Life Kit: Health
209 episodes - English - Latest episode: 13 days ago - ★★★★ - 347 ratingsTaking 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. Subscribe to get episodes from Life Kit on health and wellness.
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed
Episodes
End-Of-Life Planning Is A 'Lifetime Gift' To Your Loved Ones
June 30, 2020 04:03 - 21 minutes - 19.5 MBTalking about death makes many of us uncomfortable, so we don't plan for it. But the reality is even a small amount of planning ensures our final wishes are honored — and makes it easier on our friends and family. This episode will help you get started on making a will and an advanced directive, even if you don't have a big estate.
End-Of-Life Planning Is A 'Lifetime Gift' To Your Loved Ones
June 30, 2020 04:03 - 21 minutes - 19.5 MBTalking about death makes many of us uncomfortable, so we don't plan for it. But the reality is even a small amount of planning ensures our final wishes are honored — and makes it easier on our friends and family. This episode will help you get started on making a will and an advanced directive, even if you don't have a big estate. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Sleep Better With These Bedtime Rituals
June 08, 2020 04:03 - 22 minutes - 19.6 MBHow do you get a good night's sleep? Many of us have routines we use to try and reach that blissful state of slumber — from meditation to melatonin to putting on a pair of socks. Sleep scientists weigh in on what sleep rituals actually work.
Sleep Better With These Bedtime Rituals
June 08, 2020 04:03 - 22 minutes - 19.6 MBHow do you get a good night's sleep? Many of us have routines we use to try and reach that blissful state of slumber — from meditation to melatonin to putting on a pair of socks. Sleep scientists weigh in on what sleep rituals actually work. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Telehealth Tips: How To Make The Most Of Video Visits With Your Doctor
June 01, 2020 04:03 - 17 minutes - 15.8 MBA visit to the doctor's office looks a little different during the pandemic. Doctors are using telemedicine services to treat patients more frequently. In this episode, Dr. Mara Gordon provides tips to help you get the most out of your telehealth visit.
Telehealth Tips: How To Make The Most Of Video Visits With Your Doctor
June 01, 2020 04:03 - 17 minutes - 15.8 MBA visit to the doctor's office looks a little different during the pandemic. Doctors are using telemedicine services to treat patients more frequently. In this episode, Dr. Mara Gordon provides tips to help you get the most out of your telehealth visit. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
From Camping To Road Trips: Here's How Experts Rate The Risks Of Summer Activities
May 30, 2020 04:03 - 6 minutes - 7.02 MBSummer is here, but the typical summer activities don't feel quite as carefree. How do you know if it's safe to hit the beach, rent a vacation home or pitch a tent? Life Kit host Allison Aubrey interviews experts to rate the risks of favorite summer pastimes. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
From Camping To Road Trips: Here's How Experts Rate The Risks Of Summer Activities
May 30, 2020 04:03 - 6 minutes - 7.02 MBSummer is here, but the typical summer activities don't feel quite as carefree. How do you know if it's safe to hit the beach, rent a vacation home or pitch a tent? Life Kit host Allison Aubrey interviews experts to rate the risks of favorite summer pastimes.
How Body Positivity Can Lead To Better Health
May 25, 2020 04:03 - 21 minutes - 19.3 MBWeight stigma can hurt more than just your feelings. Negative messages about weight are actually bad for your health. This episode, a case for ditching the obsession with weight loss and focusing on celebrating all different body shapes and sizes.
How Body Positivity Can Lead To Better Health
May 25, 2020 04:03 - 21 minutes - 19.3 MBWeight stigma can hurt more than just your feelings. Negative messages about weight are actually bad for your health. This episode, a case for ditching the obsession with weight loss and focusing on celebrating all different body shapes and sizes. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Why Caring For Yourself Helps You Care For Others
May 18, 2020 04:03 - 15 minutes - 13.9 MBYou can't fully show up for the people in your life until you know how to do the same for yourself. In this episode, we talk with Rachel Wilkerson Miller, author of The Art of Showing Up about how to take care of yourself. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Grief For Beginners: 5 Things To Know About Processing Loss
May 14, 2020 04:03 - 20 minutes - 18.4 MBWe're all experiencing some kind of grief these days. As this pandemic progresses, more of us will experience losing someone important to us. This episode lays a groundwork for the grieving process, no matter what your loss. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Screen Time Overload? Here's How To Find Balance
April 30, 2020 04:03 - 12 minutes - 11.4 MBScreens keep us connected while we're socially distant, but phone fatigue is real. It's important to take breaks from your device to destress. In this episode, expert advice for balancing screen time during quarantine. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
How To Start Running With Peter Sagal
April 23, 2020 04:02 - 15 minutes - 13.8 MBExercise is considered an essential activity during this pandemic. But what if it's the first time you'll be going for a jog? Avid runner and host of Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me!, Peter Sagal gives his pitch for why you should start running and three steps to get you there. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Fake News Can Be Deadly. Here's How To Spot It
April 20, 2020 04:03 - 28 minutes - 25.9 MBExperts say the coronavirus outbreak may be the biggest source of internet misinformation ever. Fake cures, unscientific tips, and conspiracy theories about COVID-19 are flooding the Internet — but there are ways to sniff out misinformation. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Coronavirus Panic: How To Get Your Thinking Brain Back Online
April 16, 2020 04:03 - 14 minutes - 13.6 MBShame spirals, toilet paper panic and bingeing on news — It's easy to worry, but harder to stop. Psychiatrist Dr. Judson Brewer explains why panic can be as contagious as a virus and shares simple ways to recenter yourself when you get carried away by anxious thoughts.
Coronavirus Panic: How To Get Your Thinking Brain Back Online
April 16, 2020 04:03 - 14 minutes - 13.6 MBShame spirals, toilet paper panic and bingeing on news — It's easy to worry, but harder to stop. Psychiatrist Dr. Judson Brewer explains why panic can be as contagious as a virus and shares simple ways to recenter yourself when you get carried away by anxious thoughts. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
How To Shop For Groceries During Coronavirus
April 14, 2020 04:03 - 8 minutes - 7.64 MBGrocery shopping during coronavirus is fraught with confusion. Do you need to disinfect your groceries? When are the best times to go grocery shopping right now? This episode gives tips about safe grocery shopping — and what you can stop worrying about. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
How To Shop For Groceries During Coronavirus
April 14, 2020 04:03 - 8 minutes - 7.64 MBGrocery shopping during coronavirus is fraught with confusion. Do you need to disinfect your groceries? When are the best times to go grocery shopping right now? This episode gives tips about safe grocery shopping — and what you can stop worrying about.
How To Get Therapy When You Can't Leave The House
April 06, 2020 04:03 - 12 minutes - 11.1 MBTaking care of your mental health during the coronavirus pandemic is important, and it's still possible to get therapy even when you're staying at home. This episode gives options for making online therapy a little easier, low-cost therapy and free mental health hotlines to get you the help you need.
How To Get Therapy When You Can't Leave The House
April 06, 2020 04:03 - 12 minutes - 11.1 MBTaking care of your mental health during the coronavirus pandemic is important, and it's still possible to get therapy even when you're staying at home. This episode gives options for making online therapy a little easier, low-cost therapy and free mental health hotlines to get you the help you need. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Anxious Thoughts? 5 Tips To Help You Sleep
March 26, 2020 04:03 - 22 minutes - 20.2 MBDifficulty sleeping can cause anxiety, which often leads to more trouble sleeping. Life Kit host Allison Aubrey talks to sleep experts about how cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia can bring relief for people with chronic sleep issues. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Disrupted and Distanced: The Latest Advice On Navigating Coronavirus
March 18, 2020 14:46 - 16 minutes - 15.1 MBHow can I tell the difference between allergies and coronavirus symptoms? Can you get coronavirus from food? Can I have people over? The coronavirus pandemic is causing lots of uncertainty about everyday life. In this episode, Life Kit host Allison Aubrey answers common questions about coronavirus. This was recorded March 17, 2020. Because the news is moving fast, check npr.org for the latest updates. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Disrupted and Distanced: The Latest Advice On Navigating Coronavirus
March 18, 2020 14:46 - 16 minutes - 15.1 MBHow can I tell the difference between allergies and coronavirus symptoms? Can you get coronavirus from food? Can I have people over? The coronavirus pandemic is causing lots of uncertainty about everyday life. In this episode, Life Kit host Allison Aubrey answers common questions about coronavirus. This was recorded March 17, 2020. Because the news is moving fast, check npr.org for the latest updates.
How To Read Food Labels, From Free-Range To Fair Trade
March 10, 2020 04:03 - 22 minutes - 20.3 MBSo many food labels proclaim their eco-virtues these days: organic, pasture raised, cage-free, non-GMO. But what is a label based on? Here are six ways to make sense of it all. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
When It Comes To Exercise, "All Movement Counts"
March 05, 2020 05:03 - 15 minutes - 13.9 MBFeeling blocked with it comes to starting an exercise habit? You can actually get the health benefits of exercise with just 22 minutes of exercise a day — and you might be surprised what "counts" as exercise. Kiss your excuses goodbye! Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
When It Comes To Exercise, "All Movement Counts"
March 05, 2020 05:03 - 15 minutes - 13.9 MBFeeling blocked with it comes to starting an exercise habit? You can actually get the health benefits of exercise with just 22 minutes of exercise a day — and you might be surprised what "counts" as exercise. Kiss your excuses goodbye!
5 Ways To Prevent And Prepare For The Coronavirus
March 02, 2020 18:50 - 15 minutes - 14.3 MBYou might be wondering how to prevent coronavirus and protect your family if the virus continues to spread. Nancy Messonnier from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shares five things you can do to prepare. One takeaway: wash your hands often with soap and hot water. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
A Guide To Navigating Birth Control
February 20, 2020 05:03 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MBGiven all the types of birth control out there, picking a form of contraception can be overwhelming. It involves understanding how birth control works, your preferences, side effects and more. This episode presents the facts so you can choose the contraception that works for you. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
A Guide To Navigating Birth Control
February 20, 2020 05:03 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MBGiven all the types of birth control out there, picking a form of contraception can be overwhelming. It involves understanding how birth control works, your preferences, side effects and more. This episode presents the facts so you can choose the contraception that works for you.
Helping A Child Whose Parent Is Struggling With Addiction
February 06, 2020 05:03 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MBWhat can you do if you suspect a child is being impacted by a family member's addiction? Experts say you don't need to be an addiction expert, just a caring adult. This episode offers guidance to help a kid through a tumultuous time. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Feeling Anxious? Here's a Quick Tool To Center Your Soul
February 04, 2020 05:03 - 15 minutes - 14 MBWe all need strategies to push back against conflict, anger and worry. One of the globe's leading mindfulness teachers distills the practice of mindfulness into a simple 4-step tool from her new book Radical Compassion. This daily practice can help you show up for 'life' – and let go of regret and anxiety. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
What Is Postpartum Depression? Recognizing The Signs And Getting Help
January 28, 2020 05:03 - 24 minutes - 22.7 MBOne in seven women experiences postpartum depression. But it's easy to feel alone — especially when you're told having a baby is supposed to be blissful. This episode helps both struggling moms and loved ones identify the symptoms and find treatment. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
How To Start Therapy
January 23, 2020 05:03 - 22 minutes - 20.7 MBIf the mere thought of going to therapy seems overwhelming, you're not alone. Plenty of people put off seeking therapy because of the stigma, cost and inconvenience. We've got four tips to help you make your first appointment. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
How To Quit Smoking, With Help From Science
January 16, 2020 05:03 - 24 minutes - 22.8 MBTrying to quit smoking can be hard. The good news is the science behind how to quit smoking is very clear. This episode gives you strategies to help boost your chances of success.
How To Quit Smoking, With Help From Science
January 16, 2020 05:03 - 24 minutes - 22.8 MBTrying to quit smoking can be hard. The good news is the science behind how to quit smoking is very clear. This episode gives you strategies to help boost your chances of success. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Making Art Is Good For Your Health. Here's How To Start A Habit
January 07, 2020 05:03 - 21 minutes - 19.2 MBProfessional artists aren't the only people who can make art. This episode, learn how to weave art into your everyday life. Because whether you're doodling, making pottery or embroidering, creating art is good for you and your health. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
6 Ways To Take A Break From Drinking
January 02, 2020 05:03 - 21 minutes - 20 MBThinking about taking a break from drinking? This episode will help you make a plan, navigate tricky social situations, and reassess your relationship with alcohol, so you can experience the benefits of dry January. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
How To Have A Good Weekend
December 31, 2019 05:03 - 25 minutes - 23.2 MBSo many weekends get filled up with too many errands, plans, and, yes, work. Never getting time to relax means feeling like a zombie come Monday. Say no to burnout by making your two days off into a mini vacation with relaxation techniques and tips to unplug. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Choose The Best Diet For You
December 26, 2019 05:03 - 21 minutes - 19.2 MBThere are so many food tribes out there — everything from Keto to vegan. We help you understand how to pick a diet approach that's right for you. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
This 22-Minute Workout Has Everything You Need
December 24, 2019 05:03 - 19 minutes - 17.8 MBIf you've got 22 minutes, you can get an effective total-body workout. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg's personal trainer Bryant Johnson walks us through an interval session and explains why it's so effective. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
The Truth About Carbs And Calories
November 12, 2019 05:02 - 20 minutes - 18.8 MBCarbs get a bad rap. Here's the science behind why eating too much starch isn't good for you — and smart tips to integrate more slow carbs into your diet. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
When Is Snoring A Sign Of A Serious Health Issue?
October 26, 2019 04:11 - 8 minutes - 7.67 MBWhen is snoring just annoying or the sign of a bigger health issue? Life Kit's Allison Aubrey and Maddie Sofia, host of NPR's new daily science podcast, "Short Wave" get answers from a doctor, as well as some tips to achieve a snoreless sleep. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
6 Food Rules That Could Help You Live Longer
October 09, 2019 04:16 - 20 minutes - 19.1 MBHealthy eating can be easy if you follow a few simple rules. We guide you through three types of healthy food you should eat more of, and three foods to cut back on. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
How To Be A Better Caregiver When A Loved One Gets Sick
July 12, 2019 04:15 - 28 minutes - 26.3 MBNone of us is prepared to be caregivers — the role is thrust upon us. More than 40 million Americans are caring for an elderly parent or loved one. Here are six tips to make the caregiving burden more sustainable: - Accept help, and don't be afraid to ask for it. - Break down caregiving tasks into bite-sized solutions. - Don't tell your loved one what to do. Ask about the quality of life they want and how you can get them there. - Be an empowered medical advocate for your loved one. - Ge...
Take Control Of Your Care When You're Seriously Sick
July 10, 2019 04:07 - 26 minutes - 24.6 MBFinding out you have a serious medical condition can leave you reeling. These strategies from medical and lay experts will help you be in control as you navigate our complex health care system and get the best possible care. Here's what to remember: - Your primary care doctor is the captain of your health care team. - Don't be afraid to get a second opinion. - Get organized, and find someone to help you if you can't do it yourself. - If you need a procedure, go to someone who does it all the...
How To Get The Best From Your Doctor
July 08, 2019 04:04 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MBGoing to a doctor who puts you at ease can actually improve your health. We have six tips for finding a primary care doctor you click with — and how you can make the most out of that relationship. - Figure out what type of patient you are, and let that guide your choice of doctor. - Seek out a doctor who makes you feel comfortable. - When you go to the doctor, go prepared. - Be clear about your agenda. - Be yourself at the doctor's office. - You have a right to give your doctor feedback. B...
Free-Range Food Labels: Can My Groceries Really Help The Planet?
May 29, 2019 04:10 - 23 minutes - 21.4 MBSo many food labels proclaim their eco-virtues these days — organic. Pasture-raised. Cage-free. Non-GMO. What do they actually mean? Here are six ways to make sense of it all. - "Natural" or "sustainable" labels have no legal standard. - "Organic" means it's better for the planet, but may not be better for you. - Non-GMO is not organic. The food was still grown with pesticides. - Labels like "Animal Welfare Approved" mean the animals got to live outdoors. - "Fair Trade" products deliver a li...
Free-Range Food Labels: Can My Groceries Really Help The Planet?
May 29, 2019 04:10 - 22 minutes - 21.4 MBSo many food labels proclaim their eco-virtues these days — organic. Pasture-raised. Cage-free. Non-GMO. What do they actually mean? Here are six ways to make sense of it all. - "Natural" or "sustainable" labels have no legal standard. - "Organic" means it's better for the planet, but may not be better for you. - Non-GMO is not organic. The food was still grown with pesticides. - Labels like "Animal Welfare Approved" mean the animals got to live outdoors. - "Fair Trade" products deliver a li...
Trust Your Gut: A Beginner's Guide To Intuitive Eating
May 27, 2019 04:06 - 17 minutes - 16.3 MBKnowing when and what to eat may sound simple, but dieting can mess up our connection to hunger cues. The practice of intuitive eating can help people make peace with food. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy