Weight loss drugs and how I lost four stone with Claer Barrett
In her mid-forties, Claer Barrett, associate editor at the Financial Times, turned to weight loss medication, a decision that transformed her health, her habits, and her outlook on life.
In this episode, Claer explains what it feels like when “food noise” finally stops. She tells Dr Hilary how portion control became possible for the first time, and why she invested in medical monitoring, body scans and therapy. She also speaks honestly about the side effects, the discipline required to keep the weight off, and the challenge of doing all this while being open with her readers.
Beyond the personal story, the discussion explores the wider issues raised by these new drugs. From the black-market risks and rising costs to the question of whether the NHS should fund treatment; a frank look at obesity, health and longevity, and the difficult choices many people face when trying to live better for longer.
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Singing, health scares and the healing power of music with Lesley Garrett
What does it mean to live a life through music? Dr Hilary speaks with world-renowned soprano Lesley Garrett about her extraordinary career on the global stage — and how singing has been her anchor through life’s biggest challenges.
From her beginnings at the English National Opera to show-stopping nights at Wembley and beyond, Lesley reflects on the joys of music, memory and community. She also shares her health battles, including a rare thymus tumour and an early menopause, showing how her voice and spirit endured through resilience, medical innovation and the healing power of song.
Lesley also talks about why choirs transform health, her time on Strictly Come Dancing, and why — at 70 — she has no plans to retire.
Ask Dr Hilary
Whether it’s advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns, now’s your chance to get answers. If it’s on your mind, Dr Hilary wants to help.
Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.com
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Tyler West on Strictly, hair transplants and spending two years in his bedroom at 14
At 14, Tyler West shut himself away. His parents broke up, there was a murder outside his home, and he spent two years barely leaving his bedroom.
In this conversation with Dr Hilary, Tyler talks about the turning points that followed: playing handball for Great Britain, a chance break on TV, and reaching the Strictly Come Dancing semi-finals. He explains why therapy mattered, what body image has meant to him, and why he chose to be open about his hair transplant.
He also recalls running a marathon in the middle of Strictly rehearsals — a decision that took a heavy toll on his body.
Ask Dr Hilary
Whether it’s advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns, now’s your chance to get answers. Each week, Dr Hilary answers your health and wellness questions. If it’s on your mind, he wants to help.
Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.com
More about the show and to sign up for weekly newsletter: https://drhilaryjones.com