

Inside Health
BBC Radio 4
Series that demystifies health issues, separating fact from fiction and bringing clarity to conflicting health advice.
Episodes
Mentioned books

11 snips
Jan 30, 2024 • 29min
A guide to the perimenopause
Learn about the perimenopause and its symptoms, the importance of supporting loved ones through menopause, and the confusion surrounding online information. Explore the necessity and risks of hormone replacement therapy and discover efforts to create a comprehensive education and support program. Find out how to be a good listener and provide understanding during this stage of life.

Jan 23, 2024 • 28min
Speedy medicine, and is fermented food good for us?
Smitha Mundasad explores emergency medicine outside hospitals, meeting the Brecon Mountain Rescue Team and London's Air Ambulance. Also, the podcast discusses the popularity of fermented food and its health benefits, including gut health and immunity.

Jan 16, 2024 • 28min
Bladder, bowels and sex: Learning to live after my mountain accident
Niall McCann, a survivor of a mountain accident, shares his journey of recovery from a bruised spinal cord. He talks about embracing incontinence and sexual dysfunction, relearning how to have sex, and navigating unexpected life lessons. The podcast also highlights a daring mountain rescue and concerns about nerve damage. It discusses the challenges of managing bladder, bowels, and sexual function after a spinal cord injury, as well as finding joy in parenting for individuals with disabilities.

Jan 9, 2024 • 28min
Living in a Bacterial World
Exploring the world of bacteria, the podcast discusses the microbes that inhabit our skin and homes. It emphasizes the significance of understanding these bacteria, testing their effectiveness in handwashing, and the potential of beneficial bacteria. The podcast also explores the frequency of washing different clothing items, the importance of targeted hygiene, and the misconception about cleanliness and hygiene.

Nov 8, 2023 • 28min
How do cold and flu remedies help when we're ill?
Discussion on winter colds and coughs, immune response to respiratory viruses, different approaches to cold and flu remedies, throat lozenges, effectiveness of honey as a remedy, and the relieving effects of menthol on congestion.

9 snips
Oct 24, 2023 • 28min
What's stopping us from exercising in older age?
Unlocking the barriers to exercise in older age, with insights from an octogenarian athlete and experts in exercise physiology and sports psychology.

Oct 10, 2023 • 29min
Inside a sexual assault referral centre
The issue of sexual assault hasn’t been far from the headlines in recent weeks - but what kind of help is available for people who have been through it? James visits Saint Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Manchester where he meets the people who offer invaluable medical and emotional support to patients. He also talks to a young woman who describes her experience of using the service, which she credits with saving her life.And why does Covid-19 seem to be flooring people again? James finds out that the body’s own defences are partly to blame. Lastly, is it safe to flush dog poo down the toilet? We clear up a family debate…Presenter: James Gallagher
Producer: Gerry Holt
Content editor: Erika Wright
Production coordinator: Jonathan Harris
Technical producer: Tim HefferIf you have been affected by child or adult sexual abuse or violence, details of help and support are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline, or you can call for free, at any time to hear recorded information on 0800 077 077.

Oct 3, 2023 • 30min
Migraines and Headaches
Experts discuss understanding migraines and headaches, debunking myths, exploring food triggers and associations, exercise headaches, potential triggers including hormones and weather changes, treatment options, importance of timing medications, and pronunciation differences.

15 snips
Sep 26, 2023 • 28min
When does sitting become bad for health?
Discover the harmful effects of prolonged sitting and the importance of breaking up sitting time with movement. Learn about the potential health risks of excessive standing and the need to find a balance between sitting and standing for optimal health. Explore a school in East London implementing an active movement program to combat sedentary behavior.

Sep 19, 2023 • 29min
Why is syphilis making a comeback?
Exploring the resurgence of syphilis with personal experiences and insights on the rising cases. Delving into the stigma and historical prevalence of the disease. Also, discussing the use of exercise monitoring technologies in cycling and the balance between tracking data and enjoying the workout experience.