Life Kit: Health

Dan Weissmann, host of An Arm and a Leg, dives into the high costs of prescription drugs and how to tackle them. He emphasizes the importance of checking for billing errors at the pharmacy. Pharmacists can help with dosing tricks and coupons, while online tools like GoodRx can uncover lower prices. Dan also advises asking your doctor for cheaper alternatives and utilizing patient assistance programs. For anyone grappling with insurance denials, he covers essential steps like using samples and understanding formularies. Equipped with Dan's strategies, you can navigate the prescription maze with confidence!

Maria Godoy, an NPR health correspondent, dives into the science of collagen supplements—debunking social media hype. She explains the origins of collagen and shares insights from randomized trials about skin benefits, but highlights issues with quality and funding. Joint health is discussed, revealing small, industry-funded studies with mixed results. While experts may not routinely recommend collagen, they suggest affordable, safe options could be beneficial. Maria also emphasizes proven skin care methods like sunscreen and healthy diets over supplements.

Guests Andy Tegel, a Life Kit reporter, and Jade Wu, a sleep medicine specialist and author of Hello Sleep, dive into the art of napping. They discuss how tips like the C-E-B rule can help prevent grogginess. Jade explains the science behind why we crave midday naps, linked to our internal clocks. Listeners learn about optimal nap lengths and discover that naps aren't for everyone, especially those struggling with insomnia. Andy shares key takeaways, emphasizing the importance of daytime rest in enhancing emotional well-being and performance.

Supporting a loved one through cancer treatment can be daunting. Discover how to leverage your strengths and accept help that suits you best. Learn tips for being an effective doctor's appointment buddy and the importance of practical support like meal trains. Find out why open-ended offers can fall flat and why taking initiative matters. Most importantly, hear about the power of listening and being present without overwhelming the patient. Avoid harmful comments and discover heartfelt ways to lift their spirits during tough times.

Join psychotherapist Britt Frank, author of The Science of Stuck, as she redefines anxiety as an essential signal rather than an enemy. She shares a practical three-step technique to manage overwhelming feelings and introduces sensory grounding methods like ice and sour tastes to stabilize your nervous system. Britt emphasizes the importance of identifying stress triggers, practicing scripted support calls with friends, and viewing anxiety as a protective ally that guides us towards understanding ourselves better.

Jackie Fortier, a KFF Health News reporter specializing in health policy, shares vital insights on what to do when your health insurance denies coverage. She breaks down the process of appealing denials, discussing essential steps and documentation needed for a successful case. Fortier also touches on preventive care requirements under the ACA and how to navigate billing disputes. She even provides advice on escalating the issue if initial appeals fail, including external reviews and financial assistance options.

Sleep scientist Rebecca Robbins, an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School, tackles common sleep myths that keep people tossing and turning. She reveals how sleep timing and circadian rhythms impact health, especially for shift workers. Robbins shares insights on overcoming pre-sleep anxiety, suggesting strategies like meditation and focusing on positivity. Additionally, she dispels the myth that exercising late harms sleep, revealing its actual benefits and offering tips to optimize your sleep environment for a better night's rest.

Get ready for a seasonal health check-in! Discover expert tips on protecting your hearing and eyes, especially in our digital world. Learn how dental hygiene connects to overall health and why your choice of footwear matters for mobility. Plus, dive into optimal bathing and skincare routines to keep your skin healthy. Overall, find practical advice to enhance well-being as you transition into fall!

Ryan Kelman, an NPR journalist and creator of the NPR Joy Generator app, shares practical strategies for lifting your mood in just 15 minutes. He discusses the surprising benefits of cold plunges and creative activities, including quick art projects. The soothing powers of ASMR and nostalgia are emphasized, with tips on how to leverage these tools for emotional relief. Kelman encourages incorporating fun experiences and reminiscing over cherished memories to combat listlessness and enhance overall well-being.

LA Johnson, NPR's Senior Visuals producer, opens up about her personal battle with intrusive thoughts after childbirth. She explores the origins of these distressing and unwanted thoughts, shedding light on their prevalence, especially among new parents. The conversation emphasizes the importance of seeking support and employing grounding techniques for managing these thoughts. Johnson advocates for acceptance over rejection, suggesting that embracing intrusive thoughts can lead to emotional control and reduced suffering, allowing individuals to navigate life's challenges more effectively.