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Have you heard? 10 of the best health podcasts
From mental health discussions to coping with cancer, you’ve no shortage of options, writes Claire O’Boyle
After two years of Covid, we’re tuned in to our health and wellbeing more than ever before. From discussions on cancer and anxiety to clever life hacks that promise to improve how you feel, the world of health podcasts is booming.
For simple ways to change your life
Just One Thing — with Michael Mosley (BBC/Apple)
TV presenter Michael Mosley fronts this series, looking at simple tips that can change our lives. Across more than 30 episodes, the former doctor chats to experts and explores the possible benefits of everything from eating beetroot to lower blood pressure, and how a hot bath could be good for the heart.
Mosley also examines how standing on one leg could be the secret to a longer and more active life.
For midlife advice
The Mid.Point with Gabby Logan (Apple)
Drawing on the insights of sleep gurus, nutritionists and doctors specialising in hormone treatment, Gabby Logan talks to famous faces about their experiences during midlife.
Northern Ireland’s Colin Murray features in a recent episode where Gabby asks if now, at 45, the physical challenges of midlife are breaking his stride and if he has mellowed in his approach to life. Other guests include consumer expert Martin Lewis, actress Tamzin Outhwaite and singer Will Young.
For men’s wellbeing
Belfast Men’s Health Group (Apple Store/Google Play)
Launched in 2020, the Belfast Men’s Health Group podcast, presented by Paul O’Kane, has more than 20 episodes under its belt. With guests ranging from comedian Tim McGarry and singer Malachy Cush to experts across a number of areas of men’s wellness, it’s fair to say a lot of ground is covered.
In one episode, Scottish sports psychologist and health and wellbeing lecturer Dr Alan Curley shares insights on the importance of mental fitness, while in a recent show, Radio Ulster’s Vinny Hurrell talks about his route into broadcasting and what makes him happy.
For discussions on mental health
Mentally Yours, from metro.co.uk (Spotify, AudioBoom)
On this podcast, Ellen Scott and Yvette Caster talk to people who have lived with mental illness. Ellen has OCD, depression and anxiety. Yvette is bipolar and also has a binge-eating disorder.
With experience of how lonely life can be for people with mental illness, the pair chat to guests about their experiences, touching on subjects such as anxiety, overcoming trauma and what it’s like to be sectioned.
For Long Covid in focus
The Long Covid (TLC) Sessions (tlcsessions.net/Apple)
Established to reach the growing community of long Covid sufferers, London-based Noreen Jameel and Emily Kate Stephens launched TLC Sessions after both were diagnosed with the condition last year.
Noreen and Emily Kate discuss their symptoms, from breathlessness and dizziness to migraines and fatigue, as well as the challenges that come with feeling unwell while appearing physically healthy.
They also interview experts and in one episode discuss the symptoms that leave some sufferers feeling foggy, but others struggling to get through the day.
For discussions on breast cancer
And Then Came Breast Cancer, with Victoria Derbyshire (Apple)
Award-winning journalist Victoria Derbyshire, a breast cancer survivor, hosts this series for anyone that has been affected by the disease. Each episode discusses an aspect of the cancer journey, from spotting the first signs to dealing with cancer when you’re pregnant and coping with the aftermath of treatment.
Discussions are frank and honest, with practical information offered, serving as a companion through what can be the tough days of treatment and the aftermath of the disease.
Created by the Future Dreams Breast Cancer Charity, the podcast has been shortlisted for The Bullseye Award at the British Podcast Awards 2022, with winners due to be announced on Saturday, July 23.
For information about inflammatory bowel disease
Gutcast (Apple, Google)
An Irish podcast for people living with inflammatory bowel disease, Gutcast is hosted by Amy Kelly, who suffers from Crohn’s. It features a range of guests including healthcare experts and people living with IBD.
Amy, who’s the director at Chron’s and Colitis Ireland, provides advice on a range of topics, from dealing with surgery and stoma to learning how to manage work and social life. She also offers tips on how to cope with stressful and busy periods in life.
For all things fertility and pregnancy
Bun In The Oven (Apple, Amazon, Spotify)
Hosted by pre and postnatal expert Hollie Grant, Bun In the Oven looks at the different routes to parenthood, and the challenges that they can pose.
From IVF and egg and sperm donation to coping with endometriosis, having a baby alone or in a same-sex relationship, award-winning Pilates instructor Hollie is joined by guests to explore the many ways children are conceived, and to reassure listeners that all experiences are normal.
For learning to live with anxiety
Owning It: The Anxiety Podcast with Caroline Foran (Apple)
From Irish author Caroline Foran, Owning It: The Anxiety Podcast is a practical and relaxed exploration of the disorder, looking at what it is, and how so many people experience anxiety. As well as sharing her own experiences, Caroline speaks to experts, offering practical tools and techniques that will help you manage your anxiety.
Caroline also speaks to a clinical psychologist who explains what we need to know about therapy.
For debunking health myths and easy life hacks
Feel Better, Live More (Spotify, Apple)
More than 1.5 million people in the UK watch and listen to Feel Better, Live More every week, making Dr Rangan Chatterjee’s podcast the most popular in the country.
As well as a new episode dropping every Wednesday, smaller segments are also released on Fridays, with the best-selling author and his guests offering insights on how to live your best life.
The GP and star of BBC One’s Doctor In The House aims to arm listeners with the tools they need to revolutionise the way they eat, sleep, move and relax.
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