The Health Review

Is your skin trying to tell you something? In this episode, I sit down with leading Consultant Dermatologist Dr. Derrick Phillips to unpack some of the biggest skin health concerns of our time — from the surge in adult acne to the truth about SPF safety, and the rise of advanced anti-ageing treatments.We cover:Why more women in their 30s and 40s are getting acne — and how to treat itWhat really causes breakouts (gut? hormones? skincare?)The skin barrier: how to repair and protect itLasers, injectables, and the latest evidence-based anti-ageing innovationsCommon skin mistakes that are actually making things worseWhat everyone needs to know about skin cancer and sun safetyWhether SPF is harming our skin or hormones — and what the science really saysDr. Phillips shares expert insight from his years in both the NHS and private practice, and breaks down the science in a way that’s clear, practical, and empowering.If you’ve ever felt confused by skincare, this one’s for you.Derrick's website: https://drderrickphillips.com/Follow The Health Review: https://www.instagram.com/the.health.review/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it really mean to live with purpose — and how do we find it in a world full of noise and endless options?This week, I’m joined by existential psychotherapist and author Eloise Skinner, who left behind a career in corporate law to explore life’s deeper questions. Eloise shares her journey from studying at Cambridge to spending a year in a monastic community, and how those experiences shaped her mission to help others find meaning.We talk about the surprising impact of too much choice, inspired by Viktor Frankl’s work, and why modern life can leave us feeling directionless. Eloise also explores the role of wellness in clearing mental clutter, and how practices like movement, stillness, and reflection can help us reconnect to what matters most.If you’ve ever felt stuck, uncertain, or like you’re living life on autopilot — this episode will leave you with practical insights and a fresh perspective on how to live more intentionally.Eloise's website: https://www.eloiseskinner.com/Follow The Health Review: https://www.instagram.com/the.health.review/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brain fog so intense you can’t finish a sentence. Anxiety that appears from nowhere. Work suddenly feeling impossible.For many women, these are the early signs of perimenopause — and they can begin in your 30s. Yet too often, they’re misdiagnosed as depression, burnout, or “just stress.”In this eye-opening episode of The Health Review, Dr. Reem Alshaikh — GP and women’s health expert — explains why menopause is so misunderstood, the surprising symptoms no one warns you about, and how misdiagnosis can leave women struggling for years without the right support.We discuss:Why women have estrogen receptors all over their bodies — and what happens when levels dropThe most overlooked symptoms, from brain fog to worsening ADHDWhy menopause is often mistaken for depression or anxiety disordersHow the age your mother reached menopause can predict your ownThe different types of HRT — and how to find the right fitWhy partners, employers, and friends need to understand this tooWhether you’re in your 20s, 30s, or already experiencing symptoms — or you want to better support someone you love — this truly is an episode for everyone. 🎧 Listen now on The Health Review — and share with someone who needs to hear it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is the gut microbiome — and how do you know if yours is out of balance?In this episode, I’m joined by award-winning gut and women’s health nutritionist Dr Emily Prpa, who breaks down the latest science around gut health, how it impacts your whole body, and why it matters more now than ever.We explore:🧫 How we evolved with microbes — and why the gut plays a crucial role in how your body functions🔬 The latest in microbiome testing & probiotic recommendations😔 The surprising impact of stress and loneliness on digestion and overall health🧬 How certain gut bacteria can influence hormones and fertility in women❗ Red flags that something in your gut might be off — and what to do about itWhether you’re struggling with bloating, skin issues, hormonal imbalances, or low mood — your gut could be the missing link.Dr Emily Prpa's Website: https://www.dremilyprpa.com/Follow The Health Review: https://www.instagram.com/the.health.review/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fertility struggles are often painted as a women’s issue — but the reality is that male fertility plays a role in up to 50% of cases. In this episode, I’m joined by fertility nutritionist Jen Walpole, who breaks down what’s really going on when couples struggle to conceive — from PCOS and endometriosis to sperm health, endocrine disruptors, and IVF preparation.We talk about:Why male fertility is often overlooked — and how to support sperm healthThe impact of lifestyle, diet, alcohol, toxins, and stress on fertilityHow to reduce exposure to endocrine disruptors like plastics and household chemicalsWhether people are waiting too long to start a familyHow to prepare your body for conception, naturally or with IVFSimple nutrition and testing tips for both women and menWhether you’ve been trying for a while or are just starting to think about your fertility journey, this episode is packed with practical advice and science-backed insights.Jen's website: https://www.jenwalpole.com/Follow The Health Review: https://www.instagram.com/the.health.review/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined by Consultant Dietitan & world-leading fertility and women’s health expert Ro Huntriss, who has over a decade of experience across the NHS, private practice, and the tech world. Ro is the author of Deliciously Healthy Fertility and was recently crowned ‘Best Fertility Dietitian’ by The European Fertility Society. She also serves as Chief Nutrition Officer at Simple App, a global weight loss platform with over a million users.We cover a wide range of practical and science-backed topics — from general nutrition to fertility and sustainable weight loss. Ro shares insights on:The rise in ultra-processed foods and how they’re impacting our health and fertilityCommon nutritional deficiencies she sees, and how to avoid them through realistic dietary changesWeight loss advice that works — including how to break the cycle of yo-yo dietingWhy she encourages clients to focus on adding in nourishing foods, rather than obsessing over restrictionMyth-busting common claims around seed oils, dairy, and glutenHow she supports women trying to conceive through diet, lifestyle, and testing Whether you’re navigating fertility, want to improve your relationship with food, or are just confused by all the conflicting nutrition advice online — this is an episode full of practical, no-nonsense guidance from one of the UK’s most respected voices in the field.Ro's webiste: https://dietitianro.co.ukSimple Life: https://simple.life/Follow The Health Review: https://www.instagram.com/the.health.review/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can indoor cycling change your body and your brain?In this episode, Emily is joined by indoor cycling expert Melissa Power, founder of one of London’s most loved spin studios and a master trainer with 20 years of experience. Melissa has taught more than 10,000 classes and trained hundreds of instructors through her academy — and she knows exactly what it takes to turn a workout into a transformative experience.They unpack:What separates a good spin class from a great oneHow Melissa supports women who lack confidence to feel strong and empowered in the studioWhy indoor cycling is one of the most accessible forms of fitness — no matter your age, experience, or starting pointThe science-backed benefits of indoor cycling for heart health and mental clarityWhat Melissa looks for when training the next generation of instructorsWhether you're spin-curious or a long-time rider, this episode will leave you inspired to saddle up — and reminded that it’s never too late to start! Melissa's website: www.melissapower.co.uk Follow The Health Review: www.instagram.com/the.health.review Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This bonus episode is a special solo update, bringing you some of the biggest health news stories from around the world.Emily covers everything from the rise of early-onset cancers in millennials to the AI breakthrough helping couples conceive after years of infertility. Plus, smart pads that read menstrual blood, self-swab HPV tests now being trialled in the UK, the gut-fertility connection in PCOS, and the sports that could help you live nearly a decade longer.You’ll also hear Emily’s personal take on each story.Follow The Health Review: https://www.instagram.com/the.health.review Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Health Review, we’re diving into a topic that impacts every family: childhood nutrition — and why it matters more than ever.My guest is Dr. Venita Patel, a medical doctor and qualified nutritional therapist. She’s on a mission to help parents understand how what their children eat affects not just their growth, but their brain development, immune health, mood, and behaviour.Together, we explore:🧠 The rise in ADHD, autism, and behavioural issues🦠 Why gut health in infancy is so crucial — and how it relates to allergies, eczema, and mood🥣 Baby weaning made less stressful — and more nourishing😩 Teenage picky eating: how to respond🍽️ How to shift your entire household’s approach to food and create calmer, happier mealtimesDr. Patel offers practical tips that any parent can start using today. Whether you’re navigating toddler food battles or raising a teen with gut issues, this episode is full of insight and actionable advice.Follow Dr. Patel: www.instagram.com/healthvianutritionFollow The Health Review: www.instagram.com/the.health.review Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined by medical professional and menopause specialist Shreya Kane, who brings over 17 years of NHS experience and a unique perspective on women’s health, chronic pain, and midlife skin changes.We dive into the critical role of estrogen in the body—and how hormonal drops or fluctuations during perimenopause can lead to symptoms that are often misunderstood, overlooked, or misdiagnosed.Shreya explains how women in their late 30s and beyond can protect their muscles, joints, and bones, and reduce the risk of chronic pain—a common yet under-discussed issue.We also talk skin health: Shreya shares her favourite skin treatments and products from her London clinic, London Skin Treatments, and how a holistic, evidence-based approach can support everything from mood and energy to radiance and resilience.We also explore HRT education, the myths that still persist, and how lifestyle medicine can help women thrive—not just survive—through the menopause transition. Shreya's Website: https://www.londonskintreatments.com/homeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/⁠ ⁨@SKMenopauseSkinHealth⁩ ⁠ Follow The Health Review: https://www.instagram.com/the.health.review/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.