Stronger Minds

In this episode: Learn the six common reason that we become conflict averseDiscover what really makes for a stronger relationshipLearn how to go from conflict-avoidant to conflict-competentThe Big Conversation Toolkit___Newsletter sign upCorporate Speaking How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You've done it. You made it through a period of prolonged stress—maybe it was caregiving, a difficult job, medical treatment, or even burnout. It was tough but you got through it. Yes, you feel relieved but you're now wondering: Why don't I feel better yet?If you can relate, then please listen on because in this week's episode of the Stronger Minds Podcast, I'm giving you effective, evidence-based tools to help you recover from burnout and chronic stress.___Newsletter sign upCorporate Speaking How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your alarm goes off on another Tuesday morning. You've been asleep for seven hours. You wore the eye mask and the ear plugs and listened to whale sounds. And you're still bloody knackered. What's going on? If this sounds familiar, then keep listening because in this week's episode, we are getting to grips with non-sleep related fatigue.___ Newsletter sign upCorporate Speaking How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Big Conversation ToolkitSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We all have one conversation we keep putting off. Maybe it's a long-overdue apology. Maybe it's asking for what you need. Or maybe it's telling someone how much they hurt you. These unspoken issues can eat away at our peace of mind and wellbeing, as well as threatening the strength of our relationships. In this episode I walk you through my tried and tested 10-step process for tackling these conversations with confidence.The Big Conversation ToolkitI've created a step-by-step toolkit to accompany this podcast. The 26 page guide contains:My tried-and-tested 10-step process I use with clientsReflective exercises and prompts to help you gain clarityExample scripts and language to help you manage difficult momentGrounding techniques to regulate anxietyLinks to additional resources and supportA Big Conversation Readiness ChecklistClick here to get the guide___Newsletter sign upCorporate Speaking How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's one of the most common questions that I get asked. 'Is there anything I can eat that will help me sleep?' And, listen, it's not as simple as saying ‘eat this and have eight uninterrupted hours'. But, in as far as sleep is the product of your brain and your brain is an organ that depends on good nutrition for optimal function, there are some foods and nutrients that have been associated with changes in sleep quality. So, in this week's episode, I'm giving you the lowdown on nutrition and sleep.___Newsletter sign upCorporate Speaking How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prison violence is a chronic global crisis. With rates rising in the UK, US and around the world. Prison violence can have a devastating effect on prisoners, prison staff and wider society. So, in this episode, I'm asking a bold question: Can improving nutrition reduce violence in prison? And if so—why aren't we doing it already?Crime & Nourishment SeriesThe Kids Aren't AlrightThe Prison StudiesFood, Brain Behaviour: The Missing PieceYou be the JudgeThink Through NutritionThink Through Nutrition on Instagram___ Newsletter sign upCorporate Speaking How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You may have read recent articles discussing new data linking maternal diabetes and ADHD and autism in children. Maybe you're planning a pregnancy or trying to conceive and you've never heard of gestational diabetes. Or you're currently pregnant and worried about what this means. So, in this week's episode, I give you an overview of what we know about gestational diabetes and baby's brain development – and how to reduce your risk.___Newsletter sign upCorporate SpeakingHow to Build a Healthy Brain*Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain*PatreonOriginal music by Juan Iglesias*Affiliate linksThe information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the episodes on stress and burnout I mentioned how magnesium played a role in the stress response and how an adequate intake of magnesium can support stress resilience. But that is far from all that magnesium gets up to. In this much-requested episode of the Stronger Minds podcast, I'm taking you through the many and marvellous actions of magnesium in the brain. ___Newsletter sign upCorporate Speaking How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Whether it's a difficult breakup, a stressful job, or an unexpected crisis, our ability to handle distressing situations without becoming overwhelmed plays a crucial role in our mental well-being, so on this week's episode we're going to get better at feeling bad as we learn all about Distress Tolerance.___Newsletter sign up Corporate Speaking How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You've probably experienced the sensation of butterflies in your stomach, or the urge to rush to the toilet when you are nervous. These are some of the clearest indications of the relationship between the gut and the brain. But is there more to the story of psychological stress and gut symptoms? Should you be worried? And what, if anything, should you do about it? In this week's episode of the Stronger Minds Podcast we're digging in to the science of stress and the gut.___Newsletter sign upCorporate Speaking How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I know, I know. You have felt stress enough times to know what it is. But do you really? Maybe you think stress ius all in your head or that a couple of drinks will take the stress away? In this week's episode of the Stronger Minds podcast I am deep diving into stress – what it is, the different types, how it affects the brain and body and some surprising things that might just be able to help. ___Newsletter sign upCorporate Speaking How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the previous episode we looked at burnout, the physical and emotional exhaustion associated with chronic workplace stress. One of the supportive tools I mentioned was a breath practice and I promised to record a guide for you. And here it is. You'll find two versions, with and without background music. Time Stamps1.40 Start or practice with background audio9.15 Start of practice without background audio___Newsletter sign upCorporate Speaking How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've been feeling exhausted, detached from your work, or like no matter how hard you try, you're running on empty—this episode is for you. Because, in this week's episode of the Stronger Minds podcast we're taking a look at Burnout. What its, what causes it, and how to recover.NB: There is not set amount of time that it takes to recover from burnout or chronic stress. That will depend on the extent of the stress, the opportunity and resources for rest and recovery, and individual differences.___Newsletter sign upCorporate Speaking How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the previous episode we looked at the process of decision-making, the brain areas involved, your brain as a simulator creating alternate futures based on the available options, and the internal and external factors that affect even our smallest decisions. But you had questions. How do I cope with decision paralysis, what's the impact of childhood trauma on decision-making ability and how to make the best decision? This week's episode, I'm answering your questions about decision-making.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The simple truth is that the quality of your decisions determines the quality of your life. So getting better at making choices is itself a great decision. In this week's episode, we'll explore the brain regions involved in decision-making, the internal and external influences that shape our choices, and how to improve our decision-making skills for a better life.___Newsletter sign upCorporate Speaking How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Data published last week shows that more Brits than ever have high blood sugar and diabetes. The charity Diabetes UK is calling for government action on prevention because complications of diabetes include damage to the retina, kidneys, hearts and impaired sexual functions. But, we hear much less about the impacts of conditions of high blood sugar on the brain. So, that's what we're gonna do today, in this week's episode : Blood Sugar & the Brain.___Newsletter sign upCorporate Speaking How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How are you feeling right now? Tired? Flat? A bit…meh? Maybe you can't really remember the last time you felt mentally sharp, fresh and raring to go? That resonates with you then stick around because, in this week's episode, I am going to guide you through the clouds of brain fog: what it is, why it happens and what you can do about it.___Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inflammation is one of the big buzzwords in health and wellness. It's been linked to everything from skin complaints to cancer. But do you really know what it is? And is it all bad? If all the talk about inflammation has left you more confused than a mosquito in a mannequin factory then listen on. Because in this week's episode of the Stronger Minds Podcast I'm giving you the lowdown on inflammation and what you can do about it.___Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the last week of Dry January. Some people will be looking forward to the first sip of their favourite tipple. While other will perhaps be thinking about how much better they feel going alcohol-free. And perhaps some of your are just curious about what goes on in the brain when we have a drink. So, on this week's episode of the Stronger Minds Podcast, I'm digging in to the science of what happens to your brain when you drink.Drinkline is the national alcohol helpline. If you're worried about your own or someone else's drinking, you can call this free helpline in complete confidence. Call 0300 123 1110 (weekdays 9am to 8pm, weekends 11am to 4pm).Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a free self-help group. Its "12 step" programme involves getting sober with the help of regular support groups.Al-Anon Family Groups offer support and understanding to the families and friends of problem drinkers, whether they're still drinking or not. Alateen is part of Al-Anon and can be attended by 12 to 17-year-olds who are affected by another person's drinking, usually a parent.You can find moe option on the the NHS website ___Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the New Year and we've all pledged to stay hydrated. This week, I answer your question on water and hydration including, whether hot drinks count, should you get a water filter and the best way to stay hydrated without having to spend the day running to the loo!WHO Water Filter Report___Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Proper hydration helps to prevent constipation and kidney stones, and some even claim that it will help plump out your wrinkles. But what about your brain? If, like me, you have recommitted to staying hydrated this year, but you're in need of a little motivation, then this one is for you. In this week's episode of the Stronger Minds podcast, how staying hydrated can give your brain a boost.___Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello Everyone and Happy New Year!I hope you had a little time to rest and restore. I am back at work this week and I can finally reveal the podcast that I have been working on. It's all about the link between the brain and body (my fave!) and how simple body hacks can improve your brain health and support your mental wellbeing. Tune in!Episodes Episode 1: Eat A RainbowEating brightly coloured plant foods is having a bigger effect on your brain and mood than you might realise - welcome to the world of nutritional psychiatry.Episode 2: Let the Light InExplore the health benefits to your body and your mind by getting a burst of sunlight first thing in the morning.Episode 3: Think Before you DrinkIf you've been over-indulging during a busy social period, discover the easy hacks to cut back on alcohol, and be kind to your body and brain.Episode 4: Reboot with a NapWhy, if you do it right, a short sleep can restore your cognitive alertness and re-charge your brain to take on the rest of the day.Episode 5: Walk yourself HappyWhy even a short stroll can have the surprising benefits of reducing anxiety and building mental resilience, especially if you add in green spaces.Episode 6: Time to PlayBy bringing back more playfulness and fun into our lives, we can jumpstart fresh brain connections and help reduce stress.Episode 7: Harness Your BreathFind out why taking slow deep breaths is not only good for your physical health but could also boost your cognitive performance and emotional wellbeing.Episode 8: Feel The ChillCould immersing yourself in cold water, whether it's in the shower, sea or lido, be as good for your body and mind as cold water swimming enthusiasts claim?Tune in here!Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One in four adults around the world describes themselves as lonely, and loneliness can feel even more acute during the holidays when the cultural emphasis is on family and socialising. Whether it's the office party or adverts filled with images of tables bursting with guests, if you are lonely at this time of year, it can be easy to feel like you're the only one. If this is you, I want to tell you 1) that you are not the only one and 2) you will be amazed at how many of us have felt like that at one time or another. So, in this week's episode, I'm giving you my guide to managing loneliness during the holidays.Resources100 best movies of all timeOpen CultureBefrienders.org – find a helpline near you, wherever you are in the world.You Are Not Alone – our service for helping people aged 16-25 fight lonelinessCampaign against Living Miserably, 0800 58 58 58 – call or web chat if you need someone to talk toLGBT Foundation – advice and supportSamaritans, 116 123 – call or web chat if you need someone to talk toThe Silver Line, 0800 4 70 80 90 – provides support and advice for people over 55Stand Alone – supporting people who aren't in contact with their family___Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I often meet people for whom this time of year is incredibly difficult. Maybe family relationships aren't where they'd like them to be, maybe they visit their family more out of a sense of duty than pleasure, maybe they find themselves pulled into early life dynamics they wish they could leave behind. It can be really challenging to navigate, which is why, in this week's episode of the Stronger Minds podcast, I'm giving you my guide to surviving your family during the holidays.___Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We now know the technical definition ultra-processed foods. These ready to eat or ready to heat products whose ingredients have individually gone through several stages of processing, and require ingredients or processes that you won't find in a domestic kitchen. But how does this affect your everyday food choices? Should it? In this week's episode, I'm talking practical tips and answering your questions about ultra processed foods.Why are sweet chilli crisps (potato chips UPF) but salted ones not?Are there any ultra-rocessed foods that are good for you?Is all cereal ultra-processed?Why do I crave them so much?Do ultra-processed foods affect sleep?___Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

According to the news headlines, ultra processed foods (UPF) can do everything from increasing your cancer risk to giving you dementia. But most people would have a hard time even defining UPF. If that's you, then you're in luck because in this week's episode, I'm giving you the lowdown on ultraprocessed foods. What they are and what's so bad about them. In part two I'll be answering your questions on UPF.____Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ninety percent of us experience food cravings – the intense desire to eat a specific food that is often distinct from physiological hunger. But if they're not about being hungry, why do we get them, what do our cravings mean and what, if anything, should we do about them? In this week's episode of the Stronger Minds Podcast, we're digging in to the Science of Food Cravings.Urge surfingFeelings Wheel___Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over the last few years you may have heard a lot of talk about the gut-brain axis. But do you know what it is? And more to the point, why should you care? In this week's episode I'm giving you a beginner's guide to the gut-brain axis. ___Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A report from Goldman Sachs estimates that generative AI like ChatGPT could expose the equivalent of 300mn full-time jobs to automation. Therapy is one of the current parts of the workforce that is considered to be more resilient to these technological changes. But not immune. This week: what are the capabilities of AI in the therapy space? And what are the limitations? Ultimately, are the robots coming for my job?___Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate linksSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Artificial intelligence permeates the full range of our lives, from something as casual as a song recommendation to matching us with our perfect partner. But, increasingly, we are building relationships with AI itself. Last week mother filed a wrongful death civil lawsuit against Character.AI, a generative AI chatbot platform. She says that the technology played a key role in her teenage son's death by suicide. In this week's episode, what happens when the human brain meets AI?If you are based in the US, and need urgent mental health assistance, call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. In the UK, people having mental health crises can contact the Samaritans at 116 123 or jo@samaritans.org. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you. US deaths by suicideAccess to a firearmPareidolia New York Times Article___Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate linksSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anger is an emotion that a lot of people struggle with. We find it uncomfortable, overwhelming and unwelcome. Many people simply don't know what to do when they feel angry. One common suggestion is to let it out in an act of safe aggression like punching a pillow. In fact an entire industry of rage rooms – spaces devoted to wilful, rage-fuelled destruction – often with a baseball bat - has emerged, encouraging people to work through their fury at a colleague by smashing things. But…does it work? In this week's episode, I'm exploring the science behind 'blowing off steam'.Original paperUnderstanding Anger EpisodeImage credit: By mrAnmol - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=132764560___Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate linksSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here are the episodes of BBC Radio 4s The Food Programme (and Start the Week) that I have appeared on, in case you would like to listen.Food and Mood: how eating affects your mental healthBroadcast: 19th July 2020Start the Week - The food we eat13th February 2023Feeding Your Brain: A User's GuideBroadcast: 30th July 2023The Brain Gut ConnectionBroadcast: 27th September 2024Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The signal to stop eating comes from your stomach when it is full, right? Well…kinda but that's not the whole story. This week's episode is all about the science of satiety.Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon *Affiliate linksSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Greater social and political awareness, mediated by social media, has allowed more of us to participate in important social movements. But it's also given us unprecedented access to horror. From body cams of police brutality and killings to harrowing images of war. To what extent is it our responsibility to bear witness to these events versus the need to protect our own wellbeing? The whys and hows of managing horror is the subject of this week's Stronger Minds Podcast.Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon*Affiliate linksSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The average full term baby weighs just over 7lbs. One pound of that is the baby's brain. Nature, via the mother's body, devotes enormous amounts of energy into building the baby's brain during and just after pregnancy. And as you've heard me say many, many times, the brain is the hungriest organ in the body and requires specific nutrients from the diet for proper structure and function.So why, dear listeners, is brain development completely absent from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guideline update on pregnancy and child nutrition?In this week's episode I am a starting a teeny tiny beef with NICE.Think Through NutritionThe Food ProgrammeNICE Maternal & Child Nutrition Stakeholder List___Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Called ‘the sunshine vitamin' vitamin D is the only vitamin that the UK Department of Health and Social Care recommends that adults and children over the age of four should supplement daily because insufficiency is widespread. While there is some controversy about the threshold for deficiency in the general population, what is consistently observed is that Black and Brown communities have lower serum levels compared to white individuals in the same countries, and that this difference may contribute to some of the observed health disparities.In this week's episode I'm explaining why vitamin D levels can be so low in these groups, the potential implications, particularly in relation to brain health, and what you can do about it. ---Diabetes Risk ToolThe company I used for ny vitamin D testing (OmegaQuant) no longer offers this specific test.___Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon *Affiliate linksSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is there a link between childhood trauma and stress eating? And what's the deal with emotional hunger? I'm answering your questions on the psychological side of hunger in this week's episode.https://www.intuitiveeating.org/about-us/10-principles-of-intuitive-eating/---Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate linksSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Going for a walk. Having a mindful cup of coffee. Keeping a gratitude journal. These common self-care practices can be helpful and have their place. But some of us have to go back a step. To the basics. In this week's episode, I'm bringing you an absolute beginners guide to self-care.___How to keep your teeth clean - NHSTooth brushing videoFlossing videoRegister with a doctor - NHSFeelings wheelHow to cope with financial worries - NHSSleep HygieneInstagram link to this post - to come___Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon *Affiliate linksSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I talk a lot about the importance of building a brain healthy lifestyle, but what does it look like in practice? In this episode, I share how I translate the research into simple daily habits for brain health.Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* PatreonSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Getting your five servings of fruit and vegetables a day good for you. But why exactly? And more specifically, what are some of the nutrients in fruits and veggies doing for your brain? In this episode, I'm bringing you some fresh data on Antioxidants & Alzheimer's disease. RefsLow Xanthophylls, Retinol, Lycopene, and Tocopherols in Grey and White Matter of Brains with Alzheimer's DiseaseBiomagnification Supplements and dry AMD Lutein zeaxanthin AD diagnosis ___Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music my Juan IglesiasSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why am I hungrier before my period? Am I addicted to cheese? And is it true that we confuse hunger and thirst? I'm answering your questions on hungry in today's episode.Instagram Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon *Affiliate linksSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your stomach's rumbling. You can't concentrate. And if one more person annoys you… We experience hunger every day but what is it all about and how does it affect us psychologically? The intricate, complex and exceedingly clever science of hunger – including how it affects our mood - is the topic of this week's episode.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you choose what you are going to eat? Do you think about it for a long time? Do you plan it in advance? Or do you wait for inspiration in the moment? The science and psychology of what we choose to eat is as fascinating as it is complex. The unconscious, internal and external drivers of food choice are the topic of this week's episode.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manifesting, the idea that you can bring the things you want into being through controlling your thoughts, is hugely popular around the world, with people claiming that the practice has changed their lives. But can attaining success and riches really be that simple and are there truly no downsides? In this episode I outline the psychology of manifesting and discuss its links to Margaret Thatcher.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you knock on wood for good luck? Throw a pinch of salt over your shoulder? Maybe you're someone who avoids opening an umbrella indoors just in case?Superstitions sit on a spectrum from common habits and rituals to symptoms of mental illness. In the world of psychology we call these beliefs magical thinking. The nature, pros and cons of magical thinking is the topic of this week's podcast.___Pareidolia (coming soon!)Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon *Affiliate linksSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most of us can think of someone in our lives that we own an apology, but put it off because of shame, embarrassment, or not knowing where to start. But apologies can be hugely important not just in helping the person who has been hurt to heal and move forwards, but in supporting our own emotional maturity. So, this week's episode is a science-backed guide to the perfect apology.Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon *Affiliate linksSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Even when we know we should, even when we want to, apologising can feel impossible. In this week's episode , I present six psychological barriers to apologising, looking under the surface to see why sorry really is the hardest word. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A new idea in psychology suggests that mental health awareness campaigns and activities are driving up the recorded incidence of mental illness in both good and bad ways.In this week's podcast, I overview the hypothesis, share my thoughts, and highlight the additional factors that, if it is true, might make young people particularly vulnerable to this phenomenon.Social Media Contagion – TikTok ticsRead the paper____Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon *Affiliate linksSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode is in response to a request from someone whose family has been bereaved by the death of a child.So I reached out to Dr. Martha Deiros Collado, a Clinical Psychologist who specialises in working with children and families, and who spent over a decade working with and developing services for children with life limiting and life shortening conditions.I am enormously grateful to Martha for her support with this episode in which she covers issues like:Why the language you use around death is importantThe value of creating ritualsHow to manage important dates like birthdays after the death of a childWhat to say and not say to parents after their child has diedWe hope this will be a helpful resource for bereaved parents, family members and people around the family.Support & ResourcesSue RyderWinston's Wish – support for children who are grieving -the loss of a sibling or the loss of a parentChild Bereavement UKLullaby Trust Tommy'sSandsGingerbread – Support for single parents including those who are bereavedChild Death Helpline – helpline operated by a dedicated team of volunteers who are all bereaved parents ____Newsletter sign up How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon *Affiliate linksSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Conformity, the act of adjusting your behaviour to fit in with group norms or expectations, is one of the strongest, most consistent and yet subtle social pressures that we experience. In this episode I'm talking about the evolutionary roots of shame and its links to conformity and physical pain.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.