Welcome to the Real Health and Weight Loss Podcast where you get Real advice from Real Doctors to help you lose weight and revolutionise your health not just now but permanently. You can change your future, starting now. Imagine if everything you had been told about weight loss was wrong. We are here to bust through some myths and give you actionable advice. Real health and weight loss is a journey and we, your hosts Dr Mary Barson and Dr Lucy Burns from Real Life Medicine, are here with you every step of the way.
Learn when supplements like chromium and milk thistle might help and when they won’t! Like many supplements, they’re not magic fixes! Dr Mary Barson and Dr Lucy Burns explain why real food, good sleep and movement matter most for your health and weight loss. You’ll find out what to look out for before spending money on supplements, plus get their easy six steps for success you can start today. Listen and discover what really works for better health! For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/are-chromium-or-milk-thistle-useful-for-weight-loss See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
01/12/2025 • 20:12
Get ready for tips you can use! In this episode, Dr Mary Barson and Dr Lucy Burns share simple ways to enjoy Christmas without feeling stressed by food, family, or parties. You’ll learn how to dodge sneaky marketing tricks, handle emotional eating, and pick healthy treats that taste good. Listen for practical steps to stay focused on your health goals while having fun, plus find out about a special free programme to help you through the festive season, so you start the New Year feeling great. For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript: https://www.rlmedicine.com/avoid-the-pitfalls-of-christmas-marketing See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
24/11/2025 • 25:09
Dr Lucy Burns and Dr Mary Barson open up about why diets don’t work - and why being “perfectly thin” isn’t the goal. They share their own real-life struggles with weight and health, bust common myths from diet culture, and explain why being healthy on the inside matters far more than looking a certain way. You’ll also learn simple, science-backed strategies to break free from the all-or-nothing mindset, manage emotional eating, and stay on track with your health - without guilt, shame, or restriction. For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/why-were-not-skinny See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
17/11/2025 • 27:58
Join Dr Mary Barson and Dr Lucy Burns as they celebrate five years of podcasting and share what they've learned along the way. Discover why low-carb diets aren't the only answer, how diet culture has kept women trapped in guilt and shame, and why being thin doesn't equal being healthy. Learn about the surprising role that trauma plays in weight gain and why the old "eat less, move more" advice sets people up to fail. If you've been struggling with weight loss or trying to understand what really works for your health, this episode will help you see through the marketing hype and give you a more balanced, realistic approach to becoming healthy on the inside. Plus, hear why these two doctors changed their minds about so many things and why that's actually a good sign. For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/what-have-we-learnt-in-5-years See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10/11/2025 • 29:35
Dr Lucy Burns talks with money mindset expert Denise Duffield-Thomas about ADHD, perimenopause, and how women can change their relationship with money. Discover how ADHD often goes undiagnosed in women until perimenopause hits, why getting a diagnosis can be life-changing, and practical ways to stop self-sabotaging behaviours around money. Learn why women's work is often undervalued, how to break free from guilt about charging what you're worth, and why it's okay to use medication, technology, and help instead of trying to do everything the hard way. This conversation will help you recognise the stories holding you back and give you permission to stop making life harder than it needs to be. Find her at...Website: www.denisedt.com Instagram: @denisedt Facebook: @denisedt For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/adhd-perimenopause-and-money-mindset See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
03/11/2025 • 46:20
Dr Mary Barson and Dr Lucy Burns cut through the confusion around fasting, protein, and what really works for women. You'll learn how to balance intermittent fasting with your protein needs, why you shouldn't worry about hitting protein targets on fasting days but must prioritise them on eating days, and discover common fasting mistakes like going "too fast and furious" before your body is ready. The doctors explain how to build up your fasting practice gradually, what to drink during a fast, when fasting might not suit you (including during different phases of your menstrual cycle), and why more fasting isn't always better. If you've been told that women shouldn't fast or you're confused about how to make fasting work with your goals, this episode gives you practical, flexible strategies you can actually use. Website links: For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/should-women-fast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
28/10/2025 • 26:33
Wondering how much protein you really need each day? In this episode, Dr Lucy Burns and Dr Mary Barson clear up the confusion around protein intake and explain why hitting your protein target matters for your health. You'll learn a simple rule of thumb for calculating your daily protein needs, discover why protein is essential for controlling hunger, managing blood sugar, and preventing muscle loss as you age. The doctors share practical tips for getting 30 grams of protein at each meal using everyday foods like eggs, meat, fish, and dairy, plus their honest take on whether protein powders are worth your money. If you're struggling to feel satisfied after meals or want to boost your metabolic health, this episode gives you straightforward, no-nonsense advice you can put into practice straight away. Website links: For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/how-much-protein-do-you-really-need See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
20/10/2025 • 24:19
This episode tackles a sneaky trap that keeps many people stuck in the dieting cycle: all-or-nothing perfectionism. Dr Mary Barson and Dr Lucy Burns explain why waiting for the perfect time to start or expecting yourself to be perfect is sabotaging your health goals. Listeners will learn how to break free from the mindset that says you're either doing it perfectly or you're a failure, discover why small slips don't have to derail your progress, and get practical tools for managing cravings and emotional eating without punishment or restriction. The doctors share their personal struggles with perfectionism and reveal how self-compassion and learning from mistakes—not perfection—are the real keys to lasting health changes. For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/the-common-diet-trap-you-might-be-falling-into See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
13/10/2025 • 19:17
Dr Mary Barson and Dr Lucy Burns tackle the tricky "holiday mindset" that can sabotage health goals when people go away. Discover why having more time doesn't automatically mean eating better and learn practical strategies to enjoy holidays without throwing your health plans out the window. The doctors share real examples of intentional food choices whilst travelling, from pints of Guinness in Dublin to chocolate tart in Paris, showing how you can still have special moments without going completely off track. You'll gain simple tools like the "half-assing holidays" approach and protein-focused breakfast strategies that let you enjoy your break from cooking and meal prep whilst staying aligned with your goals. Perfect for anyone who struggles with the all-or-nothing mentality around food during holidays and wants to return home feeling refreshed rather than regretful. For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/busting-food-myths-holding-you-back See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
06/10/2025 • 18:07
Dr Mary Barson and Dr Lucy Burns tackle the deep-rooted belief that you must "clean your plate" because children are starving elsewhere. Discover why this childhood message creates guilt, shame, and disconnects you from hunger signals, plus learn the powerful mantra "my body is not the bin". Get practical strategies like using smaller plates, saving leftovers for later, and changing "I can't eat that" to "I don't eat that" for better results. Understand how marketing tricks exploit your fear of missing out with "limited time" offers and seasonal treats that are actually available year-round. Break free from "last supper" eating by saying "not for the moment" instead of "never again", and discover why eating food just to get rid of it creates more problems than throwing it away. Leave with simple mindset shifts that help you eat to true hunger, reduce food guilt, and build lasting healthy habits without the mental battle. For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/how-to-change-your-relationship-with-food See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
29/09/2025 • 21:16
Have you ever wondered why you make some choices? It feels like you sabotage all your good efforts. Many people know what they need to do for long-lasting health and weight management, but implementing that knowledge can feel impossible. This is where the mind management comes in. Dr Mary and Dr Lucy talk about how to handle difficult moments and big feelings without emotional eating. They explain what mindset really means-it’s not about being tough or disciplined, but about learning to manage your thoughts and feelings so you can make better choices for yourself. The doctors share real life stories, including times they felt let down, upset, or ashamed, and show how they dealt with those feelings in a useful way. For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/do-you-self-sabotage See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
22/09/2025 • 30:14
Struggling to stick with healthy habits? In this episode, Dr Mary and Dr Lucy talk about real life barriers that get in the way of better health, from busy schedules to perfectionism and tiredness. Learn smart, simple ways to keep going, even when it feels tough. You’ll get practical tips for making changes that actually fit your life, plus easy ideas for food and movement. Listen in to find out how to stop waiting for the “perfect” time and just get started today. For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript: https://www.rlmedicine.com/how-to-flick-the-switch-when-youre-stuck See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
15/09/2025 • 30:51
Feeling overwhelmed trying to get healthy? Dr Mary Barson and Dr Lucy Burns share real talk on handling stress, weight, and health without chasing perfection. Learn simple tricks, like easy breakfasts and tiny habits, that make it possible to start feeling better without pressure. Tune in for mindset tips and practical steps anyone can do—even when life gets messy. Find out how to stop feeling stuck and move towards better health today. For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/are-you-an-all-or-nothing-person See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
08/09/2025 • 22:14
Dr Lucy sits down with Lifestyle Medicine doctor Jeremy Lim to unpack men’s health, metabolic health, and why lifestyle changes beat quick fixes every time. They chat about the rise of weight loss medications, the role of telehealth in supporting men, and Jeremy’s practical 3 E’s framework—Education, Engagement, and Encircling—a simple but powerful way to take charge of long-term health. You’ll also hear Jeremy’s personal insights into what really motivates men to make change and how to build habits that last. 🔗 Book an appointment with Dr Jeremy Lim here: www.rlmtelehealth.com/metabolic For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/metabolic-health-in-men See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
01/09/2025 • 30:27
Struggling with yo-yo dieting and turning to food when stressed? Kate Smith's story will resonate with anyone who's felt trapped in the cycle of binge eating and starting over. In this episode, Kate shares how years of fluctuating between strict training regimes and complete blow-outs left her health suffering, especially during stressful times like university. Discover how attending a low carb roadshow opened her eyes to a completely different approach to health and body image. You'll learn practical insights about breaking free from emotional eating patterns and find inspiration to transform your own relationship with food. Kate's honest account shows that real change is possible when you shift your mindset about what health truly means. For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/the-shift-that-changed-everything See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
25/08/2025 • 23:47
From feeling flat and unwell to thriving with energy, Bronwyn Johnstone shares the simple changes that transformed her health and her life. Dr Mary chats with Bronwyn, a fertility nurse and very busy human—mum of boys, with a husband who’s “not really retired.” After years of struggling with her health, she made gradual, sustainable changes that have completely turned her life around. In this conversation, Bronwyn shares how she went from feeling drained to thriving—covering the practical steps, mindset shifts, and small daily habits that made the biggest difference. For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/bronwyns-breakthrough-moment See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
18/08/2025 • 20:08
Kidney disease often develops silently—with no symptoms until you've lost up to 90% of function. But that doesn’t mean it’s irreversible. Dr. Karen Dwyer, a kidney specialist with over 20 years' experience, reveals how most kidney disease, high blood pressure and diabetes share the same root cause: poor metabolic health. You'll learn why the old advice to limit protein with kidney problems is wrong, how insulin resistance drives kidney damage, and practical steps to protect your kidneys through nutrition, sleep and stress management. Dr. Karen shares practical advice and inspiring stories. This episode shows you how to spot the warning signs early and take control of your kidney health before it's too late. LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/karen-dwyer-9776522b For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/kidney-health-is-in-your-hands See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
11/08/2025 • 31:16
Dr. Lucy Burns talks with Helen New, a Melbourne Pilates instructor, about her real menopause journey and how she had to fight for proper care. Helen shares her struggles with exhaustion, mood changes, and joint pain that well-meaning doctors kept getting wrong, plus the tough moment when she sat crying in her GP's office asking for help. You'll learn how to recognise important signs that might be missed, why you need to speak up for yourself during menopause, and get practical tips from someone who's been through it all. If you're dealing with menopause symptoms or know someone who is, Helen's honest story will help you understand what to expect and how to get the support you deserve. 🌐 Website: www.precisionpilateswindsor.com.au 📸 Instagram: @scolio_pilates_helennew For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/weird-symptoms-that-are-actually-part-of-menopause See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
04/08/2025 • 28:40
Discover how Danielle and Corey transformed their lives and built a successful business by ditching processed foods and embracing real, whole foods. In this eye-opening episode, you'll hear their raw story of struggling with depression, anxiety, and food addiction before finding the energy and mental clarity that changed everything. Learn their simple "if it grows or walks, you can eat it" rule that cuts through confusing nutrition advice, plus get practical tips for navigating the supermarket and avoiding the overwhelming macros obsession. Whether you're stuck in the take-away trap, feeling exhausted by midday, or want to break free from the cycle of fad diets and binge eating, this episode shows you exactly how to reclaim your health without complicated rules or expensive supplements. 🌐 Website: keepitketo.au 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/keepitketo21 For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/a-real-food-movement See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
28/07/2025 • 25:44
Ever wonder why you wake up tired or struggle to sleep through the night? Dr Barton Jennings, a sleep expert, joins Dr Lucy Burns to share simple tips and expert advice on how to get better sleep. Learn why sleep matters, what causes poor sleep, and easy ways to improve your bedtime routine. Find out how small changes can make a big difference to your mood, energy, and health—listen now to sleep better and feel your best. For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/better-sleep-better-life Connect with Dr Barton Jennings: 🌐 Lung and Sleep Clinic 💼 LinkedIn Profile See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
21/07/2025 • 33:29
Find out why some foods are so hard to resist and learn how to break free from cravings. Dr Mary Barson and Dr Lucy Burns explain why ultra-processed foods hijack your brain and make it tough to stop eating, even when you want to. They share real ways to manage emotional eating and show why it’s not your fault if you struggle with food. Discover practical tips and support to help you take control, feel better, and enjoy a healthier life. Listen now and get the tools you need to make lasting changes. For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/break-free-from-food-addiction See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
14/07/2025 • 19:44
Learn how your body’s hunger signals really work and why losing weight isn’t just about eating less. Dr Mary Barson and Dr Lucy Burns bust common myths about obesity and explain the role of leptin, the hormone that controls your satiety. The doctors discuss leptin resistance and why never feeling full is not due to greed or gluttony. Discover why the standard weight loss advice doesn’t work for everyone, how stress and sleep affect your body, and simple steps you can take to feel better, without shame or strict diets. Listen to get real answers and practical tips you can use right away. For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/leptin-the-bodys-fuel-gauge See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
07/07/2025 • 28:44
Feeling overwhelmed by mixed messages about weight and health? Dr Mary Barson and Dr Lucy Burns unpack the complex causes of obesity—going far beyond the outdated "eat less, move more" advice. In this episode, they explore how genetics, hormones, stress, sleep, money, environment, and more all contribute to weight gain. If you're looking for real answers and practical tools—not guilt or perfection—this conversation will help you understand your body and take back control of your health. Listen in to find out what really causes weight gain and what you can do about it—no perfection needed, just real help you can use every day. For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/the-real-causes-of-obesity See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
30/06/2025 • 19:46
Curious about women’s health but not sure where to start? In this episode of The Real Health and Weight Loss Podcast, Dr Lucy Burns chats with Dr Gab Staniforth, a GP from Orange, about topics many find awkward—like menopause, vulval health, and why knowing the right words for our bodies matters. You’ll learn what’s normal, what’s not, and how simple treatments can make a huge difference. If you want to feel more confident about your health and understand changes like menopause, this episode is for you. Listen now and get the knowledge you need to take charge of your wellbeing. Connect with Dr Gab: 📷 Instagram: @dr_gabstaniforth 📘 Facebook: Dr Gab Staniforth 🌐 Website: gabriellestaniforth.com.au 🏥 Clinic: The Papillon Clinic For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/the-v-word See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
23/06/2025 • 29:30
Ready to learn what really happens during menopause and how to get the support you need? In this episode of The Real Health and Weight Loss Podcast, Dr Lucy Burns chats with Sonia Lovell, a passionate menopause advocate and host of the Dear Menopause podcast. Sonia shares her powerful story of facing breast cancer, navigating sudden menopause, and fighting to be heard by her doctors. You’ll hear why she started her podcast, how she found the right help, and what every woman needs to know about menopause symptoms and self-advocacy. Listen now to gain real-life tips, expert advice, and hope for your own journey—this is a must-hear for anyone wanting to feel empowered and understood. Connect with Sonia Lovell – menopause advocate, podcast host & women's health champion: 🌐 Website: dearmenopause.au 📩 Substack: sonyalovell.substack.com 🎧 Podcast: – Apple Podcasts – Spotify 📸 Instagram: @sonyalovell 💼 LinkedIn: Sonia Lovell For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/how-to-advocate-for-yourself-you-are-the-boss-of-you See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
16/06/2025 • 48:57
In this episode, Dr Lucy Burns chats with Associate Professor Erin Morton—a menopause researcher and fellow midlife woman on a mission. Erin opens up about her own surprising struggles to find clear, trustworthy info (yep, even the experts get confused!), and shares why she created the world’s first VITAL Perimenopause Registry to help turn things around. You’ll get the lowdown on hormone therapy, what really matters to women during this time, and how your story can help improve care for all. Tune in for insights, laughs, and plenty of “aha” moments! Connect with Associate Professor Erin Morton: 🔗 LinkedIn 📸 Instagram: @aproferinmorton 🧵 Threads: @aproferinmorton 👉 Join the VITAL Patient Registry For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/what-is-a-patient-registry See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
09/06/2025 • 44:54
Want real, honest answers about weight loss and health? Join Dr. Lucy Burns as she talks with expert nutritionist and dietitian Jaqui Lewis about what really happens after weight loss surgery, why not all supplements are the same, and how to spot sneaky tricks on food labels. You’ll learn how to make smart choices, understand your body’s needs, and break free from diet myths. Listen in for simple tips, real stories, and support to help you on your health journey—no quick fixes, just what works. 🌐 Website: bnhealthy.com.au 📘 Facebook: BN Healthy ANZ 🎧 Listen to the Podcast: Australian Weight Loss Surgery Podcast For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/nutritional-consequences-of-bariatric-surgery See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
02/06/2025 • 39:49
Discover why creatine might be the rare supplement that actually works! In this episode, Drs Lucy and Mary break down what creatine is, how it helps your muscles and brain, and why it gets their tick of approval when most supplements don't. You'll learn the simple facts about dosing (just 3 grams daily!), who benefits most (especially women), and how to use it properly with strength training. No fancy marketing, just straight talk about a low-cost, low-risk supplement that delivers real results. Listen now to find out if creatine should be part of your health routine! For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/creatine-for-muscle-health-and-weight-loss See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
26/05/2025 • 17:18
Dr Lucy chats with Dr Mellanie Lloyd, a doctor and cancer survivor who struggled with weight gain after cancer treatment and hormone blockers. Dr Mell shares how listening to this podcast and joining the 12 Week Mind Body Rebalance helped her lose weight without hunger, understand the real role of hormones, and change her mindset for good. You’ll hear why old diets didn’t work, how simple changes made a big difference, and how Dr Mell now helps her own patients find real solutions. Listen to get easy tips, relatable stories, and hope for your own health journey. Join the 12 Week Mind Body Rebalance: https://www.rlmedicine.com/12WMBR For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/the-student-becomes-the-teacher See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
19/05/2025 • 27:15
Hear how Theresa, a busy Aussie mum and head of college, lost 30 kilos and a whole ruler (30cm) off her waist, got rid of knee pain, and finally found food freedom. She shares how ditching snacks and ultra-processed foods, plus eating only when hungry, made her feel amazing-more energy, better sleep, and no more cravings. You’ll learn why it’s not just about weight loss, but about feeling great, saving money, and making healthy changes that stick, even with a stressful job and family life. If you want real tips that work in the real world, this episode will show you how anyone can turn things around and feel fantastic too. Join the 12 Week Mind Body waitlist: https://www.rlmedicine.com/12WMBR For more information about Real Life Medicine and our programs and special offers: https://www.rlmedicine.com/ Episode, show notes & transcript https://www.rlmedicine.com/losing-weight-and-feeling-great See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
12/05/2025 • 25:05
