Life Kit: Health

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. To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR 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. To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR 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!

As a heat wave grips much of the U.S., the podcast dives into how our bodies naturally cool down, yet often struggle in extreme conditions. Experts provide essential strategies for staying safe, from hydration tips to the importance of finding cooler spaces. The discussion highlights heat-related illnesses, symptoms to watch for, and how systemic inequalities leave marginalized communities more vulnerable. Key reminders include leveraging local news and community resources during such intense weather events.

Ping Huang, an NPR health correspondent, shares vital insights about ticks and the threats they pose, particularly Lyme disease. She discusses where ticks thrive and effective prevention strategies to keep you safe while enjoying the outdoors. Listeners learn the importance of wearing appropriate clothing and conducting thorough body checks after outings. Huang also explains how to identify ticks and the urgent steps to take if bitten, ensuring that everyone is empowered to protect themselves during tick season.

Sara Reardon, a pelvic floor physical therapist and author of 'Floored', dives into the crucial yet often overlooked world of pelvic floor health. She discusses how this area supports essential bodily functions, from breathing to sexual health. Reardon offers practical advice on recognizing symptoms of dysfunction and emphasizes the importance of open conversations about pelvic health. Listeners discover techniques for managing pelvic floor tension and learn when to seek professional help, empowering them to take action for their well-being.

Knowing how to swim can help you have fun at the pool or beach this summer. But it could also save your life. Here are some tips to start swimming if you never learned as a kid. This episode originally published June 29, 2023.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy

Andy Tegel, a reporter for Life Kit, chats with foot health experts about common ailments like bunions, Achilles tendinitis, and plantar fasciitis. Discover the importance of choosing the right running shoes and how they can affect your overall foot health. The discussion emphasizes the significance of daily foot inspections, proper hygiene, and the need for regular strengthening exercises. Tegel provides insight into how small changes in foot care can make a big difference in comfort and mobility.