Sliced Bread

Grounding Sheets - do they really work?It's perhaps the most-requested product in Sliced Bread history but is there any real science behind grounding (or 'earthing') sheets? The claims made for them are wide and varied - from reducing inflammation and pain, to helping with sleep. How do they do this? Proponents say grounding sheets connect you to the Earth's own electrical field and dissipate electrical charges in your body, built up though everyday activities like wearing rubber-soled trainers. Prices of grounding sheets vary from £30 to £150.Listener Alison is thinking of buying one and wants to know if it could ease pain and help her sleep better. She joins Greg in the studio along with two experts for a deep-dive into the science to find out whether grounding sheets are the best thing since sliced bread - or marketing BS.We are looking for more of YOUR suggestions of products to investigate. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807PRESENTER: GREG FOOTPRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND PHIL SANSOM

Join Professor Nita Forouhi, an expert in population health and nutrition from the University of Cambridge, as she dives into the world of cooking oils. Discover the truth behind costly oils versus regular options and whether coconut and avocado oils are worth the splurge. Unravel the mysteries of harmful trans fats versus beneficial unsaturated fats, and learn how processing methods affect olive oil quality. With a mix of science and practical advice, you'll be empowered to make healthier cooking choices!

In this discussion, Professor Graham Close, a human physiology expert from Liverpool John Moores University, dives into the world of protein powders. He addresses listener Helen’s query on whether whey or plant-based proteins are beneficial for muscle recovery. The conversation clears up myths about protein timing and intake, highlighting the benefits of whole foods. Plus, the environmental implications of protein sources are explored, noting the pros and cons of supplements versus natural foods. It’s a blend of science and practical advice!

Dr. Helen Salisbury, a GP and British Medical Journal columnist, shares insights on the reliability of smart scales in measuring body metrics. Professor Bill Lionheart, an applied mathematics expert, discusses the bioimpedance methods behind these devices. They explore concerns about accuracy, emotional implications of health metrics, and the limitations of smart scales compared to advanced assessments like DEXA scans. The conversation highlights the challenges of interpreting body fat and protein metrics, emphasizing a balanced understanding of health beyond just numbers.

Join listener Robin Brown, who is eager to find budget-friendly insulation for his old Victorian house, and David Farmer, a research fellow from the University of Salford, as they dive into practical home hacks. They explore cost-effective solutions like plastic sheeting, radiator foil, and thick curtains. Discover how these methods can keep the cold out and save on energy bills. With insights from the innovative Energy House project, this conversation is packed with tips for cozying up your home without breaking the bank!

The team has gone through over 100 episodes of Sliced Bread, and carved out five popular products that may well be heading down a chimney to you this Christmas. Greg Foot will share with you the key points from experts we’ve spoken to on Air Fryers, Mascara, Perfume, Running Shoes, and DNA Ancestry Tests - as well as their conclusions in one handy festive slice! We’ve also updated some of the topics too. (The information in this episode was correct at the time of recording.)And as always, all of our investigations start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCER: KATE HOLDSWORTH

Dive into the world of hair loss with engaging discussions on products like minoxidil and finasteride. Listeners Ian and Kimberley share personal stories, highlighting the effects of male pattern baldness and menopause-related hair loss. An expert joins to disentangle marketing hype from scientific fact, while the efficacy of various treatments is critically examined. From the role of dietary supplements to festive gift recommendations, this conversation leaves no strand unturned in the quest for luscious locks.

The mobile phone retailer, Phones 4u, was hugely profitable, so why did it have to close all of its 700+ shops? The BBC Business journalist, Sean Farrington and the entrepreneur, Sam White discover how Phones 4u ended up toast with help from expert guests including:John Caudwell - Phones 4u founder Nikki Barrow & Chris Papageorgiou - former Phones 4u staff membersIan White - editor of Mobile News magazineProduced by Jon Douglas. Toast is a BBC Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.You can email the programme at toast@bbc.co.ukFeel free to suggest topics which could be covered in future episodes.Sliced Bread returns for a new batch of investigations in December, where Greg Foot investigates so-called wonder products to find out whether they really are the best thing since sliced bread. In the meantime, Toast is available in the Sliced Bread feed on BBC Sounds

Dan-Air was one of Britain's biggest airlines and took millions of people on their first package holidays. So, why did such a successful business end up 'toast'? The BBC Business journalist, Sean Farrington, and the entrepreneur, Sam White look into it. They are joined by:-Graham Simons - Dan-Air historian and author of the book 'The Spirit of Dan-Air'-Jackie Stacey & James Hoffmeister - former Dan-Air cabin crewProduced by Jon Douglas. Toast is a BBC Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.You can email the programme at toast@bbc.co.ukFeel free to suggest topics which could be covered in future episodes.Sliced Bread returns for a new batch of investigations in December, where Greg Foot investigates so-called wonder products to find out whether they really are the best thing since sliced bread. In the meantime, Toast is available in the Sliced Bread feed on BBC Sounds

Discover the fascinating rise and fall of Our Price Records, a once-thriving music retailer. Explore its innovative strategies that attracted young audiences and supported indie labels. Hear personal stories from former employees about the brand's community impact. Delve into challenges it faced during technological shifts and competition from larger chains. The discussion also considers potential revivals for brick-and-mortar music shops in the age of vinyl resurgence, emphasizing the need for passionate leadership and unique customer experiences.