Life Kit: Health

It’s not just school kids that could use a back-to-school reset. Like those annual September doctor's check ups, this episode of Life Kit is here to help you check in with your body and get your bases covered. We bring you our favorite advice from an audiologist, an ophthalmologist, a dermatologist and more to get you feeling fresh going into the fall season.Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekitSign up for our newsletter here.Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.orgSupport the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekitLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

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.

Neck pain can affect anyone, often leading to discomfort that radiates throughout the body. Experts delve into its various causes, offering practical tips for recognition and management. Effective exercises and the importance of proper posture are highlighted as essential for relief. They also discuss how sleep posture impacts neck health and suggest optimizing your sleeping arrangements. The blend of holistic remedies, lifestyle tips, and a touch of humor about a Hawaiian getaway makes for an engaging guide to tackling neck pain.

In this insightful discussion, Kari Kammel, Director at the Center for Anti-Counterfeiting and Product Protection at Michigan State University, reveals alarming statistics about counterfeit products harming unsuspecting consumers. She shares practical tips on recognizing and avoiding unsafe items, especially when shopping online. Kammel emphasizes the dangers of counterfeit pharmaceuticals and personal care products, urging consumers to stick to trusted sources. With real-life examples, she highlights how vigilance can save lives and wallets.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and others have said that seed oils, like soybean, corn and sunflower oils, are poisoning Americans. But what does the research say? NPR health correspondent Maria Godoy speaks with nutrition and fatty acids scientists about the most common concerns with seed oils.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Katy Bowman, a biomechanist and movement teacher, and Diana Hill, a clinical psychologist, share insights on retraining our brains to favor physical activity over our screens. They discuss how movement can alleviate anxiety and stress, especially among teens, and introduce techniques like 'urge surfing' to overcome screen time cravings. They also emphasize the transformative power of engaging and varied physical activities, presenting movement as a form of self-compassion rather than selfishness, and suggest incorporating novelty to make exercise more appealing.

In this episode of Life Kit, reporter Andee Tagle talks to entomologist Sammy Ramsey and environmental health professor Brian Byrd about why some people get bitten more than others, which ingredients to seek in bug repellents and what you can do to protect yourself against those itchy bites.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Will Stone, NPR health correspondent, sheds light on the evolving science of plant protein and its surprising ability to build muscle similarly to animal protein. He discusses recent research from the University of Illinois, which challenges traditional views about the necessity of animal products for strength training. The conversation emphasizes the significance of dietary diversity among plant proteins and suggests that a well-rounded vegan diet can effectively support muscle growth. Tune in to discover how your protein choices can shift to a more plant-based focus!

There's a heat wave hitting much of the United State this week. 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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy