Life Kit: Health

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Explosive power: exercises to boost mobility and prevent injury Apr 28, 2026

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Explosive power is the ability to generate a lot of force quickly. It combines strength and speed. We use it in our daily lives to walk up stairs, stand up from a chair, catch ourselves when we stumble, and play sports. In this episode: specific exercises to train for explosive power.
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Make the most of a high-deductible health plan Apr 20, 2026

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Did you know that if you have a high-deductible health plan, some services like immunizations and screenings are free (even if you haven't met your deductible)? Or that you might be able to invest the money in your HSA? This episode, KFF Health News reporter Jackie Fortiér shares tips on getting the most out of your HDHP.
Have a question about navigating the health care system? Contact us here and you might be part of an upcoming episode of Health Care Helpline.
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Don't rely only on anti-histamines this allergy season Apr 16, 2026

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Spring has sprung, and so too seasonal allergies. This episode, what you can do to stay more comfortable if you suffer from pollen allergies. Dr. Prathyusha Savjani shares strategies you can use, both outdoors and at home, to find relief.
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Protein is personal. Here's how to calculate your optimal intake Apr 06, 2026

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Protein is having a moment. Coffee chains are adding it into lattes. Many snack companies are labeling their products as high-protein. But how much protein do you really need? Host Marielle Segarra talks with NPR health correspondent Allison Aubrey about the different factors to consider when planning your protein intake.
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How to recover after a workout Mar 16, 2026

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It's normal to feel some pain or soreness after a workout. But how much is too much, and more importantly, how do you get relief? This episode, build out your post-workout recovery routine. A sports medicine doctor, nutritionist and professional athlete break down everything you can do from the moment your last workout finishes to right before your next one begins – to feel better in your body, minimize your injury risk and get the most out of that gym session. This episode was originally published on Jan. 30, 2025
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Dr. Sanjay Gupta wants you to reframe your understanding of pain Mar 03, 2026

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Why do we have pain in the absence of injury, or long after our tissue has healed? How can the same pain stimulus feel so different, depending on who you are, or even what day it is? Neurosurgeon and CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta, author of It Doesn't Have to Hurt: Your Smart Guide to a Pain-Free Life, talks about some of the surprising developments in pain science, including non-opioid treatments you may not know about.
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4 myths about women's health Feb 26, 2026

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Do women really need to focus on cardio? Worry about heart health? Do a yearly mammogram? Meghan Rabbitt, author of the new book The New Rules of Women's Health, sets the record straight.
Find the BCRAT calculator here: https://bcrisktool.cancer.gov/
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Tired of being tired? Natural ways to get the energy you crave Feb 19, 2026

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Do you feel like you're sleepwalking through the week? Instead of reaching for your third coffee of the day, consider tweaking your lifestyle habits. Gut health expert Dr. Amy Shah explains how small changes in your diet and sleep can help you naturally recharge. And to get that spring in your step again, experts share how to find something that lights you up from within.
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Don't mess with your cuticles (and other nail advice) Feb 12, 2026

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Is there a right way to trim your nails? Are manicures bad for your hands? Can a supplement help with nail growth and health? We'll answer all these questions (and more) in this episode of Life Kit.
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Health insurance hell: Why do I need a prior authorization? Feb 10, 2026

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Some medical procedures and treatments require prior authorization from your health insurance company, meaning you'll need pre-approval before you can receive care. This episode, health care reporter Sarah Boden shares tips on making the prior authorization process as smooth as possible — so you can save yourself frustration and get medical support sooner.
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