
Life Kit: Health
Taking care of yourself shouldn't be complicated. We talk to the experts for practical advice to live a long and healthy life, based on science. Updated every time Life Kit posts an episode on health and wellness.Want another life hack? Try Life Kit+. Your subscription supports the show and unlocks an exclusive sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/lifekit
Latest episodes

Mar 21, 2024 • 23min
How to take care of your eyes
Learn how to protect your eyes from screens and dispel myths about vision. Discover the impact of blue light on melatonin, importance of blinking to prevent dry eyes, and maintaining eye hygiene. Understand eye prescriptions, myopia, astigmatism, and the importance of regular eye check-ups. Explore the effects of diabetes on eyesight, link between near work and nearsightedness, and benefits of spending time outdoors on eye health.

Mar 18, 2024 • 21min
How much protein do you need?
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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Feb 27, 2024 • 18min
Thoughts on Ozempic from a body-positive doctor
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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Feb 26, 2024 • 21min
Here's how to take better naps
Explore the benefits of napping for memory and athletic performance. Learn about the factors of the perfect nap and the importance of daytime rest. Discover tips for mastering the art of napping, understanding sleep phases, and implementing napping strategies for better rest.

10 snips
Feb 6, 2024 • 17min
5 simple ways to minimize stress
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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Jan 30, 2024 • 16min
Improve your indoor air quality
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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Jan 25, 2024 • 23min
How to have a healthy relationship with caffeine
A gastroenterologist and a caffeine researcher debunk myths about caffeine, exploring its positive effects on liver, diabetes, stroke risk, Parkinson's disease, headaches, and more. They clarify that caffeine increases alertness but does not provide energy. They discuss the effects of caffeine on sleep, dental health, weight gain, and heart health. The podcast offers tips on maintaining a healthy relationship with caffeine and recognizing personal sensitivities.

Jan 22, 2024 • 18min
Why being uncomfortable is important
Learn how discomfort can be a warning sign and affect physical and mental health. Discover techniques to manage overwhelming feelings, name emotions, and build resilience through self-reflection and facing distress.

Jan 16, 2024 • 22min
Your body is changing. So should your fitness routine
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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Jan 15, 2024 • 22min
Soothe your stress in minutes
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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy