How metabolism really affects your health, weight and wellbeing

How metabolism really affects your health, weight and wellbeing

Author: Our Media February 23, 2026 Duration: 30:38
Whether we’re working at a desk in an office, running a marathon or even asleep in bed, our bodies are host to thousands of chemical processes that are continually converting the food we eat into energy and repairing our bones, muscles and organs. Collectively these processes are known as the metabolism. But how are they affected by our genes, lifestyles and diet, and what can we do to make sure everything stays running smoothly? In this episode, we’re joined by Javier Gonzalez, a professor of nutrition and metabolism based at the University of Bath. He breaks down the links between our metabolisms and body types, tells us why our metabolisms aren’t necessarily fixed for life, and explains why it’s almost impossible to out exercise a poor diet if you’re looking to drop a few kilos. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Curiosity doesn't have to be a deep dive; sometimes, you just want a clear, smart answer. That's the idea behind Instant Genius, a production from Our Media that brings the editorial expertise of BBC Science Focus Magazine into audio form. Each episode is a compact conversation with a leading researcher, scientist, or technologist, designed to unpack a complex topic in a single sitting. You might explore the mechanics of memory one day and the engineering behind quantum computers the next, all within the same accessible format. This podcast operates on the belief that profound understanding doesn't require hours of your time. Released every Monday and Friday, these bite-sized masterclasses are perfect for a commute or a coffee break, turning spare moments into genuine learning. The discussions are focused and surprisingly thorough, moving from fundamental principles to cutting-edge implications without getting lost in jargon. It’s for anyone who has ever wondered about the science of sleep, the truth about nutrition trends, or how black holes actually work, and wanted a reliable source to explain it clearly. Tuning into this podcast means getting a direct line to experts who are shaping our understanding of the world, all structured to deliver insight efficiently. The range is deliberately broad, spanning health, cosmology, technology, and everyday science, reflecting the endless questions a curious mind can hold.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 101

Instant Genius
Podcast Episodes
Why birdsong is the pop music of the natural world [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:54
When it comes to the sounds we encounter in the natural world, few have the beauty, elegance and variety of birdsong. But these distinctive vocalisations are not simply static calls that are common to all birds of a cert…
Why walking more is the best thing you can do to boost your health [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:57
Over thousands of years, human beings evolved to walk upright on two legs, efficiently and over long distances. But these days, thanks to changes in our lifestyles, we’re becoming more sedentary than ever, and this is ha…
How ultrasound tech could save hedgehogs [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:20
Hedgehogs are in decline all over Europe. These prickly little fellas are faced with so many threats – in their rural habitats, in our gardens, and on our roads. But new research about hedgehog hearing could help us prot…
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Duration: 36:53
Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is currently thought to affect around one in 20 of the world’s population, making it one of the most prevalent types of neurodivergence. Despite this, the condition is s…
Inside the project helping the hard of hearing listen to music [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:08
The vast majority of us take listening to and appreciating music for granted. But for those of us living with hearing loss, continuing to enjoy our favourite songs, symphonies or dance tracks can be something of a challe…
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Duration: 29:53
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Duration: 0:30
Would you like to hear about the fascinating new discoveries astronomers are making by listening to distant stars? Learn about the cutting edge tech scientists are using to help the hearing impaired listen to music or ge…
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Duration: 43:32
For thousands of years, the evolution of the human race has been driven by natural selection and the passing on of genes that have helped us to thrive in the environments we live in. However, in current times, advances i…
How to break free from imposter syndrome [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:27
No matter our level of ability, talent or achievement, at times some of us feel like we’re a fraud and have simply been blagging our way to success. This is known as imposter syndrome. While it’s not formally recognised…
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Duration: 27:37
In springtime, as the Sun rises, the early morning air is filled with the glorious sound of birdsong. This is known as the dawn chorus. But why exactly are birds so vocal at this time of the day, what purpose does it ser…