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Straight Talking Science

Straight Talking Science

By: Straight Talking Science
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Straight Talking Science is your monthly dose of clear, engaging conversations about the science behind better health. Hosted by Barry Skillington of Atlantia Clinical Trials, each episode features expert guests who share practical, easy-to-follow insights from their specialist fields. From the gut–brain connection and women’s hormonal health to fermented foods, skin health, and healthy ageing, we explore a wide range of topics to help you understand your body and make informed choices for your wellbeing. Whether you’re curious about the latest research or looking for ways to support yourStraight Talking Science Hygiene & Healthy Living
Episodes
  • Medical Misinformation: How to Spot Myths & Trust the Science | Ep. 8 (ft. Dr. Nantakozal Yusef)

    Medical Misinformation: How to Spot Myths & Trust the Science | Ep. 8 (ft. Dr. Nantakozal Yusef)
    Mar 12 2026
    Confused by conflicting health advice? Wondering if you should trust that viral TikTok cure or stick with your doctor's prescription? Dr. Nantakozal Yusef, a GP with over 15 years of experience across Africa and Ireland, joins us to cut through the noise and help you navigate the overwhelming world of medical misinformation. From snake oil supplements to outdated health myths, Nantakozal breaks down what misinformation really is, why it spreads so easily, and how to spot red flags before making health decisions you might regret. Whether it's "ancient detox secrets," miracle cures, or fear mongering about lifelong medications, this episode gives you the tools to think critically and protect yourself in the age of Dr. Google and wellness influencers. Topics covered: What medical misinformation actually is and why it matters The spectrum from harmless myths to dangerous health decisions Why anecdotal evidence isn't enough for serious health choices How clinical trials work and why they're the gold standard Red flags to watch for: vague claims, instant results, and "one cure for everything" The problem with influencers, social media algorithms, and echo chambers Why Dr. Google lacks context and can't replace your GP When to trust your doctor and when to seek a second opinion The truth about lifelong medications and why they're not the enemy How pharmaceutical research really works and why safety comes first Why product recalls are actually a good thing Debunking detox teas, ancient secrets, and other wellness myths Practical tips: annual checkups, self checks, and knowing when to see a doctor How to evaluate health claims and check your sources The bottom line? Not all information is created equal. Before you make a health decision based on a viral post or a friend's testimonial, pause and ask yourself: where's the evidence? Medicine evolves, guidelines change, and your health is too important to leave to guesswork. Stay curious, stay skeptical, and trust the science. Website: https://atlantiaclinicaltrials.com/ LinkedIn: https://ie.linkedin.com/company/atlantia-clinical-trials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atlantia_clinicaltrials/ Meta: https://www.facebook.com/AtlantiaClinicalTrials/ Check out Straight Talking Science on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5vdjz93jVdKlY0Arl6rQ7Z #MedicalMisinformation #HealthMyths #ClinicalResearch #TrustTheScience #SciencePodcast #HealthLiteracy #DrGoogle
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    36 mins
  • Why Diets Don't Work: The Science of Appetite | Ep. 7 (ft. Dr. Harriët Schellekens)

    Why Diets Don't Work: The Science of Appetite | Ep. 7 (ft. Dr. Harriët Schellekens)
    Feb 12 2026
    Hungry all the time? Struggling with weight management? Wondering if those GLP-1 drugs everyone's talking about are right for you? Dr. Harriët Schellekens, senior lecturer in Anatomy and Neuroscience at UCC and leading expert on the hunger hormone ghrelin, joins us to unpack the complex biology of appetite, weight, and why willpower alone isn't the answer. From gut hormones to microbiome signaling, Harriët explains how your body decides when you're hungry, why ultra-processed foods hijack your brain's reward system, and how your gut bacteria might actually be driving your food cravings. If you've ever felt like your biology is working against you, this episode will help you understand why - and what you can actually do about it. Topics covered: What GLP-1 drugs actually do - and who they're really for The hunger hormone ghrelin and how it drives food intake Why obesity is a disease, not a lifestyle problem The pre-digestive vs. post-digestive mismatch in ultra-processed foods How high-fat, high-sugar foods create a "false promise" in your gut Sugar substitutes: the good, the bad, and the gut-friendly How your gut microbiome influences weight gain and food preferences Why crash diets backfire (and what to do instead) The role of stress, cortisol, and emotional eating Early-life food exposure and how it shapes lifelong eating habits Probiotics, prebiotics, and targeting the microbiome for better appetite control Practical tips for parents navigating kids' diets and food choices The bottom line? Your food choices aren't just about willpower - they're about biology. Understanding how your gut, brain, and microbiome communicate can help you make better decisions, break unhealthy cycles, and stop fighting your own body. Don't eat less. Eat better. Website: https://atlantiaclinicaltrials.com/ LinkedIn: https://ie.linkedin.com/company/atlantia-clinical-trials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atlantia_clinicaltrials/ Meta: https://www.facebook.com/AtlantiaClinicalTrials/ Check out Straight Talking Science on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5vdjz93jVdKlY0Arl6rQ7Z #AppetiteScience #GutHealth #WeightManagement #GLP1 #Microbiome #Ghrelin #SciencePodcast #HealthyEating #Obesity
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    44 mins
  • The Science of Exercise for Everyday Health & Aging | Ep. 6 (ft. Dr. Ross Hamilton)

    The Science of Exercise for Everyday Health & Aging | Ep. 6 (ft. Dr. Ross Hamilton)
    Jan 15 2026
    Still thinking about a New Year's fitness resolution? Before you dive into the gym headfirst, listen to this. Dr. Ross Hamilton, sports physiologist, professional athlete, and performance coach, joins us to cut through the noise and give you real, practical advice on starting (and sticking to) an exercise routine - no matter your age or fitness level. From understanding VO2 max to knowing when bodyweight exercises are enough, Ross breaks down the science of movement in a way that actually makes sense. Whether you're intimidated by the gym, confused about weight training, or just want to know if you really need that tub of whey protein, this episode has you covered. Topics covered: Why basic daily tasks (like climbing stairs) are your fitness baseline. How to start exercising without injuring yourself or burning out. The truth about weight training for women - and why you shouldn't be afraid. Bodyweight vs. resistance training: what's right for you? Finding exercise you actually enjoy (hint: it doesn't have to be the gym). Protein, diet, and fueling your body for movement. How long it really takes to see results - and what to expect Maintaining muscle and bone health as you age. Why balance and strength training could add years to your life The bottom line? You don't need to be an athlete to be healthy. You just need to start where you are, find what you love, and keep moving. Website: https://atlantiaclinicaltrials.com/ LinkedIn: https://ie.linkedin.com/company/atlantia-clinical-trials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atlantia_clinicaltrials/ Meta: https://www.facebook.com/AtlantiaClinicalTrials/ Check out Straight Talking Science on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5vdjz93jVdKlY0Arl6rQ7Z #FitnessForBeginners #ExerciseScience #HealthyAging #SportsPhysiology #StrengthTraining #SciencePodcast #NewYearsResolution
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    36 mins
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