Life Kit: Health

If you want to drink less or give up alcohol completely, it's natural to feel scared or anxious at first. What do you do at parties? What if people think you're boring? And how can you deal with temptation? Casey Davidson, sobriety coach and host of the Hello Someday podcast, has tips for those starting a sobriety journey. And she argues that everyone would benefit from an evaluation of when and how alcohol shows up in their lives. Sign up for Life Kit's Guide to Dry January, our special newsletter series: http://npr.org/dryjanuaryLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Join NPR health correspondent Will Stone, who investigates how our modern lifestyle affects our internal clocks. He dives into groundbreaking research showing the dangers of excessive nighttime light, linked to increased mortality risk. Discover how natural light regulates our circadian rhythms and why outdoor exposure is essential for health. Stone shares practical tips for creating a better sleep environment, emphasizing the critical balance of daylight and darkness. Tune in to learn how to optimize your well-being through smart light management!

Post-meal walks to release gas, called 'fart walks,' have become popular on social media. NPR health correspondent Maria Godoy says the science is solid on this trend. She shares the many health benefits of walking after eating: better digestion, more balanced blood sugar levels and a healthier gut microbiome.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Kari Leibowitz, a health psychologist and author of 'How To Winter,' shares insights on thriving during the cold and dark seasons. She challenges common misconceptions about winter's effects on mental health and highlights research that shows low rates of seasonal affective disorder in some regions. Kari emphasizes the importance of mindset, encouraging listeners to shift their perspectives and embrace winter's unique joys. Practical tips include indulging in cozy rituals and finding delight in seasonal activities to enrich winter experiences.

Martinus Evans, a passionate runner and author of Slow AF Run Club, challenges the traditional norms of running. He emphasizes that running is for everyone, regardless of pace, and shares practical tips for beginners. Evans discusses overcoming self-doubt and the importance of proper gear, like the right shoes. He also addresses mental barriers, offering strategies to silence your inner critic. With techniques for breathing and cross-training, he inspires listeners to embrace their unique running journeys without pressure.

Do you feel anxious after a night drinking? Two doctors weigh in on how to treat hangover symptoms especially 'hangxiety' after drinking too much. Plus the science of alcohol's affect on your body and tips for reassessing your relationship to alcohol. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Namanji Bumpus, the Principal Deputy Commissioner at the FDA and former chief scientist, shares valuable insights on food safety. He discusses the hidden dangers of leftovers and the alarming statistics on foodborne illnesses. Bumpus debunks the ridiculous five-second rule, emphasizing that bacteria don’t abide by it. He also offers practical tips for safe food handling and storage, and the importance of cleanliness to prevent cross-contamination. Perfect for the holiday season, this conversation equips listeners to avoid food poisoning while enjoying family feasts.

Picking a health insurance plan can be confusing and frustrating. There are endless acronyms and it's hard to predict what your health needs will be in six months. This episode, we break down some of the terms and share guided questions to help you choose the plan that's best for you. This episode was originally published Oct. 31, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Do you really need to drink eight glasses of water a day? Can drinking water help you lose weight? Does coffee dehydrate you? Experts explain the science of hydration. This episode originally published September 22, 2022.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Dr. Ravi Isola, a pulmonary critical care doctor at UCLA, and Dr. Seema Khosla, medical director at the North Dakota Center for Sleep, share crucial insights on recovering from a bad night's sleep. They debunk common recovery myths like sleeping in or relying on caffeine. Instead, they suggest practical strategies like improving sleep hygiene, managing stress, and creating a calming sleep environment. The duo also discusses the nuances of insomnia and how life circumstances can affect sleep quality, reassuring listeners that occasional sleeplessness is normal.