The Prescription Strength Podcast

Епизоди

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  Why Strength Training Is Good for Your Heart 15.09.2026 42мин

  We all know exercise is good for our heart — but most people still think that means cardio.In this episode, I’m joined by Emily McGrath, Senior Cardiac Nurse at the British Heart Foundation, to talk about why strength training deserves a place in the conversation about cardiovascular health.Emily shares some of the most common worries she hears from people after a heart diagnosis, from palpitations and medication to the fear of exercising again. We talk about why a heart problem can completely change the way you see your body — and why people can end up treating themselves as far more fragile than they really are.We also talk about the evidence for strength training and heart health, including its effects on blood pressure, and why getting stronger can make everyday life easier as we age.Emily shares her own experience of starting strength training, despite initially feeling intimidated by it, and we discuss how to begin without needing to become a gym person, lift enormous weights or completely overhaul your life.Finally, we talk about the British Heart Foundation’s Strong Woman Challenge, a free 31-day challenge designed to help women try strength training at home and build confidence with it.Because cardio is excellent for your heart. But it doesn’t have to do all the work.In this episode:Why people can feel frightened of exercise after a cardiac diagnosisPalpitations, smart watches and health anxietyWhy strength training is still overlooked in heart healthThe effect resistance training can have on blood pressureStarting strength training when you feel intimidated or unsureWhy our bodies are often less fragile than we imagineStrength, function and maintaining independence as we ageCutting through the noise about strength training in midlifeThe BHF Strong Woman ChallengeJoin the October challenge here  www.bhf.org.uk/strongwoman
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  Why Am I So Tired? How to Investigate Your Own Energy 08.09.2026 10мин

  Feeling tired all the time is one of the most common reasons people see their GP. But before assuming it must be your thyroid, hormones, cortisol or a vitamin deficiency, what else could your energy be telling you?In this episode, I talk through the energy audit I’d encourage you to do: when did your energy change, when does your battery drain, and where are the best hours of your day actually going?We look at sleep, work and caring responsibilities, food, alcohol and exercise; what your GP may reasonably investigate; and why blood tests are only one part of the picture.Most importantly, I explain how to experiment with one thing at a time, look for patterns and collect useful information about yourself.You don’t need to diagnose yourself. Become a detective before you become a diagnostician.
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  Who Should I See? Navigating NHS and Private Healthcare 01.09.2026 47мин

  Finding the right healthcare can be surprisingly difficult.Who should you see? Should you wait for the NHS or consider going private? How do you compare providers, understand waiting times, work out what you’re entitled to — and know whether the person you’ve found online is actually reputable?In this episode I’m joined by Roxanne Stevenson Brown, founder and CEO of Find Care Compare, a platform designed to help people navigate NHS and private healthcare options in one place.We talk about why healthcare has become so difficult to navigate, the growing overlap between NHS and private care, Right to Choose, reviews versus actual clinical outcomes, and why women so often become the unofficial “chief medical officers” for their entire families.We also discuss Roxanne’s bigger ambition: making healthcare information easier to access regardless of who you know, where you live or how well you understand the NHS.Find Care Compare: findcarecompare.com
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  At 50 She Was Struggling. At 73, She’s Fitter Than Ever 25.08.2026 1ч 18мин

  Christine Hobson was struggling with her health in her 50s. She had arthritis, poor sleep, low mood and found everyday movement increasingly difficult.Then, in her 60s, things changed.Christine took up running after retirement, completed her first London Marathon — and eventually went on to complete more than 100 marathons, including one in Antarctica. She later discovered strength training and powerlifting too.Now 73, Christine has a refreshingly different perspective on ageing: we spend far too much time worrying about what movement might do to us, and not enough worrying about what happens when we stop moving.We talk about:Starting exercise later in lifeArthritis, pain and the fear of movementStrength training and osteoporosisWhy fitness keeps your options open as you ageStaying socially connected after retirementThe danger of gradually allowing your world to get smallerWhy it is never too late to startThis is a conversation about much more than exercise. It’s about staying capable, curious and engaged with life as you get older.
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  When menopause arrives overnight 18.08.2026 57мин

  Breast cancer treatment can save your life, but what happens when the treatment itself triggers an immediate menopause?In this episode I’m joined by journalist Carissa Casey, who shares her deeply personal experience of surgical menopause following breast cancer treatment. While her cancer was successfully treated, she found herself facing severe insomnia, joint pain, recurrent urinary tract infections, weight gain, mood changes and a body she barely recognised—all without ever feeling properly prepared for what lay ahead.Together we explore:Why surgical menopause is so different from natural menopauseThe impact of suddenly losing oestrogen overnightBreast cancer, tamoxifen and the difficult conversations around treatment decisionsWhy recurrent UTIs are so common after menopause—and what can helpThe gaps in menopause support for women after cancer treatmentThe importance of informed decision-making and asking questionsHow misinformation and expensive supplements can fill the void when women aren’t getting the support they needThis isn’t a conversation about criticising cancer treatment. It’s about recognising that surviving cancer is only part of the journey, and that women deserve honest conversations about what comes next.Whether you’ve experienced menopause yourself, support someone who has, or work in healthcare, I hope this discussion leaves you feeling better informed and better equipped to ask questions.If you found this episode helpful, please consider following the podcast and leaving a review. It really does help more people discover these conversations.
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  Fat Loss Without the Myths: What Actually Works (and Why It Feels So Hard) 11.08.2026 1ч 4мин

  We’re surrounded by conflicting advice on fat loss. Hormones, fasting, metabolism, supplements, menopause, "starvation mode"... it's no wonder so many people feel confused.In this episode I'm joined by coach and author Emma Storey-Gordon to separate evidence from marketing and discuss what really helps women lose fat—and, more importantly, keep it off.This isn't a conversation about quick fixes. It's about understanding the science, the psychology and the realities of everyday life.We discuss:Why a calorie deficit still matters (and why that's not the whole story)The biggest fat loss myths doing the rounds onlineWhy smart people often struggle with weight lossTracking calories: helpful tool or unnecessary obsession?Why weekends quietly sabotage progressThe role of habits, environment and decision fatigueWhy maintenance is the hardest—and most important—part of fat lossHow ageing changes the challenge without making success impossibleWhy comparing yourself to your younger self (or someone else) is rarely helpfulEmma combines a science background with more than a decade of coaching real women, bringing together evidence with practical strategies that actually work in everyday life.You can reach her and pre-order the book here:ESGfitness.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/esgfitness/pre order link: https://ebury.lnk.to/thefatlosscoachforwomenand substack: https://esgfitness.substack.com/
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  The changes we don't choose. 04.08.2026 56мин

  None of us gets to choose every turning point in our lives.For GP and author Dr Clara Doran, that turning point came during maternity leave when persistent symptoms eventually led to a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.But this isn't really a conversation about MS.It's about what happens when life suddenly stops following the plan you thought you had.We talk about the uncertainty before a diagnosis, the pressure many of us feel to keep going even when we're struggling, and why carrying on isn't always the same thing as coping.Clara also shares how her diagnosis led her to explore brain health, sleep, rest, creativity and the everyday habits that quietly shape how we think, feel and function.If you've ever faced a life change you didn't choose or simply feel exhausted by trying to keep all the plates spinning, I think you'll find something here.Why uncertainty is often harder than certaintyReturning to work after a life-changing diagnosisThe hidden cost of "just coping"Why rest is not a luxuryBrain health beyond supplements and biohacksThe importance of creativity and joyLearning to accept a different future without giving up hopeBooks mentionedDoctor Interrupted — Dr Clara DoranHeads Up: How to Look After Your Brain So It Will Look After You — Dr Clara Doran
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  The truth about supplements in mid-life 14.07.2026 11мин

  Are collagen, magnesium and greens powders really worth your money?If social media has convinced you that every woman over 45 needs a cupboard full of supplements, you’re not alone.In this episode, GP and strength coach Dr Lynette Ewart looks at why midlife women have become such a major target for supplement marketing, what the evidence actually says, and which supplements may genuinely be worth considering.You’ll hear about:Why supplement companies target midlife womenThe difference between marketing claims and scientific evidenceCreatine, vitamin D and vitamin B12Why “natural” doesn’t automatically mean effectiveThree simple questions to ask before buying any supplementThis isn’t an anti-supplement rant. Some supplements have an important place in healthcare. But before you spend money on the latest powder, gummy or capsule, it’s worth knowing what the evidence really shows.If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast and leave a rating or review—it really helps more people find evidence-based health information.
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  The Real Reason You're Being Offered a Statin 07.07.2026 9мин

  Have you been offered a statin and wondered why? Perhaps your cholesterol hasn’t changed very much, you feel perfectly well, and suddenly your GP practice wants to discuss cholesterol or cardiovascular risk.In this Pocket Prescription I explain how statin decisions are made in primary care, why age has such a powerful influence on risk calculations, and why the conversation is usually about future cardiovascular risk rather than cholesterol alone.Topics covered include:Why statins are offered even when you feel wellHow cardiovascular risk calculators workThe difference between cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular riskWhy two people with similar cholesterol results can receive different adviceThe role of blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, age and lifestyleAbsolute risk reduction and why context mattersCommon misconceptions about statinsHow to think about the balance between potential benefits and side effectsThis episode focuses on primary prevention—people who have not previously had a heart attack, stroke or established cardiovascular disease.As always, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as personal medical advice. If you have concerns about your own health or medication, please speak to your healthcare professional.
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  Metabolism, Appetite and Weight Gain. What people get wrong. 30.06.2026 10мин

  Have you ever been told that your metabolism is broken, damaged, or slowing down with age?Social media often blames metabolism for everything from weight gain to low energy, but the reality is usually much more complicated. In this episode, I cover the difference between metabolism and appetite, why the two are often confused, and why that distinction matters if you’re trying to lose weight or improve your health.Topics covered include:What metabolism actually isWhy metabolism is often more stable than people thinkThe research on metabolism and ageingWhy appetite changes far more dramatically than metabolismThe impact of sleep, stress, hormones and environment on hungerMenopause, weight gain and common misconceptionsWhy some medications can lead to weight gainThe role of protein, fibre and lifestyle habits in appetite regulationWhy “fixing your metabolism” is usually the wrong goalIf you’ve ever worried that you’ve damaged your metabolism or that age has made weight loss impossible, this episode will help you understand what’s really going on.As always, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as personal medical advice. If you have concerns about your own health, please speak to your healthcare professional.
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  Underactive Thyroid. What your GP didn't have time to explain 23.06.2026 11мин

  Have you been diagnosed with an underactive thyroid and found yourself confused by conflicting advice online?Perhaps you’ve heard that T3 is the “active” thyroid hormone, wondered why you’re prescribed thyroxine (levothyroxine), or been tempted by thyroid supplements, private testing, or claims that conventional treatment is missing something.In this episode, I cover how thyroid hormones work, why thyroxine remains the standard treatment for hypothyroidism, why T3 isn’t routinely measured, and where much of the confusion around thyroid health comes from.Topics covered include:The difference between T4 and T3Why levothyroxine is usually prescribedWhy T3 isn’t routinely testedHow thyroid blood tests are interpretedThyroid supplements, selenium and zincWhy some people still feel unwell despite treatmentThe role of fatigue, sleep, menopause and other health conditionsHow to approach thyroid information online with a critical eyeIf you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by conflicting messages about thyroid health, this episode will help you understand the basics and make sense of the conversation.As always, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as personal medical advice. If you have concerns about your own health or treatment, please speak to your healthcare professional.
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  Fish Oil Supplements: Helpful, Harmful or Hype? 16.06.2026 9мин

  Fish oil used to be seen as universally “good for the heart.” Then suddenly the headlines said it might be dangerous.So what’s actually true?In this Pocket Prescription episode, GP Lynette Ewart explains what recent fish oil studies really showed, why different heart conditions matter, and why nutrition science so often gets reduced to simplistic headlines.A practical, evidence-based guide to making sense of the confusion — without the hype.
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  Is cortisol really wrecking your health? 09.06.2026 10мин

  Cortisol has become the internet’s favourite explanation for almost everything.Poor sleep? Cortisol.Weight gain? Cortisol.Waking at 3am? Cortisol.Tired all the time? Apparently also cortisol.But what does cortisol actually do, when is it genuinely a medical problem, and how much of the online conversation is misunderstanding mixed with marketing?In this Pocket Prescription episode, GP and strength coach Lynette Ewart explains what cortisol really is, why the wellness industry became obsessed with it, and what people often miss when they blame stress hormones for everything.This isn’t a “stress doesn’t matter” episode. It absolutely does. But the internet version of cortisol has drifted a long way from reality.In this episode:What cortisol actually does in the bodyWhy cortisol rises normally during stressThe difference between chronic stress and true cortisol disordersWhy “hormone imbalance” is often used as a vague catch-all termThe problem with random online hormone testingWhy sleep, recovery, activity and overall health still matter more than hacksNo hacks.No supplements being pushed.Just a calm, evidence-based explanation from clinic reality.You can also watch the video version on the  Prescription Strength YouTube channel
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  Your Environment Is Shaping Your Eating More Than You Think 02.06.2026 8мин

  Most people think their eating habits come down to discipline. I don’t think that’s true.In this Pocket Prescription episode, I talk about one of the biggest things people overlook when they’re struggling with food, weight, or health habits: their environment.Because whether it’s the food in your cupboards, the people around you, your stress levels, your routine, or simply what’s constantly within arm’s reach, your environment quietly shapes your behaviour all day long.And if you’re relying on willpower alone while surrounded by things working against you… that’s a very difficult battle to win.In this episode, I explore:Why eating habits are rarely just about motivationThe hidden influence of your home and daily surroundingsWhy “nothing has changed” often isn’t actually trueHow modern environments make overeating incredibly easyThe difference between blame and understandingSimple ways to make healthier choices feel easier without relying on constant self-controlA short, practical episode about why behaviour makes a lot more sense once you stop viewing it as a personal failing.The video version of this episode is also available on YouTube.
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  My weight is going up but nothing has changed. 26.05.2026 6мин

  If your weight is creeping up and you’re convinced nothing has changed—you’re probably right. But that doesn’t mean nothing has changed.In this Pocket Prescription episode, I break down why weight gain in midlife often feels confusing and unfair. We cover:Why weight gain tends to happen in seasonal spikes, not a straight lineHow muscle loss (and body composition changes) quietly shifts the rulesThe reality of busier lives, less movement, and more sittingWhy sleep and recovery matter more than you thinkThis isn’t about blame or “trying harder.” It’s about understanding what’s actually going on so you can decide what’s worth changing.No hacks. No shortcuts. Just the basics—done properly.
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  Life After Weight Loss 19.05.2026 51мин

  Losing weight is often seen as the hard part. It isn’t.In this episode, I’m joined by psychologist Dr Courtney Raspin, co-author of The Weight Loss Prescription, to talk about what actually happens after the weight comes off—and why this is where most people struggle.We explore the gap between weight loss and weight maintenance, particularly in the context of weight loss injections. Because while these medications can be incredibly effective, they don’t solve the underlying behaviours, habits, and psychological patterns that determine what happens next.This is the part of the conversation that often gets missed: the “exit plan.”About the bookThe Weight Loss Prescription by Dr Courtney Raspin and Dr Max Pemberton brings together the medical and psychological sides of weight loss—particularly in the context of modern treatments like GLP-1 medications.It’s not a quick fix guide. It’s a framework for what happens after.
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  Why You Procrastinate (And Why Perfectionism Makes It Worse) 12.05.2026 1ч 8мин

  When you know what you “should” do but still can’t make yourself do it, it’s easy to assume you’re the problem.In this episode, I’m joined by GP and Chimp Management director  Dr Sarah Caddy to break down procrastination and perfectionism using the Chimp Model from Professor Steve Peters.We explore why capable, intelligent people still get stuck, how perfectionism quietly fuels avoidance, and why motivation is the least reliable part of the process.This is a practical conversation about what’s actually going on in your brain when you delay, overthink, or wait for the “right time” — and how to start working with it instead of fighting it.We cover:why procrastination isn’t lazinesshow perfectionism drives inactionthe role of habits, beliefs and self-imagewhy motivation fades (and what matters more)making a plan that works on your worst dayhow comparison and marketing hijack your thinkingsimple ways to get unstuck and take actionLinks:The Chimp ParadoxA Path Through the JungleChimp ManagementIf you’ve ever thought “I know what to do, I just can’t make myself do it,” this will make uncomfortable amounts of sense.
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  Bad Influence: How the Internet Hijacked Our Health 05.05.2026 52мин

  Patients aren’t just turning up with symptoms anymore — they’re turning up with diagnoses, treatment plans, and a feed full of advice.In this episode, I’m joined by Deb Cohen — former BMJ investigative journalist and co-author of Bad Influence — to unpack how the internet has reshaped health information, trust, and the doctor–patient relationship.We talk about the rise of “Dr TikTok,” why algorithms feel like they know you better than you know yourself, and how perfectly reasonable curiosity can turn into confusion, anxiety, and unnecessary interventions.This isn’t about blaming people for getting it wrong. It’s about understanding the system we’re all now navigating.Deb’s book:Bad Influence: How the Internet Has Hijacked Our HealthAvailable in hardback and audiobookTime stamps:00:00 Podcast Welcome01:21 Debs Journalism Journey02:22 Pandemic Shift to Social03:08 Dr TikTok Moment04:18 Fertility Test Wakeup05:10 Facebook to TikTok Era07:40 Algorithms and Trust12:00 Self Diagnosis Loops16:25 NHS Distrust and Fixes19:01 Borrowed Legitimacy21:26 Stories vs Evidence23:30 US Model Goes Global26:09 Influencers Selling Drugs28:03 Doctor Influencer Ethics28:45 IV Drips and Red Flags31:58 Spotting Conflicts and Hype35:57 Tech Bro Health Mindset37:42 Wearables Scans and Cascades41:51 Private Tests NHS Fallout43:41 NHS Gaps and Private Clinics46:44 AI Regulation and Hope49:51 Using the Internet Wisely51:20 Book Wrap Up and Thanks
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  What Happens After Cancer Treatment Ends? Rebuilding Strength, Confidence and Life Again 28.04.2026 49мин

  What happens when cancer treatment finishes, but nobody really tells you what comes next?In this episode, I’m joined by Sarah Newman, a cancer and exercise specialist and founder of Get Me Back. Sarah shares her own story of being diagnosed with cervical cancer during pregnancy, going through intensive treatment, and then facing the part that often gets far less attention: life afterwards.We talk about the shock of deconditioning, the fear of doing damage, outdated advice about lifting weights, and why rest alone is not enough when it comes to rebuilding after cancer. Sarah also explains how strength training, patience and the right support can help people reconnect with their bodies and regain confidence after treatment.This is an important conversation for anyone recovering from cancer, supporting someone who is, or working with patients who feel a bit abandoned once treatment ends.Sarah’s work: Get Me BackWebsite: https://www.getmeback.ukIf you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate and share the podcast.If you want, I can also give you 5 alternative title options that are slightly punchier, sadder, or more hopeful depending on the angle you want.
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  Rebuilding After Cancer: The Missing Step 21.04.2026 8мин

  You’ve finished cancer treatment.Now what?Most people default to being cautious — and for good reason. But when caution turns into inactivity, it quietly works against you.In this episode:Why fear and “being careful” can stall recoveryWhat inactivity does to muscle, fitness and long-term healthThe evidence that exercise improves survival after cancerHow to rebuild safely with simple, structured movementThe shift:Rest helped you survive.Now it’s time to rebuild.Start where you are — not where you wereBuild confidence through small, repeatable stepsAim for:Regular walking2 strength sessions per weekFear will show up — that doesn’t mean you’re causing harmKey Takeaways