individuals can contact Healthdirect Australia at 1800 022 222 for professional medical advice. This free service connects callers with registered nurses who can provide guidance on appropriate care options.

Consumers are also encouraged to report any concerns regarding unregulated cosmetic treatments to the Health Care Complaints Commission for further investigation.

With the increasing popularity of cosmetic enhancements, NSW Health urges the public to prioritise safety over convenience. Choosing a qualified practitioner not only ensures better results but also protects individuals from serious and potentially life-threatening health risks.

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Coalition to Reinstate Full Medicare-Supported Mental Health Services

By Jeff Gibbs

The Coalition has announced its commitment to reinstate the 20 Medicare-subsidised psychology sessions, which were halved by the current government. This move aims to ensure Australians have access to the mental health support they need.

Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan, highlighted the urgency of restoring these services amidst rising costs of living and increasing mental health challenges.

“With the cost of living going up, many families and individuals are struggling, and the Government’s cuts have left people without the care they need,” Mr. Hogan said.

Criticism of Current Cuts

Mr. Hogan strongly criticised the Labor Government’s decision to reduce the sessions from 20 to 10, claiming it ignores the needs of Australians living with long-term mental health conditions.

“By making these cuts, the Government has ignored the needs of Australians who live with long-term mental health issues. This shows they don’t take mental health seriously or see it as a priority.”

A Commitment to Mental Health

The Coalition’s proposal aims to ensure individuals have access to the full care their doctors recommend.

“We understand how important it is for people with mental health challenges to get the full support their doctors recommend. We will make sure they have access to that care,” Mr. Hogan said.

Mental Health as a National Priority

The Coalition believes mental health should be treated as a national priority. By reinstating the full subsidy, the party aims to deliver affordable, compassionate, and effective care to Australians in need.

This policy commitment underscores the Coalition’s recognition of mental health as a cornerstone of well-being and their dedication to addressing the needs of the community.

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Does Watching TV Increase Dementia Risk?

By Robert Heyward

New research from the University of South Australia (UniSA) sheds light on the relationship between sedentary activities and cognitive health, revealing that the type of sedentary behaviour plays a significant role in maintaining brain function.

The study, which assessed the 24-hour activity patterns of 397 older adults aged 60 and above, underscores that not all sitting activities are equal when it comes to protecting cognitive abilities.

Which Activities Benefit Brain Health?

The findings reveal that sedentary activities involving mental stimulation or social engagement — such as reading, crafting, listening to music, praying, playing a musical instrument, or chatting with others — are beneficial for memory and thinking skills.

In contrast, passive behaviours like watching television or playing video games were found to have a detrimental effect on cognitive health.

According to researchers, there appears to be a hierarchy in how different sedentary activities impact the brain. Some activities support cognitive function, while others may increase the risk of decline. This insight is crucial, especially since approximately 45% of dementia cases are potentially preventable through modifiable lifestyle factors.

Why Context Matters

Dr. Maddison Mellow, a UniSA researcher, emphasised the importance of understanding the context of sedentary behaviours.

“We discovered that the context of an activity significantly influences how it relates to cognitive function. Activities that encourage mental stimulation or social interaction, such as reading or conversing with friends, are far more beneficial than passive activities like TV watching or gaming.”

While physical activity remains a top recommendation for reducing dementia risk, Dr. Mellow highlighted that even swapping one sedentary activity for a more engaging one could improve brain health.

“Our findings suggest a need for a more nuanced approach. For brain health, the message isn’t just about ‘moving more and sitting less’ — it’s about choosing activities that engage the mind and foster connection.”

How to Support Cognitive Health

Taking care of your brain doesn’t require drastic lifestyle changes. Small, intentional adjustments can have lasting benefits:

• Prioritise enjoyable physical activities: Regular movement that gets the heart rate up is highly protective for both brain and physical health.
• Make time swaps: Replace some passive activities with mentally or socially stimulating ones. For instance, swap an hour of TV for reading, crafting, or talking with a friend.
• Incorporate movement breaks: Even during a movie marathon or a gaming session, break up prolonged sitting with five-minute stretches or short bursts of physical activity.

“Every small change counts,” Dr. Mellow advised. “Even minor shifts, like choosing a book over binge-watching, can build healthier habits over time.”

Building a Cognitive Health Routine

With dementia risks largely influenced by lifestyle choices, integrating stimulating sedentary activities and regular physical movement into daily life can offer powerful protection against cognitive decline.

While it’s clear that physical activity remains the gold standard for brain health, this research highlights a key takeaway: not all sitting is bad, but the type of sedentary activity matters.

By making thoughtful choices in how we spend our time, we can nurture both mind and body, reducing the risk of dementia and fostering long-term well-being.

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Dementia Risk: It’s More Than Genetics

By Robert Heyward

A groundbreaking study from UNSW reveals that social factors play a crucial role in determining dementia risk, highlighting the need to look beyond genetics and lifestyle when addressing cognitive health.

According to Dementia Australia, over 421,000 Australians are currently living with dementia, a figure projected to more than double to 812,500 by 2054. As dementia is set to become the nation’s leading cause of death, the study underscores the importance of considering social determinants as part of comprehensive prevention strategies.

The Role of Social Factors in Dementia Risk

Published in The Journals of Gerontology: Series A, the UNSW study identifies key social determinants — including marital status, living arrangements, income, and education — as critical influences on dementia risk.

“We’ve long known that lifestyle factors like a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking reduce dementia risk. But our findings reveal that social factors are just as important,” said Associate Professor Katja Hanewald of UNSW Business School.

The Poly Social Risk Score: Measuring Social Risk

To better understand the impact of social factors, the research team developed a ‘poly social risk score’, which aggregates 19 social determinants of health across five domains:

• Economic stability
• Education
• Healthcare access
• Neighborhood environment
• Social context

“The score ranges from 0 to 10, with higher scores indicating greater social risk,” explained Shu Chen, the lead researcher and a UNSW Business School Scientia PhD graduate.

This innovative tool could help businesses and healthcare providers identify individuals or groups at higher risk of dementia, enabling tailored interventions that address specific social challenges.

Key Social Determinants of Dementia Risk

The study, which analysed long-term data from older adults, highlights the profound impact of social factors on cognitive health:

1. Marital Status: Being married or in a partnership offers emotional and social support that can reduce stress and promote mental wellbeing. “This support helps lower dementia risk by reducing stress and fostering mental health,” said Scientia Professor Henry Brodaty, from UNSW’s Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing.
2. Living Arrangements: Older adults living alone or experiencing social isolation often lack the interactions essential for cognitive health, increasing their risk of dementia.
3. Income: Higher household income is linked to better access to healthcare, healthier living conditions, and lower levels of chronic stress, all of which reduce dementia risk.
4. Education: Greater levels of education build cognitive reserve, enhancing the brain’s ability to resist damage and delay dementia symptoms.

Implications for Businesses and Society

The findings carry significant implications for businesses, especially those in healthcare, wellness, and employee wellbeing sectors.

“Reducing dementia risk benefits not just individuals but also businesses,” said Hanewald. “It leads to lower healthcare costs, reduced absenteeism, and higher workforce productivity.”

To address these social determinants, companies are encouraged to:

• Foster social interaction through team-building activities, social clubs, and community service projects.
• Integrate social support into wellness programs alongside physical health initiatives.
• Develop tailored services, like affordable healthcare packages or retirement plans, to enhance economic stability for aging populations.

“By improving social factors in workplaces, businesses can help aging populations while also enhancing employee wellbeing and economic outcomes,” Hanewald added.

For society as a whole, these interventions could alleviate pressure on healthcare systems, reduce the need for long-term care, and enhance the quality of life for older adults.

Social Connections and Daily Choices: A Brain’s Best Defence

While genetics and environment play a role, the study emphasises the power of daily habits and social connections in maintaining brain health.

“Our research uncovers a powerful insight: your social connections and daily habits could be your brain’s best defence against dementia,” said Professor Brodaty.

Simple steps, like staying socially active and nurturing meaningful relationships, can significantly lower dementia risk, even in challenging circumstances.

By focusing on both lifestyle and social determinants, individuals, businesses, and society can build a more supportive and proactive approach to cognitive health.

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