Real Health with Karl Henry

When someone is diagnosed with cancer, food can become a source of confusion, with endless advice online about what to eat and what to avoid. This week on The Real Health podcast, oncology nurse and nutritional therapist Marilla Healy explains how nutrition can support the body through treatment, from maintaining muscle and strength to managing nausea and poor appetite.  She looks at why there is no single anti-cancer diet, the importance of variety and protein, and how small changes can make every mouthful count when eating becomes difficult. She also explains why nutrition should support, not replace, your oncology treatment plan. https://www.independent.ie/service/our-journalism/a/98708550.htmlSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most of us hope to stay healthy as we get older, but few of us think about the small choices we make today that shape our future. This week on The Real Health podcast, Karl explores what it really means to age well and why it's never too early to start investing in your long-term health. He discusses the importance of strength, movement, nutrition, social connection and tracking your health, while sharing simple, practical habits that can help you stay independent, active and well for longer. It's an inspiring conversation about adding life to your years, not just years to your life. https://www.independent.ie/service/why-you-can-trust-the-irish-independent/a/98708550.htmlSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Real Health podcast, Karl answers your health questions in another Karl's Questions episode. Producer, JJ Clarke, joins Karl on this week’s episode. He explains why very low-calorie diets rarely work in the long term, how to exercise safely during hot weather, the simple health numbers everyone should be tracking, and the best way to reduce your caffeine intake without feeling miserable. From smarter weight loss to better sleep and building healthier habits, this episode is packed with practical advice you can start using today. https://www.independent.ie/service/why-you-can-trust-the-irish-independent/a/98708550.htmlSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We spend so much of life chasing happiness, but are we looking in the wrong places? On this week's episode of The Real Health podcast, Professor Emeritus of psychology at Trinity College Dublin, Ian Robertsonexplains why money, status and success rarely bring lasting fulfilment, and why purpose, relationships and helping others are far more powerful. He also explores the impact of loneliness, social media and technology on our wellbeing, and shares practical ways to feel happier every day. As Professor Robertson says, "Unquenchable appetites make you unhappy." https://www.independent.ie/service/why-you-can-trust-the-irish-independent/a/98708550.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Healthy skin is about far more than appearance, but many people are still confused by skincare trends and conflicting advice. On this week’s episode of The Real Health podcast, consultant dermatologist Dr Rosemary Coleman explains why there is no such thing as a safe tan, the importance of applying enough sunblock, and the warning signs of skin cancer that should never be ignored. One point that stood out was her advice on sun protection. Dr Coleman says, “The quantity of the product is what matters.” She also shares why over washing can damage the skin and the simple checks everyone should do to spot suspicious changes early. Why you can trust the Irish Independent: learn about our editorial guidelines and AI useSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode of The Real Health Podcast, I’m joined by Professor Phil Jakeman, Professor of Exercise Science at the University of Limerick, to discuss why muscle is one of the most important tissues for lifelong health. While many of us associate muscle with strength or appearance, it also plays a crucial role in mobility, metabolic health and healthy ageing. Professor Jakeman explains why we begin to lose muscle from our thirties onwards, how this affects our health as we age, and the practical steps we can take through exercise and nutrition to stay stronger, healthier and more independent for longer. Why you can trust the Irish Independent: learn about our editorial guidelines and AI use See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode of The Real Health Podcast, I’m joined by John O'Driscoll, Managing Director of Blueprint Financial Planning and founder of financialfitness.ie, to explore the link between money stress and overall wellbeing. As the cost of living continues to rise, financial pressure is affecting sleep, mental health and everyday decision making. John explains why financial health is a key pillar of overall wellbeing, the simple budgeting mistakes people make, and how better financial literacy can help people feel more confident, secure and in control of their future. ­ We’d love to hear your thoughts on your overall listening experience, it only takes a minute, and your feedback helps us keep improving what we do. When you take part, you’ll also be in with a chance to win a €500 One4All Voucher Just head to mypodcastfeedback.com and enter code; CODE HERE ­ Thank you for helping us shape the future of great content and partnerships. ­ Why you can trust the Irish Independent: learn about our editorial guidelines and AI useSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode of The Real Health Podcast, I’m joined by Dr Dale Whelehan, assistant professor of psychology at Trinity College Dublin, to explore our modern relationship with discipline, time and convenience. ­ Why you can Trust the Irish Independent: Learn about Editorial Guidelines and AI Use ­ We’d love to hear your thoughts on your overall listening experience, it only takes a minute, and your feedback helps us keep improving what we do. When you take part, you’ll also be in with a chance to win a €500 One4All Voucher Just head to mypodcastfeedback.com and enter code;  CODE HERE ­ Thank you for helping us shape the future of great content and partnerships.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is protein powder safe for a 16-year-old starting the gym? On this week’s episode of The Real Health Podcast, I’m joined by producer JJ Clarke to answer listener questions. We’d love to hear your thoughts on your overall listening experience, it only takes a minute, and your feedback helps us keep improving what we do. When you take part, you’ll also be in with a chance to win a €500 One4All Voucher Just head to mypodcastfeedback.com and enter code; CODE HERE ­ Thank you for helping us shape the future of great content and partnerships. ­ We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.