FASTING, SAUNAS and COLD PLUNGE: The secret behind Jimmy Carr’s results
About this episode
Dr Nichola Conlon explores the science behind fasting, saunas, and cold plunges in relation to ageing and longevity.
In this bonus episode of Dr Nichola’s Second Opinion, What’s My Age Again? resident scientist Dr Nichola Conlon takes a deeper dive into the habits behind Jimmy Carr’s headline‑grabbing biological age result — and asks the bigger question: do fasting, saunas and cold plunges really slow ageing, or are they just biohacker hype? Dr Nichola unpacks the real science behind “good stress” on the body, explaining how stepping outside our comfort zone can switch on powerful repair pathways linked to longevity. From metabolic switching and cellular clean‑up, to heat shock proteins and dopamine boosts, this episode explores what’s actually happening under the skin and what’s worth trying for yourself. Plus, Dr Nichola answers your questions on inflammation, and why more exercise isn’t always better when it comes to ageing well. Producer – Mick Coyle Sound Designer – James Stodd Production Manager - Sarah Nicholls Executive Producer - Finn Ryan Head of Production - Cat Moran Chief Creative Officer - Lucie Cave
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