Are you feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list? Going through something really tough? Stress is a part of life — but we can learn to manage it. NPR health correspondent Allison Aubrey shares evidence-based skills from a research psychologist at Northwestern University aimed to bring more ease into your life. This episode is Part 1 of the new series, Stress Less: A Quest to Reclaim Your Calm . Click here to sign up for a month-long newsletter on this topic. Learn more about sponsor message choice...
Oct 03, 2024•22 min
Plastic isn't great for your health or the planet. Here's what NPR's Claire Murashima learned from avoiding single-use plastics for a week. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Oct 01, 2024•19 min
Whether you're Team Bath or Team Shower, there are some best practices to follow when it comes to cleaning your body. In this episode, dermatologists Sonia Batra and Michelle Henry share surprising insights on what it takes to wash your body right, from which soaps to use and how to keep your loofah or washcloth sanitary. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Sep 19, 2024•26 min•Ep. 858
TikTok users claim that drinking the "sleepy girl mocktail," a mixture of magnesium powder, tart cherry juice and other ingredients, can help you sleep. But does it really work? NPR's health correspondent Maria Godoy brings us the science behind the trend – and magnesium's effect on sleep. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Sep 10, 2024•11 min•Ep. 855
Sometimes you're just feeling blah: the weather's bad, you can't get out of bed and you're struggling to shake off that listlessness. In these moments, the solution is often simpler than we think. This episode, NPR's science desk and Life Kit staff present research-backed mood boosters to instantly shake yourself out of a slump and turn your day around. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Sep 03, 2024•24 min
Strong muscles are good for us. They help prevent injuries, strengthen bones and improve balance. But it can be hard to build muscle mass if you're intimidated by the weight room or unsure of how much weight to lift. Writer and audio producer Alex Sujong Laughlin shares her weightlifting journey — and her own tips and challenges along the way. This episode was originally published October 12, 2021. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Aug 13, 2024•19 min
We could all be eating more vegetables. One fast way to do that: toss them in a salad. To make a crave-worthy salad you'll actually want to eat, don't be afraid to experiment with flavors (like kimchi or sauerkraut), add texture (think candied nuts or thinly sliced red cabbage) — and treat yourself to a freshly made homemade dressing. This episode originally published July 24, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Jul 25, 2024•19 min
Making sure you're protected from the summer sun starts with a good sunscreen. But how do you know which sunscreen is best, how much to use or when to reapply? In this episode from Short Wave, NPR health correspondent Allison Aubrey shares the six common mistakes people make with sunscreen — and how to level up your sunscreen game. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Jul 04, 2024•13 min
For decades, health experts have relied on body mass index (BMI), a ratio of weight to height, to classify people as underweight, normal weight, overweight or obese. But sometimes, you need more than two numbers to understand your health. For example, BMI can't tell you how much of your weight is fat versus muscle. That's why a growing number of researchers and physicians prefer other metrics instead. NPR health correspondent Allison Aubrey breaks down the history and shortcomings of BMI, and sh...
Jun 25, 2024•18 min
There are a lot of misconceptions about sleep. Sleep scientist Rebecca Robbins and her colleagues looked into common myths about sleep to help everyone get a better night's rest. This episode originally published Janaury 9, 2024. Want better sleep? Sign up Life Kit's Guide to Better Sleep, our special newsletter series. When you sign up, you'll receive a series of emails over one week with tips you can try that very night to prioritize and improve your sleep. Sign up at npr.org/sleepweek. Learn ...
Jun 24, 2024•17 min
The summer's first major heat wave has arrived. Our bodies do have natural ways to dissipate heat, but when temperatures get extreme, sometimes they just can't keep up. In this episode of Life Kit, learn how to keep cool, hydrated and safe in extreme heat. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Jun 20, 2024•12 min
Drowning is the No. 1 cause of death for children ages 1-4 in the United States. To prevent drownings, make sure there's always a designated adult watching the water whenever kids are swimming. We'll cover other water safety tips to protect young swimmers safe this summer. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Jun 03, 2024•18 min
Do you ever feel like your memory lets you down when you need it most? If you forget your keys every time you leave the house, struggle to remember new names or just need a boost before a big test, you might be in need of some memory training. Trivia and memory experts share their best tips for recalling more and warding off everyday forgetfulness. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
May 30, 2024•25 min
Fiber is a dietary superhero. It lowers cholesterol, helps regulate blood sugar levels and keeps your hunger in check. But chances are, you're not getting enough of it. NPR health correspondent (and fiber fanatic) Maria Godoy shares easy ways to up your fiber intake. Plus, the science of what fiber does in your body and how having more in your diet could help you. This episode was originally published September 19, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR ...
May 28, 2024•15 min
A visit to the gynecologist isn't just an essential part of your health routine. It's an opportunity to ask questions about your reproductive health, from birth control to painful periods to a decreased interest in sex. Dr. Rachel Bervell, co-founder of The Black OBGYN Project, explains how women and trans or non-binary people can structure their next visit — and get the answers they need. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
May 16, 2024•25 min
Taylor Swift claimed that "jet lag is a choice" at this year's Super Bowl. Sleep scientists like Jade Wu would like you to know they very much disagree. The disorder can throw your body clock out of whack and leave you feeling sluggish — not great when you're on a big vacation abroad. Wu explains how to make jet lag less miserable and more manageable. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
May 14, 2024•19 min
Approximately one in four adults has a fear of needles, according to the CDC. Many of those people say the phobia started when they were kids. Researchers developed a five step plan to prevent what they call "needless pain" for kids getting injections or their blood drawn. NPR's Short Wave talks with Dr. Stefan Friedrichsdorf of UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals, who works with a team to implement the plan at his own hospital, about how to eliminate pain during shots. Learn more about sponsor me...
Apr 29, 2024•14 min
In the 1990s, colorectal cancer was the fourth-leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. Now, it's the first in men and second in women — and rates are rising among people under age 50. This episode, we explore how you can lower your risk and make sure you catch colorectal cancer early. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Apr 25, 2024•14 min
People of all ages are at risk of noise-induced hearing loss, but few know how to protect against it. This episode, build out your ear care routine with the help of hearing experts — and get surprising advice on phone volume, noise exposure and Q-tips. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Apr 15, 2024•24 min
Eye health is more than just an annual eye exam. Learn how to protect your eyes from screens, read your prescription and understand what does and does not affect your vision. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Mar 21, 2024•23 min
Our bodies need protein to maintain muscle. That's important because muscle mass peaks in our 30s and then declines. In this episode, tips about understanding how much protein you really need. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Mar 18, 2024•21 min
The popular weight loss drug Ozempic makes shedding pounds seem like magic. But the reality is more complicated, says family physician Dr. Mara Gordon. She explains why it's hard to talk about Ozempic without addressing weight stigma and diet culture. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Feb 27, 2024•18 min
Naps can offer significant benefits, from emotional regulation to improving memory and athletic performance. But there are right and wrong ways to snooze. A sleep psychologist and a sleep physician explain the factors of the perfect nap and the importance of daytime rest. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Feb 26, 2024•21 min
Dr. Aditi Nerurkar offers five accessible ways to minimize stress in your daily life — no lavish vacations or big life changes necessary. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Feb 06, 2024•17 min•Ep. 761
Want fresher, cleaner air at home? Researchers share practical tips from researchers on how to clean your house (and your air), test your air quality and change your habits to limit indoor air pollution. This episode originally aired on May 9th, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Jan 30, 2024•16 min
Worry you're drinking too much coffee, tea, soda or energy drinks? A gastroenterologist and a caffeine researcher share surprising insights about the psychoactive drug — and explain why caffeine may not deserve its bad reputation. This episode originally aired on March 7, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Jan 25, 2024•23 min
The feeling of discomfort has an important role to play. On one hand, it can be a helpful warning sign. On the other hand, too much of it can lead to distress. Dr. Kali Cyrus explains how to identify these emotions – and take action if it starts to affect your physical and mental health. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Jan 22, 2024•18 min
Life happens. Sometimes we get injured or sick — and of course we get older. As we change, so should our exercise routine. Here's how to adapt your fitness plan to meet your body where it is. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Jan 16, 2024•22 min
Whether your stress manifests in your mind, body or behavior (or maybe all three) there are ways to find relief quickly. Clinical psychologist Jenny Taitz talks about some of the 75 evidence-based tips from her book Stress Resets: How to Soothe Your Body and Mind in Minutes. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Jan 15, 2024•22 min
There are a lot of misconceptions about sleep. Sleep scientist Rebecca Robbins and her colleagues looked into common myths about sleep to help everyone get a better night's sleep. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Jan 09, 2024•17 min
