Life Kit: Health

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.

Eating more deliberately can help you make better choices about nourishing your body, says Lilian Cheung, a mindful eating lecturer at Harvard. She shares how to enjoy meals while paying attention. This episode originally published September 11, 2023.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Breast cancer deaths have decreased, yet diagnoses are rising among younger women. The importance of early detection and proactive screening is emphasized through personal stories. Listeners learn about risk factors, the impact of breast density, and available supplemental imaging options. Navigating the healthcare system post-diagnosis and the significance of advocating for oneself are also explored. Empowerment through awareness and understanding of personal risk can lead to better health outcomes.

They're tasty and cheap, but they come with health risks. NPR health correspondent Maria Godoy explains how to spot and avoid ultra-processed snacks and packaged foods. This episode originally published June 20, 2023.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

It's hard to stay motivated in the face of threats like climate change — especially when it feels like you're the only one who cares. But a new course from the University of California aims to help students cope with climate activism burnout, find new purpose and work toward change at the local level. NPR health correspondent Allison Aubrey shares exercises from the class that'll help you find renewed purpose in all aspects of life. This episode is Part 2 of the new series, Stress Less: A Quest to Reclaim Your Calm.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Allison Aubrey, an NPR health correspondent, teams up with Judith Moskowitz, a research psychologist from Northwestern University, to tackle stress management. They delve into practical skills to help you navigate life's pressures, like breathing exercises and mindful reflection. The conversation highlights the power of positive thinking and the importance of recognizing small joys in daily life. Listeners will learn actionable techniques for building resilience and emotional health, promoting a more joyful outlook even in tough times.

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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy