When you actually need to drink electrolytes - and how to make them at home

The House of Wellness is back for 2026!

Join Mike for the first time this year as he sits down with Neurologist Dr Peter Bergin, resident GP Dr John, editor of The House of Wellness magazine Vanessa Marshall and resident pharmacist Piyara Perera. Plus, we get an update from host Mel Homer on her battle with acute myeloid leukaemia.

Featured Guest: Dr Peter Bergin

In light of International Epilepsy Day, neurologist Dr Peter Bergin offers insight into what epilepsy is and how it affects New Zealanders. 

Epilepsy is caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain that leads to seizures. It’s estimated that around 35,000-40,000 people in New Zealand live with the condition. 

He explains there are many different types of epilepsy and seizures, and while it can begin in childhood, it is increasingly common later in life. 

If someone has a seizure, Dr Bergin stresses the importance of staying calm, keeping them safe and comfortable and treating them with dignity to help reduce stigma.

Featured Guest: Mel Homer

Original host of The House of Wellness, Mel Homer, gave an update on her journey with acute myeloid leukaemia.

 After being diagnosed suddenly in mid 2025, Mel underwent four intense rounds of chemotherapy before preparing for a stem cell transplant - a treatment she describes as her best chance at a cure. 

While the physical toll has been immense, Mel stays positive and humorous.

She thanks her extraordinary circle of support from family, friends and her anonymous stem cell donor overseas for helping her stay focused on survival and hope. 

Resident GP: Dr John

Resident GP Dr John returns to decode electrolytes. 

Electrolytes, including sodium, potassium and calcium, help the body maintain balance and hydration - a process closely regulated by the kidneys.

For most people, plain water is enough for everyday hydration and even for shorter bouts of exercise. Electrolyte replacement only becomes necessary during prolonged, high-intensity activity lasting longer than an hour. 

In these cases, when the body loses significant fluid through sweat, a mix of water, salt and a small amount of sugar helps restore balance and improve absorption. 

With today’s product something such as a hydrolite or powerade will do the trick. If you are really stuck, Dr John says the “WHO rehydration formula” of “a liter of fluid, six teaspoons of sugar and half a teaspoon of salt” will help.

Editor of The House of Wellness Magazine: Vanessa Marshall

Vanessa Marshall has returned with a bold February issue of The House of Wellness magazine that celebrates curiosity, connection and wellbeing. 

Fronted by sexologist Morgan Penn, the special sexual health edition introduces the magazine’s first ever flip-over - offering two covers and double the content. 

Morgan brings an accessible, relatable and tasteful approach to conversations we don’t often have, reframing sexual health as an everyday part of wellness. 

The issue also taps into Valentine’s Day energy with features on modern ways to meet people off dating apps, the psychology of fragrance and attraction, and a curation of sexual wellness products.

Resident Pharmacist: Piyara Perera 

Piyara is helping to normalise sexual health conversations by providing practical, judgment-free advice. 

Piyara explains that some of the most common questions she receives relate to STI symptoms, contraception, pain during sex, low libido, erectile dysfunction and the impact medications can have on sexual function. 

She highlights pharmacists as an approachable and confidential first point of contact, especially for people who may feel embarrassed, overwhelmed by misinformation online or unable to access a GP. 

As bodies, hormones and relationships continually evolve, Piyara emphasises that sexual health matters at every stage of life, from contraception and pregnancy through to menopause and dating later in life.

Featured Product: Sanderson Age FX 60 Vegecaps

Sanderson Age FX 60 vegecaps is a new advanced nutrition complex, designed to support energy levels, body tissue condition, and general health. 

It contains Nicotinamide, a Vitamin B3, which is a vital coenzyme in every cell that naturally declines with age. Nicotinamide supports energy production, normal metabolism, and cellular health

Suitable for all people aged 40+, it’s also packed with Antioxidants Quercetin, CoQ10, green tea, saffron, resveratrol, astragalus herb and marine collagen. 

Always read the label. Take only as directed. Supplements are not a replacement for a healthy diet. Real Vitamins Limited, Auckland.

Listen to the full episode up top and join us next Sunday for The House of Wellness with Chemist Warehouse on the Breeze.