Real Health with Karl Henry

Épisodes

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  One donor, nine lives 10.09.2026 22min

  This week on The Real Health podcast, Karl Henry is joined by Professor Peter Conlon, Clinical Lead of Organ Donation Transplant Ireland, Clinical Lead, Consultant Nephrologist/ Renal Transplant Physician at Beaumont Hospital, to explain how organ donation works in Ireland. They discuss the opt out system, who can become a donor and what happens when a family is approached about donation. Professor Conlon explains how one donor can transform the lives of up to nine people, the realities of living kidney donation and the importance of family conversations. From the donation process to waiting lists and paired kidney exchange, they explore how a decision made in tragedy can give others a second chance. Why you can trust the Irish IndependentSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  Can you prevent stretch marks after losing weight? 03.09.2026 26min

  This week on The Real Health podcast, Karl Henry is joined by producer JJ Clarke to answer listener questions on sleep, weight loss and evening overeating. They discuss why becoming too focused on sleep tracker scores can actually make sleep harder, and share simple ways to improve sleep routines. Karl also explains stretch marks after weight loss and why gradual weight loss matters, before offering practical advice for managing evening hunger through protein, vegetables, snacks and meal timing. From hydration and fruit intake to consistent eating habits, the pair explore how small, sustainable changes can support better health without overcomplicating the basics. Why you can trust the Irish Independent See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  Why your phone is so hard to put down 27.08.2026 22min

  We check our phones dozens, even hundreds, of times a day, often without realising how much they interrupt our attention. This week on The Real Health podcast, Professor Brendan Kelly, professor of psychiatry at Trinity College Dublin, explains why phones are so difficult to put down and the impact constant checking can have on concentration, stress and self esteem. He shares practical ways to build a healthier relationship with your phone, from switching off notifications and creating physical distance to keeping phones out of the bedroom. He also explains why small, sustainable changes are more effective than dramatic digital detoxes. https://www.independent.ie/service/our-journalism/a/98708550.htmlSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  The food that fuels your cancer journey 20.08.2026 29min

  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.
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  Can you trust your smartwatch? 13.08.2026 27min

  Millions of us now use smartwatches to track our sleep, heart rate, fitness and recovery, but how accurate is all that information? This week on The Real Health podcast, Dr Joe Warne from Technological University Dublin explains which measurements we can rely on and where wearable technology falls short. He looks at the growing obsession with health data, why sleep trackers may cause anxiety, and whether more information actually makes us healthier. He also shares the simple metrics worth paying attention to and why sometimes the best guide to your health is listening to your own body.  https://www.independent.ie/service/our-journalism/a/98708550.htmlSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  The habits that help you live longer 06.08.2026 18min

  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.
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  How to poo properly with physio Clare Bourne 30.07.2026 24min

  Most of us never think about how we go to the toilet until something goes wrong. This week on The Real Health podcast, Karl is joined by pelvic and digestive health physiotherapist Clare Bourne to discuss what a healthy bowel movement should look like and why so many people unknowingly develop poor toilet habits. They explore constipation, straining, toilet posture, pelvic floor health, and the everyday changes that can make bowel movements easier, healthier, and more comfortable. https://www.independent.ie/service/why-you-can-trust-the-irish-independent/a/98708550.htmlSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  Why 1200 calorie diets are setting you up to fail 23.07.2026 22min

  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.
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  What your liver wishes you knew about alcohol 16.07.2026 23min

  Many of us think liver disease only affects heavy drinkers, but the reality is far more complex. This week on The Real Health podcast, Professor Debbie Shawcross, Professor of Hepatology and Chronic Liver Failure at King's College London, explains how binge drinking, excess weight and everyday habits can silently damage the liver long before symptoms appear. She shares what counts as binge drinking, the difference between alcohol related and metabolic fatty liver disease, when to seek a liver check, and the simple changes that can help protect your liver for years to come. https://www.independent.ie/service/why-you-can-trust-the-irish-independent/a/98708550.htmlSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  The surprising habit that brings more happiness than money 09.07.2026 20min

  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.
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  How to lose fat without calorie counting 02.07.2026 20min

  On this episode of Real Health, I am joined by producer JJ Clarke for a Karl’s Questions special, answering listener queries from social media. We discuss how weather and lack of sunlight may be affecting mood and motivation, the value of moving more rather than less with age, and simple ways to improve eating habits without calorie counting. We discuss why slowing down eating, using portion plates, and building strength training into weekly routines can improve long term health. The conversation also tackles cardio myths, core training misconceptions, and what really matters for fat loss and ageing well. Why you can trust the Irish Independent: learn about our editorial guidelines and AI useSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  The secret to youthful skin and warning signs to look out for 25.06.2026 23min

  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.
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  Why your waistline tells a bigger story than your weight 18.06.2026 23min

  On this week's episode of Real Health, I am joined by registered dietitian and business owner Orla Walsh to discuss the factors that really influence long term health. ­ While much of the conversation around nutrition focuses on weight loss, Orla explains why metabolic health, insulin sensitivity and visceral fat deserve far more attention. We explore the impact of refined carbohydrates, fibre, cholesterol and blood pressure, and discuss why small daily habits around movement, sleep, strength training and nutrition can have a lasting effect on health as we age. Orla also shares practical advice for reducing health risks without relying on restrictive diets or quick fixes. ­ Why you can trust the Irish Independent: learn about our editorial guidelines and AI useSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  The muscle myth that could change your health 11.06.2026 23min

  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.
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  The hidden health impact of Irish drinking culture 04.06.2026 32min

  Dr. Chris Luke, retired consultant in emergency medicine, medical columnist, and host of the Irish Medical Lives podcast, joins me on this week’s episode of The Real Health podcast. The retired emergency medicine consultant explains how drinking culture has evolved from the nightclub scene of the nineties to today’s rise in cocaine and drug use. He discusses binge drinking, poor decision making, injuries, sleep disruption, mental health, and long-term disease risk. Dr Luke also reflects on his pioneering work in clubbing medicine and how festival health services in Ireland have dramatically improved over the years. Why you can trust the Irish Independent 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.
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  How to take control of your money and reduce stress 28.05.2026 28min

  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.
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  Why calorie counting often fails and what works instead 21.05.2026 20min

  On this week’s episode of Real Health, I’m joined by registered dietitian Aisling Geary, who works within the NHS while also running her own clinic, AMG Nutrition. 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.
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  The convenience trap: how modern life is changing us 14.05.2026 26min

  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.
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  Beyond weight loss: a smarter approach to women’s health 07.05.2026 23min

  On this week’s episode of The Real Health Podcast, I sit down with Dr Ailis Brosnan, Midlife Wellness Coach. 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.
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  From teen training to takeaways: your top health questions answered 30.04.2026 24min

  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.