Feel Better, Live More with Dr Rangan Chatterjee

Music is medicine. It has the power to heal us. And today’s guest knows it’s something we can self-prescribe, for free, whenever we want to benefit. Dr Daniel Levitin is a neuroscientist, cognitive psychologist and bestselling author. He’s also a former record producer and an accomplished musician who’s brought all those skills together in his latest book, Music As Medicine: How We Can Harness Its Therapeutic Power. As soon as I heard about it, I had to ask Dan onto the podcast to share his wisdom. As a lifelong musician and music fan, I know certain tracks change how I feel. But talking to Dan has opened my mind to just how profound an effect music has on the brain. It doesn’t just shift our mood, it can affect our entire physiology. Dan has spent decades studying this, advising the US Government and working with the National Institutes of Health, to the point where his research is now influencing global health policy. We’ve all experienced the health-giving power of music, perhaps without realising. Now with that knowledge, and Dan’s insights, we can start to put it to therapeutic use. Here’s what fascinates me the most: music doesn’t just hit one part of your brain. Different types activate different regions, in much the same way as certain medications work. And Dan shares some astounding examples of this – from the people with Parkinson’s who relearn to walk, to the marathon runners who don’t feel pain, to the Alzheimer’s patients who can’t recognise loved ones, but can recall how to play an instrument perfectly. The brain regions that process music are deeper, older and more protected. It’s why music communicates emotion in ways that words can’t always match. Throughout our conversation, Dan makes this case that music is our birthright. And it can flood us with feelgood, bonding hormones. So it’s a tool we can turn to for overcoming trauma, processing difficult feelings, or connecting with others. But he doesn’t just want us to listen. Playing an instrument, singing and songwriting all do more than you might expect – and you don’t need to be an expert. The next time I’m strumming my guitar, I won’t just think of it as a hobby. I’ll know I’m doing something profoundly important for my health. And you can too. Whether it’s learning an instrument, having a family singalong in the car, or simply switching on the radio, I’m not sure there’s a simpler, more effective way to feel better.   Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore. For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com.   Thanks to our sponsors: https://vivobarefoot.com/livemore https://onepeloton.co.uk https://thewayapp.com/livemore https://drinkag1.com/livemore   Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/623   DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

Mel Robbins is one of the most sort after motivational speakers in the world. Her TED talk has been viewed almost 27 million times and she's also the best-selling author of several books, including her latest one, The High Five Habit: Take Control of Your Life With One Simple Habit. In today's conversation, Mel explains that all of us know what we need to do for the best in any given situation but it’s acting on that knowledge that’s hard. It’s so easy to be impulsive or fall into old habits. And I think this is where Mel really comes into her own. Her approach is all about practical, real life advice that busy people with busy lives can easily implement. A prime example is something that Mel calls the five second rule. This is a rule that stops negative thinking in its tracks, and immediately breaks the feedback loop of procrastination and moves us into taking action. It changes a bias of thinking into a bias of action, giving you the confidence to try when you're full of doubt. In fact, it's so simple that my 11 year old son has already seen its benefits in his own life over the past few weeks. We also talk about The High Five Habit (which is the title of Mel’s new book) - this is the idea that by simply giving yourself a high five in the mirror each morning, you can experience transformative effects in your life. This simple exercise is about recognizing yourself and asking yourself what the person looking back at you in the mirror really needs and by doing so, Mel explains that you are retraining your brains neural pathways and convincing your subconscious that you are someone who is worthy of celebration. This really is a wide ranging and in-depth conversation. There is something quite unique about the connection that Mel has with her audience and the way she delivers her message. I think a lot of it comes down to her raw honesty, and the fact that all of her methods are borne out of her own lived experience. She's been there and she is very happy to share her struggles, her insecurities and her battles. I certainly got a lot out of this conversation and I think you will as well.   Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore. For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com. Thanks to our sponsors: https://thewayapp.com/livemore https://ag1.com/livemore   Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/622   DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

Is your ‘healthy’ breakfast actually dessert in disguise? Why is it that so many of us are struggling these days with our metabolic health? Today’s clip is from episode 545 with medical doctor and best-selling author Dr Mark Hyman. For many years, Mark has been leading a global health revolution around using food as medicine -  to support longevity, energy, mood and happiness. In this clip, he shares practical, evidence-based ways to improve your metabolic health, starting with what’s on your plate. Mark is passionate about empowering people to take charge of their health and his accessible approach offers practical steps anyone can take.   Thanks to our sponsor ⁠⁠⁠https://thewayapp.com/livemore  Show notes and the full podcast are available at https://drchatterjee.com/545 Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts ⁠⁠https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore⁠⁠ For other podcast platforms go to ⁠⁠https://fblm.supercast.com. DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

When it comes to feeling better, many of us instinctively start with our minds. We think about our thoughts, our beliefs, our stress levels. But what if a huge part of our emotional and psychological experience is actually being held in our bodies – quite literally – in a remarkable tissue called fascia? This week, I’m joined by Jason van Blerk, one of the co-founders of Human Garage - a global self-care movement that aims to inspire 1 billion people to heal themselves, through simple, accessible movement practices, that they call Fascial Manoeuvres. In our conversation, we explore what fascia actually is, why modern science is only just beginning to catch up with what many practitioners have observed for decades, and how emotions and past experiences may be stored in our physical structure. Jason also shares how different areas of the body seem to relate to different emotional patterns, why posture and mood are so tightly linked, and how changing one can often influence the other. We also talk about stress, and why so many of us feel tense, disconnected, and stuck in our own lives and Jason explains how simple rotational movements, combined with specific breathing patterns, can help “unwind” the body, reduce stress, and leave you feeling lighter, calmer, and grounded. The thing I love the most about Human Garage’s philosophy is that they want to empower people to heal themselves. This is not about needing lifelong treatment, or becoming dependent on a therapist or HCP - it’s about learning a set of practical moves that you can use anywhere, anytime AND with no equipment, to start healing your body and calming your mind. Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore. For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com.   Thanks to our sponsors: Peloton https://onepeloton.co.uk Heights https://heights.com/livemore   Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/620   DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

Longevity is a hot topic these days. We’re obsessed with anti-ageing, as if getting older should be avoided or even reversed at all costs! Of course, we can’t do that and I’m not sure we’d really want to. But today’s guest brings valuable insights about what we can do, to make sure we age healthily and happily.    Professor Rose Anne Kenny is a medical gerontologist and Regius Professor of Physic and Chair of Medical Gerontology at Trinity College Dublin. She’s the Founding Principal Investigator of Ireland’s largest population study of ageing (TILDA) and the author of the international bestseller Age Proof: The New Science of Living a Longer and Healthier Life.  In this conversation, Professor Kenny reveals that while 20 percent of ageing is genetic and can’t be changed, 80 percent is epigenetic – in other words, we have the power to influence how quickly or how slowly we age. Her number one recommendation is having good quality friendships and relationships throughout our lives. Then follows a healthy diet, plenty of exercise, and reducing stress. So nothing too surprising, perhaps. But what might surprise you is just how far reaching the effects of these relatively simple measures can be – and how much what you do in your 20s can impact your 80s. We talk about how to avoid metabolic syndrome and why it’s important to know key biological markers throughout life. We take a deep dive into the benefits of community, family, volunteering and inter-generational friendships, and discuss the undercurrent of ageism that prevails in society. Loneliness increased threefold during the pandemic, according to the TILDA study, and it’s left some people feeling afraid to reconnect. Yet isolation is known to cause inflammation, suppress immunity and speed ageing. Professor Kenny believes we should flip convenience on its head when it comes to exercise. Instead of taking the easy option that means moving less, we should look at the ‘harder’ options, such as taking the stairs or carrying heavy bags, as convenient ways to build activity and strength training into our lives. She also shares excellent advice on sex and intimacy, sleeping better, laughing more, and finding purpose all around you. This really is a wonderful and practical conversation that is going to give you a variety of simple ways to play the long game when it comes to ageing. And the empowering message is that it’s never too early and it’s never too late to start.    Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore. For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com.   Thanks to our sponsors: https://ag1.com/livemore https://thewayapp.com/livemore   Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/619   DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

Why is it that 80% of New Year’s Resolutions fail? In my opinion, it is because many of us are taking the wrong approach. But, if you take the correct approach it is absolutely possible to make meaningful changes in your life that actually last. Feel Better Live More Bitesize is my weekly podcast for your mind, body, and heart. Each week I’ll be featuring inspirational stories and practical tips from some of my former guests. Today’s clip is from episode 506 of the podcast which was a solo episode I recorded to celebrate the launch of my sixth book ‘Make Change That Lasts: 9 Simple Ways To Break Free From The Habits That Hold You Back’.  In this clip, I share a powerful idea that could help you make meaningful changes that actually last. Thanks to our sponsor ⁠⁠⁠https://heights.com/livemore Show notes and the full podcast are available at https://drchatterjee.com/506 Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts ⁠⁠https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore⁠⁠ For other podcast platforms go to ⁠⁠https://fblm.supercast.com. DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

When it comes to improving our health and fitness, most of us have absorbed the same message: work harder, push more, sweat more – basically, that no pain means no gain. But what if that story is not only wrong, what if it is actually holding you back? This week, I sit down with elite endurance coach Alan Couzens to completely reframe how we think about movement, fitness, and fat loss. Alan is both an exercise physiologist and a performance coach. He has spent the past three decades working with a wide range of endurance athletes at all ends of the performance spectrum, from ‘off the couch’ fitness athletes to the very best athletes in all of endurance sport. He shares his incredible wisdom & insights on X and his Substack, ‘The Science of Maximal Athletic Development’ which I would highly recommend if you want to go deeper into the topics we discuss in this week’s episode. Over the past few years, Alan has helped me to understand the critical importance of low intensity movement for health, performance and longevity, and in our conversation, we discuss: Why the ability to burn fat at low intensities is one of the most important markers of true metabolic health Why so many people feel they need to eat every two to three hours How very easy movement  can transform your health, your energy, your mood, and even your performance, often more than the hard workouts you think you “should” be doing The need to balance out the stresses of modern life with activities like walking and yoga The importance of building a big aerobic “engine” How best to think about intensity, strength training, VO₂ max, and muscle mass Why it is never too late to start increasing how much you move and experiencing the incredible benefits Alan is someone who I have a huge amount of respect for. Not only is he extremely knowledgeable and up to date with the latest science, he is also someone who has a huge amount of real-world experience helping people to improve their athletic performance and their health. My hope is that this episode serves as a powerful reminder that the human body simply does not work as well as it could, without adequate amounts of movement and that it inspires you to bring more easy movement into your life, in a way that supports your health for many decades to come   Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore. For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com.   Thanks to our sponsors: https://heights.com/livemore https://drinkage.com/livemore https://onepeloton.co.uk   Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/617   DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

My guest on this week’s Feel Better Live More podcast is Dr Robert Lustig, Professor of Paediatric Endocrinology at the University of California. He’s a leading public health expert who has long been exposing the myths of modern medicine and the food industry. His passion is communicating how sugar and ultra-processed food is fuelling the chronic disease epidemic that we are all facing today. Obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, heart disease and so much more are caused, in Rob’s view, by the foods that we are eating. In his latest book, Metabolical: The Lure and the Lies of Processed Food, Nutrition and Modern Medicine, he outlines what he calls the ‘hateful eight’ – the eight root causes in our body that underlie all chronic disease. He explains how food and sugar impact on them and, most importantly, suggests strategies to counteract them. In this conversation, Rob explains why sugar is so damaging and explains that just like alcohol, our bodies can cope with sugar in small amounts. But in excess will end up in the liver and ultimately trigger us to get sick. Rob’s decades of clinical experience and research has led to his bold and compelling assertion that the answer to all chronic disease can be found in real food. His solution? To ‘protect the liver, feed the gut’. I think these 6 words are an elegant way of summarising the nutritional advice that all of us should consider taking on board in order to improve our health and wellbeing. We talk about what constitutes ‘real food’ and how different levels of food processing are classified. Rob explains why sugar-sweetened drinks are so disastrous for health, particularly in children – and why diet drinks do just as much damage, if not more.  We also talk about TOFI (thin on the outside, fat on the inside) and fascinatingly, Rob outlines the three types of fat gain that we can all experience: subcutaneous (which you can see); visceral (stress-related fat around the middle), and liver fat. It’s only the first of these that you’re likely to notice – but it’s the latter two which we really need to fix, especially as they’re already appearing in kids. This conversation is full of mind-blowing facts and insights but it’s also really empowering and contains simple, practical tips that all of us can use to improve our lives. I hope you enjoy listening.  Caution: contains mild swearing.   Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore. For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com. Thanks to our sponsors: https://ag1.com/livemore https://thewayapp.com/livemore   Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/616   DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

Over the past five years, it’s been incredible to see how the alcohol-free landscape has changed. Pubs, restaurants and supermarkets boast a range of appealing 0% options. We’re seeing a rise in alcohol-free communities, influencers, bars and events. There has been a marked cultural shift towards acceptance of not drinking – and that’s in no small part down to today’s guest. Today’s clip is from episode 438 of the podcast with performance coach and best-selling author, Andy Ramage.  Andy is the co-founder of the One Year No Beer movement, and since his first appearance on this podcast back in 2019, countless listeners have written in to share how they’ve transformed their lives by giving up, or changing their relationship with alcohol. In this clip, Andy shares why he believes that removing alcohol could help you become the most productive, present and healthiest version of yourself. He explains his ‘ambivalence seesaw’ – a framework you can use to work out your current relationship with alcohol and start to shift it. And he shares some valuable advice on coping with social pressure to drink. Andy is motivated, passionate and full of positivity, and someone who describes a life without alcohol as a gift to yourself. He’s not here to judge anyone else, simply to encourage you to try out the benefits - he has managed to transform his own health, happiness and relationships and wants to inspire you to do the same. Thanks to our sponsor ⁠⁠⁠https://thewayapp.com/livemore  Show notes and the full podcast are available at https://drchatterjee.com/438 Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts ⁠⁠https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore⁠⁠ For other podcast platforms go to ⁠⁠https://fblm.supercast.com. DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

What if the biggest source of stress in your life is not your job, inbox, or finances – but the simple fact that you have too much stuff? This week, my guest is Joshua Fields Millburn, co‑founder of The Minimalists, whose documentaries, books and podcast have inspired millions of people around the world to reconsider their own relationship with possessions and success. Joshua grew up with very little money, in a home marked by addiction, violence and instability and, as a young man, became convinced that the solution was to be found in acquiring ‘more’:  more income, more status and more material comfort. By the age of 30, he had everything he thought he wanted – the big job title, the nice car, the large house, all the visible signs of having “made it”. And yet, inside, he was anxious, overwhelmed and deeply unhappy. Then, in the space of a single month, his mother died and his marriage ended. Those two events forced him to pause and ask some uncomfortable but essential questions: What am I actually doing with my life? Whose values am I living by? Is this endless consumption really what life is all about? That period of questioning led Joshua towards minimalism – not as a trend or an aesthetic, but as a practical framework for living with greater clarity and intention.  in our conversation, we discuss: How external clutter is often an outward reflection of internal clutter Why products so often promise fulfilment but ultimately deliver dissatisfaction The difference between healthy consumption and harmful consumerism Practical rules that make decluttering simpler, including the 30-day minimalism game, the 90/90 approach to clothes and why a “sale price” can often become a “fool’s price” How identity clutter keeps us stuck - when we cling to things, roles or labels, not because we need them, but because we’re afraid of who we’ll be without them How minimalism can improve our health and relationships by creating more time, attention and presence. Joshua is a wonderful human being, a brilliant communicator and someone who thinks deeply about the human experience.  He believes that minimalism is the art of “addition through subtraction” - it’s not about having less for the sake of it, but about making space for what matters most. Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore. For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com. Thanks to our sponsors: https://vivobarefoot.com/livemore https://thewayapp.com/livemore Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/614 DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

With the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools bill returning to the House of Commons imminently, it’s a key time to make your feelings known. Email your MP https://www.smartphonefreechildhood.org/email. Today’s episode is about a topic that I am truly passionate about - the introduction of social media and smartphones into all aspects of our lives - and what impact this is having on us individually, collectively and, perhaps most urgently, what impact is this having on our children.  Jonathan Haidt is arguably one of the worlds’ most eminent psychologists. He is a Professor of Ethical Leadership at New York University’s Stern School of Business and the author of 4 best-selling books, including his latest ‘The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness’.   In this episode, Jonathan and I explore how the fundamental differences between online and real-world interactions are affecting young people's social, emotional and cognitive development. We discuss why girls face unique risks on social media, from damaged relationships and reputations to harassment, and how gaming and pornography are shaping boys' expectations of relationships. Jonathan also shares some eye-opening data about the link between a decline in teen mental health and the widespread adoption of smartphones and social media. He emphasises the need for collective action to create healthier norms around technology use, both at home and in schools. We dive into practical strategies for parents, including setting clear boundaries and prioritising hobbies and family time. Our conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating technology use in a world where the pace of change has been so fast. Jonathan remains optimistic that we're nearing a tipping point and outlines four key norms we can all adopt with our children—even if they’re already dependent on their phones throughout the day. We also discuss in detail what we believe schools could be doing to help their students have less screen time and the importance of collaborating with other families to support healthier habits. As a parent and a doctor, I'm deeply concerned about the mental health crisis facing our children and young people. But if, as a society, we can come together to raise awareness and take purposeful action, we can create a healthier future for the next generation. I think this is one of the most important conversations that I have ever had on my podcast. Jonathan and I both believe that the rewiring of our children’s brains to be one of the most urgent societal harms that needs addressing.   My hope is that you find this conversation eye opening, enlightening and thought provoking - and I very much hope it prompts you to take action. Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore. For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com. Thanks to our sponsors: https://ag1.com/livemore https://thewayapp.com/livemore  Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/613   DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

It’s easy to believe that we have to dedicate lots of time and energy to exercise. That, unless we’re pushing ourselves to our limits, it’s not worth doing.  Today’s clip is from episode 325 of the podcast with neuroscientist and Professor of Neural Science and Psychology, Dr Wendy Suzuki. Every morning Wendy starts her day with 30-minutes of exercise. She knows – from personal experience backed by scientific research – that this makes her more focused, happy, motivated, and even creative. She knows it’ll help her grow new brain cells and neural pathways, long into old age. And she wants you to reap all these benefits too. In this clip, Wendy shares why you don’t need to exercise for hours to gain benefits and  how just 10 minutes of exercise can create changes in the brain that go much further than simply boosting our mood. This is a practical and inspiring episode that I’m certain will have you taking action immediately. Thanks to our sponsor ⁠⁠⁠https://drinkag1.com/livemore Show notes and the full podcast are available at https://drchatterjee.com/325 Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts ⁠⁠https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore⁠⁠ For other podcast platforms go to ⁠⁠https://fblm.supercast.com. DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

If you have ever struggled with your weight, low energy, pre-diabetes or even type 2 diabetes, this is a conversation that could change your life. Dr David Unwin is an NHS GP who not only put his own type 2 diabetes into drug free remission, he has also helped over 150 patients do the same in a standard UK general practice – with ordinary people, on ordinary budgets, using food and lifestyle. It’s estimated that around 7/8ths of the adult population are metabolically unhealthy, which means that only a tiny minority of us are truly metabolically well. And this is a serious issue because poor metabolic health is one of the root cause drivers of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, strokes, Alzheimer’s and many forms of cancer. In fact, this is one of the main reasons why I co-founded Do Health https://drchatterjee.com/do-health/ - a personalised health companion, powered by your individual biology and lifestyle - as a way of helping people improve their metabolic health early, well before they get sick in the future. In this week’s episode, we cover: The early signs of poor metabolic health, and why symptoms like fatigue, belly fat and brain fog are often overlooked. Why many issues we see as ‘normal ageing’ are actually signs of insulin resistance. How David himself reversed his own type 2 diabetes and, at the same time, improved his mood, energy and cognition. How reducing starchy carbohydrates if you have metabolic dys-regulation can dramatically improve blood sugar control Why so many of us struggle with bread, pasta, and ultra processed foods – and how food addiction may be silently driving our behaviour. The two women who helped David rethink everything he thought he knew about food, hope and healing And why it’s never too late to work on your metabolic health and why doing so can change every aspect of your life. One of the things I love most about David is his passion. He really is someone who genuinely wants to improve the health and lives of his patients and our hope is this conversation empowers you to make small changes that will improve your blood sugar, weight, energy, and ultimately, your future.   Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore. For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com.   Thanks to our sponsors: https://boncharge.com/livemore https://thewayapp.com/livemore   Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/611⁠   DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

What do you think you might be saying on your deathbed? Will you be looking back at your life with a sense of joy and completeness, or, do you think that perhaps you might be consumed with regret? As this week’s guest shares, “It’s easy to assume that you will live with great health to a ripe old age, then die peacefully in your sleep wearing your favourite pyjamas but it doesn’t work out that way for most people…” Bronnie Ware is an internationally acclaimed speaker and author of the bestselling memoir, The Top Five Regrets of the Dying. Published more than 10 years ago, it’s been translated into 32 languages and continues to attract new audiences. The book is about her eight years as an end-of-life carer, the close relationships she formed, and lessons she learned from those dying people, which changed her life forever. In this conversation, we discuss some of the various regrets of the dying and what they can teach us so that we can live better lives, right now. We talk about the concept of choice. Everything we do, or don’t do, has a price – be it time or money. Our culture incentivises what we can measure – salaries, possessions, status, social media ‘likes’ and comments. But Bronnie urges us to realise the sacredness and value of our time. Is something a choice worth making if it means you have to sacrifice time with your loved ones? Is it worth pushing extra hard for the promotion that may bring you more money but also more stress and more time away from home? These are decisions that I think we all need to wrestle with from time to time if we are truly going to be living a contented and intentional life. We also talk about the real meaning of regret, what it means to be courageous, and how self-compassion can help us see our mistakes as a natural part of life and growth. Importantly, Bronnie also defines the qualities and habits she observed in those patients who reached the end of life with no regrets – what can we learn from these people? Death can be a topic that many people shy away from discussing but Bronnie is a wonderful soul who is able to talk about death in a relatable, powerful and authentic way. Appreciating we are going to die is the first step to getting more out of life. This really was a thought-provoking and intimate conversation. I hope you enjoy listening.   Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore. For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com. Thanks to our sponsors: https://www.thewayapp.com/livemore https://drinkag1.com/livemore   Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/610   DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

Did you know that your daily habits directly affect the speed at which your brain is ageing and your risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease in the future? Feel Better Live More Bitesize is my weekly podcast for your mind, body, and heart. Each week I’ll be featuring inspirational stories and practical tips from some of my former guests. Today’s clip is from episode 573 of the podcast with medical doctor, board-certified surgeon, and expert in preventive health, Dr Darshan Shah. This was one of the most-listened-to podcast episodes in the UK in 2025, and one that clearly resonated with so many of you. In this clip, Darshan shares practical advice that could transform how you think about your health and we explore some of the most important daily habits that could add decades to your life.  These practical, evidence-based changes can help you feel better not just now, but for decades to come. Thanks to our sponsor ⁠⁠⁠https://drinkag1.com/livemore Show notes and the full podcast are available at https://drchatterjee.com/573 Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts ⁠⁠https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore⁠⁠ For other podcast platforms go to ⁠⁠https://fblm.supercast.com. DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

Most of us want our lives to feel calmer, clearer and more aligned. Yet so often, we hesitate, overthink or delay the changes we know would help us feel better. This week’s guest believes that what holds us back is not a lack of motivation or confidence, but a lack of self-trust, which is the foundation that shapes everything from our habits to our relationships. This week on, I’m joined by Dr Shadé Zahrai. Shadé is a behavioural researcher, award-winning peak performance educator and leading authority on confidence and self-doubt. In her new book, Big Trust: Rewire Self-Doubt, Find Your Confidence and Fuel Success, her message is simple: we need to stop getting in our own way, loosen the grip of self-doubt and learn how to back ourselves when it counts. Many of Shadé’s insights are shaped by her own journey. After years in corporate roles that were filled with intense self-doubt and even physical anxiety, she found herself starting again when the pandemic hit and her work fell away overnight. Creating simple videos from home to support others became an unexpected turning point - and ultimately the foundation of the work she does today. During our conversation, we discuss: Why self-trust sits at the heart of confidence, action and meaningful change, and how waiting to ‘feel ready’ keeps so many of us stuck. The four key attributes that make up self-trust, how our identity shapes our behaviour and why small daily choices become meaningful “proof points” of who we want to become. Why confidence doesn’t come first, and why self-trust, not motivation, is what allows us to take action. How repeatedly breaking promises to ourselves erodes our identity, and why keeping small commitments rebuilds a sense of capability and worth. The powerful connection between our inner narrative and our wellbeing, and how shifting our story changes the way we experience life. Shadé believes that we are not defined by our doubts but by the choices we make when doubt appears. This episode offers a compassionate, practical guide to strengthening the trust we place in ourselves and invites us to stop outsourcing our worth to external validation. Only then can we reconnect with our core values and begin living from a place of clarity and courage. I hope you enjoy listening. Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore. For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com.   Thanks to our sponsors: https://www.vivobarefoot.com/livemore https://drinkag1.com/livemore   Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/608   DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

What has the biggest impact on your health and happiness today? Perhaps you’re thinking it’s work, money, what you eat, how you sleep… Maybe it’s your friends and family and how you interact with them… These are all valid answers. But let me put it to you that I think there’s one factor that is linked to, but overrides, all of these things: stress. For this bonus New Year’s Day episode, I wanted to speak to you directly about stress, so you can take action to stop it controlling your life in 2026. A bit like my Boxing Day podcast a few days ago, his episode is designed to gently inspire you at the start of the year, to help you reflect on your life, and to encourage you to create positive change in the months ahead. So I’m sharing with you the five simple habits that I know will help you reduce the impact of stress and transform your wellbeing this year. In this episode I reveal why it’s so important to: Have a morning routine – to dramatically reduce early micro stress doses and positively shape the rest of your day. Learn a breathing technique you can take anywhere – because the way you breathe is powerful information for your body. Stop taking things personally – because learning to create space between what happens and how you respond is a surefire stress reliever. Practice true prevention – and stop worrying about your future health, with my revolutionary new app, Do Health. Find out how you can be one of the first to try it! www.drchatterjee.com/do And prioritise your sleep – by optimising light exposure, being aware of caffeine and creating a calming evening routine. I genuinely hope this episode helps you see stress differently and reminds you that small, consistent changes can have a profound impact. A little stress is part of life – but chronic stress doesn’t have to be. And if you want to find out more about optimising your health in 2026, my book Happy Mind Happy Life is available TODAY in a brand new format in the UK, in its original format in many other countries and as an audiobook which I narrate all over the world!   Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore. For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com.   Thanks to our sponsors: https://drinkag1.com/livemore http://thewayapp.com/livemore   Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/607   DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

Is happiness a skill you can develop? Or is it a place you find yourself, if you’re lucky? Today’s podcast is a bonus episode that I’ve recorded, from me to you, to demonstrate that yes, happiness is about more than just chance. These special Boxing Day podcasts are becoming a bit of a tradition now (look out for one I’ll be releasing on New Year’s Day too). And in this one, I share five powerful ideas with you – five happiness habits that can transform your life in meaningful ways. They’re all explored in much greater detail in my book Happy Mind Happy Life: 10 Simple Ways to Feel Great Every Day, which is being re-published in the UK in an exciting new format on 1 January 2026. But you can leverage your happiness levels right away by listening today. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll learn: 1. Happiness is a Skill - Discover the difference between ‘junk happiness’ and ‘core happiness’ to feel more content, in control, and aligned with your values. 2. Define Success for Yourself - Imagine yourself on your deathbed and identify three things you’ll wish you had done. What can you do now to move toward that ending? 3. Eliminate Choice - We make thousands of decisions a day, and each one drains mental energy. By creating routines and reducing choice, you can reduce that stress. 4. Make Time Stand Still - Identify ‘flow state’ activities that make you lose track of time, and schedule them as investments in your happiness. 5. Seek Out Friction - If someone upsets you, ask yourself why their words affected you so much. Rewriting their story with compassion will increase your own sense of control. I hope this episode helps you and your family cultivate lasting happiness in 2026 and beyond. I explore all these ideas and many more in my newly formatted book Happy Mind Happy Life - available here as a paperback or as an audiobook, which I am narrating. Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore. For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com.   Thanks to our sponsor: https://drinkag1.com/livemore   Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/606   DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

Journalling regularly can help improve sleep, lead to better decision making and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. It has also been shown to decrease emotional stress, make it easier to turn new behaviours into long term habits, improve the quality of our relationships and, ultimately, help us lead more mindful and intentional lives. Feel Better Live More Bitesize is my weekly podcast for your mind, body, and heart. Each week I’ll be featuring inspirational stories and practical tips from some of my former guests. Today’s clip is from episode 413 of the podcast which was a solo episode I recorded to celebrate the launch of my ‘3 Question Journal’ where I outlined the transformative power of journaling.  Over the years, I’ve recommended a journalling practice to thousands of my patients, and I’ve experienced the benefits first-hand in my own life too. In this clip, I share a simple way to begin each day by asking yourself three powerful questions. They are deceptively simple, and answering them will take less than 5 minutes, but doing so regularly can prove transformative. If want to take a look at ‘The 3 Question Journal’ go to: https://drchatterjee.com/journal Thanks to our sponsor ⁠⁠⁠https://drinkag1.com/livemore Show notes and the full podcast are available at https://drchatterjee.com/413 Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts ⁠⁠https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore⁠⁠ For other podcast platforms go to ⁠⁠https://fblm.supercast.com. DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

What is intuition? What happens when we die? And, how does trauma get stored in our bodies? These are just a few of the fascinating themes I explore in today’s episode with returning guest, Dr Tara Swart. Tara is a neuroscientist, a former medical doctor & psychiatrist, a lecturer at MIT, an executive coach and author of 2 books, including her very latest The Signs: The New Science of How to Trust Your Instincts.   In this episode, Tara shares her own personal story about love, loss, and learning to trust herself again, after the death of her husband, Robin. This life changing experience left her questioning her deepest beliefs as a scientist, when in the midst of her grief, she started noticing unusual signs that she felt - she was unable to ignore. At first, she was sceptical, but these moments gradually helped her reconnect with her intuition in ways she never expected.   In our conversation, we explore: What intuition really is and how to start accessing it again The gut-brain connection, and how emotions, trauma, and even grief can be stored (and released) in the body. The practical tools and techniques that helped Tara - and can help you - rediscover your own intuition, including journaling, creative practices and nature How to gently challenge your beliefs and open yourself to possibility (even if, like Tara, you’re sceptical at first). Reflections on what science can and can’t explain - and why sometimes, believing in something greater (be it love, the universe, or connection itself) can be a healing force. How to help your children (or yourself!) grow up with a stronger trust in their inner wisdom, without fear or ridicule. We also talk about the disconnection that many of us feel in the modern world, the transformative power of nature and the many different ways in which humans try to make sense of death.   This is a raw, honest and thought-provoking conversation that I’m certain will leave you feeling inspired and eager to rediscover your own inner wisdom.   Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore. For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com.   Thanks to our sponsors: https://join.whoop.com/livemore https://www.boncharge.com/livemore https://www.calm.com/livemore https://thriva.co/   Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/604   DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.