Saving Lives In Slow Motion

Miscarriage - pregnancy loss and its impact

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 07:38:09 GMT

(TW: Sensitive topic).

In this episode I look at the juxtaposition of the human and clinical side of this topic which is not talked about enough.

Links:

Babies drama on BBC: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002qkqt

Tommy's Research and support: https://www.tommys.org/our-research/our-research-centres/tommys-national-centre-miscarriage-research

SANDS: https://www.sands.org.uk/

Early Pregnancy Units: https://aepu.org.uk/units/

Hughes Syndrome: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/antiphospholipid-syndrome/

NHS miscarriage information: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/miscarriage/

Folic acid in pregnancy and MTHFR genes: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7776832/

Short and basic explanation of methylation: https://www.nutritionist-resource.org.uk/articles/what-is-methylation-and-why-does-it-matter

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Rare Diseases - when medicine meets the uncommon

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 19:42:50 GMT

I thought in this episode I would acknowledge people living with rare diseases as they can be hard to diagnose and live with.

Links:

Batten Disease: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6018-batten-disease

Lorenzo's Oil: https://www.healthline.com/health/neurological-health/lorenzos-oil-does-it-work

Moya Moya Syndrome: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/moyamoya-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20355586

CRISPR gene technology: https://www.broadinstitute.org/what-broad/areas-focus/project-spotlight/questions-and-answers-about-crispr

Huntington’s Disease therapy: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cevz13xkxpro

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Personalised Medicine - using the codes within us to stay well and beat disease

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 07:29:32 GMT

It’s the future of medicine but how does it work, what are its origins and how can we benefit from it? In this episode I look at the way medicine can be tailored to our health.

The work of Leroy Hood and P4 Medicine paper: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4204402/

The Human Genome Project: https://wellcome.org/insights/articles/human-genome-project-new-era-scientific-progress

NHS personalised medicine page: https://www.england.nhs.uk/healthcare-science/personalisedmedicine/

ApoB as a biomarker: https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-024-05887-2

Gut-skin links (systems biology): https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2018.01459/full

Leukaemia mutations: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6142505/

AI for healthcare: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/stories/healthcare-ai/

Methylation (MTHFR gene): https://www.healthline.com/health/mthfr-gene

ApoE genes and Alzheimer’s risk: https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/news/apoe4-and-apoe3-gene-variants-linked-to-at-least-7-in-10-alzheimers-cases-study-suggests/

Statins and their effect on inflammation: https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/circresaha.116.308537

My book THE HEALTH FIX: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Arrogance In Medicine - healthcare’s fine line and its costs

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 17:21:51 GMT

Most people will have come across arrogance in the workplace but medicine is not an arena that it should have a place, or should it?

In this episode I look at the impact on patients, the public and the workforce.

Links:

Diagnostic errors and overconfidence: https://www.amjmed.com/article/S0002-9343(08)00040-5/pdf

Curiosity as a cure for arrogance: https://bjgplife.com/clinical-curiosity-an-antidote-to-medical-arrogance/

Women and sexual assault in surgery: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66775015

Missed heart attacks: https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/news/heart-attacks-in-women

Medical errors: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10896093/

Models for feedback: https://www.ausmed.co.uk/learn/articles/giving-feedback

Data on NHS complaints: https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/data-on-written-complaints-in-the-nhs

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Nostalgia - a hidden element of wellbeing?

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 20:47:56 GMT

Nostalgia is not strictly medical although it was coined a term of a condition of melancholy but in more recent years studies show that it may be a more important part of wellbeing than we thought.

Links:

Nostalgia as a disease: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352250X22002573

Clay Routledge: https://www.clayroutledge.com/

Nostalgia and wellbeing: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36669249/

Man’s Search For Meaning: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4069.Man_s_Search_for_Meaning

The past makes the present meaningful: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21787094/

Music and nostalgia: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/~crsi/Sedikides,

My own nostalgia tips: music, photos, places, journalling and rituals.

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Is your job making you ill?

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 21:27:46 GMT

Work is such a large part of most of our lives. Most of us spend more time at work than at home if you don’t count sleep at night. And many of us work from home. But how do we know if our work might be affecting our health and what can we do about it?

In this episode I look at some examples and give you a check list of what you can do.

Links:

Aviation and health: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/aviation/prevention/aircrew-cancer.html

Coal miners and lung disease: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/bulletin/2023/mining-lung-disease.html

CTE from head injuries in rugby: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-league/articles/cg5d9546zzeo

Jobs and personalities: https://www.ed.ac.uk/news/2024/personality-traits-that-typify-job-roles-revealed

Job satisfaction: https://www.forbes.com/sites/barnabylashbrooke/2023/07/13/job-satisfaction-is-key-to-workplace-productivity-but-how-do-you-get-it/

Shift work: https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/5-long-term-health-effects-shift-work

Setting boundaries at work: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/boundaries-at-work

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Health & Wellness vs Medicine - where’s the line?

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 00:01:00 GMT

Increasingly we see different presentations to a doctors surgery and our access to knowledge and understanding of health and medicine means there are many ports of call for information and seeking help. In this episode I look at the gap between health and medicine and what we can about it.

Links:

Medicine powered by plants: https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/essential-medicines-powered-by-plants.html

The evolution of ‘medicine'- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11245246/

Holism in medicine: https://www.webmd.com/balance/what-is-holistic-medicine

Self care: https://www.selfcareforum.org/about-us/what-do-we-mean-by-self-care-and-why-is-good-for-people/

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Caffeine - friend or foe?

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 12:29:22 GMT

Most of us drink caffeine and it is in many foods too such as chocolate.

What are its impact on health? In this episode I look at the pros and cons of this ubiquitous every day legal drug.

Links:

Genetics of caffeine metabolism: https://www.sleepmattersperth.com.au/how-genetics-influence-caffeines-impact-on-sleep/

Cognitive and physical performance: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4462044/

Caffeine and Parkinson’s Disease: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7773776/

Coffee and dementia risk: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-026-00409-y

Coffee and Liver Disease: https://www.news-medical.net/news/20250921/Coffee-protects-the-liver-by-blocking-inflammation-and-scarring-review-finds.aspx

Caffeine as pain relief: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cgr44j201rzo

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Wearables - helpful or harmful?

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 22:04:49 GMT

We live in a data driven world and increasingly this applies to health. In this episode I look at some examples of how they can help or hinder.

Body composition scales: https://www.healthline.com/health/body-fat-scale-accuracy

HRV: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21773-heart-rate-variability-hrv

Continuous glucose monitoring: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2024/jun/use-glucose-monitors-people-not-living-diabetes-needs-more-regulation

Blood glucose spikes: https://www.bbc.co.uk/food/articles/avoid_blood_sugar_spikes

Sleep trackers: https://www.euronews.com/health/2026/01/27/sleep-tracking-using-smart-watches-and-rings-has-limits-do-they-really-work

Atrial fibrillation: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/atrial-fibrillation/

EMF: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772671124000901

THE HEALTH FIX: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Alcohol - a quiet saboteur?

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 22:42:06 GMT

This episode is about alcohol, an ever popular topic when it comes to health and harm. In this episode I look at its history and some of the ways in which it affects us and our health as well as why we drink alcohol in the first place.

Links:

Oldest brewery: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-45534133

Distillation: https://www.britannica.com/video/how-is-liquor-made/-340178

UK alcohol limits: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/alcohol-advice/calculating-alcohol-units/

Hangovers: https://www.mcgill.ca/oss/article/health/curing-hangover

Alcohol and mental health: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/alcohol-and-mental-health

Sleep: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/nutrition/alcohol-and-sleep

Red wine and gut microbes: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/news/red-wine-benefits-linked-to-better-gut-health-study-finds

Relaxing without drinking alcohol: https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/news/how-to-relax-at-home-without-drinking

Alcohol free drinks: https://www.theguardian.com/thefilter/2025/feb/04/best-low-alcohol-non-alcoholic-drinks

Alcoholic liver disease: https://britishlivertrust.org.uk/information-and-support/liver-conditions/alcohol-related-liver-disease/#causes

Alcohol and cancer risk: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/causes-of-cancer/alcohol-and-cancer/how-does-alcohol-cause-cancer

Alcohol consumption data: https://ourworldindata.org/alcohol-consumption

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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"Could it be something else doctor?" - Pyrroles, PFOs and EDS

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 22:00:00 GMT

In this episode look at some rarer diagnoses, how they come to light and how they can be hard to live with and diagnose.

Links:

Pyrrole Disorder (not recognised in conventional medicine): https://www.healthline.com/health/pyrrole-disorder

Academic analysis of pyrroles (deep dive): https://academic.oup.com/labmed/article/55/3/334/7271490

Patent foramen ovale: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/patent-foramen-ovale/symptoms-causes/syc-20353487

Migraines and PFO: https://www.migrainedisorders.org/diving-into-the-connection-between-migraine-and-patent-foramen-ovale/

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17813-ehlers-danlos-syndrome

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Rest - why it’s essential to health (and not laziness)

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 22:08:02 GMT

Rest is often seen as a guilty pleasure but in this episode I cover the reasons behind why rest is essential to our lives and examples that work.

Links:

Deep rest: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11003855/

Rest Quiz: https://www.restquiz.com/quiz/rest-quiz-test/

The Art of Rest: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Art-Rest-Find-Respite-Modern/dp/1786892804

Attention Restoration Theory: https://positivepsychology.com/attention-restoration-theory/

Nature breaks: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4039544/

Rest during demanding tasks: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6585675

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Second Opinions: why people seek them, the risks and the benefits

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 23:10:05 GMT

Second opinions are an increasingly common request in healthcare and in this episode I look at

reasons why people seek them and their pros and cons

Links:

Martha’s rule: https://www.england.nhs.uk/patient-safety/marthas-rule/

Hyponatraemia (low sodium): https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hyponatremia/symptoms-causes/syc-20373711

Advice on second opinions: https://www.patients-association.org.uk/getting-a-second-opinion

Tumour Treating Fields: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/treatment-types/tumor-treating-fields.html

Lithium and MND doesn’t work?: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/archive/news/ioppn/records/2013/march/lithium-shows-no-benefit-to-mnd-patients

Lithium and MND works?: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/centre-for-neuromuscular-diseases/research/experimental-clinical-trials/mnd/motor-neurone-disease-closed-trials/licals-therapeutic

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Invisible Habits that can sabotage our health - some reflections

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 00:01:00 GMT

In this episode I look at things that can hamper our health journey by looking at our own life in an easy and compassionate way.

Links:

The Health Fix on Kindle offer January 2026: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja-ebook/dp/B0B2VTFFVS/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0

Sleep and its importance: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6281147/

Phone and screen usage: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11236742/

Decluttering: https://drayanpanja.substack.com/p/decluttering-your-home-how-it-could-1fd\\

Exercise: https://www.sciencefocus.com/wellbeing/exercise-snacks

Impulsivity: https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/impulsive-behavior#Impulsive-behavior-meaning

Overwhelm: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002pf4w

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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2026 - the year of discernment and choices

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 00:01:00 GMT

It’s a new year and that can feel overwhelming.

In this episode I look at what the year is likely to bring in terms of health and medical trends, our own personal goals and how to generate ideas for them if you are feeling a bit stuck.

Links:

The Health Fix: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja-ebook/dp/B0B2VTFFVS

Med tech in 2026: https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2025/10/27/the-8-biggest-healthcare-technology-trends-to-watch-in-2026/

Misinformation - how to spot it: https://news.cancerresearchuk.org/2024/02/16/sorting-fact-from-fiction-a-guide-to-spotting-health-misinformation/

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Christmas time reflection 2025

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 00:01:00 GMT

Links:

AI in medicine: https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/guidance-on-the-use-of-ai-enabled-ambient-scribing-products-in-health-and-care-settings/

Various wearables: https://uk.wellnesspulse.com/lp/best-fitness-trackers/?campaignId=23304304009&adgroupId=&adId=&targetId=&device=c&gunique=CjwKCAiAmKnKBhBrEiwAaqAnZ4MBo1x_tOV7RB1FPjSEqiYWae8AyeixJJsGEVTlbapiaEWJL7D8cBoCYs8QAvD_BwE&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23300097782&gbraid=0AAAAAqKJRpkXwMKHsYb3EhuFeRzIdPUV2

Health Check on BBC World Service: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/w3ct6vk0

Elinzanetant for menopause: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mhra-approves-elinzanetant-to-treat-moderate-to-severe-vasomotor-symptoms-hot-flushes-caused-by-menopause

The new weight loss drugs (GLP-1 agonists): https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/13901-glp-1-agonists

Experimental Alzheimer’s Drug: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251222080119.htm

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Episode 200: reflections, precision medicine and the one thing we should all be doing.

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 23:36:09 GMT

This is my 200th episode and I reflect on where medicine is at in terms of precision medicine and what it means for us.

Links:

Please take this 10 minute survey to help keep this podcast going: http://bit.ly/savinglivesinslowmotion-survey

Genome sequencing: https://www.genomicsengland.co.uk/blog/what-happens-when-i-go-for-whole-genome-sequencing

Mepan Syndrome: https://umdf.org/mepan/

Ketones in dementia: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8734638/

London Bus study: https://cardiachealth.org.uk/the-london-busmen-study/

Drumming - physical and mental therapy?: https://melodics.com/blog/mental-health-benefits-of-drumming

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Traditional Medicine: ancient global healing knowledge in today’s world

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 00:01:00 GMT

Traditional medicine has been around for thousands of years.

In this episode I look at what we can learn from it and

how it compares to modern allopathic medicine in its approach.

Please take this 10 minute survey to help keep this podcast going: http://bit.ly/savinglivesinslowmotion-survey

Links:

WHO TCIM summit: https://www.who.int/teams/who-global-traditional-medicine-centre/global-summit-and-collaborations/second-traditional-medicine-global-summit

WHO — Global strategies and WHO TCIM topic pages (authoritative overview of WHO’s stance and the Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034). World Health Organization+1

WHO feature: World Health Organization

NIH/NCCIH pages on Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. NCCIH+1
African medicinal plants - a review: PMC
Prunus africana: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5327751/
Four sacred medicines: https://aihschgo.org/four-sacred-medicines/
Ayahuasca: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ayahuasca
Icaros: https://www.nimeakaya.org/how-icaros-help-heal-participants-in-ayahuasca-ceremonies/

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Anti-ageing - what really works

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 23:35:36 GMT

Anti-ageing means different things to different people. In this episode I look at what it means and what works to slow down the ageing process.

Reactive oxygen species: https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/circresaha.117.311401

Mitochondria and ageing: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41574-021-00626-7

Inflammation (inflammaging): https://www.nature.com/articles/s41574-018-0059-4

Epigenetic drift: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12487821/

Protein misaggregation: https://www.buckinstitute.org/blog/unraveling-aging-how-protein-misfolding-relates-to-aging-and-disease/

Dietary patterns: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/fasting-like-diet-may-help-reverse-biological-aging-2-5-years

Gut microbes: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41575-022-00605-x

Rapamycin - an experimental drug for anti-ageing: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanhl/article/PIIS2666-7568(23)00258-1/fulltext

Senolytics: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7405395/

Stem cells: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10276889/

NAD / NAD+: https://www.today.com/health/aging/nad-benefits-rcna180800

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Self diagnosis - the perils and marvels of searching for health and illness

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 00:01:00 GMT

80% of us go online to look up health related content. Many of us look up symptoms which is natural but how do we know we are doing it safely?

Here I look at the pros and pitfalls of doing this and how to decide when to see a medical professional.

Links:

Peripheral neuropathy: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/peripheral-neuropathy/

Internet vs GP 2013 (me on BBC1): https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p019px0x

Digital triage: https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/digitally-enabled-triage/

Trust in doctors: https://www.wsj.com/health/wellness/why-we-dont-trust-doctors-like-we-used-to-79784b56

Depression questionnaire: https://patient.info/doctor/mental-health/phq-9

National Back Pain pathway: https://www.southtees.nhs.uk/services/back-pain/national-low-back-and-radicular-pain-pathway/

Ada Health - on of the leaders in symptom checking: https://ada.com/

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Osteoarthritis - its scale, future treatments and prevention

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 00:01:00 GMT

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease affecting our cartilage and joints causing pain and debility. In this episode I look at what it is, prevention strategies and the latest treatments.

Please take this 10 minute survey to help keep this podcast going: http://bit.ly/savinglivesinslowmotion-survey

OA overview: https://www.healthdata.org/news-events/newsroom/news-releases/lancet-new-study-reveals-most-common-form-arthritis

Neck stretches: https://www.csp.org.uk/conditions/neck-pain/video-exercises-neck-pain

Lectins: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844024155028

Ultra-processed foods and OA: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11990240/

Apos Therapy (biomechanic therapy): https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/mtg76/informationforpublic

Glucosamine and chondroitin: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-latest-on-glucosaminechondroitin-supplements-2016101710391

Chondrocyte implants: https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/joint-surgery/preplanning/the-future-of-joint-repair

Omega 3: https://fjps.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s43094-024-00667-5

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Superfoods: the lowdown

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 23:19:28 GMT

Do superfoods exist? What makes a food a superfood and how does it relate to everyday life? In this episode I take a broader look at this ever popular topic.

Links:

Survey about this podcast: http://bit.ly/savinglivesinslowmotion-survey

A list of ‘superfoods’: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/true-superfoods

Fibre benefits: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0261561423003631

The Hadza: https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2017/08/24/545631521/is-the-secret-to-a-healthier-microbiome-hidden-in-the-hadza-diet

Low fibre benefits: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9268622/

Pica: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22944-pica

Apples: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/11/4025

Flax seeds; https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/flaxseeds

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11430205/

Lectins: https://www.next-health.com/post/what-are-lectins-are-they-bad-for-everyone-do-i-need-lectin-sensitivity-testing

Gremolata: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/gremolata

Herbs and spices: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6532192/

The Health Fix: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326

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The Mental Health Crisis: revisiting it with a broader look + 3 daily mind-friendly habits

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 23:15:30 GMT

It seems that the mental health crisis is never ending and although awareness is much better, spotting the signs can be hard as there are so many factors.

In this episode I look at how we approach mental health. This information does not replace professional advice and if you feel you need support then please reach out to a qualified health care practitioner.

Depression as an inflammatory condition: https://www.maudsleybrc.nihr.ac.uk/posts/2021/may/inflammation-is-a-core-feature-of-depression-new-evidence-from-large-scale-study/

Methylation and mental health: https://foodforthebrain.org/methylation-why-is-it-important-for-mental-health/

Talking and checking-in campaign: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tX8TgVR33KM

Hugs: https://www.theguardian.com/science/2024/oct/26/hugs-science-airport-minutes

Talking to yourself and inner child work for beginners: https://www.innermelbpsychology.com.au/what-is-inner-child-work-and-how-to-get-started/

Circle of control: https://positivepsychology.com/circles-of-influence/

Help and stats: https://www.mind.org.uk/

My book, The Health Fix: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296

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Chat GPT, chest pain, hair loss, odd tastes (and the NHS) - recent themes

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 23:36:54 GMT

In this episode I cover a range of symptoms that I have seen recently, what they may mean, how to handle them as well as what I am noticing in primary care.

Links:

Silent reflux: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15024-laryngopharyngeal-reflux-lpr

Tietze’s syndrome (chest pain): https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23565-tietze-syndrome

Costochondritis: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22167-costochondritis

Panic attack symptoms: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/podcasts/health-essentials/heart-attack-vs-panic-attack-how-to-tell-the-difference

Silent pneumonia: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15744-pneumonia-atypical-walking-pneumonia

Hair loss: https://www.pcds.org.uk/clinical-guidance/alopecia-male-and-female-pattern-alopecia

Phases of hair growth: https://www.healthline.com/health/stages-of-hair-growth#maintaining-hair-health

Hair loss and DHT: https://www.healthline.com/health/dht#testosterone

AI and medicine - chatGPT vs GP: https://substack.com/@drayanpanja/note/p-177463006?r=2efcdx&utm_source=notes-share-action&utm_medium=web

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Sepsis - know the signs, save a life

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 22:18:46 GMT

Sepsis can kill. It is an important public health issue that we all need to be aware of as swift action can save lives.

In this episode I look at what it is, how we can prevent it and some common examples from the consulting room.

Links:

Survey: Your opinion matters. SURVEY here - please help me by taking this 10 minute survey -thank you!: http://bit.ly/savinglivesinslowmotion-survey

Lily's story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cr70zr51rmeo

The Sepsis Trust and the SEPSIS 6: https://sepsistrust.org/about-sepsis/

Meningitis B: https://www.healthline.com/health/meningitis/meningitis-b

Groups of people and vulnerability to sepsis: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sepsis/who-can-get-it/

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Stress - my personal take on the invisible epidemic and novel ways to handle it

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 23:01:00 GMT

Stress is an invisible killer. The longer it goes on and remains unaddressed, the more harm it causes.

In this episode I look at sources of stress and some techniques I find useful beyond standard stress management advice.

Links:

Audience survey - thank you so much! http://bit.ly/savinglivesinslowmotion-survey

Stress management techniques: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/stress/managing-stress-and-building-resilience/

Circle of control: https://positivepsychology.com/circles-of-influence/

Exercise and stress: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469

Benefits of journalling: https://www.healthline.com/health/benefits-of-journaling

Stressors: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/types-of-stressors

Alternate nostril breathing: https://www.healthline.com/health/alternate-nostril-breathing

Expressed emotion: https://link.springer.com/rwe/10.1007/978-3-319-49425-8_415

Ego: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/what-is-the-ego

Stress and addiction: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/science-choice/201705/stress-and-addiction

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Heartburn and Reflux: what it really means and how to manage it

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 23:01:00 GMT

1 in 5 people on earth experience heartburn or reflux symptoms. It’s strikingly common, more so in the western hemisphere. In this episode I look at the causes and some treatments.

Reflux in babies: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-54792702

Silent reflux or LPR: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15024-laryngopharyngeal-reflux-lpr

PPI drugs: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/proton-pump-inhibitors

H Pylori and stomach ulcers: https://gutscharity.org.uk/2019/10/the-doctor-who-infected-himself-to-solve-a-medical-mystery/

Histamine blockers - the ranitidine story: https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/zantac-heartburn-timeline-1.5330575

Risks of PPI drugs: https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/proton-pump-inhibitors-ppi

Hiatus hernia: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hiatus-hernia/

My book The Health Fix: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326

Turmeric and PPI for dyspepsia: https://ebm.bmj.com/content/28/6/400

Probiotics: https://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/probiotics-for-acid-reflux

Ginger: https://www.healthline.com/health/digestive-health/ginger-for-acid-reflux

LINX procedure: https://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/gerd-linx-procedure

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5 Ways To Boost Your Energy Quickly

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 21:21:02 GMT

It’s a boon that so many people ask for on the back of feeling tired or fatigued - more energy.

Here are my 5 tips which will help you feel more energetic during the day.

Links:

Your opinion matters. SURVEY here - please help me by taking this 10 minute survey -thank you!: http://bit.ly/savinglivesinslowmotion-survey

Mind body link: https://positivepsychology.com/body-mind-integration-attention-training/

Movement and mood: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/how-simply-moving-benefits-your-mental-health-201603289350

Hydration: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/7-health-benefits-of-water

Energy foods: https://www.bbc.co.uk/food/articles/energy_boosting_foods

Low GL diet: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/low-glycemic-diet

Sleep and energy: https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/how-sleep-boosts-your-energy

Getting outdoors: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6562165/

Buy THE HEALTH FIX now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296

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Winter illness, our body clock and immunity, ancient beliefs, (and some tips)

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 21:59:56 GMT

I am down with a cough and cold at the moment, and it got me thinking about immunity, seasons and people’s beliefs about illness as well as what we can do to stave off these bugs.

Links:

Your opinion matters. SURVEY here - please help me by taking this 10 minute survey -thank you!: http://bit.ly/savinglivesinslowmotion-survey

Hippocrates and Galen: https://www.thecolourworks.com/blog/hippocrates-galen-the-four-humours

Germ theory: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK24649/

The UK Biobank study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33817568/

VItamin C and colds: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38082300/

Vitamin D: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7551809/

Zinc: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36290585/

Salt water gargle: https://www.healthline.com/health/salt-water-gargle

Turmeric: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/tumeric-for-bronchitis

Soup: https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/chicken-soup-cold-flu-symptoms-relief-b2789217.html

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Parkinson’s Disease: can we prevent a slowly evolving pandemic?

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 20:37:41 GMT

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) affects more people every year with a global increase in ageing populations. There is no cure for the condition but medication can alleviate symptoms. In this episode I look at the causes of the disease and what we can do to prevent it.

Your opinion matters. SURVEY here - please help me by taking this 10 minute survey -thank you!: http://bit.ly/savinglivesinslowmotion-survey

The Parkinson's pandemic: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laneur/article/PIIS1474-4422(20)30302-1/fulltext

Gut-brain link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10358673/

REM sleep behaviour disorder: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24465-rem-sleep-behavior-disorder-rbd

Per Borghammer - body-first and brain first model: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVew2OVZTXs

Genes in PD: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/parkinsons-disease/the-genetic-link-to-parkinsons-disease

Leaky gut in Parkinsons Disease: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/ebiom/article/PIIS2352-3964(25)00240-3/fulltext

Coeliac Disease, gluten sensitivity and Parkinson’s Disease link (a literature review): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12011982/

H pylori and Parkinson’s Disease: https://immunityageing.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12979-023-00404-1

Diet: https://www.healthline.com/health/parkinsons-and-diet

Exercise - tai chi: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-67208745

Iron overload: https://www.aan.com/PressRoom/home/PressRelease/30

Vitamin D: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667268523000499

Pesticides: https://www.uclahealth.org/news/release/researchers-identify-10-pesticides-toxic-neurons-involved

Rotenone (insecticide) and PD: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41531-023-00561-6

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Vaccines - an overview

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 22:56:08 GMT

Vaccines are often the subject of heated discussion. In this episode I share some thoughts on the topics as it affects us all and

needs handling sensitively.

Your opinion matters. SURVEY here - thank you!: http://bit.ly/savinglivesinslowmotion-survey

Edward Jenner and vaccine discovery: https://www.jenner.ac.uk/about/edward-jenner

A broad overview: https://www.who.int/news-room/spotlight/history-of-vaccination/a-brief-history-of-vaccination

Common short term side effects of vaccines: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5dfa14bfed915d54aca2b837/PHE_what_to_expect_after_vaccination_English.pdf

Old Friends Hypothesis: https://www.news-medical.net/health/Old-Friends-Hypothesis.aspx

Herd Immunity explained: https://vaccineknowledge.ox.ac.uk/herd-immunity

Vaccine hesitancy: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c1jgrlxx37do

Measles in the USA: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/measles-is-making-a-comeback-can-we-stop-it-202503063091

Vaccine injury cases: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c4gzleyydp8o#

Neanderthal genes and COVID: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3673483

Decision making and vaccines: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0264410X25004311

Travel vaccines: https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/

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What’s the point? (A question we have all heard many times).

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 23:01:00 GMT

In this episode I look at this big question which I often hear in the consulting room, the reasons that lie behind it and what the point to life might be.

Your opinion matters. SURVEY here - thank you!: http://bit.ly/savinglivesinslowmotion-survey

Nihilism in philosophy: https://www.learnreligions.com/what-is-nihilism-history-250581

Cosmic Insignificance: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4340547/

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs: https://www.bitesizelearning.co.uk/resources/maslows-hierarchy-of-needs-theory

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: https://therisingsuncounseling.com/acceptance-and-commitment-therapy-a-framework-for-a-meaningful-life-copy/

Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman: https://www.oliverburkeman.com/fourthousandweeks

The science behind gratitude: https://positivepsychology.com/neuroscience-of-gratitude/

The benefits of volunteering: https://www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk/volunteering/why-volunteer/benefits-of-volunteering/

Ways to ask for help if you struggle to: https://www.wondermind.com/article/asking-for-help/

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My doctor or any doctor? How continuity of care could save your life

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 23:01:00 GMT

Continuity of care saves lives. There is evidence that outcomes are improved and it

used to be a core part of medicine. In recent years for many reasons continuity has been

slightly eroded. In this episode I make the case for it and give examples of why it can be

of critical importance.

Links:

Please help me improve my content for you by taking this audience survey which takes 10 minutes:

http://bit.ly/savinglivesinslowmotion-survey

Study on continuity and outcomes: https://bjgp.org/content/72/715/e84

How seeing the same doctor has changed in the UK: https://www.bmj.com/content/389/bmj.r833

Patient examples of the benefits: https://www.nuffieldtrust.org.uk/news-item/the-importance-of-continuity-four-personal-viewpoints

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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 23:01:00 GMT

PCOS is a growing global issue. Its prevalence has increased in recent years and the reasons behind it are complex.

In this episode I look at its roots, causes and impact plus what we can do about it in terms of lifestyle and treatments.

Links:

Depression and PCOS: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10607337/

LH (luteinziing hormone): https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22255-luteinizing-hormone

LH:FSH ratio in PCOS: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/pages/gynaecology/polycystic-ovarian-syndrome-hormonal-measurements-in

Pancreatic function in PCOS: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9962893/

The gut microbiome and PCOS: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9998696/

The steroid synthesis pathway starting with cholesterol: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Biosynthesis-of-steroid-hormones-from-the-cholesterol-pathway_fig1_258055538

Angelique Panagos book on hormonal balance: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Balance-Plan-Optimize-Hormonal-Health/dp/1844039447

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Metabolic Health - what it is and why it is so important

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 23:01:00 GMT

In this episode I look at metabolic health which is one of the most important aspects of our long term health. I look at the mechanisms and measures of metabolic health and what we can do to improve ours.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/continuous-glucose-monitoring-cgm

Hba1c: https://www.diabetes.org.uk/about-diabetes/looking-after-diabetes/hba1c#

American metabolic health stats: https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/met.2018.0105

High fructose corn syrup; https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/why-high-fructose-corn-syrup-is-bad

Fibre in your diet: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/why-is-fiber-good-for-you

Exercise and metabolic health: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2024.1365761/full

Metabolic health and Alzheimer's risk: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10001958/

Non-communicable diseases: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/noncommunicable-diseases

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5 top tips for gut health (and they’re not what you might think)

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 23:01:00 GMT

In this episode I cover my own personal tips from the view point of a GP and lifestyle medicine doctor. Gut symptoms Around 86% of us in the UK have experienced gut symptoms at some point. My tips are simple, for everyone and hopefully make sense.

Parasympathetic drive for digestion: https://www.livescience.com/parasympathetic-nervous-system-rest-and-digest

Digestive enzymes: https://www.webmd.com/diet/what-are-digestive-enzymes

Blue Zones eating habits: https://www.bluezones.com/2020/07/blue-zones-diet-food-secrets-of-the-worlds-longest-lived-people/

Mediterranean Diet: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/16037-mediterranean-diet

Late night eating: https://hms.harvard.edu/news/late-night-eating-impact

Time restricted eating: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/time-restricted-eating

Ileo-caecal valve issues: https://www.carygastro.com/blog/what-are-the-symptoms-of-a-faulty-ileocecal-valve

Hydration and the gut (an academic paper): https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589004224011258

Buy my book The Health Fix now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0

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Inflammation - the ‘fire’ within that leads to chronic disease and how we can manage it

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 22:51:41 GMT

Chronic inflammation is a key process which is linked to almost all non-communicable disease. In this episode I look at how it arises and why it is so harmful.

Links:

Age-related end glycation products: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/advanced-glycation-end-products#what-they-are

'Leaky gut’ syndrome: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8305009/

Depression as an inflammatory condition: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1043661824002676

Probitoics after antibiotics?: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20190124-is-it-worth-taking-probiotics-after-antibiotics

Diabetes and inflammation: https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/inflammation-and-diabetes

Inflammation from toxins (metals and brain inflammation): https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2468202021000127

Anti-inflammatory diet: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/anti-inflammatory-diet

Fibre: https://dremilyleeming.substack.com/p/is-fibre-the-missing-link-to-true

Omega-3 and inflammation: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37606147/

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Psychiatry and Surgery - essential specialties which may appear worlds apart but in some ways are similar and deserve more recognition.

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 23:01:00 GMT

What do surgery and psychiatry have in common? They are both demanding specialties, occasionally of last resort, that save lives acutely and help people back to better health.

Links

Antipsychotic drug discovery: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.903156/full

Pyrrole Disorder: https://www.healthline.com/health/pyrrole-disorder#diagnosis

Rationing in the NHS: https://www.kingsfund.org.uk/insight-and-analysis/blogs/nhs-rationing-under-the-radar

An example of risks vs benefit in surgery: https://www.neurosurgeonsofnewjersey.com/blog/spinal-fusion-surgery-risks/

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The Vagus Nerve - what’s all the fuss about and could it be the key to battling chronic disease?

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 23:01:00 GMT

There are so many posts, papers and publications about the vagus nerve.

In this episode I look at why it’s so popular and whether it really can be a key to future treatments with advances vagus nerve stimulation.

Links:

Quick overview: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/vagus-nerve-stimulation/about/pac-20384565

Polyvagal Theory: https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/whatispolyvagaltheory

The Great Nerve: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Great-Nerve-Science-Harness-Reflexes/dp/059371699X

Research on the vagus and rheumatoid arthritis: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27382171/

Ear stimulation: https://medicine.ouhsc.edu/news/article/ear-clip-stimulation-of-vagus-nerve-shows-promise-as-pots-treatment-according-to-ou-college-of-medicine-study

Vasovagal attacks: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23325-vasovagal-syncope

Crohn’s Disease and vagus nerve stimulation: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32515156/

Vagus nerver and inflammation: https://bioelecmed.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42234-022-00100-3

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Curious cases and mystery symptoms - a swollen knee, pins and needles, an unexplained allergy and the enlarged liver.

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 23:01:00 GMT

Medicine is an inexact science. My patients who are engineers find it frustrating that there is so much conjecture and educated guess work in medicine. But this episode highlights why diagnoses can take time. It’s a mix of detective work, bias and listening to the patient story.

Links:

Chilblains: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chilblains/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351103

STI and painful knee: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/gonococcal-arthritis

Carpal tunnel syndrome: https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/carpal-tunnel-syndrome/

Psychodermatology (the mind-skin link): https://www.psychodermatology.co.uk/

Liver inflammation and glandular fever: https://www.healthline.com/health/mono-hepatitis

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Collapses, faints, fits and dizziness - a quick 101

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 23:01:00 GMT

Not a week goes by in practice where I don’t see a patient who hasn’t collapsed or had a dizzy spell.

There are so many reasons for this, some preventable, some not. I look at some of the syndromes that lead to these issues.

Links:

Fainting: https://www.healthline.com/health/fainting#causes

Pseudoseizures (non-eplieptic seizures): https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24517-psychogenic-nonepileptic-seizure-pnes

Absence seizures: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/petit-mal-seizure/symptoms-causes/syc-20359683

Epilepsy and driving: https://www.gov.uk/epilepsy-and-driving

BPPV (a type of vertigo): https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11858-benign-paroxysmal-positional-vertigo-bppv

Patient perspective of Mal de Debarquement syndrome: https://www.rarediseaseday.org/heroes/a-uk-patient-perspective-on-mal-de-debarquement-syndrome/

Heartblock: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/heart-block/

Gluten ataxia: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320730

Proprioception: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/proprioception

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Why am I so tired all the time? Some causes and solutions

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 23:01:00 GMT

5-15% of GP consultations are linked to tiredness. And the number is growing. In this episode I look at common and rarer reasons for tiredness.

Hydration - if you’re feeling thirsty you’re partly dehydrated:

https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/nutritional/dehydration/

Sleep apnoea: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sleep-apnea/symptoms-causes/syc-20377631

Breathing to help some root causes of fatigue: https://buteykoclinic.com/blogs/buteyko-breathing-technique/buteyko-breathing-technique

Mycotoxin illness: https://www.parsleyhealth.com/blog/mold-toxicity-symptoms/

Co-enzyme Q10: https://bjcardio.co.uk/2015/10/coenzyme-q10-and-cardiovascular-disease-an-overview/

Antibiotic tiredness: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/do-antibiotics-make-you-tired

Burnout: https://mentalhealth-uk.org/burnout/

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Teenage and Adolescent Health - can we avert a looming crisis?

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 23:01:00 GMT

Teenage and adolescent health offers us a glimpse into the future health of the world. The Lancet Commission wrote a report in 2016 and have recently written a follow up which paints a slightly concerning picture.

In this episode I look at health in this group of people, the challenges they face and what, if anything, can be done about it.

Links:

The Lancet Commission report summary: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(25)00863-3/fulltext

Barriers to healthcare for adolescents: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8070789/

Global numbers: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/adolescents-health-risks-and-solutions

Omega-3 and brain health: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35960396/

Climate Stress: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10154789/

Free tips from Annette Du Bois (teenage coach): https://www.champs-academy.co.uk/free-help-and-support/

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HEALTHY HABITS - 1925 vs 2025: same but different

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 23:01:00 GMT

In this episode I look at our health compared to 100 years ago. I was pleasantly surprised at some similarities having stumbled across something online but then also appreciate that we live in a different world now.

Links:

Donald Moore’s health habits in 1925: https://archive.org/details/health.habits.moore.1925/page/n1/mode/2up

Adventist health: https://www.bluezones.com/explorations/loma-linda-california/

Health in the 1920s: https://www.encyclopedia.com/social-sciences/culture-magazines/1920s-medicine-and-health-overview

Tech neck: https://sharpphysiotherapy.co.uk/the-hidden-dangers-of-tech-neck/

Pesticides and human health: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11426366/

Mycotoxin illness: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8619365/

Toxic productivity: https://hbr.org/2024/11/lets-end-toxic-productivity

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Assisted Dying - what it is, what it's not and why it’s so hard to get consensus

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 23:01:00 GMT

In the UK, there is much discussion around assisted dying with a bill that is being voted on in government at the moment.

In this episode I look at the ethics around it and what it might mean on an individual and societal level.

Palliative Care: https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/end-of-life-care/what-it-involves-and-when-it-starts/

Dr Florian Willett’s death: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/suicide-pod-activist-euthanasia-sarco-b2762514.html

Locked-in syndrome: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22462-locked-in-syndrome-lis

How assisted dying works in The Netherlands: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2015/sep/11/assisted-dying-dutch-end-of-life-netherlands-unbearable-suffering

Talking about death and dying: https://www.hospiceuk.org/information-and-support/death-and-dying-what-expect/about-death-and-dying

The Humanists view: https://humanists.uk/2023/10/03/six-reasons-we-need-an-assisted-dying-law/

The current state of affairs in the UK regarding the assisted dying bill: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c5y5d2g3wgxo

My new website: https://drayan.co.uk/

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Fasting - how it works and what you need to know if you are considering it

Thu, 29 May 2025 22:44:50 GMT

Fasting is a hot but contentious topic.

It has been practised for thousands of years and is now

purported to be a way of tackling or preventing certain metabolic diseases.

In this episode I look at the pros, cons and mechanisms of fasting.

Links:

Historical perspectives of fasting: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8838777/

Time restricted feeding in mice (Sachin Panda): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3491655/

Further study (see first image for feeding habits): https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1550413114004987

5:2 diet summary: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/the-5-2-diet-guide

Prolonged fasting: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37377031/

Fasting and autophagy: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24058-autophagy

The flip side - analysis of a study that found a increased link to heart disease from fasting: https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/news/behind-the-headlines/intermittent-fasting#

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Health fads and trends - cold plunges, IR saunas, hyperbaric oxygen, vagus nerve stimulation and more - do they work?

Thu, 22 May 2025 22:21:08 GMT

Every week or so you will see and article about one or more of these topics.

Maybe you have tried them or do them regularly. In the episode I look at the science and thinking behind them all.

Links:

Cold water exposure - a paper: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9518606/

Vagus nerve stimulation: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17598-vagus-nerve-stimulation

Hyperbaric oxygen: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/hyperbaric-oxygen-therapy

Saunas and potential benefits (academic paper): https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0531556521002916#s0180

High Protein Diet: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/high-protein-diet-plan

Buy my book THE HEALTH FIX now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0

My new website:

https://drayan.co.uk/

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Prescribing Lifestyle Medicine - an evolution, from past, present to the future

Thu, 15 May 2025 22:32:11 GMT

Prescribing Lifestyle Medicine is a course I run with Dr Rangan Chatterjee that has been going for 8 years now.

It was the first course of its kind in the UK and in this episode I look at a recap of our recent conference, what has changed in lifestyle medicine over the years and the latest science.

Links:

Dr Emily Leeming: https://www.emilyleeming.com/

Dr Rob Lustig: https://robertlustig.com/

Dr Kiran Sodha: https://www.drsodha.co.uk/

Dr Nathaniel Roocroft’s work: https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news/2023/november/23/20231123-uk-flagship-pioneers-largest-ever-mental-and-physical-health-drive-at-sea

Dr Madhvi Joshi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madhvi-joshi-419b71353/

Depression as an inflammatory disease: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38826138/

Gut-brain axis and the role of the microbiome in neurodegeneration: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41392-024-01743-1

Fibre benefits: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/why-is-fiber-good-for-you

Weight loss drugs hold key to longer life?: https://www.thetimes.com/uk/healthcare/article/golden-age-of-medicine-weight-loss-drugs-seen-as-key-to-longer-life-3wblnx3j6#

Prescribing Lifestyle Medicine:

https://www.practiceunbound.org.uk/product/prescribinglifestylemedicine/home

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Ayurvedic Medicine - ahead of it’s time?

Thu, 08 May 2025 23:01:00 GMT

Ayurvedic Medicine is thousands of years old. It has a systems based approach which can be personalised and its methods are based on careful observation and the interconnectedness of human beings and our relation to our environment. There has also been caution around some treatments which can cause harm which I cover in this episode.

A quick summary of Ayurvedic Medicine: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/ayurvedic-medicine-in-depth

The doshas: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vata-dosha-pitta-dosha-kapha-dosha

Pulse diagnosis: https://www.healingholidays.com/blog/pulse-diagnosis-in-ayurveda

Liver Disease in 14 year old: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/liver-failure-in-14-year-old-kerala-girl-leads-to-traditional-vs-modern-medicine-debate/articleshow/94822613.cms

Ayurvedic herbs: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ayurvedic-herbs

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Inner child work - an intrinsic part of true wellbeing

Thu, 01 May 2025 23:01:00 GMT

It’s easy to race through life without thinking that we need to do some inner work on ourselves but more often than not it catches up with us at some point.

In this episode I look at why it’s important and go through a basic inner child exercise to get you started.

Links:

A beginner’s guide to inner child work: https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/inner-child-healing#listen

Some books which cover this and a lot more:

How to do the work by Nicole LePera: https://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Do-Work-Recognise-Patterns/dp/1409197743

The book you wish your parents had read: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Book-Wish-Your-Parents-Read/dp/0241251028

Arian Samouie's work: https://ariansamouie.com/

Why is everyone working on their inner child?: https://time.com/6268636/inner-child-work-healing/

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5 signs of hidden illnesses you need to know

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 23:01:00 GMT

Symptoms are often hard to interpret with the amount of data and tools that are out there these days.

In this episode I look at innocuous symptoms that can creep up on us over a long time but could be harbinger of an underlying condition.

COMT genes: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/click-here-for-happiness/202001/what-is-the-comt-gene-and-how-does-it-affect-your-health

Raynaud’s Phenomenon: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/raynauds-phenomenon

Fungal nails: https://patient.info/infections/fungal-nail-infection-tinea-unguium

Nitric oxide foods: https://www.webmd.com/diet/healthy-foods-nitric-oxide

FIT testing for bowel cancer: https://www.faecal-immunochemical-test.co.uk/healthcare-professionals/about-faecal-immunochemical-testing/

Body odour: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17865-body-odor

Phaeochromocytoma: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pheochromocytoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20355367#

Unexplained weight loss: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/unexplained-weight-loss

Rash - acanthosis nigricans: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/acanthosis-nigricans/

Buy The Health Fix now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0

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Work-life balance - the ultimate hot topic and how to get it right

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 23:01:00 GMT

There isn’t a week that I don’t hear the phrase ‘work-life balance’. In this episode I look at what it means, how it has changed over the years and what we can do to try to get it right.

What is work-life balance?: https://www.forbes.com/sites/maurathomas/2022/07/26/what-does-work-life-balance-even-mean/

Severance: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11280740/

Womens Liberation and WLB: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4079063/#:

The Great Resignation: https://hbr.org/2022/03/the-great-resignation-didnt-start-with-the-pandemic

Freelancing pros and cons: https://medium.com/@mrmunifali/the-5-pros-and-cons-of-freelance-work-15e1dbb375c6

Why Google perks may not be what good working life is about: https://www.cnbc.com/2019/04/18/google-amazon-microsoft-perks-dont-matter-this-is-what-keeps-talented-people-from-quitting.html

Work is good for us: https://www.bmj.com/content/353/bmj.i2191

Boiling frogs: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/lessons-from-a-burnt-out-psychologist/202406/the-boiling-frog-syndrome-a-metaphor-for-burnout

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Your questions answered! - DNA analyses, bad habits, chronic fatigue, dietary fibre and more

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 23:01:00 GMT

In this episode I have saved up questions from the last 6 months and decided to tackle them head on. From whether you should get a DNA analysis to why some people think fibre is bad for you - it’s in this ep!

DNA analyses - a view point https://www.theguardian.com/science/2017/jul/23/what-i-learned-from-home-dna-test-kits-are-they-accurate-or-worthwhile

SNPs: https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/genomicresearch/snp/

Genetic screening via health professionals: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/predictive-genetic-tests-cancer/

MCM6: https://medlineplus.gov/download/genetics/gene/mcm6.pdf

The genes of Alzheimer’s Disease: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-causes-and-risk-factors/alzheimers-disease-genetics-fact-sheet

Alcohol and WHO advice: https://www.who.int/europe/news/item/04-01-2023-no-level-of-alcohol-consumption-is-safe-for-our-health

Chronic fatigue syndrome: https://www.healthline.com/health/chronic-fatigue-syndrome

Long Covid YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@LCCWYCD

Organic food - the dirty dozen and the clean fifteen: https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/clean-fifteen.php

Fibre bad for us? (A dissection of this argument): https://biolayne.com/articles/research/paul-saladino-on-joe-rogan-experience-hype-vs-evidence/

Dr Emily Leeming on fibre: https://dremilyleeming.substack.com/p/is-fibre-the-missing-link-to-true

My case for generalism: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ST6XEDcD_C4

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Vitamin D - everything you need to know

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 23:01:00 GMT

Vitamin D is often regarded as the doyen of vitamins. It’s structure differs to other vitamins and in this episode I look at it’s benefits, it’s risks and potential in terms of it’s role in human health.

Structure of vitamin D: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0002916523241039

UVA and UVB light: https://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/uv-radiation/

Vitamin D deficiency (NICE): https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/vitamin-d-deficiency-in-adults/

Innate vs adaptive immunity: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279396/#

(Listen to my episode on autoimmunity - October 2024)

Rickets: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/rickets-and-osteomalacia/

VDR mutations and rickets: https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/gene/vdr/

Twin study on VDR mutations: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-69128-2

Vitamin D co-factors: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10974675/

Tim Spector and vitamin D: https://theconversation.com/the-sun-goes-down-on-vitamin-d-why-i-changed-my-mind-about-this-celebrated-supplement-52725

Foods high in vitamin K2: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/vitamin-k2-foods

Marshall Protocol: https://biomedres.us/pdfs/BJSTR.MS.ID.008344.pdf

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Coeliac Disease and gluten sensitivity - what it is and why it’s on the rise.

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:01:00 GMT

Coeliac Disease rates are rising across the globe. In this episode I look at what it is, why it occurs and the multitude of guises that gluten-related symptoms can take on.

So many foods contain gluten (not just grains) so it is an important issue.

The genetics of coeliac disease (HLAs - human leukocyte antigens): https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/is-celiac-disease-hereditary

Villi and their function: https://study.com/learn/lesson/villi-in-small-intestine.html

Innate vs adaptive immunity: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279396/

The rise of coeliac disease: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2023-01-31/rising-incidence-of-celiac-disease-spurs-interest-in-research-treatments

Non-coeliac gluten sensitivity: https://www.sheffieldbrc.nihr.ac.uk/our-research/neuroscience/neuroinflammation/gluten-related-neurological-disorders-and-ataxia

Dermatitis herpetiformis: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21460-dermatitis-herpetiformis

Gluten ataxia and TG6-mediated neurological symptoms: https://www.sth.nhs.uk/news/2020/11/23/new-breakthrough-diagnostic-test-leads-to-earlier-detection-of-neurological-damage-caused-by-gluten-sensitivity/

Sourdough: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2016/mar/23/sourdough-bread-gluten-intolerance-food-health-celiac-disease

Omega-5 gliadin allergy: https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/latest-research-summaries/the-journal-of-allergy-and-clinical-immunology-in/2018/wheat

GAD antibodies: https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/gad-antibodies

Hashimoto’s and gluten: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/hashimotos-and-gluten

Foods containing gluten: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/gluten-foods#foods-with-gluten

Ancient and modern wheat: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9611902/

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The end of life - how can we prepare for it?

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 00:01:00 GMT

In this episode I look at something that comes to us all, not death itself, but the run up towards it. How can we prepare for the inevitable in the best possible way? Is it even possible?

Longevity as an obsession: https://www.theguardian.com/wellness/2024/sep/13/rich-men-longevity-history

Urgency culture, burnout and modern life: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/urgency-culture-burnout

Being busy: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/the-psychology-of-creativity/202304/the-myth-of-keeping-busy

Regrets of the dying: https://bronnieware.com/blog/regrets-of-the-dying/

7 types of forgetfulness: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/forgetfulness-7-types-of-normal-memory-problems

Communities around the end of life: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6330929/

Being true to yourself: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdG2yK7hoPQ

Meditation for the end of life: https://www.mindfulnessassociation.net/research-blogs/compassion-meditation-for-end-of-life/

Physical contact at the end of life: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/understanding-grief/201703/touching-the-dying

Legal and financial advice: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/impacts-of-cancer/benefits-and-financial-support/financial-help-end-of-life

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Migraines (and headaches) - the forgotten epidemic?

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 00:01:00 GMT

Migraines are common cause of debility worldwide. In this episode I look at the causes of migraines and other types of headaches, what we can do about them and how to detect and manage them better.

Links:

The theories behind migraine and its mechanism: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/headache/how-a-migraine-happens

Triptan drugs: https://migrainetrust.org/live-with-migraine/healthcare/treatments/triptans/#page-section-1

MSG headaches: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38079074/

Sphenoid sinus disease (confused for migraine): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16213927/

Functional scoliosis: https://www.healthline.com/health/scoliosis/functional-scoliosis#summary

Erunemab: https://migrainetrust.org/live-with-migraine/healthcare/treatments/calcitonin-gene-related-peptide-monoclonal-antibodies/

Migraine as common cause of disability: https://thejournalofheadacheandpain.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s10194-020-01208-0

Daith piercing: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7075511/

Acupuncture: https://migrainetrust.org/live-with-migraine/healthcare/treatments/acupuncture/

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Functional Medicine: a model for addressing health issues today or modern day quackery?

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 00:01:00 GMT

In this episode I look at Functional Medicine, a movement which started in the USA and is practised predominantly by non-medical practitioners but also increasingly medical doctors.

It comes under a lot of fire from doctors and I want to explore why this, including that is isn’t ‘medicine' and what the differences and similarities are between functional medicine and conventional allopathic medicine.

Links:

Intro to functional medicine by IFM: https://www.ifm.org/functional-medicine

A review of functional medicine by Jeffrey Bland: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9173848/

Methylation explained: https://www.healthline.com/health/methylation#takeaway

Methylation, a view from a functional medicine practitioner: https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/2016/08/01/methylation-whats-fuss/

The British College of Functional Medicine: https://www.bc-fm.org/

Patient story from The Cleveland Clinic: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/patient-stories/196-functional-medicine-helps-woman-regain-her-life-after-44-years-of-chronic-pain

An allopathic doctors view: https://www.doctormather.com/blog/redflags

Limitations of Evidence Based Medicine: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0735109716331370

Evidence Based Medicine: https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/12/11/e067268

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How to take stock of your health in just 10 minutes

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 00:01:00 GMT

In this episode I look at a quick and easy way to take stock of your health quickly and easily to re-orientate yourself whenever you need to.

It’s a great way to lay out your story, turn 'what into why', and maintain your health and head off problems before they set in.

My IDEAL framework for habit change: https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/the-health-fix-dr-ayan-panja-new-years-resolutions. (There is a separate episode on this: episode 26)

Yoga with Adriene on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/yogawithadriene

Jet lag tips: https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sleep/how-to-get-over-jet-lag

Sleep tips: https://somneesleep.com/blogs/post/matt-walker-sleep-tips

Infections: https://www.bbc.co.uk/future/article/20241119-long-fatigue-the-exhaustion-that-lingers-after-an-infection

Vitamin D deficiency: https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/vitamin-d-deficiency-in-adults/

BUY THE HEALTH FIX and transform your health:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Protein - the essence of our biological life?

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 00:01:00 GMT

Protein is one of our three macronutrients and increasingly getting traction as being really important to our long term health. In this episode I look at why it’s so important to make sure we get enough and the right type.

Sugar equivalent chart for carbohydrates: https://lowcarbfreshwell.com/what-is-a-low-carb-lifestyle/dr-unwins-sugar-infographics/

Leptin and ghrelin: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/leptin-101

Macronutrients: https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/ask-the-expert/macronutrients

Trans-fats: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/trans-fat/art-20046114

10000 proteins (our proteome): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4889822/

Sarcopenia: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23167-sarcopenia

Nitrites and cancer: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2022/dec/27/too-much-nitrite-cured-meat-brings-clear-risk-of-cancer-say-scientists

Protein and reduced cognitive decline: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/protein-intake-associated-with-less-cognitive-decline

Doctors Kitchen protein calculator (Dr Rupy Aujla): https://www.thedoctorskitchen.com/protein_calculator.php

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Air Pollution - a serious "invisible" threat to our health both in and outdoors and what we can do about it

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 00:01:00 GMT

Air pollution is a huge cause of death killing 8 million people worldwide each year. Its effects are damaging to most of our body systems yet is an ‘invisible’ threat to us. In this episode I look at what we can do to minimise our exposure to air pollutants in and out of the home.

WHO guidelines: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240034228

Pesticides and Parkinson’s Disease: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32919961/

Air pollution and non-communicable diseases: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6904854/

Smoke control at home: https://www.gov.uk/smoke-control-area-rules

Carpets and health: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5858259/

Mould and illness: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7231651/

Plants and air purification: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8279815/

My report for the BBC from Hong Kong on air pollution comparing types: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/health-35885569

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Magnesium - why it’s so important for our health

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 00:01:00 GMT

Magnesium is an important mineral for our health and in this episode I look at why it has become a silent public health issue in recent years. I cover where magnesium comes from, why deficiency has become so prevalent and what to do about it.

Food sources of magnesium: https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/magnesium/

Sublinical magnesium deficiency: https://openheart.bmj.com/content/5/1/e000668

Getting enough magnesium and why blood testing is often inaccurate: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6316205/

An old study about CO2 and plant mineralisation: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24867639/

The decline of plant nutrition: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36336557/

Vitamin D and magnesium: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0899900722000867

A campaign for remineralising soil: https://www.remineralize.org/

Examine.com - evidence based information on supplements

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How to get the most out of your GP appointment

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 00:01:00 GMT

In this episode I go back to the basics of how to get themes out now your GP appointment beyond the obvious. Medicine is increasingly complex and time is often short with the doctor. Here are my tips for an effective use of appointments in 2025.

Links:

Why men don’t gp to the doctor - https://www.bowelresearchuk.org/latest-news/why-dont-men-go-to-see-their-doctors/

Hello My Name is: https://www.hellomynameis.org.uk/

Continuity: https://www.pulsetoday.co.uk/news/workload/continuity-of-care-more-productive-than-access-driven-gp-models-study-suggests/

Giving the doctor a good history: https://www.forbes.com/sites/carolynmcclanahan/2019/01/19/how-to-give-a-good-medical-history-to-get-better-health-care/

Reasonable adjustments: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/legal-rights/disability-discrimination/reasonable-adjustments/

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Urinary Tract Health - a 101:

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:01:00 GMT

Infections of the urinary tract are a daily occurrence but there is much more to them than meets the eye. In this episode I go through some of the conditions that affect the kidney and bladder and what we can do to keep them healthy.

Cystitis: https://www.healthline.com/health/cystitis

Benign prostate enlargement: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/prostate-enlargement/

Urethritis: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/264903

Bladder cancer symptoms: https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/how-i-knew-i-had-bladder-cancer---3-survivors--first-symptoms.h00-159701490.html

Kidney stone diet: https://www.healthline.com/health/kidney-stone-diet

Chronic kidney disease: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/kidney-disease/

Bladder and pelvic muscle exercises: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/14611-kegel-exercises

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Wellness - a trillion dollar cult or an essential part of healthy living?

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 23:34:51 GMT

Wellness is big. But it really divides opinion. Some think of it as extreme aesthetic procedures or unnecessary fad diets whereas others regard it as essential maintenance.

I explore what wellness really means in this episode.

——

Links:

The GWI and wellness definitions: https://globalwellnessinstitute.org/

Wellness vs wellbeing: https://www.gallup.com/workplace/340202/wellness-wellbeing-difference.aspx

Kelp and the thyroid: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6750240/

When wellness goes wrong: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2024/mar/31/the-wellness-instagrammer-who-learned-to-let-go

BBL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-norfolk-66798236

Gluten antibodies and neurological disease: https://www.sth.nhs.uk/news/2020/11/23/new-breakthrough-diagnostic-test-leads-to-earlier-detection-of-neurological-damage-caused-by-gluten-sensitivity/

Stress and heart rhythm issues: https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/JAHA.123.032414

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The 8 habits that might help you live 20 years longer

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 00:01:21 GMT

In this episode I look at a huge study from the USA which looked at over 700,000 people to find which habits lead others to increased lifespan.

I discuss the limitations of the study but also some universal habits we could all potentially benefit from.

The study: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S000291652366280X?via%3Dihub

Study summary: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38065710/

Exercise benefits: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-benefits-of-exercise

All Trials (Ben Goldacre): https://www.alltrials.net/

The latest on the opioid crisis: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-65764307. (The dramatisations of this story, Painkiller and Dopesick are both available to watch on Netflix)

What is an observational study?: https://www.mrcctu.ucl.ac.uk/patients-public/about-clinical-trials/what-is-an-observational-study/

O Sleep (by Handel): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJr5Uvi7fM4

Plant-based diets: https://nutritionj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12937-023-00877-2

A framework to help create or break habits:

https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/the-health-fix-dr-ayan-panja-new-years-resolutions

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2025 - the year of letting go

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 00:01:07 GMT

This year instead of wanting to take on new habits and do more I want to let go of things that are holding me back. In true Health Fix style it’s all about Too Little vs Too Much and I am shedding the too much bits!

Toxic behaviours by others, phones in the morning, all or nothing and forgiveness all feature.

Links:

Marie Kondo and KonMari: https://konmari.com/

Boundary setting: https://psychcentral.com/relationships/what-are-personal-boundaries-how-do-i-get-some

Forgiveness vs moving on: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/the-forgiving-life/201809/is-there-difference-between-forgiving-and-moving

Comparisons with others: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/articles/201711/the-comparison-trap

Changing an all or nothing mindset: https://chadd.org/adhd-weekly/replace-an-all-or-nothing-mindset-with-balanced-thinking/

Phone use in the morning: https://www.fielding.edu/how-morning-phone-habits-shape-productivity-and-well-being/#

BUY THE HEALTH FIX PAPERBACK NOW: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

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Reflection - why it’s good for us

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 00:01:59 GMT

There is consensus on how reflection is good for mental health as well as productivity but how can we easily make time for it on the modern world?

In this episode at this reflective time of year I look at how we might be able to do it little and often.

The power of self-reflection: https://hbr.org/2022/03/dont-underestimate-the-power-of-self-reflection

Journalling benefits: https://psychcentral.com/lib/the-health-benefits-of-journaling

Reflection and productivity: https://www.library.hbs.edu/working-knowledge/the-pause-that-brings-peace-and-productivity

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Anaemia 101

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 00:01:36 GMT

In this episode I cover the different type so anaemia as I have found it can cause much confusion and there are so many different types, from mild iron deficiency to types that can be life threatening.

Iron deficiency anaemia: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/iron-deficiency-anaemia/

Bone marrow: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22818-bone-marrow

Haem and non haem iron: https://www.mkuh.nhs.uk/patient-information-leaflet/good-sources-of-iron

Vitamin C and iron: https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/iron_and_vitamin_c_the_perfect_pair

Aplastic anaemia: https://www.gosh.nhs.uk/conditions-and-treatments/conditions-we-treat/aplastic-anaemia/

Pernicious anaemia: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22377-pernicious-anemia

Anaemia of chronic disease: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14477-anemia-of-chronic-disease

MCV on a blood count: https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/mcv-mean-corpuscular-volume/

Leukaemia:

https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/leukaemia

Haemolytic anaemia: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/hemolytic-anemia

Sickle cell disease: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sickle-cell-disease/

Thalassemia: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14508-thalassemias

Iron diet sheet: https://kingstonhospital.nhs.uk/information/iron-diet-sheet/

Eating your greens: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34034049/

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Liver health - fatty liver disease, jaundice, preventive measures and more

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 00:01:45 GMT

In this episode I look at the liver and how to keep it healthy, arguably the most industrious visceral organ in our body with so many critical functions.

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/nonalcoholic-fatty-liver-disease

Fructose: https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/how-high-fructose-intake-may-trigger-fatty-liver-disease

Glycogen: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23509-glycogen

Ultra processed food and liver disease: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37871746/

Alcohol and liver disease: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/alcoholinduced-liver-disease

WIlson’s Disease: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/wilsons-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20353251

Haemochromatosis: https://www.haemochromatosis.org.uk/

Jaundice: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/jaundice/

Gall bladder removal - cholecsytecomy: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/21614-gallbladder-removal

Diarrhoea after gall bladder removal: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10725554/

Hepatitis 'alphabet': https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/hepatitis

Gallbladder diet: https://www.healthline.com/health/gallbladder-diet

Metabolic pathways in detoxification: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2015/760689

Coffee and other foods: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323915

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Winter Health 101

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 00:01:51 GMT

It’s a time of year that some people dread but there’s so much we can do get through this season and I look at that in this short but useful 101 episode.

Polyphenols and hormesis: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0958166924000107

Vitamin C and zinc for colds: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32342851/

Asthma exacerbations and vitamin D: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanres/article/PIIS2213-2600(17)30306-5/fulltext#

Non IgE cows milk protein allergy: https://www.allergyuk.org/about-allergy/allergy-in-childhood/cows-milk-allergy/ (can cause cough if drinking milk)

SAD: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20364651

Morning light (Russell Foster): https://www.neuroscience.ox.ac.uk/news/professor-russell-foster-receives-daylight-award-2020

Food cravings in winter: https://www.independent.co.uk/health-and-wellbeing/winter-diet-cold-weather-food-b2621804.html

Flu (Influenza): https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4335-influenza-flu

Exercise in winter health: https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/getting-active/how-to-stay-active-in-cold-weather

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Back Pain

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 22:52:36 GMT

Back pain is something most of us have suffered with at some point. In this episode I look at the various reasons behind back pain, how we can rethink it and manage it beyond simple exercise and pain relief including alternative therapies.

The stats: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/low-back-pain

Back muscles: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/21632-back-muscles

The lumbar spine: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22396-lumbar-spine

Sciatica: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12792-sciatica

'Slipped disc': https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/slipped-disc/

Core exercises for the back (yoga and pilates may also help): https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/core-strength/art-20546851

Cauda equina - an emergency: https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/cauda-equina-syndrome/

Vitamin D and back pain: https://www.thepermanentejournal.org/doi/10.7812/TPP/18.241

IDD therapy: https://iddtherapy.co.uk/

Acupuncture: https://www.healthline.com/health/acupuncture-for-back-pain

Spinal cord stimulators: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/treating-pain-with-spinal-cord-stimulators

Mind-body link in back pain: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/09/well/mind/john-sarno-chronic-pain-relief.html

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The Mental Heath Crisis: why it is so severe and will it ever get better?

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 00:01:59 GMT

In this episode I look at why across much of the world mental health is in crisis. What are the reasons for this? What can we do about it?

TW: mentions suicide.

Systems biology in medicine: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/metabolism-digestion-reproduction/research/systems-medicine/

COVID and mental health: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8758130/#

Trauma and mental health: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/sep/20/trauma-trust-and-triumph-psychiatrist-bessel-van-der-kolk-on-how-to-recover-from-our-deepest-pain

Antipsychotic medication: https://www.bap.org.uk/articles/chlorpromazine-the-first-antipsychotic/

The coal gas story, UK: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC478945/

Suicide and means restriction: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(24)00157-9/fulltext

Golden Gate Bridge stories and learnings: https://ennyman.medium.com/a-lesson-from-29-golden-gate-suicide-attempts-a42f4ef3f970

https://edition.cnn.com/2023/11/19/us/golden-gate-bridge-suicide-safety-net/index.html

Jonny Benjamin: https://jonnybenjamin.co.uk/

The Hoffman Process: https://www.hoffmaninstitute.co.uk/about-the-process/

Early Years resources: https://www.annafreud.org/services/services-for-children-and-young-people/for-under-fives/early-years-in-mind/

Leafyard - one of many mental health AI apps: https://www.leafyard.com/healthfix

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Hydration - how to get it right: the life saving power and perils of fluid balance

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 00:01:38 GMT

Hydration is something many of us take for granted but in this episode I bust some myths around hydration, cover why it is important to give it some thought and why urine colour is not the best measure of how hydrated we are.

Too much vs too little: https://www.instagram.com/drayanpanja/p/C16g1vfI3ZP/

BUY THE HEALTH FIX NOW: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296/ref=nodl_?dplnkId=1ba53367-030f-4f3f-ad09-4a1fc81eadf5

Plethysmography: https://www.healthline.com/health/plethysmography

Water intoxication: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/water-intoxication

Diarrhoeal disease and oral rehydration therapy (ORT): https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diarrhoeal-disease

ORT: https://ourworldindata.org/oral-rehydration-therapy

8 glasses of water a day?: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-north-east-orkney-shetland-63755475#

Overhydration dangers: https://www.healthline.com/health/overhydration

Delirium: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/delirium/symptoms-causes/syc-20371386

What hydrates us: https://www.webmd.com/parenting/features/healthy-beverages

Excessive thirst: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/thirst/

Tap water: https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/tap-water-uk-safe-to-drink-b2600254.html

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Thyroid Health - a deep dive on how it works, what it does, how it goes wrong and what to do to keep it healthy

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 23:40:32 GMT

The thyroid is an important gland and with many functions. Up to 10% of people have a thyroid disorder and in this episode I look at common presentations and how to keep your thyroid healthy.

How thyroid hormone is made: https://www.ezmedlearning.com/blog/thyroid-hormone-synthesis-steps-pathway

Hashimoto’s Disease - a common cause of hypothyroidism (underactive): https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hashimotos-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20351855

Derbyshire goitre: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15719162/

Nutritional factors and the thyroid: https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/proceedings-of-the-nutrition-society/article/multiple-nutritional-factors-and-thyroid-disease-with-particular-reference-to-autoimmune-thyroid-disease/DBA9BAD5847376FA5E099B7ACC7556A2

Iodine - a double edged sword: https://www.healthline.com/health/iodine-uses

Selenium and the thyroid: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37033262/

Ashwagandha: https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/acm.2017.0183

Heavy metals and the thyroid: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3569681/

Lioyhyronine (T3): Many people cannot convert T4 to T3 (a defect in the de-iodinase enzyme that loses the iodine molecule): https://thyroiduk.org/if-you-are-hypothyroid/treatment-options-for-hypothyroidism/treatment-options-for-hypothyroidism/liothyronine-t3/

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Prostate Cancer - 101

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 23:19:08 GMT

It’s the second commonest cancer in men across the world and increasing in incidence.

In this episode I look at why it occurs and what we can do prevent it, manage risk and raise awareness.

Hormones and their roles in prostate cancer: https://www.ceu.ox.ac.uk/news/largest-study-to-date-confirms-role-of-two-hormones-in-aggressive-prostate-cancer-risk#

Benign prostatic hypertrophy (not cancer): https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/symptoms-causes/syc-20370087

Genetics and prostate cancer: https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/prostate-cancer/#causes

Gleason grading of prostate cancer: https://www.pcf.org/about-prostate-cancer/diagnosis-staging-prostate-cancer/gleason-score-isup-grade

Stress and prostate cancer: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5693840/

Inflammation and prostate cancer: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4029103/#:~:text=These%20preliminary%20studies%20revealed%20that,score%207%E2%80%9310)%20disease.

Exercise and prostate cancer: https://www.pcf.org/patient-resources/living-prostate-cancer/exercise-prostate-cancer/

Toxins / cadmium: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41389-020-0202-7

Dietary cadmium: https://bmccancer.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12885-015-1153-9#

Selenium supplementation: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8971064/

Prospective Japanese study on green tea: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17906295/

Calcium and red meat: https://www.nature.com/articles/6604331

Green tea and diet:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0306987722000792

Movember.com

Buy my book THE HEALTH FIX on sale price now: https://rb.gy/rzknqt

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Who should you trust with your health?

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 23:01:26 GMT

The amount of health information and practitioners are constantly growing and we have a choice about where we search for this information and advice.

But how do you know who is reliable? How do you decide who to trust?

I explore this and more in the episode.

Gen Z and their health: https://www.healthline.com/health-news/tiktok-main-source-health-information-gen-z#56%25-of-Gen-Z-users-turn-to-TikTok-for-health-and-wellness-advice

Good cheap and fast - 2 out of 3: https://audioinsurgent.substack.com/p/fast-cheap-goodpick-two

Debates around vaccines: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10070776/

What health means in a digital society: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5778676/#:~:text=Definitions

Youtube Health: https://health.youtube/

Trust in health - sources: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-48663843

Conflicts of interest: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2623608

The role of influencers: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/1553118X.2022.2042694

Covid vaccine injuries: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/03/health/covid-vaccines-side-effects.html

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Narrative Medicine - how storytelling helps us heal

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 23:01:58 GMT

Narrative Medicine is an important art in a consultation involving both talking and listening. In this episode I look at why it is important and how it can help our health outcomes.

AI in consultations: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-13169325/GP-AI-listening-auto-generate-patient-notes-confidential-medical-information-wrong-hands.html

Neurodivergence: https://autietraumageek.medium.com/lost-in-translation-the-social-language-theory-of-neurodivergence-part-1-of-2-1963ba0073c5

Data usage in medicine: https://bjgp.org/content/68/668/e146

Pre-surgery anxiety: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/surgery-anxiety#pre-surgery-vs-post-surgery-anxiety

The therapeutic benefit of being heard: https://thelionmind.org.sg/the-importance-of-being-heard-enhancing-mental-health-through-active-listening/

The seven C’s: https://www.conversationsinvitingchange.com/about/

Narrative medicine - journal article: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/194300

A review of narrative medicine and outcomes: https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/10/1/e031568

Narrative medicine - good for both patients and clinicians: https://www.thepermanentejournal.org/doi/10.7812/TPP/23.116#

AI and empathy: https://www.wavestone.com/en/insight/the-empathy-paradox-can-ai-connect-with-customers-in-contact-centres/

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Community as a cure - the stunning power of groups in health and wellbeing

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 22:02:23 GMT

Community as a cure? We often think of healthcare being a relationship between a clinician and a patient but amazing things can occur through the power of community and using it as sociological therapy. I look at why groups can be so powerful and how you might run one.

Parkrun: home | parkrun UK

Weight Watchers: How The WeightWatchers Weight-Loss Program Works

Stanley Schachter’s work - an article: https://www.strongtowns.org/journal/2009/2/16/the-tribe-mentality.html

An example of healthy living delivered in groups, initially churches: https://www.danielplan.com/#

Group consultations - Dr Rupa Joshi: https://painconcern.org.uk/empowering-patients/

Shape Up: https://www.watfordfccsetrust.com/project/shape-up/

Nushu: https://nushu.com/group

Communities in health - people as a valuable commodity: https://www.health.org.uk/publications/at-the-heart-of-health-realising-the-value-of-people-and-communities#:~:text=Mental and physical health and,community capacity and resilience%2C among

Rural groups in India: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9207712/

Thalassemia awareness (charity): https://ukts.org/

Children’s Heart Disease Awareness: https://chfed.org.uk/

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Autoimmunity - its alarming rise and what we can do about it

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 22:00:45 GMT

Autoimmunity and autoimmune diseases are on the rise. In this episode I look at why this is the case, the mechanisms behind autoimmunity and what we can do to prevent and manage it.

Innate vs adaptive immunity (including B and T cells): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279396/#

Molecular mimicry in autoimmunity: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0896841118305365#

Hashimoto’s - molecular mimicry in action. Gluten mimics the surface proteins of the thyroid gland: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37554764/

Autoantibodies: https://pathology.jhu.edu/autoimmune/definitions

The rise of autoimmunity and autoimmune diseases: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9918670/#

Intestinal permeability and autoimmunity: https://academic.oup.com/biohorizons/article/doi/10.1093/biohorizons/hzx015/4670557#

'Leaky gut’ syndrome: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326117

Autoimmune protocol diet: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/aip-diet-autoimmune-protocol-diet#how-it-works

Proteus and rheumatoid arthritis; https://www.iomcworld.org/open-access/worldwide-links-between-emproteus-mirabilisem-and-rheumatoid-arthritis-46162.html

Sleep and autoimmunity: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanrhe/article/PIIS2665-9913(22)00311-3/fulltext

Stress and autoimmunity: https://www.autoimmuneinstitute.org/articles/stress-autoimmune-disease-navigating-the-complex-relationship/

An expert opinion on the rise in autoimmunity: https://medicine.yale.edu/news-article/why-are-autoimmune-and-allergic-diseases-rising-andrew-wang/

Vitamin D and autoimmunity: https://www.newscientist.com/article/2306132-vitamin-d-supplements-really-do-reduce-risk-of-autoimmune-disease/#ixzz7KF2W0SEL

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Biomechanics - a key to health, hiding in plain sight

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 23:01:26 GMT

Our biomechanics affect us all the time, each and every day and is often ignored when it comes to its impact on health. From hip pain to heartburn, our anatomy and the way we move can have impacts on our health on a daily basis.

Leg length discrepancy: https://www.thebiomechanicsmethod.com/2021/06/01/how-a-leg-length-discrepancy-affects-the-body/

Podiatry and foot biomechanics: https://www.ukpodiatry.com/our-assessments/biomechanical-analysis

Kyphosis exercises: https://www.healthline.com/health/exercise-fitness/kyphosis-exercises#exercises-to-try

World Athletics: https://worldathletics.org/news/press-release/2017-world-championships-athletics-biomechani

The kinetic chain: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7174497/

Exercise for constipation: https://www.healthline.com/health/chronic-constipation/exercises-to-relieve-constipation#1

Looking at your phone: https://www.cprtherapy.org/blog/Postural-Awareness-with-Mobile-Devices~6435.html

Douglas Heel (activation therapy): https://douglasheel.com/

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'Your typical day" - how it can give you clues to unresolved symptoms

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 23:01:13 GMT

In my book The Health Fix I talk about how I ask patients about their typical day and why that is a great question to ask in order to generate a 'Lifestyle Prescription’.

Looking at your typical day may not be something you’ve done recently or in any detail but it can give you clues to why you may be contributing to some of your symptoms or how you feel.

Carpal tunnel syndrome and sleep position: https://www.athletico.com/2017/04/14/sleep-positioning-carpal-tunnel-syndrome/

Sleep and circadian rhythm tips: https://www.stylist.co.uk/health/sleep/cant-sleep-mistakes/496595

Health trackers and anxiety: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8357265/

Caffeine and our genes: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4242593/

Systems medicine and biology: https://laskerfoundation.org/leroy-hood-there-is-going-to-be-a-fantastic-revolution-in-medicine/

Eating late and sleep disruption: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/is-eating-before-bed-bad-for-you

Microwave ovens and health: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4242593/

Repressed emotions and dealing with them: https://www.healthline.com/health/repressed-emotions

My IDEAL framework in print: https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/the-health-fix-dr-ayan-panja-new-years-resolutions

My IDEAL framework on this podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/saving-lives-in-slow-motion/id1573742958?i=1000567557435

Our monkey brain: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/saving-lives-in-slow-motion/id1573742958?i=1000597803315

THE HEALTH FIX: The Health Fix: Transform your Health in 8 Weeks amazon.co.uk

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Big Pharma - friend or foe?

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 23:01:31 GMT

Big Pharma gets a lot of bad press, yet most of us have needed to take medication for something at some point in our lives.

How do we minimise the risk of our coming to harm from drugs and what can industry do to work more openly with us?

Diuretic drugs: https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-642-79565-7_4

Ben Goldacre - a review: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3635613/

Evidence Based Medicine: https://guides.mclibrary.duke.edu/ebm

Lorcainide story: https://www.bmj.com/content/350/bmj.g7717/rr-1

Anti-arrhythmic drugs: https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/drug-cabinet/anti-arrhythmics

Drug reps and doctors: https://www.npr.org/2024/04/19/1245972805/pharma-reps-have-visited-doctors-for-decades-what-impact-does-it-have-on-patient

The opioid crisis and Oxycontin latest: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-60610707

PHQ-9 for depression: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3416649/#

Monoclonal antibodies: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/114311.stm

ALLTRIALS: alltrials.net

The NHS and big pharma: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2023/jul/08/its-naive-to-think-this-is-in-the-best-interests-of-the-nhs-how-big-pharmas-millions-are-influencing-healthcare

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Decluttering your home - how it could have multiple benefits for your health

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 00:17:25 GMT

The evidence is compelling. Clutter can be harmful to our health in many ways from poor sleep, stress, anxiety and even physical pain. Why is this the case and what can we do about it?

Graham Hill - less stuff, more happiness: https://www.ted.com/talks/graham_hill_less_stuff_more_happiness?subtitle=en

Marie Kondo and her work: https://konmari.com/

Attention and the visual cortex: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21228167/

Fals risk:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10735369/\\

Eating behaviours and hoarding: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25440599/

Procrastination and clutter: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36767429/

Decluttering challenge: https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/10-10-100-decluttering-challenge-37394185

Clutter, sleep and fatigue: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9616259/

ADHD and clutter: https://www.additudemag.com/making-peace-with-your-clutter/

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Can some of our ‘bad' habits actually be good for us?

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 23:01:31 GMT

I got thinking about this recently whilst on holiday recently where I was having a lot of lie-ins and

doing a lot of daydreaming.

Coffee: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-coffee

Chewing and alertness: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4449949/

Chewing and effects on the immune system: https://www.manchester.ac.uk/about/news/research-reveals-surprising-health-benefits-of-chewing-your-food/

Fidgeting and NEAT: https://www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/fitness/fat-loss/a36287384/neat-exercise/

Eating bogies - benefits?: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25344244/

Lie-ins: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/sep/13/dream-on-the-surprising-health-benefit-of-a-weekend-lie-in

Missing breakfast: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/is-skipping-breakfast-bad

Alcohol and cognitive health: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4866612/

Daydreaming: https://time.com/6256541/why-daydreaming-is-good-for-you/

Bottling up anger: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/8374519.stm

Bouts of anger: https://blog.swedish.org/swedish-blog/new-study-bouts-of-anger-can-take-a-toll-on-your-heart

How to process anger (Dr Gabor Maté): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yh1-y3TzSO4

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Role models and their impact on health (good and bad)

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 23:01:54 GMT

Many of us have role models but do they impact our health?

As the Olympics were taking place recently I started to think about

this and in this episode I look at some studies and reveal their

interesting findings.

Role models (an alternative view): https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/the-problem-with-role-models/

Study 1: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/380209172_Health_Motivation_in_the_Influencer_Era_Analyzing_Entertainment_Personal_and_Social_Media_Role_Models

Study 2: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9421350/

Study 2 questionnaire: https://redcap.ctsi.psu.edu/surveys/index.php?s=4L973C8FFL

The importance of mentoring: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2352144/

Chasing your hero: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wD2cVhC-63I

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Race and Racism in Medicine

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 23:01:14 GMT

This is a topic close to my heart and is important to address for patients and medical staff.

Race is a sociological construct and differs from ancestry.

It has a surprising impact in medicine, both in terms of care and outcomes for patients. In addition racism

needs stamping out in the medical profession in all corners.

Prostate cancer risk in black men: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9826514/

Maternal mortality in black women during and after pregnancy : https://lordslibrary.parliament.uk/maternal-mortality-rates-in-the-black-community/#

South Asians and type 2 Diabetes: https://www.diabetes.org.uk/node/12895

Black people and stroke risk: https://www.healthline.com/health/stroke/why-do-african-americans-have-a-greater-stroke-risk

James Sims: https://www.history.com/news/the-father-of-modern-gynecology-performed-shocking-experiments-on-slaves

Abuse during COVID: https://www.phc.ox.ac.uk/about/staff-stories/racist-abuse-against-asians-during-the-covid-19-pandemic

Head injuries and race in sport: https://apnews.com/article/health-nfl-race-and-ethnicity-sports-066d9fd6bd85f5b5023207467701fde4#

Dr Arora and the GMC: https://www.bmj.com/content/379/bmj.o2619

Beta Thalassemia: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/beta-thalassemia

Tay-Sachs Disease: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/tay-sachs-disease/

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Breathing and Breathwork - how getting the basics right can improve your health and wellbeing

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 23:01:29 GMT

Breathing is a basic function we all need in order to survive

but doing it correctly can have benefits to our health and the opposite is true -

breathing in a sub-optimal way can pre-dispose to certain illnesses.

Mouth breathing - could it predispose to allergies, asthma and impaired immunity?: https://www.sciencefocus.com/the-human-body/mouth-breathing

Nasal breathing benefits: https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/ajpregu.00148.2023?utm_source=AJPRegu&utm_medium=PressRelease&utm_campaign=1.17.2024

Breathing and stress: https://www.news-medical.net/news/20230113/Review-and-meta-analysis-suggests-breathwork-may-be-effective-for-improving-stress-and-mental-health.aspx

Jamie Clements, breath coach: https://thebreathspace.co.uk/breathe-with-me

Test your own breathing: https://www.thebreatheffect.com/test-your-breath/

Smoking and breathing techniques: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7064378/#

Sleep apnoea awareness: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8718-sleep-apnea

THE HEALTH FIX: https://amzn.eu/d/5D6lJlm

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Healthy ageing - what ageing is as a biological process and what we can do daily to age well.

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 23:01:57 GMT

We know that how we live affects how we age, and in this episode, rather than focusing on longevity per se,

I look at the biology of ageing and how we can adopt simple daily habits to positively affect the factors that age us.

I also talk about my Health Loop and your 'typical day’ to help lay out your unique needs for a lifestyle prescription.

Links:

The fear of ageing: https://www.forbes.com/health/medicare/fear-of-aging-survey/

Causes of death by country: https://ourworldindata.org/data-insights/whats-the-leading-cause-of-death-in-each-country

Telomere length: https://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/basics/telomeres/

Telomere length and habits: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6316700/

Epigenetics basics: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/basics/epigenetics

DNA methylation: https://www.whatisepigenetics.com/dna-methylation/

Proteostasis - how our bodies handle and house protein: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4539002/

Mitochondirlal dysfunction: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41392-024-01839-8

Stem cells: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/bone-marrow-transplant/in-depth/stem-cells/art-20048117#

Dr Michael Mosley’s Just One Thing: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p09by3yy/episodes/downloads

Standing desks: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-45819203

Healthy anger: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/overcoming-destructive-anger/201608/what-constitutes-healthy-anger

THE HEALTH FIX: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

Protein and ageing: https://www.healthline.com/health-news/high-protein-fewer-calories-safest-way-for-older-people-to-lose-weight

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Your questions answered! Fasting and insomnia, extreme diets, thyroid health, cancer, recurrent illness and more

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 23:01:24 GMT

In this episode I answer some of the many questions that land in my inbox.

I tackle both common and interesting questions from listeners over the last year or so. There’s something

for everyone here and remember to cross reference with other episodes!

Intermittent fasting (review article): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10005873/

Hypoglycaemia: https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/blood-and-lymph/hypoglycaemia-low-blood-sugar/#

Elimination diets: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/elimination-diet

Hypothyroidism: https://www.healthline.com/health/hypothyroidism/symptoms-treatments-more#symptoms

Hashimoto’s Disease and gluten (a meta-analysis): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37554764/

Problems with T4 to T3 conversion: https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/forefront/biological-sciences-articles/2018/november/genetic-flaw-causes-problems-for-many-with-hypothyroidism

The Galleri-trial: https://www.nhs-galleri.org/

The Health Fix: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

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Eye health - it’s link to our overall health and how to preserve it.

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 23:01:07 GMT

Sight is one of our special senses. At least 2.2 billion people have some kind of visual impairment.

In this episode I look at common eye presentations, why they occur and how we can prevent them.

Trachoma - a leading cause of preventable blindness: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/trachoma

Glaucoma: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/glaucoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20372839

Cataracts: https://www.rnib.org.uk/your-eyes/eye-conditions-az/cataracts/

Retinopathy: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-diabetic-retinopathy

Dry eyes: https://www.rnib.org.uk/your-eyes/eye-conditions-az/dry-eye/

Diet and supplements for eyes: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321226

Lutein: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6164534/

Free radicals: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318652

AMD: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/agerelated-macular-degeneration-amd

Smoking: https://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/tobacco_control/smoking_can_lead_to_vision_loss_or_blindness.htm

Blue light: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32F24gboCac

Eye strain: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eyestrain/symptoms-causes/syc-20372397

OCT test: https://eyeguru.org/essentials/interpreting-octs/

Blocked tear duct - common in babies: https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/blocked-tear-duct

Please nominate me for The British Podcast Awards: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting

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B12 deficiency - the truth about it and the latest NICE guidance behind this all-important public health issue

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 23:44:34 GMT

B12 deficiency affects up to 20% of people over the age of 60. It is often left undiagnosed but can present

in many ways. In this episode I look at the nuance involved in making the diagnosis and treating it appropriately

so that people do not come to harm.

NICE guidance: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng239

B vitamins: https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/vitamin-b-complex#What-is-vitamin-B-complex?

Dr Casimir Funk: https://www.newscientist.com/article/2418743-casimir-funk-the-scientist-who-gave-us-the-word-vitamin/

Beri-beri (B1 deficiency): https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000339.htm

Pernicious anaemia: https://www.healthline.com/health/pernicious-anemia

B12 food sources: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/vitamin-b12-foods

Drugs that affect B12: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6054240/

Thyroid eye disease: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17558-thyroid-eye-disease

MMA testing: https://labtestsonline.org.uk/tests/methylmalonic-acid

Active B12: https://www.nice.org.uk/advice/mib40/chapter/introduction

A decent explanation of methylation and why not all types of B12 and folate are the same for all: https://drkellymccann.com/beginners-guide-to-methylation-and-b-vitamins/

Caution with B12/folate fortified foods if you have a methylation issue as they can be in the wrong form: https://zoe.com/learn/fortified-foods#

Sublingual B12 vs oral vs infection: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11845-023-03602-4#

THE HEALTH FIX - the best health book in the world?! https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326

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Biohacking - a path to longevity or waste of time and money?

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 23:01:38 GMT

Biohacking is essentially optimising your biology to improve your health and longevity. It was popularised in Silicon Valley by the tech community and is now, and is a market that is growing by about 10% a year. But is it worth it and more importantly is it safe?

Silicon Valley and biohacking: https://www.theneweconomy.com/strategy/biohacking-the-controversial-trend-thats-taking-over-silicon-valley

A summary of biohacking: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/biohacking

Vitamin D VDR mutation: https://medlineplus.gov/download/genetics/gene/vdr.pdf

Oura ring - a view: https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/i-want-to-love-the-oura-ring-but-i-cant/

Biohacker extraordinaire: https://www.theguardian.com/science/2018/sep/21/extreme-biohacking-tech-guru-who-spent-250000-trying-to-live-for-ever-serge-faguet

Heart-rate variability: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/heart-rate-variability-new-way-track-well-2017112212789

What are infrared saunas?: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2022/nov/04/sweat-equity-infrared-saunas-are-suddenly-everywhere-but-what-do-they-do

Is filtered water better for us? https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20240417-is-filtered-water-healthier-than-tap-water

Kelp products and potential iodine toxicity: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/iodine-overdoses-lead-to-kelp-product-recall-1.374402

Data overload?: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbooksauthors/2024/04/24/the-problem-behind-the-problem-data-overload-part-one/

Buy or share my book THE HEALTH FIX - the only health manual you'll ever need: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

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Hormonal Health 101 - what our hormones do for us and how to keep them happy

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 23:01:24 GMT

This week I look at hormones and how they are crucial to our health. From our adrenal glands to our thyroid through to our sex hormones, they are important to keep in balance much like instruments in an orchestra.

Endocrine overview: https://www.epa.gov/endocrine-disruption/overview-endocrine-system

Steroid pathway diagram: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41435-021-00139-3

Oxytocin: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/oxytocin-the-love-hormone

Sleep and hormones: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3065172/

Exercise in menopause: https://www.lancastergeneralhealth.org/health-hub-home/2021/february/why-you-should-exercise-your-way-through-menopause

HRT benefits: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt/benefits-and-risks-of-hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt/

Meditation and hormones: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0306453097000036

Magnesium, yes, but zinc is also important: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7468694/

Plastics and their effect on our hormones (as a toxin): https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-do-chemicals-in-plastics-impact-your-endocrine-system/

THE HEALTH FIX: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

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Yoga - the ultimate mind-body practice?

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 23:09:52 GMT

Yoga has been practised for thousands of years but as many people are cynical about trying it as there are huge fans of it.

In this episode I share my own experiences and the benefits yoga can confer to our health.

Links:

Barriers to yoga (Nepalese sudy): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8039334/

Yoga effects on brain health: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6971819/

The warrior positions: https://www.yogawitholivia.co.uk/blog/transitions1

Yoga and inflammation: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8842003/

Yogic breathing benefits: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7336946/

Summary of benefits and starter guide:

https://www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/fitness/yoga/a706996/benefits-of-yoga/

Yoga courses and learning: https://ukyoga.co.uk/courses/

Sacropenia and how to prevent it: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/sarcopenia

Dean Ornish and heart disease reversal: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/188274

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Perfectionism - strength or weakness?

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 23:01:13 GMT

Perfectionism has risen in the workplace in recent years. It can be a huge positive in terms of work standards but also predisposes people to stress, anxiety and burnout.

In this episode I look at ways to capitalise on its strengths and mitigate any negatives. Not sure if you are one? Take the quiz below.

Links:

Take the quiz - are you a perfectionist?: https://www.livewellwithsharonmartin.com/qsm_quiz/perfectionist-quiz/

Perfectionism in younger generations: https://www.bath.ac.uk/announcements/unreasonable-demands-lead-to-substantial-rise-in-perfectionism-among-young-people/

Downsides of perfectionism: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20180219-toxic-perfectionism-is-on-the-rise

DSM-V - classification of perfectionism: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0191886914001354

Mindfulness: https://www.mindful.org/meditation/mindfulness-getting-started/

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Food as Medicine - is it or isn't it?

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 23:01:18 GMT

This is an argument that rages on in the world of nutrition and medicine. In this episode I look at what food is, what it does to us in terms of our health and the mechanisms behind it and give you my verdict on whether I consider it to be medicine or not.

Ultra processed foods - review: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10899807/

Protein benefits: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-reasons-to-eat-more-protein

Blue Zones diets: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/what-is-the-blue-zones-diet

Herbs and spices with health benefits: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-healthy-herbs-and-spices

Akkermansia mucinophilia in IBD: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2022.1089600/full

T Reg cells - what are they?

:https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnut.2022.878382/full

Apples and their in vitro benefits: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5490512/

The all important Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (now a therapeutic target for big pharmaceutical companies): https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S221323172300023X

Short chain fatty acids and heart disease: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24388214/#

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High Blood Pressure - the biggest silent killer?

Thu, 30 May 2024 23:01:18 GMT

High blood pressure is the biggest modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease, which is still the leading cause of death worldwide.

It’s often called a silent killer because it has usually has no symptoms.

This episode give you the lowdown on high blood pressure (also known as essential hypertension).

Links:

WHO page: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hypertension

NICE guideline for hypertension: https://www.england.nhs.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/2019/11/NICE-NG136-Visual-Summary.pdf

A summary of high blood pressure: https://www.healthline.com/health/high-blood-pressure-hypertension

Vitamin D and blood pressure in African-Americans: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3775458/

Salt and potassium: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7697211/

Low carb diets and blood pressure: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6695889/

Potassium enriched salt and blood pressure: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10863666/

Salt substitutes: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9532913/

Measuring blood pressure: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfwBpBXUYHs

Why blood pressure matters: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/health-matters-combating-high-blood-pressure/health-matters-combating-high-blood-pressure#

Resperate - the evidence is mixed, the effects small and it is not a substitute for any medication:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/expert-answers/resperate/faq-20057998#

https://northyorkshireccg.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/NYCCG-Resp-Devices-Hypertension_v1.0_01.07.2021.pdf

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Mind Body Medicine - a new and old frontier

Thu, 23 May 2024 23:01:25 GMT

Mind Body Medicine is fascinating but has been poorly understood over the years. I believe it is more important to try to understand better now more than ever as we are surrounded by medically unexplained symptoms and non-communicable symptoms and diseases.

In this episode I look at the origins and theories behind it as well as link to the evidence in the show notes.

Links:

The Holmes-Rahe Stress scale: https://www.mindtools.com/avn893g/the-holmes-and-rahe-stress-scale

The effectiveness of mind-body medicine (narrative): https://journals.lww.com/mjhs/fulltext/2023/11020/effectiveness_of_mind_body_medicine.2.aspx

Somatising: https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/somatic-symptom-disorder/what-is-somatic-symptom-disorder

Opinion piece - a new ear of mind body medicine: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7486127/#

Views on Dr Sarno’s work: https://www.vox.com/science-and-health/2017/10/2/16338094/dr-john-sarno-healing-back-pain

Mind Body Medicine in Crohn’s Disease: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnint.2022.960301/full

Mindfulness and meditation - effects on stress:

https://www.apa.org/topics/mindfulness/meditation

Repressed emotions and physical health: https://www.healthline.com/health/repressed-emotions

Heart rate variability and stress: https://www.webmd.com/heart/what-is-heart-rate-variability

Mechanisms on how writing can help: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7957853/

Journaling and heart failure: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4927423/

Psychoneuroimmunology during COVID-19: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9075982/

THE HEALTH FIX: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

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Weight loss drugs - are the new blockbuster medicines really a solution for obesity?

Thu, 16 May 2024 23:01:22 GMT

This is a super hot topic in health care in some parts of the world at the moment. In this episode I look at how these drugs work and the pros and cons of taking them for weight loss purposes.

Obesity, in some instances, is in essence a form of ‘malnutrition’ because of the nature of food consumed and how rates have increased rapidly over the last 40 years.

Body Mass Index definition: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/health-21264134

Heart disease risk reduced by weight loss jab: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cd188m73vn1o

Ultra processed food and your brain:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/food/articles/junk_food_brain

Supersize Me: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Super_Size_Me

Obesity health risks: https://www.healthline.com/health/obesity/how-obesity-affects-body

The genetics of obesity: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41576-021-00414-z

The story behind semaglutide: https://www.vox.com/22553793/gila-monster-lizard-venom-inspired-obesity-drug-semaglutide

Weight loss stats on semaglutide: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9486455/

Semaglutide can stop working and even if it works it may need to be taken forever:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/why-weight-loss-drugs-stop-working-how-to-break-past-ozempic-plateau#Hitting-a-weight-loss-plateau-after-a-year

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Continuous Glucose Monitoring: life saver or wellbeing fad?

Thu, 09 May 2024 23:01:03 GMT

CGM has changed lives for the better people with Type 1 Diabetes but nowadays people without diabetes use it as a tool. In this episode I look at the pros and cons of CGM and how it can be used as a lens into our general health and how it is linked to our gut microbiome amongst many other systems.

Links:

CGM early days review: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4717493/

Prof Partha Kar: https://gettingitrightfirsttime.co.uk/girft-diabetes-lead-awarded-obe-in-new-year-honours/

Red meat and gut bacteria: https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/gut-microbes-affect-harmful-compound-red-meat#

Akkermansia Muciniphilia: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8726741/

Gut bugs and metabolic disease: https://joe.bioscientifica.com/view/journals/joe/248/2/JOE-20-0473.xml#

Alcohol and blood glucose: https://blog.supersapiens.com/3-ways-alcohol-affects-your-glucose-levels/

Exercise and blood sugar: https://www.sugarfit.com/blog/workout-spikes-exercise-induced-gluconeogenesis/

Glucose spikes - the dangers?: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7530333/#:

The view of Harvard on CGM without diabetes:https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/is-blood-sugar-monitoring-without-diabetes-worthwhile-202106112473

Walking after meals: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/walking-after-eating

Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10401445/#

THE HEALTH FIX - the ultimate health manual tailored to you: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

25wktvbz

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Smart phones - the hidden addiction that affects us all

Thu, 02 May 2024 23:01:03 GMT

In this episode I look at smart phones. They have changed the way we live beyond imagination

but are they doing us any harm in terms of the way we think and behave?

Links:

Life before smartphones:

https://medium.com/be-unique/before-smartphones-were-a-thing-87208717b8d7

Teenage brain: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/teen/Pages/Whats-Going-On-in-the-Teenage-Brain.aspx

Teenagers and smart phones: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/are-smartphones-really-destroying-the-lives-of-teenagers/

Alpha brain waves: https://www.healthline.com/health/alpha-brain-waves#bottom-line

Multitasking and switching focus: https://neuroscience.stanford.edu/news/why-multitasking-does-more-harm-good

Phones and attention: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-36256-4#

Alpha waves: https://www.healthline.com/health/alpha-brain-waves

Dopamine fasting: https://www.sciencefocus.com/science/dopamine-fasting-smartphone-addiction

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Addiction - where and how it starts and how we manage it

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 23:01:17 GMT

Addictions can ruin lives but why do they occur in the first place and what can we do to acknowledge them better?

In this episode Iook at why they can be so hard to conquer and touch on different aspects of addiction.

Links:

How the addicted brain works:

https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/how-an-addicted-brain-works

Sugar - why most of us could easily have a sweet tooth: https://theconversation.com/a-taste-for-sweet-an-anthropologist-explains-the-evolutionary-origins-of-why-youre-programmed-to-love-sugar-173197

Addiction and childhood: https://www.jkacap.org/journal/view.html?doi=10.5765/jkacap.2017.28.1.4#

Heroin detox in Thailand: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-berkshire-13674101

Dr Gabor Maté on trauma: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/apr/12/the-trauma-doctor-gabor-mate-on-happiness-hope-and-how-to-heal-our-deepest-wounds

Gambling addiction: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/addiction-support/gambling-addiction/

A personal story: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2019/dec/30/studied-neuroscience-understand-addictions-not-cure

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Parenting - navigating the joys and challenges

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 23:01:43 GMT

Becoming a parent is a gift but it has its challenges. In this episode I look at some factors to be mindful of including the difference between the child and adult brain plus micro tips to help navigate your way through the maze of parenthood.

Links:

Parenting styles: https://www.parents.com/parenting/better-parenting/style/parenting-styles-explained/

Brain development in children: https://www.luriechildrens.org/en/blog/early-childhood-brain-development-and-health/

Parenting styles and psychological complaints: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4873100/

Hoffman Process for understanding how early life connects to your adult behaviours: https://www.hoffmaninstitute.co.uk/about-the-process/

Unconditional love: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/peaceful-parents-happy-kids/201504/how-give-unconditional-love-your-child-and-yourself?amp

Steve Biddulph’s advice: https://www.toorakcollege.vic.edu.au/blog/steve-biddulph-key-takeaways

The Health Fix: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

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Skin Health - a 101

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 23:01:37 GMT

Skin - it’s known as our largest ‘organ’ and most of us have had some kind of skin issue.

This is my 101. Enjoy!

Guttate psoriasis: https://www.healthline.com/health/psoriasis-guttate

Pitiryiasis rosea: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/pityriasis-rosea-symptoms

Scarlet fever: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/176242

Slapped cheek syndrome: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/slapped-cheek-syndrome/

Omega 3 and skin: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7892455/

Probiotics and skin: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9386980/

Acne: https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/ss/slideshow-acne-dictionary

PCOS: https://www.healthline.com/health/polycystic-ovary-disease

Rosacea: https://www.rosacea.org/patients/all-about-rosacea

Non IgE cows milk protein allergy: https://www.allergyuk.org/about-allergy/allergy-in-childhood/cows-milk-allergy/

Dermatitis herpetiformis: https://www.coeliac.org.uk/information-and-support/coeliac-disease/dermatitis-herpetiformis/

Elimination diets: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/elimination-diet

Atopy: https://www.healthline.com/health/atopy

Demodex: https://www.healthline.com/health/demodex-folliculorum

MI allergy: https://www.webmd.com/beauty/what-to-know-about-methylchloroisothiazolinone-allergies

Contact dermatitis: https://www.healthline.com/health/contact-dermatitis

Melanoma and ABCDE: https://www.melanomauk.org.uk/the-abcde-rule

Sunlight and cancer: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4571149/

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Health screening - worth it or a waste of time?

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 23:01:53 GMT

Health screening has exploded over the last 20 years. Is it a money making exercise or actually worth it? In this episode I look at the pros and cons and how you can decide what may be worth doing and the reason people decide they need it.

Links:

UK ethics of health screening: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-nsc-ethical-framework-for-screening/uk-nsc-ethical-framework-for-screening

Health Screening - a recent paper:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK436014/

RCGP screening statement around extra work for NHS GPs from screening companies: https://www.rcgp.org.uk/representing-you/policy-areas/screening

Karen Brady’s story: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2006/apr/20/healthandwellbeing.health1

The pros and cons of PSA testing: https://prostatecanceruk.org/prostate-information-and-support/prostate-tests/psa-blood-test

Genomic (DNA) testing for propensity to disease (eg breast cancer): https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/genetic-and-genomic-testing/

MTHFR: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326181

Our Future Health: https://ourfuturehealth.org.uk/

Bill Turnbull's prostate cancer story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-62755001

My book THE HEALTH FIX - paperback: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

"The only health manual you'll ever need..." Dr Rangan Chatterjee. "...lifechanging..." Dr Rupy Aujla

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Food Intolerances - how to work out if you have one and why many people don't believe they exist

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 01:10:21 GMT

There isn’t a week in practice when I don’t get asked about food intolerances and how to test for them. It’s a contentious topic that needs

some deconstructing.

In this episode I look at what is and isn't intolerance and how to proceed if you think you have a food intolerance.

Links:

Food intolerance vs allergy - official guidance: https://www.allergyuk.org/resources/food-intolerance/

IgG testing: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5004213/

Elimination diets: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/elimination-diet

SIBO and IBS: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29761234/

Gluten sensitivity: https://www.coeliac.org.uk/information-and-support/coeliac-disease/about-coeliac-disease/gluten-sensitivity/

Deeper dive on mucosal tolerance: https://courses.lumenlearning.com/wm-biology2/chapter/mucosal-surfaces-and-immune-tolerance/

Milk digestion over the years: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35896667/

My book The Health Fix: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

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Lyme Disease, tick-borne illnesses and mystery symptoms

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 03:00:54 GMT

Lyme Disease rates have doubled in the last 30 years in the USA and rates are rising across the world in affected areas. In this episode I look at Lyme, other tick-borne illnesses and the mystery symptoms they can give rise to, as well as strategies to treat and prevent them.

Lyme disease factsheet:

https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/borreliosis/facts/factsheet

The Bullseye rash: https://www.cdc.gov/lyme/signs_symptoms/rashes.html

The life cycle of a spirochaete: https://www.nature.com/articles/nrmicro2714

B.Burgdorferi - the major cause of Lyme disease: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532894/

B.mayonii - another strain causing Lyme disease: https://www.cdc.gov/lyme/mayonii/index.html

Dr Horowitz Lyme questionnaire: https://caudwelllyme.com/do-you-have-lyme-disease-the-horowitz-questionnaire

Differentiating arthritis from Lyme Diseases: https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/ra-or-lyme

Dr Horowitz interview:

https://lymeconnection.org/support_and_resources/meet_the_lyme_disease_experts.html/title/dr-richard-horowitz-latest-treatments-in-lyme-disease

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High cholesterol - the myth and reality

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 03:00:47 GMT

Cholesterol has become an obsession for so many people over the last 50 years. In this episode I look at the story of cholesterol and why it is important and when to worry about it.

Links:

The history of cholesterol: https://www.escardio.org/Journals/E-Journal-of-Cardiology-Practice/Volume-19/history-in-medicine-the-story-of-cholesterol-lipids-and-cardiology

Food and cholesterol: https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/11-foods-that-lower-cholesterol

Monacolin K (in both red yeast rice and statins): https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/monacolins

Numbers need to treat (NNT):

https://www.cebm.ox.ac.uk/resources/ebm-tools/number-needed-to-treat-nnt

Diet and statins: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2016/aug/29/mediterranean-diet-better-than-statins-for-tackling-heart-disease-study

ApoB and Lp(a): https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-health-care-professionals/for-physicians/physician-education-and-resources/physician-interviews/2023/october/lipid-management-part-3-apo-b-and-lipoprotein-a

Homocysteine and heart disease: https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-021-01977-8

Flawed study or is it because not all LDL is bad? https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/news/behind-the-headlines/cholesterol-and-statins

Reduction of ApoB and risk reduction of heart disease: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7489462/

TG:HDL ratio (Triglycerides to HDL): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2664115/#:~:text=3%20The%20ratio%20of%20triglycerides,lower%20than%20this%20value4.

NICE recommendation for statins:

https://www.bhf.org.uk/what-we-do/news-from-the-bhf/news-archive/2023/january/nice-recommends-statins-should-be-a-choice-for-more-people-to-prevent-heart-attacks-and-strokes

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Infertility - it's causes, how we tackle it and the impact on individuals and society

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 03:00:20 GMT

TW: Sensitive topic: one in six people worldwide are now affected by infertility and rates have soared over the last 30 years.

In this episode I look at the reasons behind it and what we can do about it on an individual and societal level.

Childlessness: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2017/oct/02/the-desire-to-have-a-child-never-goes-away-how-the-involuntarily-childless-are-forming-a-new-movement

Rising infertility in men and women: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/reproductive-problems-in-both-men-and-women-are-rising-at-an-alarming-rate/

1:6 with infertility: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/apr/03/one-in-six-people-worldwide-affected-by-infertility-who-reports

Birth rates in South Korea and reasons behind them: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvpkEEmnZNU

Exercise and fertility: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10310950/

Female fertility and nutrition: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8634384/

Sperm counts and time of day: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32195611/

Semen and antioxidants: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5203687

Fertility support: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ivf/support/

Infertility counselling: https://www.bica.net/

Buy THE HEALTH FIX now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1914239326?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_S32SMEDYMC4SBPSJ4CGV

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“Minor" Illness - why little ailments matter

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 23:56:30 GMT

Minor illness seems trivial, but is it always simple to deal with and when do we need to think more carefully about what can seem like minor illness on the surface?

Lay referral: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1316199/pdf/brjgenprac004944500617.pdf

The debate about doctors and Physician Associates: https://www.bmj.com/content/383/bmj.p2449

Sore throat causes: https://twitter.com/DrSteveTaylor/status/1761753922920694133/photo/1

Rincke’s oedema: https://voicefoundation.org/health-science/voice-disorders/voice-disorders/reinkes-edema/

PEWS (scoring system for acute illness in children): http://generalpracticemedicine.org/PEWSSheetApril2017Final2.pdf

Recurrent UTI: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cystitis/expert-answers/bladder-infection/faq-20057833

The role of pharmacies: https://www.england.nhs.uk/primary-care/pharmacy/community-pharmacy-contractual-framework/referring-minor-illness-patients-to-a-community-pharmacist/

Managing uncertainty in medicine: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.5694/mja2.51925

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ADHD - the myth and the reality (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder)

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 03:00:08 GMT

In this episode I look at ADHD which is increasing in prevalence due to increased diagnoses. There are many features to this condition which need unpacking. I look at the causes, what we can do to help manage ADHD and why it occurs in the first place.

The increase in diagnosis: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2023/jul/significant-rise-adhd-diagnoses-uk

ADHD and dopamine - seeking rewards:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325499

Time blindness: https://add.org/adhd-time-blindness/

The risk and benefits of ADHD medication: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6697582/

Risk factors for ADHD: https://www.healthline.com/health/adhd/causes

Time blindness: https://www.thecut.com/2020/04/coronavirus-self-isolation-time-blindness.html

Hyperfocus: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7851038/

Rating scales for children: https://www.healthline.com/health/adhd/rating-scale#symptoms-checklist

For adults (website with advice and help): https://adhduk.co.uk/adult-adhd-screening-survey/

Once of many ADHD podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/adhd-chatter/id1677158558

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Frailty - how to manage it and how to delay it

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 03:00:48 GMT

It’s something that befalls most of us as we age, but what is it?

It is a marker of vulnerability as we age and in many ways a soft tool to

predict our risk of future illness and rate of decline.

In this episode I look at how it is assessed and what we can do to prevent it.

Links:

Rockwood score: https://www.england.nhs.uk/south/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2022/02/rockwood-frailty-scale_.pdf

Standing desks: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/7-benefits-of-a-standing-desk

Prognosis in frailty: https://www.bgs.org.uk/resources/end-of-life-care-in-frailty-identification-and-prognostication

Ageing well: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/stay-strong-four-ways-to-beat-the-frailty-risk

An AI device tech example:

https://www.miicare.co.uk/

Gait analysis: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/frobt.2021.749274/full

Creatine: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7996960/

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Child health - it’s rise and fall

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 03:00:36 GMT

In this episode I look at what makes for good health in children.

It’s clearly multifactorial and the latest reports show that the health of children has declined in recent years in the UK. I look at why this may be the case and what the root causes might be.

Links:

Children ‘betrayed’ in UK: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-68203749

WHO website on child health: https://www.who.int/health-topics/child-health#tab=tab_1

UNICEF: https://www.unicef.org/

UNICEF child satisfaction tables: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/09/child-well-being-health-happiness-unicef-report/

Child development: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002002.htm

Attachment theory: https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-attachment-theory-2795337

What every child needs: https://www.childrenscolorado.org/conditions-and-advice/parenting/parenting-articles/what-children-need/

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Sexual Health - evolution or revolution?

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 03:00:41 GMT

In this episode I look at the history of sexual health, our attitudes towards it and how we things have changed over the last 100 years.

TW: use of sexual language and references to adult themes.

HPV: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/human-papilloma-virus-hpv

Shame and STIs: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8297218/

Philadelphia trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKDz2LVHz0Y

Venereal Disease bill 1916: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11589807/

Dr Kellogg: https://www.history.com/news/dr-john-kellogg-cereal-wellness-wacky-sanitarium-treatments

Erectile dysfunction and heart disease: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/erectile-dysfunction/in-depth/erectile-dysfunction/art-20045141

Pfizer propagated the term erectile dysfunction to replace ‘impotence’:

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2017-12-11/the-little-blue-pill-an-oral-history-of-viagra?leadSource=uverify wall

LARCs and teenage pregnancy: https://www.england.nhs.uk/atlas_case_study/increasing-the-uptake-of-long-acting-reversible-contraception-larc-in-general-practice/

Young men, erectile issues and pornography: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8569536/

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EPISODE 100 - revealed: my take on the NUMBER 1 most important aspect of our health

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 00:01:00 GMT

This week is my 100th episode. I reflect on some of the topics I have covered over the last 20 months or so and beyond

the basics I talk about what I think is the most important aspect of our health in the modern world (and it's not food or relationships)!

Links below for a deeper dive... let's go.

School resources - how the NHS works: https://www.england.nhs.uk/publication/schools-resources-toolkit/#:~:text=This%20is%20a%20toolkit%20of,NHS%20Services%2C%20health%20and%20wellbeing.

My Symptom Web via NHS England: https://twitter.com/NHS/status/1167147825815314433

MTHFR gene mutation: https://www.healthline.com/health/mthfr-gene#symptoms

MTHFR - more info: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318526

Free coaching framework: https://www.basic-coaching.com/

Mental health app Leafyard who I am proud to partner with: https://www.leafyard.com/healthfix

How food can regain nutrients: https://www.bbc.com/future/bespoke/follow-the-food/why-modern-food-lost-its-nutrients/

Journalling for beginners: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/z3hshcw

Effect of trauma on the brain: https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news/publications/neuroscience/researchers-reveal-how-trauma-changes-the-brain

Systems Medicine - Leroy Hood: https://laskerfoundation.org/leroy-hood-there-is-going-to-be-a-fantastic-revolution-in-medicine/

Earth’s environmental problems in 2024: https://earth.org/the-biggest-environmental-problems-of-our-lifetime/

My book THE HEALTH FIX - on offer now!: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja-ebook/dp/B0B2VTFFVS/ref=zg_bs_g_362843031_d_sccl_1/259-3769703-6680765?psc=1

New Book: Why can’t I see my GP?: https://www.amazon.co.uk/s?k=why+can%27t+i+see+my+gp&i=digital-text&crid=3EHTLXLDL76C7&sprefix=why+can%27t+i+see+my+gp%2Cdigital-text%2C71&ref=nb_sb_noss_1

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Is medicine being dumbed down?

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 00:38:57 GMT

In this episode I look at the work of doctors being done by other professionals and try to balance the issues that surround it.

Links:

My rapid response from the BMJ in 2006: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1325146/

Labels and role confusion: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/dec/13/public-confused-over-physician-associates-working-in-nhs-research-finds

Pay issues and regulation: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-12710201/Some-physician-associates-paid-90-000-year-twice-junior-doctors-salary-not-regulated.html

A sad case of a death: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-66211103

Endoscopy explained: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/endoscopy

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Guided Meditation - and... relax....

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 00:00:12 GMT

Meditation and mindfulness are both useful interrelated tools to improve one’s mental health.

Meditation should ideally be a regular practice and in this episode I discuss some of the benefits as well as take you through a short guided mediation on self-compassion.

Links:

Mindfulness and CBT: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-24256-9

Mindfulness and changes in the brain - neuroplasticity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7CBfCW67xT8

Meditation and mindfulness nuances: https://positivepsychology.com/differences-between-mindfulness-meditation/

Mindfulness and meditation during COVID-19: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7287297/

Measurement of brain responses to meditation: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8638869/

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Ideas and Health Hacks for 2024

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 01:04:14 GMT

In this episode I look at the concept of ‘ideas’ rather than resolutions that might shape your 2024 on an individual and societal level, including a couple of things I managed myself in 2023.

There are also some easy hacks to incorporate into your day which can work for everyone.

My IDEAL framework for behaviour change: https://shows.acast.com/savinglivesinslowmotion/episodes/behaviour-change-2-the-ideal-framework

Circular economy: https://unctad.org/topic/trade-and-environment/circular-economy

Ban on single use plastics: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-66946643

AI and personalised medicine: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/jun/26/ai-personalise-medicine-patient-lab-health-diagnosis-cambridge

Leafyard - AI driven mental health app with 20% off here: https://www.leafyard.com/healthfix

My talk in London on Wednesday January 10th 2024: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/dr-ayan-panja-the-health-fix-tickets-753931006937

Red January: https://join.redjanuary.com/

THE HEALTH FIX - all formats, paperback out NOW. Transform your health now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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The Essence of Health & Quality of Life - what's it all about?

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 00:13:26 GMT

In this episode I look at the true essence of health.

We live a world that is increasingly confusing in terms of health messaging and priorities given the amount of inequality in the world.

I take a look at some basics of what is important to us in our lives which people may not consider important for health but not only nourish us as humans

but are important to both our short and long term health.

Links:

Self-esteem and the brain: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2017/oct/self-esteem-mapped-human-brain

Hugs (they really are good for us): https://www.healthline.com/health/hugging-benefits

Quality of Life scoring: https://positivepsychology.com/quality-of-life-questionnaires-assessments

Weightless by Marconi Union (the most relaxing tune in the world?): https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=weightless+by+marconi+union&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8

Social connectedness (what we know): https://www.cdc.gov/emotional-wellbeing/social-connectedness/affect-health.htm

Eating together (like my taxi driver): https://blog.swedish.org/swedish-blog/7-benefits-of-eating-together-as-a-family

Salutogenesis: https://www.local.gov.uk/case-studies/salutogenesis-introduction

Come and say Hi to me in London: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/dr-ayan-panja-the-health-fix-tickets-753931006937

Pre-order THE HEALTH FIX paperback version now (thank you for your support): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja/dp/1914239326/ref=monarch_sidesheet

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Genetics, epigenetics and inherited diseases

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 00:26:27 GMT

In this episode I look at the role of our genes in health and illness.

Patterns of inherited diseases: https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-genetic-disorders-are-inherited-2860737

Epigenetics explained: https://www.theguardian.com/science/occams-corner/2014/apr/25/epigenetics-beginners-guide-to-everything

Epigenetics and inheritance: https://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/epigenetics/inheritance

Ethics of medical genetic testing: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24300652/

CRISPR technology: https://frontlinegenomics.com/unlocking-the-future-where-is-gene-editing-going-next/

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Trauma - how our emotional responses to life events can shape our entire health journey

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 03:00:47 GMT

TW: This episode mentions PTSD.

We all know what trauma means but how and why does it affect our physical health as well as our mental health?

In this episode I look at the reasons behind trauma being a trigger for illness and what we can do to prevent its effects over the years in terms of maintenance.

Links:

Trauma informed care: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/working-definition-of-trauma-informed-practice/working-definition-of-trauma-informed-practice

Dr Gabor Maté: https://drgabormate.com/

“Negative thinking”: Gabor Maté’s thoughts on this: https://www.reflecttherapies.com/post/the-power-of-negative-thinking

Suppressed anger and illness: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2021.637029/full

Empaths: If empathy is about stepping into someone’s shoes, compassion is instead “a feeling of concern for another person’s suffering which is accompanied by the motivation to help”: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20200930-can-empathy-be-bad-for-you

Dr Nicole Le Pera: https://theholisticpsychologist.com/how-to-do-the-work/

The Hoffman Process: https://www.hoffmaninstitute.co.uk/about-the-process/

The seven A’s of healing: https://taliand.com/2012/05/04/the-seven-as-of-healing/

EMDR for PTSD: https://www.ptsduk.org/treatment-help/eye-movement-desensitisation-reprocessing-emdr/

For healthcare professionals: Gabor Maté live in London: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/practiceunbound/940200

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Narcissists and Psychopaths - spotting them and dealing with them

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 03:00:33 GMT

These are both words that are bandied around quite a lot in common parlance but what do they actually mean? And what is the difference between them?

In this episode I look at the similarities, differences and why they come about.

Links:

Trump - a textbook narcissist: https://www.uu.nl/en/node/541/donald-trump-textbook-narcissist

DSM-5 classification of Narcissistic Personality Disorder: https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1519417-overview?form=fpf

Dr James Fallon: https://www.ted.com/talks/jim_fallon_exploring_the_mind_of_a_killer?language=en

Dr Supriya McKenna - expert support resources on living and dealing with narcissists: https://www.doctorsupriya.com/

The Bad Surgeon: https://www.rollingstone.com/tv-movies/tv-movie-reviews/bad-surgeon-netflix-paolo-macchiarini-true-crime-benita-alexander-nbc-news-1234904394/

The psychopath test: https://psychcentral.com/quizzes/psychopathy-quiz

My London talk in Soho: Wednesday January 10th: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/dr-ayan-panja-the-health-fix-tickets-753931006937

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Medicalisation - how we medicalise normal life

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 03:00:52 GMT

Medicalisation is the how human experience becomes something that needs medical attention.

There are pros and cons of this including the ‘need’ for medicine vs something that is being sold to us something that is unnecessary.

I look at some examples in this episode and why it is something that needs consideration.

Links:

Ivan Illich: https://www.theguardian.com/news/2002/dec/09/guardianobituaries.highereducation

Sadness vs depression?: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0277953617302551#:~:text=Medicalization%20describes%20a%20process%20by,normal%20behavior%20into%20medical%20conditions.

A discussion on medicalisation: https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2009/04/scholars-discuss-medicalization-of-formerly-normal-characteristics

The story behind PHQ-9 and assessing depression: https://www.medicalrepublic.com.au/strange-history-of-a-depression-screening-tool/86457

Lay referral: https://bjgp.org/content/49/445/617

THE HEALTH FIX (paperback version out Jan 24)!: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Integrity in the modern world

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 03:00:39 GMT

Integrity - most of us know what it is and value it but does it always help us or can it hinder us? In this episode I look at why is it so important to so many people, what defines it and some extreme examples.

Links:

Generic examples of integrity: https://helpfulprofessor.com/integrity-examples/

The VW scandal: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-34324772

Roddick vs Verdasco (tennis): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bma1NZuo_o4

Integrity in the workplace: https://www.betterup.com/blog/integrity-in-the-workplace

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Musculoskeletal Health - a 101 for your joints, muscles and tissues

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 03:00:26 GMT

In this episode I conduct a whistle-stop tour of musculoskeletal health and strategies to prevent joint, muscle and ligament problems and improve our ability to keep them healthy. Some of these conditions are genetic but many are not.

Links:

Biomechanics: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3266544/

Exercise and osteoarthritis: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6165969/#:~:text=Muscle%20strengthening%20and%20programs%20that,activity%20(e.g.%2C%20walking).

Nightshades: https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/nutrition/anti-inflammatory/how-nightshades-affect-arthritis

Oxalates and pain: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2174474/The-GP-gave-fruit-veg-cure-aches-pains.html

Connective tissue disorders (can be genetic): https://www.healthline.com/health/connective-tissue-disease#genetic-conditions

Gout and glycation: sugar is a big culprit for joint stiffness and uric acid deposition beyond seafood, red meat, spinach and tomatoes: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2234537/#

Weights and resistance training to prevent muscle mass loss as we age:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4849483/#

Turmeric and health: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5664031/

Turmeric and lead: https://stanmed.stanford.edu/turmeric-lead-risk-detect/

Fish oils and pain: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7494084/

Pain and trauma: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8578317/

THE HEALTH FIX: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2RRCBAMHYXPWK&keywords=health+fix&qid=1699533165&s=books&sprefix=health+fix%2Cstripbooks%2C76&sr=1-1

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Faith and Health

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 03:00:16 GMT

In this episode I look at the role of faith, prayer and mindset in health.

Links:

Medical study on whether prayer works: https://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/31/health/longawaited-medical-study-questions-the-power-of-prayer.html

Tanya Luhrmann’s work: https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691164465/how-god-becomes-real

Positive outlooks: https://psppjournals.org/index.php/jchp/article/view/212

Think yourself young?: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20180410-how-your-mindset-determines-your-health

The story of Buddha: https://tricycle.org/magazine/who-was-the-buddha/

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Type 2 Diabetes - it's rise and rise

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 02:00:37 GMT

Type 2 Diabetes has doubled in the last 15 years in the UK. It is associated with potentially serious complications from kidney failure to blindness but there is a process called insulin resistance that occurs prior to its onset.

In this episode I look at the development, prevention and management of this condition.

Diabetes stats for the UK: https://www.diabetes.org.uk/about_us/news/number-people-living-diabetes-uk-tops-5-million-first-time

Diabetes prevention strategies: https://evidence.nihr.ac.uk/alert/diabetes-prevention-programme-providers-need-more-consistency-flexibility-equality-of-access/

Group consultations for Type 2 Diabetes: https://www.knowdiabetes.org.uk/professional/group-consultations/

Medication for Type 2 Diabetes: https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/managing-your-diabetes/treating-your-diabetes/tablets-and-medication

Air pollution and Type 2 Diabetes: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6931138/

Shift work and diabetes: https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-023-16091-y

Dr David Unwin: https://amp.theguardian.com/society/2023/apr/09/british-doctor-pioneers-low-carb-diet-as-cure-for-obesity-and-type-2-diabetes

Low carb diets: https://www.diabetes.co.uk/diet/low-carb-diabetes-diet.html

Gut microbes and Type 2 Diabetes: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0955286318303073

Evidence for CGM (continuous glucose monitoring): https://www.ajmc.com/view/continuous-glucose-monitoring-overview-features-and-evidence (eg Dexcom/ Libre)

Zoe app: https://zoe.com/ (one example of an app which combines analysis of gut microbes and CGM)

GAD antibodies and Diabetes development: https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/gad-antibodies

THE HEALTH FIX: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1698178460&sr=1-1

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Travel and Tropical Health & Medicine

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 02:00:44 GMT

In this episode I look at travel related illness and some tropical diseases worth knowing about.

Traveller’s tummy: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/travel-tummy-troubles-heres-how-to-prevent-or-soothe-them-202208042796

Diarrhoeal illness: https://www.who.int/health-topics/diarrhoea#tab=tab_1

Oral rehydration therapy: https://www.unicef.org/supply/stories/oral-rehydration-salts-and-zinc-co-packaging-offers-simple-solution-save-children-diarrhoea

Probiotics for traveller’s diarrhoea: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/saccharomyces-boulardii-probiotic

Mosquito-borne illness: https://www.worldmosquitoprogram.org/en/learn/mosquito-borne-diseases

Dengue and severe Dengue: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dengue-and-severe-dengue

Neglected tropical disaeases: https://www.who.int/health-topics/neglected-tropical-diseases#tab=tab_1

DVT: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/deep-vein-thrombosis-dvt/

Sunburn and skin cancer: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/causes-of-cancer/sun-uv-and-cancer/how-does-the-sun-and-uv-cause-cancer

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Coughs - a deep dive

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 02:00:07 GMT

I don’t think there is anyone on the planet that hasn’t had a cough. It’s a biological reflex in basic

terms and as it seems to occupy up to 40% of presentations to a health care provider,

I thought it would be good to cover the why what and how of this ubiquitous symptom.

Links:

The mechanism of a cough: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6502102/#

The anatomy of a cough: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3415124/

Long term coughs: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/that-nagging-cough

Red flags for coughs: https://www.pulsetoday.co.uk/clinical-feature/clinical-areas/respiratory/red-flag-refreshers-cough/

A reminder about TB (tuberculosis): https://www.who.int/health-topics/tuberculosis

Honey for cough: https://ebm.bmj.com/content/26/2/57

A functional medicine case study: https://consultqd.clevelandclinic.org/patients-25-year-cough-relieved-by-diet-and-thermal-depuration/

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Medical Information - why it can be hard to work out what's reliable and what isn't

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 02:00:51 GMT

How we access medical information and where it comes from is all important. It has changed hugely in the last 50 years and in this episode I look at how and why that has happened and also the future.

Change in news sources: https://pressgazette.co.uk/media-audience-and-business-data/most-popular-news-sources-uk-tiktok-ofcom-news-consumption-survey/

Cochrane: https://www.cochrane.org/

Medline (electronic library): https://medlineplus.gov/

Dipex: https://dipexcharity.org/about-us/

Electronic records: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5171496/

Medical knowledge doubles every 73 days: https://www.nature.com/articles/s43856-021-00003-5

YouTube Health: https://health.youtube/

Prof Kausik Ray’s meta-analysis (a study of studies): https://bjcardio.co.uk/2012/03/aspirin-in-primary-prevention-new-meta-analysis/

Statins - one view: https://www.bmj.com/content/348/bmj.g3458/rr/761453

Reliable health info sources (in my opinion):

https://www.healthline.com/

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Lifestyle Medicine - what it is, what it isn't and why it is so important to us all to get involved

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 02:00:24 GMT

Lifestyle Medicine is now a well established discipline. I look at what it means today and how it has evolved over the years since its inception and how it is indispensable in this day and age.

Bromelain: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8067380/#

James Rippe: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6933565/

Behaviour change in lifestyle medicine: https://www.apa.org/topics/behavioral-health/healthy-lifestyle-changes

Soleus push ups: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9404652/#

Young people and cancer: https://news.cancerresearchuk.org/2023/01/24/early-onset-cancer-why-are-more-young-adults-being-diagnosed/

THE HEALTH FIX (understanding your own story and applying it to your health): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296/ref=monarch_sidesheet

PRESCRIBING LIFESTYLE MEDICINE (certification course - open to medics and other healthcare practitioners): https://www.practiceunbound.org.uk/product/prescribinglifestylemedicine/enrol-plm

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General Practice - the jewel in the crown of health care systems

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 02:00:44 GMT

It’s often known as the cornerstone of the NHS but general practice is under threat and in this episode I make the case for generalism.

The power of generalism: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ST6XEDcD_C4

Specialists and generalists: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbeshumanresourcescouncil/2021/03/12/generalists-versus-specialists-the-winner-doesnt-take-it-all/

Additional roles in general practice:

Expanding our workforce

england.nhs.uk

Continuity of care: https://www.bmj.com/content/375/bmj.n2468

Johari’s window - you don’t know what you don’t know: https://www.communicationtheory.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/johari-model.jpg

General practice under threat: https://www.nuffieldtrust.org.uk/news-item/general-practice-on-the-brink-how-did-it-get-there

GP workload: https://www.rcgp.org.uk/news/fit-for-the-future-gp-pressures-report

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Health Inequalities - the journey towards health equity

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 02:00:08 GMT

In this episode I look at the reason for health inequalities, the move towards health equity and what we can do to improve access to health for all.

Kings Fund health inequalities: https://www.kingsfund.org.uk/publications/what-are-health-inequalities

Self-reported illness: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1122815/

The inverse care law paper by Tudor-Hart: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(71)92410-X/fulltext

End of life and palliative care inequality: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/palliative-care

Calcutta Rescue: https://calcuttarescuefund.org.uk/

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Polypharmacy - too much medicine?

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 02:00:31 GMT

Polypharmacy is a situation where a person is on several medications.

It is sometimes necessary but needs to be managed and monitored to avoid harm which can be anything from minor to major.

Links:

Polypharmacy in older adults: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s41999-021-00479-3

Deprescribing: https://www.bgs.org.uk/AAAdesprescribing

Drug side effects: https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/10-scariest-prescription-drug-side-effects

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Insomnia - exploring solutions to getting good sleep

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 02:00:37 GMT

Not being able to sleep well at night can be frustrating and drive people to distraction. In this episode I look at the causes and what we can do improve our sleep.

The work of Stephanie Romiszewski: https://www.sleepyheadclinic.co.uk/stephanie-romiszewski-sleep-expert/

The stages of sleep: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/stages-of-sleep

Supplements: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/sleep-aids

Genes and sleep: https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/gene-identified-people-who-need-little-sleep

Chronotypes: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/chronotypes

THE HEALTH FIX:

amazon.co.uk

Please VOTE for SAVING LIVES IN SLOW MOTION: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting

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Tiredness and Fatigue - a framework to approach it

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 02:00:38 GMT

There are so many reasons for tiredness and fatigue. In this episode I try to explain the reasons behind the symptom and how to approach it.

Links:

For cases demonstrating the Health Loop to unpack symptoms here is a link to my book The Health Fix: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Dr+Ayan+Panja&qid=1692817923&s=audible&sr=1-1-catcorr

A mechanical reason for tiredness - sleep apnoea: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sleep-apnoea/

How mitochondria work: https://www.khanacademy.org/science/ap-biology/cell-structure-and-function/cell-structures-and-their-functions/v/mitochondria-video

Mitochondria and fibromyalgia: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33142767/

Autoimmune conditions can present with tiredness or fatigue: https://www.healthline.com/health/autoimmune-disorders

Leafy greens and the liver: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324041

Antioxidants: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-do-we-really-know-about-antioxidants

Please vote for me in The British Podcast Awards - just type in Saving Lives in Slow Motion :

https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting?fbclid=PAAabFFDdT3XXe_1DmJ1gCBKNKlpNBLlSnW5shHmeJaISb5YGACEZ78knUieI_aem_AUl-XjZJmMCoKTv5W9NwVxled4IdiHz6Rly1Jt4OP4YZn9ieWj2Wf9r5LIZZ06yMoLg

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Down time - why it is crucial to our health

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 00:59:32 GMT

Do you get enough down time? Do you even have time for down time?!

In this episode I briefly look at what it is and why it is important. It’s a short episode but hope you enjoy the exercise in it

and the links in the show notes.

Links:

Why down time is important: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/mental-downtime/

How to achieve ‘flow’: https://medium.com/swlh/the-brains-default-mode-what-is-it-and-why-meditation-is-the-antidote-d0408ab989d6

The default mode network of the brain:

https://neuroscientificallychallenged.com/posts/know-your-brain-default-mode-network

The science behind down time:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/play-your-way-sane/202201/the-scientific-case-downtime

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Blood tests - why we do them and what they tell us

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 23:48:43 GMT

Blood tests and blood results dominate a GP’s day but why do we do them and what do they mean?

In this episode I rapidly cover the rationale behind some of the more common blood tests, what they mean and why we do them in the first place.

Links:

Further details on blood tests can be found here starting with the full blood count: https://labtestsonline.org.uk/tests/full-blood-count-fbc

Vitamin D deficiency: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ph56

B12 deficiency: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitamin-b12-deficiency-symptoms

Medics guide to abnormal liver function tests:: https://www.bsg.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Guidelines-on-the-management-of-abnormal-liver-blood-tests.pdf

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Bloating - 101

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 02:00:45 GMT

Bloating is a common symptom which most of us experience from time to time acutely, (for instance if we have a tummy bug or food poisoning), but in this episode I try to unpack the potential reasons behind why bloating can occur in the first place and how to approach it. This episode is a rapid 10-minute 101. Do check out the links in the show notes.

Links:

Digestion and enzymes: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digestive_enzyme#/media/File:Digestive_Enzymes.svg

IBS (made worse by stress): https://patient.info/digestive-health/irritable-bowel-syndrome-leaflet

SIBO: https://www.healthline.com/health/sibo

H pylori infection: https://gutscharity.org.uk/advice-and-information/conditions/helicobacter-pylori/

FODMAPs (can cause gas): https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/fodmaps-101

Testing gut bugs: https://gutscharity.org.uk/advice-and-information/health-and-lifestyle/testing/gut-microbiome-poo-testing/

Ovarian cancer awareness: https://targetovariancancer.org.uk/about-ovarian-cancer/symptoms

My book THE HEALTH FIX for case studies and tips: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296/ref=monarch_sidesheet

The importance of eating dietary fibre: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/digestive-health/how-to-get-more-fibre-into-your-diet/

Diverticulitis: https://www.healthline.com/health/diverticulitis

Coeliac Disease, can often start with mystery symptoms: https://www.coeliac.org.uk/information-and-support/coeliac-disease/about-coeliac-disease/

Probiotics (can sometimes help replenish good gut bacteria after antibiotic use): https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/14598-probiotics

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Coaching - how it works and is it all that it's cracked up to be?

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 02:00:07 GMT

The world seems to be full of ‘coaches’ but what is coaching and how can it help us?

I look at some examples in this episode and how it can help develop us by helping us create change to develop ourselves.

Links:

My GP trainer Ed Peile: https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/sci/med/staff/peile/

GROW model: https://www.performanceconsultants.com/grow-model

'SMART’ goals: https://coachfoundation.com/blog/smart-coaching-model

David Rock (ARIA model): https://davidrock.net/

The Coaching Habit: https://boxofcrayons.com/boc/the-coaching-habit-book/

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Artificial Intelligence in medicine

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 02:00:26 GMT

Medical imaging AI:

https://www.thelancet.com/journals/landig/article/PIIS2589-7500(20)30160-6/fulltext

Generative AI: https://generativeai.net/

AI driven CBT: Leafyard.com/healthfix

AI and skin cancer diagnosis: https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/artificial-intelligence-helping-to-speed-up-skin-cancer-diagnosis-in-leicester-leicestershire-and-rutland-integrated-care-system/

AI and symptom assessments by Ada: https://ada.com/

AI support for doctors: https://www.forbes.com/sites/katiejennings/2023/07/17/this-ai-chatbot-has-helped-doctors-treat-3-million-people/?sh=569b58aa4cea

Can AI be dishonest? https://www.instagram.com/p/CqjNUobpedJ/?hl=en-gb

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Therapy - the types, the rationale and why you may need it

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 02:00:57 GMT

What is therapy and why do we need it, if at all?

In this episode I look at the common types of therapy as well as touch on some alternative types and how they work and what they hope to achieve. The key is that the therapy has to fit with the person.

The origins of therapy: https://www.talkspace.com/blog/psychotherapy-history-of-therapy/

Therapeutic relationships: https://www.family-institute.org/behavioral-health-resources/importance-relationship-therapist

CBT: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/drugs-and-treatments/talking-therapy-and-counselling/cognitive-behavioural-therapy-cbt/

Psychodynamic psychotherapy: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/therapy-types/psychodynamic-therapy

Play Therapy (Samantha Boyle) https://www.plays2talk.co.uk/what-is-play-therapy-1

Avatar therapy (Professor Julian Leff’s work): https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-22720248

Dungeons and Dragons (role play therapy): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuDJ-x9HWyc

Reference to mental health in Cambodia (now much improved): https://www.voanews.com/a/cambodias-mental-health-services-critically-neglected/2775810.html

The Health Fix: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296

Leafyard - an online CBT based mental health app (partnership): Leafyard.com/healthfix

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NHS @ 75 - a look back at the world's most coveted free at point of access healthcare system

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 02:00:32 GMT

The NHS is a jewel in the crown of British culture offering free healthcare for all at times of need. But it has come under stress in recent years. In this episode I take a look back at what the NHS has achieved and why it is so important.

The birth and history of the NHS: https://www.nuffieldtrust.org.uk/health-and-social-care-explained/the-history-of-the-nhs

Continuity of care: https://www.bmj.com/content/375/bmj.n2468#:~:text=A%20new%20research%20paper%20tells,a%20reduced%20risk%20of%20death.

The cost of hospital care (bills): https://www.buzzfeed.com/daniellaemanuel/expensive-medical-bills-america

NHS staff sickness: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/jun/29/nhs-staff-sickness-rate-england-record-high

NHS in charts and infograms: https://www.health.org.uk/news-and-comment/charts-and-infographics

Professor Stephen Hawking on the NHS:

https://www.facebook.com/RoyalSocietyofMedicine/videos/10154984279978693

New NHS roles in the community: https://www.england.nhs.uk/gp/expanding-our-workforce/

The future of the NHS?:

https://www.nhsconfed.org/publications/renewed-vision-nhs

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Midlife - why it can be so hard and how to navigate it

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 02:00:38 GMT

Midlife can be a hard time of life to navigate, but why is that the case?

When we are younger and trying to establish ourselves we look forward to midlife but when we get there it can feel uncomfortable.

I explore why this is the case and what we can do about it

Links:

The midlife crisis: https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/midlife-crisis/

Another take: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2022/09/14/truth-midlife-crises-painful-many-confront/

The happiness curve and the midlife dip: https://www.inc.com/magazine/202303/ali-donaldson/need-some-help-heres-how-to-hire-a-remote-assistant.html

Change during midlife: https://hbr.org/2008/02/the-existential-necessity-of-midlife-change

Emotional healing: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/rethinking-mental-health/201309/10-tips-emotional-healing

U3A: https://www.u3a.org.uk/

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Medical Ethics - why it is a cornerstone of medical practice

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 02:00:48 GMT

Medical ethics is involved in every aspect of healthcare yet it is invisible.

In this episode I look at why it is important and some of the nuances that make it a hard topic to grapple with.

Links:

Ethical principles via the Clinical Ethics Network: http://www.ukcen.net/ethical_issues/ethical_frameworks/the_four_principles_of_biomedical_ethics

The story of baby Charlie Gard: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-40554462

Ethical guidance for doctors: https://www.bmj.com/careers/article/ethical-guidance-for-doctors

Private medicine: https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health-specials/private-healthcare-must-fuse-ethics-with-efficiency-8052382/

Duty of candour: https://www.gmc-uk.org/ethical-guidance/ethical-guidance-for-doctors/candour---openness-and-honesty-when-things-go-wrong/the-professional-duty-of-candour

Another recent example of medical ethics in the press: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jun/12/woman-in-uk-jailed-for-28-months-over-taking-abortion-pills-after-legal-time-limit

Rationing in healthcare: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41581-021-00404-8

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Types of Intelligence - think you're not that clever? Think again

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 02:00:16 GMT

In this episode I look at the concept of intelligence, what it means and whether it even matters on a practical level. What are the different types, how is it measured and are there ways that we improve our IQ?

IQ testing - a discussion: https://theconversation.com/the-iq-test-wars-why-screening-for-intelligence-is-still-so-controversial-81428

Howard Gardner’s work: https://pz.harvard.edu/resources/frames-of-mind-the-theory-of-multiple-intelligences

Virginia sterilisation act 1924 based on a flawed eugenics theory: http://www2.vcdh.virginia.edu/lewisandclark/students/projects/monacans/Contemporary_Monacans/racial.html

Jason Arday: https://www.theguardian.com/education/2023/feb/23/jason-arday-to-become-youngest-ever-black-professor-at-cambridge

Young chess grandmasters: https://khelnow.com/olympics/2023-02-top-five-youngest-grandmasters-in-chess-history#

Multitasking and it’s harms: https://www.lifespan.org/lifespan-living/multitasking-and-how-it-affects-your-brain-health

The cleverest man to have ever lived? William Sidis: https://interestingengineering.com/culture/william-james-sidis

Improving intelligence: https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/guest-blog/you-can-increase-your-intelligence-5-ways-to-maximize-your-cognitive-potential/

Mensa (high IQ society): https://mensa.org.uk/

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The Pandemic Effect - how people, society and the world have changed

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 02:00:42 GMT

In this episode I look at the effects of the pandemic which still linger. How has it affected us and our health and outlook?

It’s been over 3 years since COVID-19 enveloped the planet and there have been myriad effects on people which have affected us in overt and subtle ways.

Big picture effects of the pandemic:

https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/publications/covid-decade-understanding-the-long-term-societal-impacts-of-covid-19/

The COSMO study:

https://www.suttontrust.com/cosmo-the-covid-social-mobility-and-opportunities-study/

The effect of the pandemic on young people: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/an-isolated-generation-the-impact-of-covid-19-on-children-and-young-people

Global perspective from Chatham House: https://www.chathamhouse.org/2022/05/how-build-better-world-post-covid-19

Rebuilding relationships:

https://facultyadvancement.duke.edu/how-can-we-rebuild-relationships-after-covid

PTSD and COVID: https://www.ptsduk.org/the-link-between-covid-19-and-ptsd/

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Neurodiversity - an overview

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 02:00:35 GMT

Neurodiversity is becoming more of an important aspect of our lives as people are increasingly becoming more neurodivergent. In this episode I look at examples, the origins of the term neurodiversity and what it means for our lives now and moving forward. And I hope you like the quote at the very end of the show.

Judy Singer: https://www.forbes.com/sites/drnancydoyle/2022/08/26/hidden-figures-in-neurodiversity-judy-singer/?sh=4ab1f6765446

The spectrum and what it means: https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/autism-awareness

Spiky profiles: https://stimpunks.org/glossary/spiky-profile/

Dr Asperger: https://www.bps.org.uk/psychologist/aftermath-hans-asperger-expose

Morrisby tests: https://www.morrisby.com/

Psychometric testing: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/interview-tips/psychometric-tests

One example of hiring initiatives in the work place: https://www.goldmansachs.com/careers/professionals/neurodiversity-hiring-initiative.html

The Gaps Diet: https://www.gapsdiet.com/

Scattered Minds: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Scattered-Minds-Origins-Attention-Disorder/dp/1785042211/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2AWYVNX2OO5IO&keywords=scattered+minds&qid=1685032359&s=books&sprefix=scattered+minds%2Cstripbooks%2C97&sr=1-1

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Pain - 101

Fri, 26 May 2023 02:00:45 GMT

Pain affects almost all of us at some point. But some types of pain is experienced more severely than other types. In this episode I look at the factors which affect pain and our perception of it and what we can do handle it better.

Nociceptors: https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-are-nociceptors-2564616

The nail in the boot: https://www.painscience.com/biblio/source-of-boot-nail-guy-a-popular-medical-anecdote-about-pain-without-injury-nociception.html

COMT gene variation: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4151110/

Pain and attitudes in Chinese culture: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1084822314547962

Chronic pain review: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6676152/

CBD oil and pain: https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-oil-for-pain

Lifestyle based approach to chronic pain: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pain-Free-Mindset-Control-Overcoming-Chronic/dp/1785043390/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1T1RG5XNM3Q6X&keywords=the+pain-free+mindset&qid=1685171099&sprefix=the+pain-free+mindset%2Caps%2C73&sr=8-1

Latest pain research in chronic pain by Prof Shirvalkar: https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2023/05/425386/has-science-cracked-code-chronic-pain

Fibromyalgia overview: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK540974/#:~:text=Fibromyalgia%20is%20a%20chronic%20pain,as%20emotional%20and%20physical%20trauma.

The Health Fix: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Dr-Ayan-Panja-ebook/dp/B0B2VTFFVS/ref=sr_1_1?crid=11YZREGJ7IJRN&keywords=health+fix+kindle&qid=1684931474&s=books&sprefix=health+fix+kindle%2Cstripbooks%2C83&sr=1-1. (Kindle price 99p throughout June 2023)!

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Rejection - why it hurts and what we can do about it

Fri, 19 May 2023 02:00:04 GMT

Rejection is something that affects us all but how can we minimise its effects?

The effects can be minor or major and in this episode I look at strategies for recognising that it might be an issue, how we can learn from them and how we can better handle it so that it does not continue to affect our lives negatively.

Links:

Functional MRI of the brain and rejection and links to pain: https://www.science.org/content/article/rejection-pain-brain

Long term effects of bullying: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4552909/

Protected characteristics: https://www.equalityhumanrights.com/en/equality-act/protected-characteristics

Feeling rejected? https://psychcentral.com/lib/good-news-if-you-often-feel-rejected

Rejection sensitivity: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7424132/

100 rejections by Jia Jiang: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-vZXgApsPCQ

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The Power of Listening - could it be our most important skill?

Fri, 12 May 2023 02:00:03 GMT

Is listening an undervalued skill in today’s society?

It is an essential part of communication and can have a therapeutic effect.

Listening can be a gateway to empathy and compassion and I make the case that we should all do it better before it

becomes a lost art.

Active listening outperforms simple acknowledgement: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10904018.2013.813234

Active listening:https://psychcentral.com/lib/become-a-better-listener-active-listening

Become a better listener: https://www.nytimes.com/guides/smarterliving/be-a-better-listener

Nushu: https://nushu.com/

AI listening: https://fortune.com/2022/09/08/ai-chatbots-empathy-manager-work-careers-tech-michelle-zhou/#

The Samaritans: https://www.samaritans.org

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The Hypochondriac - health anxiety unwrapped

Fri, 05 May 2023 02:00:16 GMT

It’s a word and characterisation we all know and use at times. Worried about your health? Perhaps too worried? What constitutes excessive worrying about one’s health?

This episode explores the reasons behind it and what can be done to help allay health or illness anxiety.

Links:

Three Men in a Boat: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4921.Three_Men_in_a_Boat

Redefining hypochondriasis: https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/psychiatry-psychology/news/dsm-5-redefines-hypochondriasis/mac-20429763

Case study: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/neuroprogress/202005/how-i-overcame-severe-hypochondria

CBT based approach: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/18/well/a-new-approach-to-treating-hypochondria.html

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Exercise - the daily medicine we all need

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 02:00:07 GMT

It’s essential to leading a healthy life but is all movement the same? Are there any common themes? What is that makes some of us enjoy exercise and others dread it. In this episode I look at the types of exercise and how we do not all have to do the same thing.

Activation therapy: https://douglasheel.com

Soleus push ups and their benefits: https://stories.uh.edu/2022-soleus-pushup/index.html

NEAT: https://www.foodspring.co.uk/magazine/how-to-increase-neat

Endorphins and exercise - feeling high on exercise: https://edition.cnn.com/2016/01/13/health/endorphins-exercise-cause-happiness/index.html

Physical activity guidelines: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/exercise-guidelines/physical-activity-guidelines-for-adults-aged-19-to-64/

Sarcopenia: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/sarcopenia

Dr Mike Evans '23 and a half hours' (walking for health): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aUaInS6HIGo

THE HEALTH FIX: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296

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Stress - strategies to avoid the invisible factor that can silently kill us

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 02:00:59 GMT

Some say it’s a modern illness but accounts go back hundreds of years.

It’s the ultimate invisible illness but is actually a reaction to a stressor.

How can we handle stress, what are the different types and are there any principles we can use to deal with our stress given how individual it is.

Links:

Insomnia and stress in the BMJ in 1894: https://www.bmj.com/rapid-response/2011/10/30/bmj-110-years-later

Stress and its effects on health: https://psychcentral.com/stress/long-term-effects-of-chronic-stress-on-body-and-mind#how-to-recover

Stress in students: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8062254/

Stress and heart disease: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6568256/

Osler’s day-tight compartments: https://spectrummagazine.org/article/2016/06/25/living-day-tight-compartments

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Friendships - why true friends are so important

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 02:00:13 GMT

We all know that friendships can be complicated. In this episode I look at why they can be important to health, how they change over the years and the different types of friendship.

Links:

Childhood friendships and adult health: https://academic.oup.com/eurpub/article/22/3/378/507548

Meaningful interactions in younger people (conclusion is interesting): https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.617267/full

Friendship jealousy and social media:

https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/INTR-02-2020-0103/full/html. (Listen to my episode on jealousy too)

The nun study and Alzheimers: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2734290/

Reciprocity in friendship: https://psychcentral.com/lib/fairness-and-reciprocity-in-friendships#2

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Kindness - the health boost for all that costs nothing

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 02:00:30 GMT

In this episode I look at the science and psychology behind kindness.

Why is kindness important? Are there any downsides?

And is it good for both the giver and receiver?

Kindness and stress:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8848115/

The doctor as a drug:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/the-power-rest/201103/the-doctor-is-drug

Oxytocin increases with age:

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnbeh.2022.846234/full

Spreading kindness:

https://www.kent.ac.uk/staffwellbeing/documents/Covid-19%20Articles/The%20Power%20Of%20Random%20Acts%20Of%20Kindness.html

The anatomy of kindness (Radio 4) - interviews:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m00154cp

Study kindness (postgraduate course):

https://study-online.sussex.ac.uk/news-and-events/what-is-the-psychology-of-kindness/

Action for Happiness:

https://actionforhappiness.org

Kindness in religions:

https://www.abc.net.au/everyday/five-religious-australians-reflect-on-kindness-and-faith/11852608

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Circadian Rhythm - the rhythm of life and why mastering our body clock can help prevent illness

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 02:00:46 GMT

Our body clock is something most of us have heard of but is more important than we might think, as it can literally make or break our health.

It can be easy to take for granted and in this episode I look at some of the science and tips to change ‘timings’ of activities in our lives to our advantage.

Links:

Satchin Panda TEDx talk: https://youtu.be/erBJuxVR7IE

Russell Foster’s work: https://www.ndcn.ox.ac.uk/team/russell-foster

Stephanie Romiszewski’s work: https://www.sleepyheadclinic.co.uk/stephanie-romiszewski-sleep-expert/

Nobel Prize on molecular mechanisms in circadian rhythm:

The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2017

nobelprize.org

Responding to light: https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/12/17/1139780998/light-brain-circadian-rhythms-blind

Shift work and the WHO: https://www.iarc.who.int/news-events/iarc-monographs-volume-124-night-shift-work/

Chronotypes: https://www.healthline.com/health/chronotype

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Online diagnosis & Internet medicine - a double edged sword

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 03:00:48 GMT

This is a great topic which feeds into all sort including self-care, information gathering, overdiagnosis and

the accuracy of resources online plus the dangers of counterfeit medication.

Here are some interesting links:

Doctor vs Internet: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p019px0x

The pros and cons of AI based diagnosis: https://www.statnews.com/2023/02/13/chatgpt-assisted-diagnosis/

The story of AccuRx, one of a few companies which offers triage for primary care: https://www.accurx.com/our-story

Ada Health, an example of an AI driven symptom analysis: https://ada.com

Counterfeit medicines: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/prescriptions-and-pharmacies/pharmacies/dangers-of-buying-medicines-online/

Overdiagnosis (there is a separate podcast episode on this topic): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430655/

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Learned helplessness - what it is and why it affects us

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 03:00:50 GMT

This is a phenomenon that occurs when someone stops trying to escape pain or bad situations.

It is linked to depression and there are certain risk factors for it.

In this episode I look at how it can just manifest and how to help yourself out of it.

Learned helplessness - Seligman et al: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4920136/

Link to depression and anxiety: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1185158/

The ABCDE model: https://www.verywellmind.com/learned-optimism-4174101

Cognitive distortions: https://psychcentral.com/lib/cognitive-distortions-negative-thinking#list-and-examples

Attribution testing: https://testyourself.psychtests.com/bin/transfer

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Self-control - why it isn't always easy and tips to improve it quickly

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 03:00:35 GMT

I struggle with this myself and am grateful to one of my listeners for suggesting it as a topic.

In this episode I look at the reasons why some people seem to do this with ease and others seem to find

it much harder and tools that can help us make it easier.

Links:

Delayed gratification - the benefits: https://jamesclear.com/delayed-gratification

Self-awareness: https://www.betterup.com/blog/what-is-self-awareness

Self regulation theory: http://changingminds.org/explanations/theories/self_regulation.htm

ADHD and impulse control: https://www.additudemag.com/adhd-impulse-control-social-spending/

Niksen: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/shortcuts/2019/jul/22/people-just-do-nothing-is-the-dutch-concept-of-niksen-the-best-way-to-relax

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Environment and health - how our surroundings can help or hinder our minds and bodies

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 03:00:49 GMT

Ever wonder what in our environment might affect our health? Often these things are ‘invisible’ or we are not consciously aware of them, but they can have a continued and profound effect on our health.

In this episode I look at some everyday environmental hazards and what we can do minimise their effects on us.

Links:

Air pollution: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7044178/

Paper on micro plastics and health: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7068600/

Diet and air pollution: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35179602/

Background to MI allergy: https://www.occderm.asn.au/health-professionals/epidemic-of-allergy-to-preservative-methylisothiazolinone-mi/

MI allergy and the effect of reducing it’s prevalence: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jdv.15875

Social media and mental health: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7785056/

Carbon monoxide poisoning: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/carbon-monoxide-poisoning/

Sick building syndrome and mould: https://academic.oup.com/mmy/article/47/Supplement_1/S217/1073035

Minimising air pollution in a city: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/health-35885569

Mercury in large fish: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/health-35884051

Prescribing Lifestyle Medicine: https://www.practiceunbound.org.uk/product/prescribinglifestylemedicine/home

The Health Fix (contains my health loop): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296/ref=nodl_?dplnkId=1ba53367-030f-4f3f-ad09-4a1fc81eadf5

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Longevity - the art of living well for a long time

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 03:00:22 GMT

Longevity seems to be in fashion at the moment. Almost everyone wants long and healthy lives but how can we achieve that? How long is too long?

In this episode I look at commonalities between the populations on earth that live the longest ‘best’ lives.

Links:

Blue Zones - Dan Buettner’s work with National Geographic:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6125071/

Smoking bans and how they change community behaviours:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33928714/

'Community Cure': https://www.newlocal.org.uk/articles/the-community-cure/

How disease increases with age: https://blogs.bmj.com/bmj/2018/02/01/richard-smith-doctors-and-patients-heading-in-opposite-directions/

The Health Fix: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296/ref=nodl_?dplnkId=1ba53367-030f-4f3f-ad09-4a1fc81eadf5

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The Placebo Effect - the safest drug in the world?

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 03:00:54 GMT

Most people have heard of the placebo effect but is it real and why does it occur?

In this episode I look at how placebos may exert their effects and some examples of where they have worked.

Is the placebo something that can be used to our advantage? And why do some people experience a nocebo?

Links:

Ted Kaptchuk and his work on placebo:

https://www.harvardmagazine.com/2013/01/the-placebo-phenomenon

Mechanisms of the placebo effect: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513296/

Knee surgery (placebo as good as surgery): https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa013259

Placebo and treatment resistant depression: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2784479

Nocebo: https://www.ox.ac.uk/news/science-blog/harmful-placebos

Balint and the doctor as a drug: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/the-power-rest/201103/the-doctor-is-drug?amp

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Motivation - how to get going

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 03:00:26 GMT

One of the hardest things people often find is to get going with things. How do you motivate yourself and how do you keep momentum going?

I have struggled with procrastination myself in the past.

In this episode I look at ways to make motivating yourself easier, the different drivers involved and what makes us tick when it comes to turning contemplation into action.

The science of motivation: https://www.apa.org/science/about/psa/2018/06/motivation

Daniel Pink on motivation: https://www.ted.com/talks/dan_pink_the_puzzle_of_motivation?language=en

How to motivate others with MI techniques https://motivationalinterviewing.org/understanding-motivational-interviewing

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Monkey Brain - our inner child and how to control it

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 03:00:57 GMT

Our monkey brain is the part of our brain that is impulsive and powerful, hijacking us when we are tired or stressed.

Ever regretted shouting at someone? Ever gorged yourself on food and then regretted it?

In this episode I explore why this happens, the links to our past experiences and our neuroanatomy.

Links:

Anatomy of the brain: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/anatomy-of-the-brain

Dopamine and impulsivity: https://www.jneurosci.org/content/30/26/8888

Schizophrenia and the amygdala: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-74771-w

Calming the monkey mind: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/the-empowerment-diary/201709/calming-the-monkey-mind

Prof Steve Peters work on this subject of the chimp or monkey brain: https://chimpmanagement.com/books-by-professor-steve-peters/the-chimp-paradox/

THE HEALTH FIX: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296

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Leadership - why it matters in modern society and what makes a good one

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 03:00:19 GMT

TW: (this episode mentions death)

Leadership takes many guises. Some people are born leaders and other have to learn it. What makes a good leader?

No business or organisation could survive without it and we know how bad leadership can damage organisations.

In this episode I look at types of leadership, the qualities of a good leader, what to do about toxic leaders and what sets a leader apart from other roles.

Links:

Understanding leadership: https://hbr.org/2004/01/understanding-leadership

12 types of leadership: https://www.usa.edu/blog/leadership-models/

Bad leadership: https://www.forbes.com/sites/mikemyatt/2012/10/18/15-ways-to-identify-bad-leaders/?sh=7f03512115da

Good leadership: https://www.ccl.org/articles/leading-effectively-articles/characteristics-good-leader/

Traits of successful leaders: https://www.forbes.com/sites/deeppatel/2017/03/22/11-powerful-traits-of-successful-leaders/?sh=5a85589e469f

The future of leadership: https://quantic.edu/blog/2022/08/05/the-future-of-leadership-in-2030-6-new-disruptive-trends/

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Managing change - an important skill for life

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 03:00:55 GMT

Change can be fun or stressful depending on what it is.

Until I did my GP training 20 years ago I didn’t realise that change needs to be managed. Change often happens ‘to’ us but we need to be mindful of how to manage it and particularly if we want to make changes for ourselves.

Links:

Bridges Transition model: https://wmbridges.com/about/what-is-transition/

Kotter’s Framework for change: https://www.kotterinc.com/methodology/8-steps/

The PDSA cycle: https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/qsir-pdsa-cycles-model-for-improvement.pdf

My IDEAL framework (at 29 minutes): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jhN12lmePQE

Order THE HEALTH FIX: https://rb.gy/uhvnxl

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THE HEALTH FIX - out now: the only health manual you will ever need

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 03:00:47 GMT

Thank you for your support with the release of THE HEALTH FIX which has become an instant bestseller on Amazon.

In this episode I dive into the method of the book by going over my own health story which was the catalyst for me writing it. I then look at The Health Loop which turns 'what' into ‘why’.

I hope it makes sense and remember to cross refer to previous episodes.

Links:

Re-activation of viruses in long COVID: https://www.news-medical.net/news/20221116/SARS-CoV-2-infection-triggers-reactivation-of-latent-viruses-in-people-with-chronic-fatigue-syndrome.aspx

The effects of sleep deprivation: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5449130/

The ‘when’ of eating: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6520689/

Stress and its effect on body function: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5579396/

NICE guidance on Vitamin D supplementation: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ph56

Buy THE HEALTH FIX now (UK): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296

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2023 - hopes and fears

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 14:53:38 GMT

Happy New Year!

In this episode I look at the different ways people approach a 'new year' and discuss the principles I use myself to get through what is undoubtedly a tough time in history.

A lot has happened over the past 2 years and we need a way of coming out of that.

What are your plans for 2023? I’d love to hear from you on my socials.

Links:

Have people changed since COVID? https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/sep/28/covid-might-have-changed-peoples-personalities-study-suggests

Sleep: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-hygiene/why-do-i-wake-up-at-the-same-time-every-night

Generalism and why I think it is crucial to society: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ST6XEDcD_C4

My book THE HEALTH FIX: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Antibiotics - life saving double edged sword

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 03:00:51 GMT

Today’s episode is on antibiotics. The balance between increasing resistance and lack of effectiveness and saving lives is increasingly difficult to navigate.

Antibiotic resistance: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/antimicrobial-resistance

Longer term effects of antibiotics: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32319703/

Vitamin D and sepsis: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6377223/

Sepsis information: https://www.sepsis.org/sepsis-basics/what-is-sepsis/

Invasive group A strep info iGAS - a particular type of group A strep: https://www.england.nhs.uk/publication/group-a-strep/

Health Freaks trailer 2013: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hEGH4hfxMfU

Turmeric and infection: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326809

THE HEALTH FIX: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296

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Cancer - 101

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 03:00:29 GMT

TW: Today’s episode is on cancer which will affect one in two people.

I look at the different types, the variables that cause it, whether there are ways of preventing cancer and also why some cancers are common and others not.

Links:

How cancer starts: https://www.nature.com/scitable/topicpage/cell-division-and-cancer-14046590/

Why are cancers on the rise?: https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2022/09/researchers-report-dramatic-rise-in-early-onset-cancers/

The commonest cancers: https://www.healthline.com/health/most-common-cancers

Viruses and cancer: https://www.cancer.org/healthy/cancer-causes/infectious-agents/infections-that-can-lead-to-cancer/viruses.html

David Servan-Schreiber, the author of *anti-cancer* (survived over 20 years after being given 3 months to live): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VNjuBgHIAw

RAS genes and signalling: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fonc.2019.00965/full

Dr Carl June and CAR T cell therapy: https://www.pennmedicine.org/news/news-releases/2022/november/car-t-cell-therapy-reaches-beyond-cancer

Macmillan Cancer Support: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/

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Prevention - making it easy

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 03:00:58 GMT

This episode is about prevention. What do we mean by it and how can we make prevention accessible?

There is prevention on a public health level but also we take precautions as individuals.

I look at examples of both and try to separate out the different types plus a living example of prevention at work (Dr David Unwin).

Links:

Global patterns of disease: https://ourworldindata.org/burden-of-disease

Non-communicable disease: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/noncommunicable-diseases

Leading causes of global mortality: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/the-top-10-causes-of-death

The DASH diet: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/dash-diet/art-20048456

Turmeric and Alzheimer’s Disease: https://actaneurocomms.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40478-018-0577-2

Press ups and heart disease: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2724778

Dr David Unwin and his work on diabetes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OlKDM3SDHPA

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Personalised Medicine - it's already here

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 03:00:23 GMT

Personalised medicine is the future. We live in a world of AI and machine learning and the expectation of medicine is to be more precise. Can we get half way there ourselves by thinking about things a certain way? How do we get to the root cause?

Leroy Hood: https://isbscience.org/bio/leroy-hood/

P4 medicine: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4204402/

The counterpoint to P4 medicine: https://academic.oup.com/jalm/article/4/1/108/5603054

David Unwin’s work on type 2 diabetes: https://collegeofmedicine.org.uk/our-beyond-pills-campaign-dr-david-unwin-on-beating-diabetes-with-diet-and-how-his-own-merseyside-practice-has-saved-68000-a-year-on-drugs/

Group consultations:

https://www.england.nhs.uk/gp/case-studies/group-consultations-together-patients-are-stronger/

Leafyard: AI driven mental health app (COI: I am in a partnership with Leafyard): https://www.leafyard.com/healthfix

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Teamwork - the secrets of great teamship

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 03:00:34 GMT

Why is teamwork important? Are teams all they’re cracked up to be? What makes a good team? Is it personalities, culture or beyond?

In the episode I look at what makes teams work and what factors to consider when creating an effective team.

Do listen right to the end until I get to the bit where you I leave you with some thoughts as I'd love to hear your analysis

Links:

Hackman’s five factor model: http://www.free-management-ebooks.com/faqld/development-03.htm

Why teams don’t work: https://hbr.org/2009/05/why-teams-dont-work

Belbin - Dr Meredith Belbin’s tool used commonly to work out what your role in a team might be: https://www.belbin.com

A story of teams trying something different: https://willitmaketheboatgofaster.com/about/

"Forming, norming, storming and performing": https://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newLDR_86.htm

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Toxic people

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 03:00:25 GMT

TW: I talk about manipulation and harm in relationships.

Toxic people drain us. Is it 'them' or their behaviours?

Many people develop these toxic behaviours because of their early life. In this episode I discuss the features to look out for and what we can do about them.

Toxic traits: https://www.betterup.com/blog/toxic-traits

Toxic people - another view: https://www.purewow.com/wellness/traits-of-toxic-people

Everyday narcissism: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/the-author-speaks/201708/everyday-narcissism

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Allergies

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 02:00:39 GMT

Allergies are on the rise and can range from mild to life threatening.

In this episode I look at how they originate, why they are increasing in prevalence and what we can do about it.

The show notes and links below contain texting methods and some of the many themes covered in this episode.

(TW: I talk about a case of life threatening anaphylaxis).

Links:

The allergic cascade: https://www.medicinenet.com/allergic_cascade/article.htm

Cows Milk Allergy - IgE and non-IgE: https://www.allergyuk.org/about-allergy/allergy-in-childhood/cows-milk-allergy/

Peanut allergy - the LEAP study: https://www.leapstudy.co.uk

Anaphylaxis: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/anaphylaxis/

The Hygiene Hypothesis - outdated?: https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1700688114

Rook and the Old Friends Hypothesis: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3868387/

Gut flora and allergies: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/gut-microbes-may-be-key-to-solving-food-allergies/

Intolerances: https://www.allergyuk.org/about-allergy/allergy-vs-intolerance/

Vitamin D and allergy: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4369152/

Immunotherapy: https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/fact-sheet/allergen-immunotherapy/

MI allergy: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4689087/

Testing methods for allergies: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/allergy-testing

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Depression and anxiety

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 02:00:03 GMT

Both of these potentially debilitating conditions are often experienced together and affect up to 1 in 4 people at any time.

In this episode I look at the underlying reasons, what we can do about them and how to approach depression and anxiety practically.

Links:

NHS waiting list: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/health/nhs-mental-health-waiting-list-b2145432.html

Definitions and statistics: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/statistics-and-facts-about-mental-health/how-common-are-mental-health-problems/

The genetic basis of depression: https://journals.lww.com/hrpjournal/fulltext/2015/01000/genetic_determinants_of_depression__recent.1.aspx

DNA methylation and depression: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6362194/

NICE guidance and treatment of depression: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng222

CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy): https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/talking-therapies-medicine-treatments/talking-therapies-and-counselling/cognitive-behavioural-therapy-cbt/overview/

Adolescent depression: https://www.hindawi.com/journals/drt/2020/5951792/

Cultural influences on mental health: https://pha.berkeley.edu/2017/04/16/cultural-influences-on-mental-health/

Box breathing: https://www.healthline.com/health/box-breathing

Mindfulness (being in the moment): https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/drugs-and-treatments/mindfulness/about-mindfulness/

The Power of Now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Power-Now-Guide-Spiritual-Enlightenment/dp/0340733500

Pre-order my book now: THE HEALTH FIX > https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296

Leafyard (CBT based app): Leayard.com/actnow

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Jealousy

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 02:00:21 GMT

Jealousy is something most of us have experienced from both sides.

In this episode I look at the different types of jealousy, the reasons behind it, and discuss whether it can be ‘normal’ or not.

The evolutionary psychology of jealousy: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5609545/

Jealousy in the first year of life: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5302134/

Othello syndrome: https://www.medicinenet.com/othello_syndrome/definition.htm

Famous examples of jealousy from books and films: https://blog.ted.com/9-memorable-manic-moments-of-jealousy-in-literature/

Keeping up with the Joneses: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26190653/

Managing jealousy and abusive behaviours: https://respectphoneline.org.uk/resources/resources-for-perpetrators/factsheets-hp/managing-jealousy/

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Self-care

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 02:00:21 GMT

Self-care sounds pretty obvious but is it? There are so many definitions of self-care and here I make the argument that it is actually totally individual.

We know the public health messaging around the basics such as alcohol, smoking, diet, exercise and sleep, but self-care goes way beyond these.

What do you think of as self-care? We explore more in this episode.

Links:

The Health Fix (pre-order): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Transform-Your-Weeks/dp/1914239296

The self-care continuum: https://www.selfcareforum.org/about-us/what-do-we-mean-by-self-care-and-why-is-good-for-people/

The benefits of exercise: https://inews.co.uk/inews-lifestyle/exercise-benefits-weekend-two-days-1874641

Garlic ; )

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7570905/

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30487558/

Maslow’s hierarchy: https://www.masterclass.com/articles/a-guide-to-the-5-levels-of-maslows-hierarchy-of-needs

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A good death

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 02:00:30 GMT

TW: Today’s episode covers death.

What is a good death and is it important?

In my work I see examples of good and bad deaths depending on how it is perceived by those who bear witness to it and those left behind.

I discuss whether death planning is something we should talk about more as a society as death is an inevitable part of life.

Links:

BMJ article - A good death: https://www.bmj.com/content/320/7228/129

Elisabeth Kubler-Ross: https://www.ekrfoundation.org/elisabeth-kubler-ross/quotes/

Euthanasia: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8857436/

Merope Mills article:

https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2022/sep/03/13-year-old-daughter-dead-in-five-weeks-hospital-mistakes

Marie Curie (end of life care charity): https://www.mariecurie.org.uk/blog/we-cant-prevent-death/153956

Death planning: https://www.mariecurie.org.uk/talkabout/articles/get-your-planning-checklist/260241

Why smell is so evocative: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3782615/

Puja flowers (my favourite smell): https://www.thedailystar.net/lifestyle/spotlight/flowers-my-goddess-159139

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Feedback - how to give it, how to take it and what to do with it

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 02:00:49 GMT

Feedback is a part of everyday life.

It is used in most industries as a learning tool but is it help or hindrance?

Here I look at types of feedback and how we can give and receive it better.

Links:

Building a feedback culture: https://hbr.org/2013/12/building-a-feedback-rich-culture

Pendleton feedback rules: https://www.thecoach.zone/a-method-of-delivering-a-great-feedback-session-pendletons-rules/

Giving feedback effectively: https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/how-to-give-feedback-effectively

Types of feedback: https://www.betterup.com/blog/types-of-feedback

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Failure - an essential part of success?

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 02:00:00 GMT

Failure and feelings of failure are common. Where do they come form? Why do some people feel like failures when others don’t?

I explore this and ways to combat feelings of failure in our lives.

Schema: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F624Baz-Vzk

Human failure and its types: https://www.hse.gov.uk/humanfactors/topics/types.pdf

Failure is essential for success: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/failure-found-to-be-an-essential-prerequisite-for-success/

My musings on failure - BMJ 2003: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC261763/

Leafyard app - one of many CBT based apps which can help with false beliefs: https://www.leafyard.com/actnow

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Burnout - spot the signs and stop it in it's tracks

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 02:00:58 GMT

TW:

This is a topic close to my heart having had colleagues and friends succumb to it. In the UK it has never been a harder time to be a doctor, but it’s not about us - burnout can affect anyone.

I hope you find the episode and these links useful.

Burnout - a paper by Prof Maslach: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4911781/

Burnout and the brain: https://www.psychologicalscience.org/observer/burnout-and-the-brain

Burnout recovery tips: https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/burnout-recovery#assessment

Dr Claire Ashley, burnout survivor and coach: https://www.drclaireashley.com

Dr Kim Hires, TikTok burnout coach: https://www.tiktok.com/@drkimhires?is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1

For anyone working in the NHS who feels they need help for burnout: https://www.practitionerhealth.nhs.uk

Micro breaks: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/10-minute-micro-breaks-may-help-prevent-worker-burnout-study-finds

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Mentoring - the power of giving back through a magical relationship

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 02:00:23 GMT

This episode is about mentoring which I think is much needed in the world today. Many of us will have had incredible mentors who selflessly give up their time and knowledge in order to help others.

I feel it is a way of paying it forward and that both mentors and mentees to help each other grow and learn.

Beyond Ed Peile who I mention in the episode I would like to acknowledge and thank Jon Fowler, Mark Allen, Julian Godlee and my late father for their inimitable ability to mentor, inspire and transform others.

Links:

The power of mentorship: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8406889/

Mentorship behaviours: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8406889/

Mentoring for UK doctors: https://www.bma.org.uk/advice-and-support/career-progression/mentoring/mentoring-for-doctors

The 5 stages of mentoring: https://www.nihr.ac.uk/documents/phases-of-the-mentoring-relationship/27693

Ed Peile: https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/sci/med/staff/peile/

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Singing - the healthy hobby?

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 02:00:13 GMT

Singing is something close to my heart and I feel it does not get enough attention for it’s

multiple health benefits.

It is accessible to so many and is an easy thing to take up and enjoy.

In this episode I explore the benefits to almost every body system which singing can confer.

Links:

Social prescribing: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/12/26/nhs-should-prescribe-tango-dancing-book-clubs-not-pill-every/

The vagus nerve: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318128

Alexander technique: https://alexandertechnique.com/

Breathing and singing: https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/common-misconceptions-breath-support-singing-1872/

Singing and COPD: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/health-25237125

Singing and cortisol: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4854222/

Immunity and singing (in a choir): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15669447/

The effect of singing on pain: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/147470491201000403

Effect on memory and cognition: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/02/210210133432.htm

Bereavement and singing: https://spcare.bmj.com/content/early/2019/06/26/bmjspcare-2018-001642

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Triage - how we work out who needs healthcare and attention first and foremost

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 02:00:27 GMT

Triage is increasingly being used in healthcare outside the emergency setting to help filter urgent from non-urgent.

With the growing use of artificial intelligence, triage algorithms are becoming more reliable. I look at the pros and cons of triage from the view point of both patient and practitioner.

Links:

Triage and it’s background: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5649292/

Continuity of care: https://www.bmj.com/content/375/bmj.n2468

And article on the ethics of triage:

https://www.vox.com/platform/amp/coronavirus-covid19/2020/3/31/21199721/coronavirus-covid-19-hospitals-triage-rationing-italy-new-york

Sample triage protocol: https://www.medicalprotection.org/ireland/practice-matters/may-2014/example-triage-protocol-for-non-clinical-staff

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Gut symptoms - how to make sense of them

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 02:00:55 GMT

In this episode I look at symptoms affecting the gut. They are one of the most common presentations in

general practice.

Most of us experience some kind of gastrointestinal symptom at some point in our lives. I delve into my understanding on how the gut works and how and why things can go wrong and what we can do to help ourselves.

Links:

Mintel gastrointestinal problems data: https://www.mintel.com/press-centre/beauty-and-personal-care/86-of-brits-have-suffered-from-a-gastrointestinal-problem-in-the-past-year/amp

Mintel article on gut health determinants: https://www.mintel.com/blog/food-market-news/gut-health-goes-beyond-digestion/amp

Ultra-processed foods: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7399967/

Aryl-hydrocarbon receptor: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5777317/

Short chain fatty acids: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fendo.2020.00025/full

Diet and reflux disease: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6702398/

H. pylori infection and reflux disease: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6502218/

Low FODMAP diets: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33585949/

Probiotics and their potential role in reflux disease: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7019778/

SIBO and IBS - is there a link?: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29761234/

Gallstones and SIBO:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29392773/

A review of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohns and Ulcerative colitis): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6685307/

‘Red flag’ gut symptoms needing medical assessment: https://bowelinterestgroup.co.uk/resources/red-flag-symptoms-in-gi-conditions/

Diverticulitis: Diverticulitis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, Surgery (healthline.com)

The popular ‘4 R’s of gut health’: https://thenutritionalinstitute.com/resources/blog/292-the-4-r-s-of-gut-health

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Prejudice and inclusion

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 02:00:59 GMT

*TW* Today’s episode is on a topic which affects us all.

Prejudice, bias and inclusion are all ongoing hot topics which can affect our wellbeing, how we feel about ourselves and our experience of the world.

Here I look at the reasons why it is such a complex area to navigate and not as simple as it should be.

There are some anecdotes on this episode that might be difficult to listen to.

Links:

Protected characteristics: https://www.equalityhumanrights.com/en/equality-act/protected-characteristics

A paper on similarities and differences in people and their perceptions: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.00849/full

Health inequalities and gender: https://eurohealthnet.eu/publication/gender-health-and-inequalities-before-and-after-the-pandemic-where-we-go-from-here/

Microsoft video training on bias and inclusion: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/inclusion-journey/learn

Medical regulators and racism: https://blogs.bmj.com/bmj/2021/06/29/racism-and-the-general-medical-council/

The 2004 film Crash that cleverly gets under the belly of prejudice and bias: https://youtu.be/DEJH0hEoHc4

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Behaviour Change 2 - the IDEAL framework from my book THE HEALTH FIX

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 02:00:21 GMT

This framework that I have created helps turn what is in your mind into action.

IDEAL:

Identify, Define, Engage, Activate and Look Back

One of the hardest things can be to turn intentions into reality. This simple framework along with the work of known behavioural theory experts can help implement your behaviour change intentions.

Links:

BJ Fogg behaviour model: https://behaviormodel.org/

Susan Michie and COM-B: https://implementationscience.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1748-5908-6-42

Pre-order your copy of The Health Fix now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Ayan-Panja-ebook/dp/B0B2VTFFVS/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1655897648&refinements=p_27%3AAyan+Panja&s=books&sr=1-1

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Brain health and Alzheimer’s Disease

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 02:00:51 GMT

*TW*

This is such a trenchant topic and I wanted to cover it for so many reasons.

Most of us get some kind of brain symptom at times but it is short lived, but that is not the case for many people. Alzheimer’s Disease is the commonest form of dementia affecting over 60% of all dementia sufferers worldwide.

This episode looks at the determinants of brain health and the aetiology of Alzheimer’s Disease.

Links:

Facts, figures and information on dementia: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia

Food and brain health: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-brain-foods (did not focus on this in the episode but in case you want to know more).

Brain health and food chat with @Doctors_Kitchen: https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/the-doctors/8-eat-to-boost-your-brain-W4eh8cIyNHf/

The hippocampus and memory: https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/alz.12009

Association between diabetes and Alzheimer's Disease: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4265876/

The ApoE gene: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnins.2021.630502/full

Cognitive stimulation therapy: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5639131/

Alzheimer’s support: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/

101 on Alzheimer’s Disease - what it is and it’s pathology: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-happens-brain-alzheimers-disease

Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease: https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/dementia-information/types-of-dementia/alzheimers-disease/treatments/

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Drill down, Diary up

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 02:00:44 GMT

Sometimes in order to get to the underlying reason behind symptoms that may arise from your lifestyle and environment.

It is a way of dissecting an area that may need more focus, for instance: diet, environment, movement, sunlight exposure, sleep, historic infections and your family history.

They are good tools to use if you are not making huge progress with conventional habit changes.

Links:

Some benefits of a health diary: https://blog.vantagefit.io/health-diary/

Caffeine overload? https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/caffeine-side-effects

Fish in your diet - risks and benefits: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/health-35884051

Methylisothiazolinone and skin: https://mi-free.com/

Back pain and posture: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3828513/

Foot shapes: https://www.healthline.com/health/types-of-feet#pronation-and-supination

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Self talk - why it's so important in our daily lives

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 02:00:22 GMT

Self talk is something we all do. It’s how communicate with ourselves and it can have a significant

impact on our health.

In this episode I give examples of cognitive distortions which can lead to poor self esteem, false beliefs and negative thinking.

Links:

Cognitive distortions and CBT: https://positivepsychology.com/cognitive-distortions/

Monkey brain: https://www.forbes.com/sites/alicegwalton/2017/02/28/8-science-based-tricks-for-quieting-the-monkey-mind/?sh=699868ec1af6

Self help therapies and mental health apps: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/talking-therapies-medicine-treatments/talking-therapies-and-counselling/self-help-therapies/

There are many mental health apps which may be of benefit and there is also scope for doing CBT online. Disclosure: I am medical adviser to a web-based app called Leafyard which is AI driven and based on CBT: Leafyard.com/actnow

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Overwhelm - how to deal with it

Fri, 27 May 2022 02:00:29 GMT

This week I cover the topic of overwhelm, suggested by a listener.

It’s a feeling we all know and dislike. I try to get under its belly and look at the causes behind it as well

as solutions to minimise the chance of it arising.

Links:

Overhelm and burnout: https://careerpivot.com/2020/overwhelm-and-burnout-whats-the-difference-guest-post/

Saying no: https://tinybuddha.com/blog/stop-saying-yes-want-say-no/

Perfectionism and its pitfalls: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20180219-toxic-perfectionism-is-on-the-rise

Anxiety and overwhelm: https://www.calmclinic.com/anxiety/symptoms/feeling-overwhelmed

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Supplements - how they work and do we actually need them?

Fri, 20 May 2022 02:00:00 GMT

This week I discuss supplements. It’s a veritable minefield.

How do you know the quality of what you are taking?

Are there some supplements that are essential and others that should be avoided?

I give you my take on all this and more in this episode.

Links:

Vitamin D NICE guidance: https://www.guidelines.co.uk/nutrition/nice-vitamin-d-guideline/252552.article

Types of vitamin D: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitamin-d2-vs-d3

B12 deficiency symptoms: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitamin-b12-deficiency-symptoms

Do probiotics work? https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/do-probiotics-really-work/

Digestive enzymes: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/digestive-enzymes-and-digestive-enzyme-supplements

Antioxidants: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2020.00694/full

A great go to resource for truly independent analyses and views on supplementation: https://examine.com/supplements/

Signs of nutrient deficiency: https://www.rush.edu/news/6-signs-nutrient-deficiency

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How? What? When?

Fri, 13 May 2022 02:00:16 GMT

The How, What and When of our habits can have significant effects on our health.

Here are some papers on related topics. The abstracts make interesting reading.

Time restricted eating - changing when you eat: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7262456/

Sleep - the how and when: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3174832/

Morning exercise: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7492403/

Weblink for exercise: https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/best-time-to-workout#The-Case-for-Sweating-in-the-Afternoon,-or-Night

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Small changes - the power of adding in and removing

Fri, 06 May 2022 02:00:35 GMT

In this episode I cover the concept of adding in and removing. It seems devilishly simple but can have profound effects on health.

This is one of many concepts I cover in my book which is out in January 2023.

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Introducing The Health Fix - my book that will change your life for the better

Fri, 06 May 2022 02:00:12 GMT

My book The Health Fix launches next January in 2023 and I submitted my draft last month. I wanted to let listeners know about what inspired the book and how it might be of help.

It is a toolkit for self care like no other (in my opinion)! I will be sharing some vignettes from it over the next few weeks which I hope you enjoy.

Links:

Pre-order The Health Fix: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Health-Fix-Ayan-Panja-ebook/dp/B0B2VTFFVS/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_nodl?qid=1655897648&refinements=p_27%3AAyan+Panja&s=books&sr=1-1

Monkey brain: https://www.stress.org/please-meet-your-monkey-mind

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Relationships - keeping them healthy

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 00:21:29 GMT

Relationships (good ones) are essential to our lives. What do they go wrong and what factors are at play?

How do we sustain them and what are the basic underlying pillars that make or break them?

They need work and attention and there are many ways of looking at them.

Links:

Psychotherapist Esther Perel: https://www.estherperel.com/

Transactional analysis and the work of Eric Berne: https://ericberne.com/

Dysfunctional relationships: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/rediscovering-love/201401/is-your-relationship-dysfunctional

How to improve relationships: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/mate-relate-and-communicate/201412/10-ways-improve-any-relationship

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Loneliness - the epidemic no-one talks about

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 00:04:40 GMT

This episode is about loneliness. Why is loneliness an issue? What are the different types of loneliness and how do we define them?

I look at this huge issue which is a global issue that can be deceptively hard to identify.

Loneliness by country: https://www.statista.com/statistics/1222815/loneliness-among-adults-by-country/

Social isolation and health: https://www.cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html

Loneliness can be as bad as smoking 15 cigarettes a day: https://www.inc.com/amy-morin/americas-loneliness-epidemic-is-more-lethal-than-smoking-heres-what-you-can-do-to-combat-isolation.html

Intergenerational connection: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2018/nov/12/children-care-homes-residents-feel-more-human

Seal (Killer - live in Paris): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V5xAyX_U2GM

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Empathy - why it is so important in healthcare

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 23:50:40 GMT

Today’s episode is all about empathy.

Is it valued in today’s society? Is it important to us as human beings and what does it mean to you?

Health care and the role of empathy: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7151200/

Physician empathy and patient satisfaction: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/physician-empathy-a-key-driver-of-patient-satisfaction-300228070.html

The three types of empathy: https://www.inc.com/justin-bariso/there-are-actually-3-types-of-empathy-heres-how-they-differ-and-how-you-can-develop-them-all.html

Some evidence that social media may actually marginally improve empathy (no causality): https://www.researchgate.net/publication/336326078_Social_Media_Use_and_Empathy_A_Mini_Meta-Analysis

An expert view on empathy and reasons for it decreasing: https://genius.com/Dr-sara-h-konrath-why-is-empathy-decreasing-annotated

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Time - commodity, luxury or burden?

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 01:33:55 GMT

This week’s episode is all about time. The pandemic, people’s loss and the state of the world right now has brought time into sharp focus. Is it really the only thing that matters? I talk about ways that I have managed to see time in a different way and share some perspectives on how we might look at it and mould it to suit our own lives.

Links:

Myths about time management: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2018/11/05/11-time-management-myths-that-are-hurting-your-productivity/?sh=2fbb64254f80

Time management grid (leaving everything to the last minute makes it become urgent and important):

https://weekplan.net/academy/weekly-planning/4-quadrants-of-time-management

Time perspectives: https://psychcentral.com/lib/whats-your-time-perspective#1

Volunteering: https://worksmart.org.uk/news/any-volunteers-how-giving-your-free-time-good-your-career

Ferris Bueller: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vsYBtfQ3QDo

ABC method and time management grid: https://s3.wp.wsu.edu/uploads/sites/471/2019/08/Prioritization-Methods.pdf

A great conversation between Sadiq Khan and Alistair Campbell: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qeA-7oS1Lhk

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Language and meaning - more important now than ever

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 23:13:02 GMT

Language is important in all walks of life and has changed hugely over the years because

of how humans communicate.

In this episode I look at its importance and its role in health and medicine, nuances in language and how we can try to work out what someone means from what they say.

You can cross reference to my episode on Consultations which overlaps with this nicely and covers the way in which we communicate.

Links:

Rita Charon's work on narrative medicine: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1949238/

John Launer’s 7 C’s: https://www.gp-training.net/communication-skills/communication-skills-theory/narrative-based-medicine/

Interesting paper on language, culture and medicine: https://escholarship.umassmed.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1060&context=fmch_articles

Pragmatics in language: https://all-about-linguistics.group.shef.ac.uk/branches-of-linguistics/pragmatics/what-is-pragmatics/

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The power of perspective - without it we lose context

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 01:23:42 GMT

This episode is all about perspective.

How can we improve our ability to look at other’s points of view and

why is it so important?

Can we avoid conflict by being mindful about language and behaviours?

Protected characteristics: https://www.equalityhumanrights.com/en/equality-act/protected-characteristics

Taking perspective:https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/the-power-personal-narrative/201906/the-power-perspective-taking

Perceptual positions: https://www.brilliantminds.co.uk/video-perceptual-positions/

The age of the individual?: https://www.theguardian.com/books/2020/jan/16/the-age-of-the-individual-must-end-tom-oliver-the-self-delusion

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Wellbeing - what's it all about?

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 01:21:33 GMT

We know what wellbeing means - or do we?

What does it really mean and how do we acknowledge and make it a priority at work and in our

lives?

One of my friends triggered this episode having been unsure how to acknowledge and accommodate wellbeing at work.

In this episode we look at the determinants of wellbeing and how to take practical steps to improve yours.

Links:

World Health Organisation: https://www.who.int/about/governance/constitution

Various wellbeing wheels: rb.gy/pxbmfq

What Works Wellbeing: https://whatworkswellbeing.org/resources/wellbeing-evidence-at-the-heart-of-policy/

Educating Ruby by Claxton and Lucas: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Educating-Ruby-Children-Really-Learn/dp/1845909542

Wellbeing stories (for children): https://www.wellbeingstories.com/

AI driven mental health app for which I am medical adviser: https://www.leafyard.com/actnow

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Medical Myths - busted and validated

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 00:18:12 GMT

Today I’ll be looking at medical myths. It’s a fascinating area which most of us will be able to relate to.

How many times have you found yourself saying we only use 10% of our brains

or that you should feed a cold and starve a fever?

I’d love to hear your experiences of this via Insta, Twitter, LinkedIn or FB.

Here are some links based on the show for more info:

Do we only use 10% of our brains? https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20121112-do-we-only-use-10-of-our-brains

Is crossing your legs bad for you? https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20151013-is-crossing-your-legs-bad-for-you

Greying hair: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/06/210622154339.htm

Feed a cold, starve a fever? https://www.healthline.com/health/feed-a-cold-starve-a-fever

Health Freaks 2013: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hEGH4hfxMfU

Garlic and libido (a study): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24844765/

An apple a day keeps the doctor away: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2210883

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Diagnosis (and overdiagnosis) - the challenges and pitfalls

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 00:22:06 GMT

Today’s episode is about medical diagnosis. It’s a tricky business and

as patients we want to make sure the diagnosis is as accurate as possible without

something being missed or the opposite - the risk of overtreatment.

I look at the role of screening and talk through some of the challenges we face as both patients and

clinicians.

Links:

Improving diagnosis: https://www.improvediagnosis.org/stories/ (USA based)

Screening and ethics which govern it in the NHS: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-nsc-ethical-framework-for-screening/uk-nsc-ethical-framework-for-screening

“Too much medicine”: https://www.bmj.com/too-much-medicine

Overdiagnosis: https://www.bmj.com/content/362/bmj.k2820

Ivan Illich and his Medical Nemesis: https://www.rcpe.ac.uk/sites/default/files/jrcpe_46_2_omahony_0.pdf

Achenbach syndrome (just FYI): https://casereports.bmj.com/content/13/9/e238156

Medically unexplained symptoms: https://bjgp.org/content/67/656/106

Bill Turnbull documentary: https://www.channel4.com/programmes/bill-turnbull-staying-alive

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Impostor Syndrome - sound familiar? You are probably not alone

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 02:00:23 GMT

Impostor syndrome affects up to 70% of people and I see it so often that I wanted to look at what it is, where it came from and what we can do about it.

It’s a fascinating phenomenon which once uncovered can lead to self-exploration and changing our thoughts.

Links:

The imposter phenomenon in high achieving women: Dynamics and therapeutic intervention. Psychotherapy: Theory, Research & Practice, 15(3), 241–247:

https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1979-26502-001

Latest large scale review study on Impostor syndrome: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7174434/

Dr Valerie Young: https://impostorsyndrome.com/

An article I wrote many years ago:

"Failures can be the pillars of success”:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC261763/

CBT techniques which may help: https://www.healthline.com/health/cognitive-restructuring

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Medical Errors - why they happen and how we prevent them

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 02:00:34 GMT

Medical errors are common and need to be minimised. They are the 3rd commonest cause of death in the USA.

In this episode I look at why these errors happen and what we can do to prevent them.

Links:

Patient safety (WHO): https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/patient-safety

Surgical safety checklist (WHO): https://www.who.int/teams/integrated-health-services/patient-safety/research/safe-surgery/tool-and-resources

Martin Bromiley’s charity looking at human factors: https://chfg.org/chfg-history/

PIP implant update: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-57179180

Consent: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/consent-to-treatment/

PALS (NHS): https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/hospitals/what-is-pals-patient-advice-and-liaison-service/

HealthWatch: https://www.healthwatch.co.uk/what-we-do

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Grief and Bereavement - can anything prepare us for it?

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 02:00:21 GMT

This episode is about grief and bereavement.

It is different for everyone but I share my own experience of it here.

Links:

The Kubler-Ross stages of grief: https://www.healthline.com/health/stages-of-grief

Transgenerational grief: https://www.griefrecoverymethod.com/blog/2018/01/transgenerational-grief

Theories on grief: https://griefjourney.co.uk/startjourney/for-professionals-and-caregivers/articles-for-professionals-and-caregivers/theories-of-grief/

General bereavement support: cruse.org.uk

Support for grieving children: https://www.winstonswish.org/

Support for grieving parents: https://www.careforthefamily.org.uk/family-life/bereavement-support/bereaved-parent-support

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R*silience in the modern world - what it really means

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 02:00:51 GMT

What exactly is resilience?

Is it more than being able to recover from adversity or stresses?

It’s a term that has annoyed me in the past so I wanted to get under it’s belly and explore where it came from beyond flexibility and adaptability in thinking or

handling stressful situations.

The work of Emmy Werner fascinates me and I try to draw out her key findings.

Summary article by Dr Werner: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/1054139X92901577

Dr Werner’s longitudinal study: https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1111%2Fj.1939-0025.1989.tb01636.x

Resilience in healthcare: https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/10/1/e031765

Mayo Clinic tips on resilence: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/resilience-training/in-depth/resilience/art-20046311

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Lifestyle Prescriptions - learn how to change your life by prescribing lifestyle medicine

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 02:45:51 GMT

Today I’ll be talking about Lifestyle Prescriptions, covering what they are and how you can make a start on generating them for yourself starting with The Symptom Web® - a really simple concept which I devised and continue to teach on Prescribing Lifestyle Medicine

Prescribing Lifestyle Medicine: https://www.practiceunbound.org.uk/product/prescribinglifestylemedicine/home

Gut flora and antibiotics: https://atlasbiomed.com/blog/probiotics-after-antibiotics/

Caffeine and migraines: https://www.healthline.com/health/migraine/caffeine-migraine

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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Consultations - the sacred zone of the doctor-patient relationship

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 02:05:00 GMT

This episode is all about consultations, their history, evolution and how to get the most out of them with your health care practitioners.

Dr Michael Balint: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1464079/

Dr Milton Erickson: https://www.erickson-foundation.org/

Continuity of care: https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/8/6/e021161

The Patient Revolution: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07Q8YTYTG/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1

Consulting models for GPs: https://www.gponline.com/consultation-models-practice/article/988629

Person centred care and social prescribing: https://www.rcgp.org.uk/clinical-and-research/our-programmes/about-person-centred-care.aspx

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Invisible illnesses - they are real even if we can't see them

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 02:00:11 GMT

Today we're talking all about invisible illnesses, in particular long covid and the explosion in the need for mental health support.

Here are some links that might be of interest:

Mental health information: mind.org.uk

ZOE: https://covid.joinzoe.com/

Long Covid: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng188

A ‘pacing’ resource: https://www.torbayandsouthdevon.nhs.uk/uploads/24053.pdf

High blood pressure: https://www.healthline.com/health/high-blood-pressure-hypertension#overview

Rolling with resistance - https://sbirt.publichealthcloud.com/resources/images/MI%20Strategy%20-%20Roll%20with%20Resistance%20-%20Updated.pdf

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Behaviour Change - using the tools we need to make the changes we want

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 02:00:49 GMT

Welcome to episode one of Saving Lives In Slow Motion.

Today I'll be talking about behaviour change, whether it's giving up smoking, exercising more or just spending less time on your phone - making a change can be difficult.

I share the real reasons people change their behaviours and how you can too.

Show notes:

Here are some links that might be on interest.

BJ Fogg’s simple but effective method on behaviour change: https://tinyhabits.com/start-tiny/

Experts, including myself, talking about behaviour change during the pandemic: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m000mzm7

Neuroplasticity - how the brain changes as your behaviours change: https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-brain-plasticity-2794886

For more from me click here

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Trailer

Sat, 29 May 2021 19:13:04 GMT

Dr Ayan Panja shares his perspective on the most important themes which impact our health & wellbeing and ponders on what we can do to improve our own health journeys. Bite-sized enriching episodes with an informal laid back tone which to make you sit back, think and create change.

Save your life in slow motion and those of others by subscribing now and sharing. Thank you for listening and for your support. It means a lot to me.

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