The Wellness Scoop

This week we’re breaking down the science behind staying well as cold and flu season hits, from what actually helps you recover faster to why balance, not “boosting,” is the secret to a strong immune system. We dig into new research on the planetary health diet, the flexible, plant-rich way of eating that could save 40,000 lives a day, and ask whether it could be the key to both personal and planetary health. Plus, we look at the growing call for caution on supplements, why doctors say we’re taking too many pills and what to focus on instead, and separate fact from fiction in the online debate about rapeseed oil. Pre order Rhi's new book, The Fibre Formula: ⁠⁠⁠https://geni.us/TheFibreFormula [https://geni.us/TheFibreFormula] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices [https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices]

This week we’re diving into one of the biggest health conversations of the year as we explore GLP 1 weight loss drugs. From Ozempic to Wegovy these medications have changed how we think about food, weight and willpower but they’ve also raised big questions about what healthy really means. Dr Jack Mosley joins us to unpack the science behind these drugs, the truth about food noise, muscle loss and long term side effects, and what happens when you stop taking them. We also look at natural ways to support GLP 1 function through diet and lifestyle. As these drugs become more accessible and more widely marketed are they a genuine breakthrough or another quick fix in disguise https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/jack-mosley/food-noise/9781804193341/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices [https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices]

This week we’re exploring the connection between what you eat and how you feel, from mood-boosting fibre to the foods that help sharpen focus and protect brain health. We unpack new research showing how high-intensity exercise fuels cognitive function and why short, consistent bursts of movement could be one of the best ways to support your mind. We break down the latest ban on "buy one, get one free" junk food deals and what it means for our weekly shop, plus dive into Joe Wicks’ new documentary with Chris van Tulleken, where they expose how easy it is to market ultra-processed foods as healthy. We’re also looking at the growing conversation around rapeseed oil, separating science from social media fearmongering, and sharing simple takeaways to help you protect your attention, eat for your mood, and move in a way that fuels both body and brain. Pre order Rhi's new book, The Fibre Formula: ⁠⁠https://geni.us/TheFibreFormula [https://geni.us/TheFibreFormula] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices [https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices]

This week on The Wellness Scoop we’re answering your questions, starting with one of the most common debates: is it better to add sugar or a sweetener to your tea? We’ll look at what the latest science and WHO guidance actually says, and the best way to approach it long term. We then dive into fibre, the difference between soluble and insoluble, how they work together in the gut, and whether you really need to worry about getting the perfect balance between the two. Next up, calcium. If you eat little or no dairy, how can you still meet your needs? We’ll cover the top plant-based sources, from sesame seeds and hummus to calcium-set tofu and fortified milks, plus why vitamin D is just as important for absorption. We also unpack the growing trend for adaptogens like ashwagandha, maca and lion’s mane, asking how much evidence there really is behind the hype and whether they’re worth the spend. And finally, how to keep your healthy eating habits going as the seasons change. We’ll explore habit stacking, the behavioural science behind linking new habits to ones you already do, and share practical ways to boost the nutrition of your favourite autumn comfort foods so you can carry your summer momentum through the darker months. Recommendations: * Rhi’s new book : Pre order The Fibre Formula ⁠https://geni.us/TheFibreFormula [https://geni.us/TheFibreFormula] * White Mausu Smoky Chilli Oil  [https://www.whitemausu.com/products/smoky-chilli-oil-1?srsltid=AfmBOorp7X_40USO_KTmwNjUfntNeESbckDYSjH_dHHRgykIQ1B9PwAE] * The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak  [https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/316722/the-island-of-missing-trees-by-shafak-elif/9780241988725] * Find out more from the amazing Sophie Bertrand HERE [https://sophiebertrand.com/] and order a copy of her book, Forking Wellness [https://sophiebertrand.com/] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices [https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices]

This week we’re looking at the rising pressure to lose weight and why so many people are turning to risky quick fixes. We unpack the growing backlash against Ozempic, now facing over 1,800 lawsuits in the US for severe side effects like stomach paralysis and vision loss. We revisit the 5am Club and ask if the 8am Club is a smarter, more sustainable routine for real life. We share new research showing that the benefits of nature depend on how you experience it, and simple ways to make time outdoors more restorative. And we explore the booming world of wellness wearables, from Oura rings to Apple Watches, and whether they really motivate us to change our habits. Recommendations  * Rhi’s new book : Pre order The Fibre Formula https://geni.us/TheFibreFormula [https://geni.us/TheFibreFormula] * Bought to You by Chemistry’ podcast, by the Royal Society of Chemistry: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/brought-to-you-by-chemistry/id1621110309 [https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/brought-to-you-by-chemistry/id1621110309]  * Science Vs Podcat: ‘Is There Really a Plastic Spoon in our Brains’ https://open.spotify.com/episode/2ZwZsCnG2BkTzPxo5tujOB [https://open.spotify.com/episode/2ZwZsCnG2BkTzPxo5tujOB]  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices [https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices]