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Healthy lifestyle

A child choosing between donuts and veggies.

Balanced diet

It’s important to eat a balanced diet. Make sure you choose foods from the 5 food groups. The amounts you need vary depending on your life stage.

Illustration of alcohol choices in a head.

How alcohol affects your health

Many of us drink alcohol, but there are side effects. Alcohol can affect your physical and mental health. Find out about the negative effects of alcoh...

Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference

Learn how to calculate your body mass index (BMI) and measure your waist circumference. These measurements tell you if you are a healthy weight.

Weight loss and dieting

Many fad diets are promoted in Australia, but they rarely work. A healthy eating and exercise plan is more likely to keep weight off, long term.

Fitness and exercise

Physical activity is essential for a healthy lifestyle. Check out these tips for starting yoga, running, swimming and more.

Healthy eating

Get healthy eating tips and advice, such as good foods swaps, and how to follow a balanced diet and reduce your sugar intake.

Healthy food swaps

Need help to meet your health goals such as reducing your blood pressure or cholesterol? See healthdirect’s list of healthier food alternatives.

Fibre-rich foods

High-fibre foods can reduce your risk of disease and keep your digestive system healthy. Find out how much fibre you need, and how to get it.

Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a type of fat your body uses to repair cells and make hormones. Having too much ‘bad’ cholesterol can increase the risk of heart attack...

Physical activity guidelines for older people

Over-60s should be active every day. Here's how much exercise you need to stay strong and prevent conditions such as osteoporosis.

Quitting smoking

As soon as you quit smoking, your body starts to repair itself — and there are other benefits of giving up too, including for others. Find out how to ...

Sexual health

Learn more about sexual health topics such as contraception options, STIs, and conditions like erectile dysfunction (impotence) and premature ejaculat...

Fatigue

Fatigue is when you feel exhausted all the time and have no energy. Learn about what may be causing your fatigue and how to treat and manage it.

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