Living Better Science for a healthy life
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Living Better

Science for a healthy life
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Can using magnesium topically help with sleep? Medical experts are skeptical

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Influencers tout the benefits of creatine supplements. Is it healthy or all hype?

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There's a growing consensus among researchers on how many daily steps are needed to improve health. Marco VDM/iStockphoto/Getty Images hide caption

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How many steps do you need to stay healthy?

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What’s the deal with claims that birth control is dangerous?

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There isn't a standard definition of ultra-processed foods, but all the foods pictured fit the bill. They contain added fat, sugar or salt, plus preservatives to extend their shelf-life. Dan Kitwood/Getty Images hide caption

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Ultra-processed food consumption is down a bit, but still more than 50% of U.S. diet

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Sports drinks and instant electrolyte powders have gotten popular for general wellness, not just for athletes. Vitaliy Krivchikov/iStockphoto/Getty Images hide caption

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Vitaliy Krivchikov/iStockphoto/Getty Images

What’s the deal with electrolyte drinks — do you need them to stay hydrated?

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A big new study finds that diet, exercise and other lifestyle changes can significantly enhance the health of aging brains. J Studios/Getty Images hide caption

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J Studios/Getty Images

Trying to keep your brain young? A big new study finds these lifestyle changes help

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Today's food environment is saturated with ultra-processed food that is particularly harmful to some children. Catherine Falls Commercial/Moment RF/Getty Images hide caption

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Catherine Falls Commercial/Moment RF/Getty Images

Some kids need more protection from ultra-processed food. Here's why

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A new study shows people in countries with different obesity rates burn about the same number of calories. PCH-Vector/iStockphoto via Getty Images hide caption

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Diet, not lack of exercise, is driving obesity

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A poll of parents last fall found 40% of teens consumed some type of protein supplement in the past year. Boys took it to bulk up; girls took it to replace meals. Huizeng Hu/Moment RF/Getty Images hide caption

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Huizeng Hu/Moment RF/Getty Images

Teens are trying to bulk up on protein supplements. What should parents watch for?

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Frank Frost found camaraderie and better health in a cycling group in the U.K. that his doctor recommended he try.
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Frank Frost

With social prescribing, hanging out, movement and arts are doctor's order

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Seed oils, commonly called vegetable oils, are extracted from the seeds of plants. Beck Harlan/NPR hide caption

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Are seed oils really bad for you? Researchers unpack RFK Jr.'s claims

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Maria Fabrizio for NPR

The best support for a friend with cancer? Presence, listening and space to vent

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