Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials Podcast

Are you tired most days? If so, join the club. An estimated 1 in 3 people don't get the sleep they need on a regular basis. The reason why may involve bedtime habits. Listen in as sleep medicine specialist Nancy Foldvary-Schaefer offers tips to catch ZZZs.

“Gut health” is a hot topic these days – and for good reason. What's happening in your belly has far-reaching implications for your overall health. Learn how to keep your gut and its microbiome running smoothly in this podcast with Dr. Christine Lee, a gastroenterologist.

Children don't always poop when they should, which explains why 1 in 5 toddlers are typically dealing with constipation. In this podcast, Dr. Ben Freiberg explains the warning signs of constipation and what you can do to get things moving again.

There's no question that dogs and cats crawl into our hearts. But should these beloved pets also be allowed to crawl into your bed to sleep? “The setup has pros and cons”, says sleep medicine specialist Nancy Foldvary-Schaefer. Listen in to learn more.

There are undeniable benefits in consuming cow's milk and dairy products – but there are also studies questioning whether those positives outweigh the negatives. So, what's the truth? Explore the issue with registered dietitian Julia Zumpano in this podcast.

Breathing in polluted air isn't just bad for your lungs. It also increases your risk of a heart attack and stroke. That's why it is important to pay attention to the Air Quality Index. Get the facts on this useful tool from pulmonologist Neha Solanki.

Stinky breath happens from time to time, right? (Hello, garlic sauce!) But if you've got chronic bad breath, it may indicate a larger health issue. Let's explore the issue with dentist Karyn Kahn, who is on the front lines when it comes to halitosis.

Your stomach has a way of getting your attention when it's not happy – and that grumble can be anything but subtle. So how does that usually silent organ get so loud? And can it be a sign of something beyond being hungry? Dr. Christine Lee has your answers in this podcast.

Do you feel creaky when you get out of bed? If so, you might be sleeping wrong. Awkward sleeping positions can strain your muscles as you catch ZZZs, leading to aches and pains. Follow these tips from Dr. Andrew Bang and you'll be ready to rise and shine.

Children need exercise. But when it comes to heart rate, just how hard should kids push it while running around? Listen in as we talk about maximum heart rate and resting heart rate numbers with Dr. Rashmi Rao, a pediatric cardiologist.

There is no cure for heart failure, but what you eat can help you manage the condition and minimize its impact. So, what food should and should not be on your plate? Find out from registered dietitian Julia Zumpano.

If your hair is thinning, you might want to consider adding a little seasoning to solve the problem. Rosemary oil has proven to be as effective at encouraging hair regrowth as the popular medication Rogaine. Dermatologist Shilpi Khetarpal explains how in this podcast.

Sleep meditation is a simple self-care technique that can help you reset your mind and body for a restful night in bed. Join us for this podcast as Dr. Melissa Young walks us through techniques to escape the Insomnia Club.

A cracking joint can be as loud as 83 decibels – about the same as a running garbage disposal. How is that possible? Chiropractor Andrew Bang returns to the Health Essentials podcast to answer that question and more.

More than 90 percent of food allergy reactions come from nine foods. Explore these common allergens and the dangers they present with allergist Jaclyn Bjelac, associate director of the Cleveland Clinic Food Allergy Center of Excellence.

A long list of do-your-body-good claims has turned kombucha into a must-have drink for the health-conscious. But is this fermented tea really the answer? Let's find out from registered dietitian Julia Zumpano.

An at-home chemical peel can leave your skin looking radiant and rejuvenated – if you do it correctly. Walk through the exfoliating treatment process in this podcast featuring Dr. Shilpi Khetarpal, a dermatologist.

No matter how much you do as a parent, you may question if you're truly doing enough for your children. This feeling has been dubbed ‘Mom Guilt' – and it can be crushing for those who experience it. Learn how to overcome it in this podcast with Dr. Melissa Young, a functional medicine specialist.

If your child has a life-threatening peanut allergy, they may be able to grow up and do the unthinkable: Eat and enjoy a PB&J. Find out how in this podcast with allergist Jaclyn Bjelac, associate director of the Cleveland Clinic Food Allergy Center of Excellence.

People with “halo vision” often see circles or rings around lights, particularly at night. Learn what causes the common condition and how to best deal with it by listening in on this chat with ophthalmologist Nicole Bajic.

The average person spends 4.5 hours a day gazing upon their smartphone – a fact of modern life that can lead to a repetitive stress injury dubbed ‘Tech Neck.' Learn how to avoid those aches and pains with these simple tips from Dr. Andrew Bang.

Want to turn your daily walk into a full body workout? Then grab a pair of specialized walking poles and try Nordic walking. Exercise specialist Ben Kuharik explains how to get started.

It's said that the two sides of your brain power different ways of thinking. People who are right-brain dominant are said to be more creative. Those who are left-brain-dominant are labeled as more analytical. Is it true? Let's tap into the mind of psychologist Grace Tworek for the answer.

Learning that your child has a heart murmur can bring instant worry and questions. Is the condition serious? Does it signal a heart defect? Are there long-term concerns of heart disease? Pediatric cardiologist Rashmi Rao has your answers in this podcast.

A major moment in your life awaits when an unfortunate urge hits. You need to poop, immediately. So, what's going on downstairs to prompt these nervous poops? Better yet, how can you gain some control over it? Gastroenterologist Christine Lee has your answers.

What's the healthiest fruit to eat? And what types of fruit should you limit or avoid? Registered dietitian Beth Czerwony has the answers to help you become a produce aisle expert.

No two people on Earth have the same color eyes, but is it possible for your one-of-a-kind shade to change over time? Dr. Nicole Bajic, an ophthalmologist, has your answer in this podcast.

There's a reason why the Mediterranean Diet serves as the bedrock for heart-healthy living: It works. People who adopt the eating plan tend to live longer and avoid cardiac issues. Listen in as registered dietitian Julia Zumpano explains the foods and general guidelines of the diet.

Coffee often does more than just jump-start your day, after all. It can also make you poop – a truth you've no doubt seen spelled out on an oh-so-clever mug. Listen in as Dr. Christine Lee explains the connection between coffee and pooping and how you can use it to your advantage.

Does sinus pressure ever make your head feel like it's about to explode? Learn how to dial that pain down with a variety of home remedies and over-the-counter medications. Listen in as Dr. Neha Vyas offers tips for you to find relief.

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the moment? It can happen when your five senses – hearing, sight, smell, taste and touch – simply take in more information than your brain can process. Learn how to untangle that mental knot with the help of psychologist Grace Tworek.

Do creaky knees and aching hands really signal the arrival of bad weather? Let's look at the science behind this long-held belief with chiropractor Andrew Bang. (Spoiler alert: Dr. Bang can look at the forecast and know if he'll be extra busy.)

If you've ever worried about scary things hiding in your bedroom… well, you may have been right. Bedrooms are prime territory for dust mites, mold and other allergens that can trigger asthma and allergies. Learn how to tame those monsters in this chat with pediatric immunologist John McDonnell.

You can learn a lot about yourself by assessing how your body is feeling through body scan meditation. Join us for a head-to-toe scan during this chat with Dr. Melissa Young, a functional medicine specialist.

The grocery store devotes a whole aisle to cereal and oatmeal. So, what box should go in your shopping cart? Let's break down the options with registered dietitian Beth Czerwony.

You probably know how vitamin C can boost your immune system. But did you know it offers numerous other benefits, too – especially for children? Pediatric immunologist John McDonnell explains the good vitamin C can do, plus whether your family should consider supplements to get more of the nutrient.

When it comes to heartburn, there's an inferno raging across the United States. An estimated 60 million Americans deal with a five-alarm fire in their chest at least once a month. Learn how to dial down that heat from Dr. Claire Beveridge, a gastroenterologist.

Keeping a well-stock medicine cabinet is key to addressing the headaches life throws at you and your family. Let's get your shopping list together with the help of Dr. Neha Vyas, a family medicine physician.

A foam roller can work magic on your muscles if you're using it correctly. Exercise specialist Ben Kuharik has the tips you need to get the most out of the self-massage tool.

You just spent a weekend eating and drinking far more than usual. The result? Your stomach aches and you're full of food and regret. Reboot your system with this advice from registered dietitian Beth Czerwony.

Meditative breathing techniques can help you destress during life's more hectic moments. Let's explore the science of breathing during a how-to session with Dr. Melissa Young, a functional medicine specialist.

Sugars and sweets are a reality of our culinary tastes. The key to a healthy diet, though, is some moderation. Registered dietitian Beth Czerwony explains how you can have your cake and eat it, too.

Many people believe that acne is predominately a teenage problem. However, as we grow older, we realize that many of us face the pain and inconvenience of acne throughout our entire lives. Dr. Kassouf discusses the causes of acne and what options are available to you in the pursuit of clearer skin.

Menopause is a natural part of aging that marks the end of the female reproductive years — but so many of us don't know what to expect until we're in the midst of it. Maybe you just know that you'll stop having your period, or you've heard about the sweaty agony of hot flashes. But what's really happening, and why? And most importantly, how can you cope? Dr. Batur explains menopause and walks you through some of the ways you can deal with the many changes it brings.

One in every six people around the world live with a neurological disorder—a broad term used to describe things such as Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, or headaches. The first-of-its-kind Cleveland Clinic Brain Study is aiming to identify biomarkers of these disorders, so doctors can hopefully better predict who might develop a neurological disorder, potentially transforming the future of healthcare. Dr. Imad Najm, the study's co-PI, discusses how the study came about, what makes the study so groundbreaking, and what other goals doctors hope to achieve.

Breastfeeding, which is sometimes known as chestfeeding, is a natural way growing babies and infants get nutrients after birth. Dr. Heidi Szugye, medical director of the Cleveland Clinic's Breastfeeding Medicine Clinic and Center, discusses the physical and emotional benefits to breastfeeding, what parents can expect from the process and tips on breastfeeding success.

Brushing and flossing isn't just about keeping your smile pearly white. Oral health is linked to whole-body health, which means problems with your teeth and gums can lead to concerns like heart disease, stroke and more. Periodontist Sasha Ross, DMD, MS, explains how to practice good dental hygiene and why it's so critical to your overall health.

Almost half of all children experience growing pains. As a parent, what should you expect and what can you do to make the pain go away? Pediatric physical medicine specialist, Lainie Holman, MD explains. Words to hyperlink"

The influenza virus sickens millions of people every year - sometimes with deadly consequences. Learn what you can do to protect yourself and those closest to you this flu season with tips from infectious disease specialist Kristin Englund, MD.

Navigating the postpartum time—or the time just after you've given birth—can be an emotional roller coaster. After giving birth, not only are you dealing with physical changes, but you may also experience changes to your mental health, such as postpartum depression or postpartum anxiety. Ob/Gyn Dr. Erica Newlin discusses what mental health changes new parents might go through before and after giving birth, and the best ways to navigate this time.

It turns out that your choice of footwear is far more than a fashion statement. Poorly fitting shoes can lead to a variety of health issues, both in your feet and up your body. Podiatrist Nicole Nicolosi, DPM shares what to look for in shoes to keep you and your feet feeling great.