Welcome to a special summer bonus episode of The Wellness Scoop. We’re asking two big questions — are seed oils really as bad as the headlines claim, and does your gut health matter more than your genetics? We’ll dig into the science behind the seed oil debate, from where the fear started to what research actually says about their impact on inflammation, heart health and longevity. Then we’ll explore new studies on the gut–brain connection, and how lifestyle choices might shape your health as much as, or more than, your DNA. Plus, why dancing could be the most joyful workout, loneliness as a rising health risk, and the latest trends from the spinach scare to the Hot Girl Walk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to another special live episode of The Wellness Scoop. We’re starting with a calming five-minute meditation led by Cordelia Simpson to help you pause, breathe and refill your cup before diving in. Then we’re tackling one of the most confusing topics in nutrition: ultra processed foods (UPFs). From the additives hiding in our everyday favourites to the impact on gut health, inflammation and chronic disease, we’re breaking down what the science actually says and where the gaps still are. We’re looking at how UPFs are defined, the most common ones in our diets, and how our eating habits today compare to our grandparents’ generation. We’re also exploring the links with obesity, mental health and cancer risk, plus why cost and access play such a big role in the conversation. Most importantly, we’re sharing simple, realistic swaps that make a difference without cutting out joy, from building more meals around whole foods to knowing when an additive is worth paying attention to. Get your copy of Rhi's book, The Unprocessed Plate To get the exclusive gift box from Shokz, order via this link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/44MSOxI⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to a very special episode of The Wellness Scoop, recorded live with our amazing community. In today’s show, we’re asking whether coffee could help you age better, if cutting calories might actually harm your mental health, and why new research says exercise could be more effective than drugs in stopping cancer from returning. We’re also diving into the latest concerns around microplastics and tampons, the truth about step counts, and the role of food in supporting hormones, energy and emotional wellbeing. Plus, we’re taking brilliant questions from our live audience, from fasting and kids’ food language to organic veg and the pressure to be perfect. Whether you were in the room with us for the event or you’re listening for the first time from home, thank you for being part of this incredible community. To get the exclusive gift box from Shokz, order via this link: ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/44MSOxI⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we’re diving into the wellness headlines that got us talking, from new research linking sweeteners to early puberty, to what the science really says about the keto diet. We’re also looking at the rise of broccoli shots in elite sport and why grip strength might be one of the most important health markers we rarely talk about. There’s a lot to cover, including Donald Trump and Coca-Cola’s, a viral debate around bacon and cancer risk, and a listener question on how food can support hormone health.  At the end of the show, we’re sharing a few personal updates, including the launch of Ella’s new cookbook Quick Wins, our first-ever homeware collection with John Lewis, a campaign to improve free school breakfasts, and some summer picks for kids’ food and theatre deals. Plus a brilliant Stylist feature on ageing that sparked an honest conversation about self-image and how our mindset shifts over time. Recommendations Brick: https://getbrick.app/ Nancy Britwhistle: https://www.instagram.com/nancy.birtwhistle/?hl=en Books: Blue Sisters and The Body Keeps the Score To get the exclusive gift box from Shokz, order via this link: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/44MSOxI⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we’re looking at why the first ten minutes after you wake up might matter more than anything else for how the rest of your day unfolds. From quick morning rituals to simple shifts that keep you steady, we break down what actually helps. We also get into England’s huge new 10-year NHS plan. With life expectancy flatlining and more people getting sick earlier, the government is promising a major overhaul — shifting from treating sickness to preventing it. We look at their ambitious goals, from tackling obesity and smoking to new rules on junk food and air quality, and ask whether it really goes far enough. Then we dive into the worrying story behind children’s sleep gummies that turned out to contain undeclared melatonin. It’s raised serious concerns about how unregulated the supplement industry still is, especially when it comes to products aimed at kids. Elsewhere, we explore why some common foods can behave like drugs in the body when you have too much. Think black licorice, poppy seeds and even Brazil nuts — all a reminder of how thin the line can be between food and pharmacology. And finally, we answer your listener question on organic. Is it genuinely better for your health, or is simply eating more fruits and veggies, no matter how they’re grown, what really counts? If you’re enjoying the show, please hit follow and leave us a review. We’d love to hear your thoughts or questions too! Recommendations: Self Defence: A Myth-busting Guide to Immune Health by Daniel Davis Bite Back activists, being blocked by the big advertising companies but trying to change the world! Turmeric, ginger and lemon shots - batch a week at a time Fit For The Future - The 10 year health plan in the UK The Science Of Menopause - by Dr Philippa Kaye Get your copy of Rhi's new book 'The Unprocessed Plate' ⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠ To get the exclusive gift box from Shokz, order via this link: https://bit.ly/44MSOxI Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we’re asking if all this self-monitoring, self-optimising and endless tracking is actually helping us — or just making us more stressed and less happy. With over half of UK adults now owning some kind of wearable, we dig into whether chasing perfect sleep scores and stress metrics is doing more harm than good. Because decades of research still shows that happiness often comes when we look outward — being kind, connected and empathetic — not by obsessing over every tiny detail of ourselves. We also break down some of the biggest health stories right now. We look at new research on magic mushrooms being used to treat depression, why the results are genuinely promising, and why it’s still not a miracle fix. Then we tackle the confusion around butter, steak, cheese and heart health. Is saturated fat really as bad as we’ve been told, or are the headlines just muddying the waters? We unpack what actually matters — from fat swaps to overall diet patterns. Then we take on the language of “guilt-free pleasures.” Whether it’s dark chocolate, low-alcohol wine or high-fibre cereals, do we really need guilt in the food conversation at all? We think it’s time to change how we talk about food. We also touch on the new nursery nutrition guidelines rolling out this September to help kids build better habits early on. Recommendations: Baked strawberries! Coat in either honey, maple syrup and sugar, pop in the oven for 15-20 mins at 180 and enjoy how much flavour you get Walking! Quick and easy way to feel great and bust stress Leaving your phone downstairs at night and feel better for not having the temptation to do late-night doom scrolling Please vote for us to win the Listener's Choice award at the British Podcast Awards: ⁠https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting To get the exclusive gift box from Shokz, order via this link: ⁠https://bit.ly/44MSOxI⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we’re diving into the stories shaping what we eat, how we shop and the way we live. We’re talking about the government’s new push to tackle obesity by cutting just 50 calories a day, whether weight-loss jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro are already changing our shopping habits, and the latest on possible bans or tighter rules for alcohol advertising in the UK. We also get into which oils you actually want to be cooking with at home, why M&S has just trademarked something called “Punishment Juice,” and a major new NHS survey that reveals one in four young adults are now living with a mental health condition. Plus, could creatine help prevent Alzheimer’s? We look at what the science says so far — along with all our personal updates and this week’s recommendations, from cult podcasts to berry-packed smoothies. This week’s recs: Korean exfoliating mitt⁠ ⁠How I Became a Brainwashed Cult Bride⁠ on Conversations (ABC Australia) Get your copy of Rhi's new book 'The Unprocessed Plate' ⁠⁠HERE⁠ Vote for us to win the Listener's Choice award at the British Podcast Awards: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting To get the exclusive gift box from Shokz, order via this link: ⁠https://bit.ly/44MSOxI⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we’re breaking down the new government data on the UK’s diet, from fibre and fruit and veg to vitamin D and iodine. It’s a clear snapshot of how we’re eating and why some of the most basic habits still aren’t sticking. We share what’s changed, what hasn’t, and what small shifts could help close the gap. We’re also diving into the surprising findings on insect protein. Once seen as a sustainable fix for the future, a new report suggests the environmental impact may be much higher than expected. Then we explore the rise of wearable tech for your brain, with a look at the new e-tattoo that tracks mental load in real time. Helpful tool or step too far? We discuss. Plus, we take on cortisol cocktails. Are they fact or fiction? And what actually works when it comes to managing stress? We share six simple, science-backed habits to support your nervous system. We also unpack the foods that act like drugs when eaten in excess, and what that means for your health. And in this week’s listener question: ghee, butter or olive oil. Which one should you be using in your cooking? Get your copy of Rhi's new book 'The Unprocessed Plate' HERE To get the exclusive gift box from Shokz, order via this link: ⁠https://bit.ly/44MSOxI⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we’re diving into the foods that could help you live longer — and the wellness habits that might be doing more harm than good. We start with the science behind the 14 foods linked to better brain, gut, and heart health. From oats and olive oil to beetroot, berries and black tea, this is one list that’s actually worth paying attention to — backed by major new research from Harvard and the World Cancer Research Fund. Then we get into the wellness trend that’s costing Gen Z nearly £2,000 a year — with most people admitting the products don’t even work. We break down what’s behind the spending spike, which supplements are trending, and why more than half of buyers feel misled. Elsewhere in the episode, we unpack the growing concern around forever chemicals in beer, the banned food additive still showing up in thousands of snacks, and the viral “Dubai chocolate” just recalled by the FSA. We also answer your listener question on soy and hormones — what’s fact, what’s myth, and what the science really says. Recommendations: Ginny and Georgia on Netflix The 30 Plan a book about gut health by friend of the show, Catherine Rabess Breast milk jewellery - Rhi had hers made at Mothers Love Jewellery ⁠The Unprocessed Plate by Rhiannon Lambert Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Protein is everywhere right now — added to yoghurts, cereals, snack bars and even water. But why has it taken centre stage in the wellness world, and how much do we actually need? In this episode of The Extra Scoop, we’re joined by Dr. Chris Cashin, a Registered Dietitian and Sports Nutritionist with over 25 years of experience, to help us make sense of the protein boom. From health claims to beauty industry promises, she breaks down what’s fact, what’s hype, and what really matters when it comes to your protein intake. We look at why protein is essential, how to tell if you’re getting enough, whether plant-based options measure up, and why there’s more to nutrition than just chasing numbers on a label. Whether you're perimenopausal, training for a marathon, or simply trying to eat well, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence to navigate protein without the overwhelm. In This Episode, We Cover: Why protein is important and what it actually does for the body The truth behind daily targets — and whether 30g per meal is really necessary The rise of “proteinification” and how diet culture fuels the hype How protein became associated with aesthetics and the ideal body image The difference between complete and incomplete proteins Whether plant-based proteins are just as effective as animal-based sources The real risks (if any) of eating too much protein 3 simple, evidence-based takeaways to help you get what you need — without overthinking it About the Guest:Dr Chris Cashin is a Registered Dietitian, Registered Nutritionist, and Sports Nutritionist with over 25 years of experience. She’s the founder of Cardiff Nutrition Consultancy, has worked with elite athletes at the English Institute of Sport and Sport Wales, and is a Senior Lecturer and Programme Manager for the MSc in Sport and Exercise Nutrition at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we’re diving into the slightly shocking (and sometimes surprisingly wholesome) stories shaping our health and habits. We start with TikTok’s decision to ban the hashtag #SkinnyTok, following a viral exposé revealing the darker side of the “skinny girl” aesthetic and the influencer-led community profiting from it. Then there’s new research showing that smiling might be six times more effective than Botox when it comes to attractiveness, raising big questions about beauty standards, confidence, and connection. We also get into the shrinking length of TED Talks, the red meat industry’s influence on heart health studies, and the surprising truth about coconut sugar, agave, and maple syrup. Are any of them actually better for you? Elsewhere in the episode, we cover Britain’s booming banana obsession (and the waste it’s creating), why Scandinavian saunas are strictly nude, and what’s changing in school food. This week’s recommendations The Cut article The Unprocessed Plate by Rhiannon Lambert Your Friends and Neighbours (Apple TV) Sirens (Netflix) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re more connected than ever — but is our tech making us healthier, or quietly harming us? In this episode of The Extra Scoop, we’re joined by physicist and cancer researcher Dr David Robert Grimes to unpack what the science really says about technology and our health — from EMFs and mobile phones to AirPods, microwaves, AI, and the platforms that shape our daily lives. Dr Grimes explores why viral misinformation spreads so easily, how social media is rewiring our emotional responses, and why he compares today’s tech giants to the tobacco industry. We also dig into the long-term risks of algorithm-driven platforms and ask whether fear around radiation and devices is rooted in real science — or modern health anxiety. This is a conversation that cuts through the noise, challenges fear-based narratives, and empowers you to think more critically in a digital-first world. In This Episode, We Cover: Whether phones, AirPods and microwaves pose any physical health risks What the research says about EMFs and 5G The rise of misinformation — and why social media may be the new tobacco The long-term impact of AI and algorithm-driven tech on learning and mental health The real cost of constant outrage and viral content Simple ways to spot health misinformation and protect your wellbeing online How to stay informed without falling into fear About the Guest:Dr David Robert Grimes is a physicist, cancer researcher and science writer with a PhD in medical physics. His work focuses on misinformation, public health and science communication. He writes for The Guardian, The Irish Times and BBC Future, and is the author of The Irrational Ape, which explores why we believe falsehoods — and how to think more clearly in a world of misinformation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on The Wellness Scoop, we’re unpacking the stories that are reshaping the way we think about food, health, and community. We start with a major new report exposing the rise of nutrition misinformation online — with up to 24 million people now at risk of following harmful diet advice from unqualified influencers. We dig into the shocking stats, the financial machine behind viral health content, and what needs to change if we’re going to rebuild trust in expert-led wellness. Next, we look at the government’s quiet U-turn on a healthy food policy — after pressure from ultra-processed food giants — and why it matters more than ever in a cost-of-living crisis. We’re also shining a light on the growing trend of real food heroes like Medjool dates, exploring the science behind their heart and gut benefits. And finally… saunas. Yes, really. From Finnish forests 10,000 years ago to floating sauna parties in Liverpool, we explore why this ancient ritual is having such a huge cultural comeback — and what the science says about its impact on stress, sleep, pain and longevity. Plus: a powerful personal story from actress Julia Stiles on body image, sample sizes, and learning to trust your body again. Recommendations: Julia Stiles' appearance on How to Fail with Elizabeth Day The Badger Trust - good to know where to find help when you spot wildlife in need Ella's book recommendation: Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano Plus you can order Rhi's new book The Unprocessed Plate ⁠here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As summer approaches and body image pressures creep in, many of us start to feel more self-conscious — often without even realising it. In this episode of The Extra Scoop, we’re joined by registered dietitian and nutritionist Sarah Elder to unpack what it really means to have a healthy relationship with food. Sarah brings over a decade of experience and a refreshingly compassionate, realistic approach to nutrition. Together, we explore how to tune into your body’s needs, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and find a way of eating that feels intuitive, enjoyable and sustainable. We also talk about the powerful influence of social media, childhood conditioning, and the subtle ways diet culture still shapes how we see food and ourselves — plus how we can break those patterns for the next generation. Whether you're navigating years of food rules or simply want to feel a bit more at ease around eating, this conversation is full of gentle, practical ideas to help you reconnect with food in a way that works for you. In This Episode, We Cover: What a truly healthy relationship with food looks and feels like Why it’s normal to want to feel good in your body — and how to do that without falling into restriction How to start spotting hunger and fullness cues again What intuitive eating and mindful eating actually mean in practice Advice for navigating social media without feeling overwhelmed The impact of generational food messaging — and how to break the cycle One small, manageable step to help you shift all-or-nothing thinking Why healthy looks different for everyone About the Guest: Sarah Elder is a registered dietitian and nutritionist with over a decade of experience in clinical and community settings. She supports individuals in building a more balanced, relaxed relationship with food and specialises in gut health, hormonal wellbeing and the connection between food and mood. Sarah is passionate about cutting through the noise of diet culture and helping people reconnect with food in a way that’s intuitive, enjoyable and sustainable. You can find her on Instagram @saraheldernutrition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we’re diving into the small (and slightly ridiculous) things that could be having a big impact on your health. We start with the science behind fibre — and how eating more of it may actually help flush out forever chemicals from the body. Then there’s the rising concern over plastics disrupting our sleep, thanks to their unexpected effect on the body’s circadian rhythm. We also explore the viral trends taking over wellness feeds right now — from fart walks to “Netflix bum” (yes, it’s real), plus the new wave of advice on why midlife strength training is so important for healthspan. Elsewhere in the episode, we unpack how ozempic might change the world and we answer your listener question on how to reduce sugar cravings without falling into the restriction trap. Recommendations: Check out @sambentley for good, positive news that breaks through the doom and gloom! Packing cases - a big stress saver before going on holiday Pitta breads - versatile and reduces waste! Charles Dowding's Youtube channel - namely his 'no dig' method. Lots of useful tips for your garden Plus you can order Rhi's new book The Unprocessed Plate here And don’t forget: The Wellness Scoop Live is happening on Saturday 14th June at Cadogan Hall — find your tickets here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this week’s episode, we’re diving into four surprising headlines that touch on everything from daily habits to big lifestyle shifts. First up, new research reveals that just two weeks without mobile internet can reverse ten years of cognitive ageing and significantly boost mental health. We break down what happened in the study, and whether a digital detox could work in real life. Then, we explore the idea of nondoing — a powerful wellness concept from Deepak Chopra that isn’t meditation or rest, but a deeper kind of stillness that reconnects you with yourself. We also look at a bold claim from The Telegraph — that poor posture could shorten your life — and share practical steps to improve it, starting today. And finally, a fun one: champagne might actually be good for your heart. But before you pop a bottle, we unpack what the science says (and what it doesn’t). In today’s trend check, we explore the booming world of mushroom-based wellness drinks, from lion’s mane lattes to adaptogenic teas — are they worth the hype? Recommendations: The Irrational Ape - Dr David Robert Grimes Apple TV's 'Your Friends and Neighbours' Ella's chimichurri recipe: - ½ shallot/small red onion, 1 clove garlic, a large handful (25g) of fresh parsley, finely chopped, a small handful of fresh coriander (15g), finely chopped, 1 red chilli, 2 tablespoons cider vinegar,  5 tablespoons olive oil, pinch of salt Live Show Tickets - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this week’s episode, we’re unpacking the return of restrictive headlines — starting with The Telegraph’s “11 foods to avoid if you want to slim down for summer.” We break down what these kinds of lists get wrong, why they’re still everywhere, and how food swaps can either empower or shame, depending on the lens. We also explore the news that WeightWatchers has filed for bankruptcy, what it says about the end of calorie-counting culture, and how new weight-loss pills are changing the conversation from habits to hormones. Then we turn to Spain’s bold new school food policy — banning ultra-processed snacks and requiring fruit, vegetables and fish at every school meal. Should the UK follow? Plus, new data from CALM reveals a loneliness epidemic among young adults — right as AI-powered “companions” go mainstream. We ask whether virtual support is helping or making things worse. And in this week’s trend check: is psyllium husk really the “natural Ozempic” — or just good fibre marketing? Recommendations: Good Enough by Dr Tara Porter - a good reminder for us to stop trying to be perfect! Don’t forget — The Wellness Scoop Live is happening June 14th at Cadogan Hall. Tickets are flying, and we’d love to see you there: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) have exploded in popularity, promising everything from weight loss to personalised health insights — but are they really delivering? To help us make sense of the science, we’re joined by Dr. Javier González, Professor of Nutrition and Metabolism at the University of Bath. Javier recently co-authored a study exploring how CGMs impact non-diabetic adults, and found that they might be giving misleading feedback and even encouraging unhelpful dietary choices. In This Episode, We Cover: Blood sugar 101  What CGMs are and how they work The key findings from Dr. González’s recent study Common myths and misconceptions about glucose tracking. Are CGMs actually beneficial for people without diabetes? The risks of relying too heavily on health tech Simple, science-backed strategies for managing blood sugar — without a monitor Live Show Tickets - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this week’s episode, we’re taking a closer look at the sneaky side of nutrition—starting with hidden sugar. From yoghurt and oat milk to savoury sauces and baby food, we reveal just how much sugar is lurking in everyday items—and why it's so hard to spot on the label. Weight loss jabs like Ozempic and Mounjaro are still dominating headlines, but behind the hype lies a deeper conversation about self-worth, body image, and how 90s diet culture continues to shape our thinking. We share a powerful reflection from Elizabeth Day on the inner critic, societal pressure, and what true body neutrality looks like in 2025. We also break down the latest ultra-processed food research, including shocking new stats on early death risk. Are UPFs as dangerous as the data suggests—and what can we actually do about it? Plus, the baby food pouch scandal has reignited debate about infant nutrition. We unpack the findings, the marketing spin, and why transparency is urgently needed in this space. Elsewhere, Rhi reveals the surprising truth about plastics in activewear, Ella shares her take on the “bed rotting” trend, and we answer a listener question on the best ways to cook your veg without losing nutrients. Reccomendations: Crash Diets Don’t Work - listen to Rhi's excellent reminder in the ep Weight loss jabs and the struggle for self-acceptance - a fascinating article from Elizabeth Day's Substack Email your MP via the Save The Children website to help protect foreign aid, urgently needed by mothers and newborn children across 12 countries. Live Show Tickets - https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Supplements are everywhere — from collagen to magnesium, creatine and ashwagandha -  how much of it is science, and how much is just smart marketing? In this short conversation, we’re cutting through the confusion and breaking down what really matters when it comes to supplements and nutrition. To help us unpack it all, we’re joined by Dr. Karan Rajan, NHS surgeon and online educator known for busting medical myths with science and clarity. He shares expert insights into what’s worth taking, what to avoid, and how to navigate the ever-expanding world of supplements with confidence. In This Episode, We Cover: Whether a balanced diet is enough — or if most of us actually need supplements What collagen is and whether it really delivers on the hype The most beneficial supplements, and who can benefit most Whether more is better when it comes to supplementing Red flags, myths, and common misconceptions to watch out for The science behind trending supplements like ashwagandha, creatine, magnesium, and collagen Three science-backed tips for supporting your nutrition without the overwhelm Live Show Tickets - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices