Real Health with Karl Henry

Most of us never think about how we go to the toilet until something goes wrong. This week on The Real Health podcast, Karl is joined by pelvic and digestive health physiotherapist Clare Bourne to discuss what a healthy bowel movement should look like and why so many people unknowingly develop poor toilet habits.
They explore constipation, straining, toilet posture, pelvic floor health, and the everyday changes that can make bowel movements easier, healthier, and more comfortable.
https://www.independent.ie/service/why-you-can-trust-the-irish-independent/a/98708550.html
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This week on The Real Health podcast, Karl answers your health questions in another Karl's Questions episode. Producer, JJ Clarke, joins Karl on this week’s episode.
He explains why very low-calorie diets rarely work in the long term, how to exercise safely during hot weather, the simple health numbers everyone should be tracking, and the best way to reduce your caffeine intake without feeling miserable.
From smarter weight loss to better sleep and building healthier habits, this episode is packed with practical advice you can start using today.
https://www.independent.ie/service/why-you-can-trust-the-irish-independent/a/98708550.html
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Many of us think liver disease only affects heavy drinkers, but the reality is far more complex. This week on The Real Health podcast, Professor Debbie Shawcross, Professor of Hepatology and Chronic Liver Failure at King's College London, explains how binge drinking, excess weight and everyday habits can silently damage the liver long before symptoms appear.
She shares what counts as binge drinking, the difference between alcohol related and metabolic fatty liver disease, when to seek a liver check, and the simple changes that can help protect your liver for years to come.
https://www.independent.ie/service/why-you-can-trust-the-irish-independent/a/98708550.html
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We spend so much of life chasing happiness, but are we looking in the wrong places? On this week's episode of The Real Health podcast, Professor Emeritus of psychology at Trinity College Dublin, Ian Robertsonexplains why money, status and success rarely bring lasting fulfilment, and why purpose, relationships and helping others are far more powerful.
He also explores the impact of loneliness, social media and technology on our wellbeing, and shares practical ways to feel happier every day. As Professor Robertson says, "Unquenchable appetites make you unhappy."
https://www.independent.ie/service/why-you-can-trust-the-irish-independent/a/98708550.htm
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On this episode of Real Health, I am joined by producer JJ Clarke for a Karl’s Questions special, answering listener queries from social media.
We discuss how weather and lack of sunlight may be affecting mood and motivation, the value of moving more rather than less with age, and simple ways to improve eating habits without calorie counting.
We discuss why slowing down eating, using portion plates, and building strength training into weekly routines can improve long term health. The conversation also tackles cardio myths, core training misconceptions, and what really matters for fat loss and ageing well.
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