Millions of us now use smartwatches to track our sleep, heart rate, fitness and recovery, but how accurate is all that information? This week on The Real Health podcast, Dr Joe Warne from Technological University Dublin explains which measurements we can rely on and where wearable technology falls short. He looks at the growing obsession with health data, why sleep trackers may cause anxiety, and whether more information actually makes us healthier. He also shares the simple metrics worth paying attention to and why sometimes the best guide to your health is listening to your own body. 

https://www.independent.ie/service/our-journalism/a/98708550.html

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Most of us hope to stay healthy as we get older, but few of us think about the small choices we make today that shape our future. This week on The Real Health podcast, Karl explores what it really means to age well and why it's never too early to start investing in your long-term health.

He discusses the importance of strength, movement, nutrition, social connection and tracking your health, while sharing simple, practical habits that can help you stay independent, active and well for longer. It's an inspiring conversation about adding life to your years, not just years to your life.

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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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Healthy skin is about far more than appearance, but many people are still confused by skincare trends and conflicting advice.

On this week’s episode of The Real Health podcast, consultant dermatologist Dr Rosemary Coleman explains why there is no such thing as a safe tan, the importance of applying enough sunblock, and the warning signs of skin cancer that should never be ignored.

One point that stood out was her advice on sun protection. Dr Coleman says, “The quantity of the product is what matters.” She also shares why over washing can damage the skin and the simple checks everyone should do to spot suspicious changes early.

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On this week's episode of Real Health, I am joined by registered dietitian and business owner Orla Walsh to discuss the factors that really influence long term health.

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While much of the conversation around nutrition focuses on weight loss, Orla explains why metabolic health, insulin sensitivity and visceral fat deserve far more attention. We explore the impact of refined carbohydrates, fibre, cholesterol and blood pressure, and discuss why small daily habits around movement, sleep, strength training and nutrition can have a lasting effect on health as we age. Orla also shares practical advice for reducing health risks without relying on restrictive diets or quick fixes.

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On this week’s episode of The Real Health Podcast, I’m joined by Professor Phil Jakeman, Professor of Exercise Science at the University of Limerick, to discuss why muscle is one of the most important tissues for lifelong health.

While many of us associate muscle with strength or appearance, it also plays a crucial role in mobility, metabolic health and healthy ageing. Professor Jakeman explains why we begin to lose muscle from our thirties onwards, how this affects our health as we age, and the practical steps we can take through exercise and nutrition to stay stronger, healthier and more independent for longer.

Why you can trust the Irish Independent: learn about our editorial guidelines and AI use 

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