Health Matters SA

At the Mind Matters Summit in Cape Town, Dr. Darren Green sits down with Mo Gawdat, author of Solve for Happy and former Chief Business Officer at Google [X], for an eye-opening conversation on happiness, resilience, andthe art of emotional balance.Mo shares his renowned “equation for happiness”—a simple yet powerful framework for finding calm when life feels overwhelming. Together, they unpack how to protect your mind in the age of information overload, redefine successbeyond achievement, and respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.Drawing on his personal journey through loss and purpose, Mo offers a heartfelt reminder: lasting happiness begins within. Key themes you’ll discover in this episode:• How to apply Mo’s “equation for happiness” when life gets stressful• Protecting your mind from burnout in a world of constant noise• Redefining success: from chasing achievement to finding peace• Responding with mindfulness instead of reacting to everything• One daily habit that can strengthen your mental well-being🔴 ABOUT USWellness and health—it’s kind of a bigger deal than ever, but where do you go on this whole wide internet for the best medical advice? And how often are you finding information that takes on a South African perspective?That’s why Cipla brings you Health Matters — a series that puts experts from across the medical world right in your earbuds or speakers.Our aim is to provide topical and relevant information on healthcare, withkindness — because Health Matters.🔔 Subscribe now to theHealth Matters Channel and be part of the movement that puts mental well-beingat the center of health.#MindMatters #Cipla #MoGawdat #SolveForHappy #MentalHealth #HappinessEquation #HealthSummit2025 #CaringForLife #Resilience #Mindfulness

At the Mind Matters Summit in Cape Town, Dr. Darren Green sits down with Paul Miller, CEO of Cipla Africa, for a powerful conversation on mental health, resilience, and redefining how we connect with ourselves and others.From the groundbreaking idea of asking “How’s the weather inside you?” to normalize mental health check-ins, to the importance of destigmatizing conversations around anxiety, stress, and emotions, this discussion highlights the future of mental well-being in the workplace and beyond.Paul also shares his personal journey—from balancing fatherhood and sports to tackling triathlons and trail running—and how those lessons shape Cipla’s ethos of Caring for Life.Key themes you’ll discover in this episode:How “internal weather” can give us a new language for emotionsThe importance of daily mental health check-insModelling resilience and healthy habits for future generationsHow Cipla is driving destigmatization and support for mental health across AfricaWhy “It’s okay to not be okay” needs to be normalized🔴 ABOUT USWellness and health - it’s kind of a bigger deal than ever, but where do you go on this whole wide internet for the best medical advice?And how often are you finding information that takes on a South African perspective?That’s why Cipla brings you Health Matters. This is a series that puts experts from across the medical world right in your earbuds or speakers.Our aim is to provide topical and relevant information on healthcare, with kindness, because Health Matters.🔔 Subscribe now to the Health Matters Channel and be part of the movement that puts mental well-being at the centre of health.#MindMatters #Cipla #MentalHealth #HealthSummit2025 #CaringForLife #Resilience

Looking for the best birth control option? In this episode of Health Matters SA, Ryan O’Connor is joined by Dr. Nompumelelo Zenda to break down the pill, IUD, injection, and patch — how they work, side effects, pros and cons, and common myths.What we cover:How each method works (pill, IUD, injection, patch)Effectiveness & side effects explainedBusting myths about weight gain, fertility & condomsHow to choose the right method for your lifestyle and health Birth control isn’t one-size-fits-all. The best choice is the one that fits you.#BirthControl #Contraception #DrGynae #HealthMattersSA #WomenHealth #Pill #IUD #Injection #Patch

In this episode of Health Matters SA, host Ryan O’Connor sits down with the phenomenal Dr. Nompumelelo Zenda. Together, they unpack two of the most misunderstood women’s health conditions: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Endometriosis. Although both can impact fertility and cause chronic symptoms, their causes, diagnosis, and treatments are very different.From hormonal imbalances to painful periods, missed diagnoses to fertility challenges — this conversation is a must-watch for anyone navigating reproductive health or supporting a loved one.In this episode, we cover:What PCOS and Endometriosis actually are – and how they differThe causes and risk factors behind each conditionWhy so many women are misdiagnosed or dismissedHow these conditions affect fertility in unique waysTreatment options tailored to each condition💬 Whether you’ve been diagnosed, suspect something’s wrong, or simply want to better understand women’s health, this episode offers clear insights, empathy, and expert advice.📌 Brought to you by Cipla#PCOS #Endometriosis #WomensHealth #Fertility #HealthMattersSA

In this powerful episode of Health Matters, host Ryan O’Connor is joined by the insightful Dr. Nompumelelo Zenda — widely known as Dr. Gynae — to unpack the critical yet often misunderstood difference between PMS and PMDD. While PMS is common, PMDD is a severe condition that can lead to intense emotional and psychological distress — including anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.Too many women suffer in silence, dismissed as “just hormonal.” This conversation challenges that stigma and offers clarity on how to identify, diagnose, and manage PMDD. From symptom tracking and brain chemistry to real treatment options, Dr. Gynae offers expert insight and empathy in equal measure.If you or someone you love struggles with extreme cycle-related symptoms, this episode is your invitation to understand more — and to know you’re not alone.

Today on Health Matters SA, we’re joined by the inspiring Dr. Nompumelelo Zenda — also known as Dr. Gynae — to unpack the vital but often misunderstood world of hormones. Far beyond reproduction, hormones influence mood, energy, metabolism, and more. Dr. Gynae helps us recognise the signs of imbalance, know when to seek help, and encourages more open, shame-free conversations around women’s hormonal health. Tune in for an empowering deep dive that might just explain what your body’s been trying to tell you.

In this episode of Health Matters, host Ryan O’Connor sits down with Prof. Mike Levin — South Africa’s leading expert in asthma and allergy — to unpack the growing allergy crisis in the country. As head of the Allergy Foundation of South Africa, Prof. Levin shares insights into why allergies like asthma, eczema, food sensitivities, and hives are on the rise, and what can be done to manage them effectively. Discover practical management tips, reliable sources of information, and the patient support resources available to help you or your loved ones live more comfortably. Whether you're dealing with allergies or caring for someone who is, this expert-led conversation is full of valuable advice to help you breathe easier and feel more in control.

True well-being isn’t just about achievingexternal success—it’s about finding harmony and peace within. In this episodeof Health Matters, Ryan O'Connor is joined by wellness expert Kanchana Moodliarto uncover the profound impact meditation can have on both the mind and body.Together, they’ll address commonmisconceptions about meditation, such as:Is meditation only for the spirituallyinclined?Does meditation make you passive ordisengaged?Why do even seasoned meditators stillexperience stress?What are the first steps to begin yourmeditation journey? Join us as we dive into powerful insightsand practical advice on how meditation can bring balance, clarity, and calminto your everyday life. Listen now and start your journey to inner peace!

Your health is the most valuable asset you have! In this episode, we’re diving into simple but impactful ways to boost your well-being—without making major life changes. We’ll cover everything from how to get the most out of your pharmacy visits to making your specialist appointments more effective.We’re joined by Dr. William Kleynhans, a Medical Advisor at CIPLA with almost 20 years of experience in digital healthcare and AI-driven solutions. He’ll share easy-to-follow tips that can help you take charge of your health and make lasting improvements.Tune in now and discover small, practical steps toward a healthier, happier you!#HealthFirst #WellnessJourney #ExpertAdvice #HealthcareTips #InvestInYourHealth

Are your New Year’s resolutions helping or hurting your gut? 🤔🌱 From weight loss and exercise to plant-based eating, some habits can boost digestion—while others might do more harm than good. In this episode, registered dietitian Abigail Da Cruz breaks down the most common gut health mistakes, sneaky habits that sabotage digestion, and simple, sustainable ways to keep your gut happy. Whether you're looking to reset your health goals or build better habits for 2025, this episode is packed with expert advice to set you up for success! 🎙️🥗💤Hit play and let’s dive in! 🚀

In this episode of Health Matters, Ryan O'Connor hosts Dr. Shireen Thomas Stark, a counselling psychologist with over 20 years of experience. We'll find out about the rise in anxiety and depression globally and locally, the role our modern lifestyles play and how you can cope. This episode is brought to you by Relicalm.

According to The World Health Organisation, by 2015 the world's population of people aged 60 years and older will reach 22. 1 billion. The number of persons aged 80 years and older are expected to triple between 2020 and 2050, to 426 million. On Health Matters Dr. Ade Wentzel will be discussing the benefits of NAD+ supplements, their impact on healthy ageing, and how we start to prepare now to ensure we are healthier in our older years.

The guest on the latest Health Matters is a highly accomplished and talented rally driver who has made a name for himself in the world of motorsport.  Jon Williams is a 2x Western Province Rally champion, won the World Pirelli Young Drivers Championship in 2009, and has South African colours for Motorsport. He also works as a precision driver for major car brands in international TV commercials and movies.

Ensuring patients take their medication as prescribed is vital for managing chronic illnesses and improving health outcomes. To discuss the importance of adherence, the challenges people face and how to overcome these obstacles, we're joined by Dr Craig Nossel co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of Evia Health. Evia Health use technology, behavioral economics, and data to empower patients to control and improve their health. The importance of medication adherence (00:00:59) Dr. Nossel discusses the vital role of medication in keeping people well, preventing complications, and reducing healthcare costs. Challenges in medication adherence (00:02:59) Dr. Nossel highlights various challenges, including forgetfulness, cost, lack of knowledge, side effects, and cultural stigma, affecting medication adherence. Technology and medication adherence (00:06:39) The discussion touches on the role of technology, including reminders, applications, and data feedback, in improving medication adherence. Behavioural economics in developing solutions (00:11:19) Dr. Nossel explains how behavioural economics principles, such as loss aversion and hyperbolic discounting, are used to develop solutions for medication adherence. Role of technology in healthcare delivery (00:15:22) The conversation explores how technology, including packaging, messaging platforms, and AI, supports healthcare delivery and personalised patient care. Keywords #podcast, #Health Matters, #Cipla, #Dr. Craig Nossel, #Evia Health, #medication adherence, #prescribed medication, #chronic illnesses, #health outcomes, #financial impact, #non-adherence, #medication regimen, #technology, #behavioral economics, #healthcare professionals, #artificial intelligence, #healthcare solutions, #medical advice, #medication schedule, #chronic medication, #epilepsy, #technology, #artificial intelligence, #healthcare professionals, #medication packaging, #personalized support, #chronic conditions, #artificial intelligence, #medication adherence patterns, #Cipla, #healthcare solutions, #medical advice, #prescribed medication regimens

A popular topic on Health Matters is gut health. Joining again is registered dietitian, Abigail Da ⁠Cruz⁠ to look at how your gut also impacts on your mental health.

Gut health is a vast topic that we cover so often on Health Matters, simply because it is so crucial to so many aspects of our well-being. Today however we ask, what are we doing wrong when it comes to gut health? To help answer this and to set us right is registered dietitian, Abigail Da Cruz and she will share the most common gut health mistakes she sees patients make and will give you guidance on what to do instead.

In this episode of Health Matters, Ryan chats to one of his favourite athletes, Richard Murray. Richard is an Olympic distance triathlete who has represented South Africa at Two Olympic Games. Over the years he has smashed records and pushed his body to it's limits. Find out how he keeps motivating himself to achieve greatness.

Ever wonder why our bodies sometimes go into full-blown protest mode, setting off a wave of inflammation that never stops? If you're one of the hundreds of thousands of South Africans who suffer from chronic inflammation, this episode of Health Matters is going to help you understand how NAD+ levels might hold the key to calming those fiery immune responses. To help unpack this is Dr Adrian Wentzel - Specialist Anaesthesiologist at St Georges Hospital and Medical Forum Theatres in Gqeberha, South Africa.

A great friend of this podcast joins us once again to reveal some exciting plans for The Daily J in 2024. Johno Meintjes, is a fitness guru who has worked with some of the biggest brands in sport locally and globally and joins Ryan to talk about his biggest passion, helping others achieve their fitness goals. This episode is brought to you by Ultimag Advanced.

The COVID-19 pandemic will always be a post-script in our collective lived experience. While for the most part it is an experience we can mostly confine to the history books, Long COVID has lingered long after the multiple waves if infection. From fatigue and shortness of breath to cognitive issues – it’s a complex and challenging condition. It’s also so difficult to get an accurate picture of its impact, due to its elusive nature but multiple reports, studies and conversations we’ve all had with friends and family, make it clear that a significant number of individuals have experienced lingering symptoms. To help unravel some of the mystery is Dr Adrian Wentzel - Specialist Anaesthesiologist at St Georges Hospital and Medical Forum Theatres in Gqeberha, South Africa.