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PODCAST · health

Wellness Wake Up Call

Wake up to better health with Wellness Wake Up Call! In just two minutes, University of Illinois Extension and WVIK, Quad Cities NPR, bring you bite-sized, science-based guidance to support lasting health and well-being. Each episode offers simple, practical tips and motivation to help you take small steps toward a healthier, happier life.

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  1. 134

    5 ways to protect your child's vision

     Good eye health begins early, and small habits can make a big difference. 

  2. 133

    Protect your eyes in a digital world

    Whether you're working, reading, or scrolling, your screens may be taking a toll on your eyes. 

  3. 132

    Eat your way to better vision

    Looking for a simple way to support your vision? Start by adding more color to your plate. 

  4. 131

    Your eyes: A window to your health

    Think your vision is fine? Some eye diseases develop without any warning signs. 

  5. 130

    Eye-opening facts about your vision

    Your eyes never take a day off. Learn how a few simple habits can help keep them healthy. 

  6. 129

    Hydrate for a healthy summer

    What if one small change to your daily routine could help you stay energized, focused, and healthy? It starts with hydration. 

  7. 128

    Summer self-care: Staying connected

    Did you know one of the healthiest habits you can build doesn't happen in the gym or the kitchen? It happens through connection. 

  8. 127

    The power of summer produce

    Want to eat healthier this summer? Start with what's in season. 

  9. 126

    Summer self-care starts with movement

    Exercise is one of the best ways to support healthy aging, but summer heat calls for a smarter approach. 

  10. 125

    Breaking down milk myths

    With milk consumption on the decline, many people are questioning its role in a healthy diet. This episode explores the facts behind the headlines. 

  11. 124

    The health benefits of fermented dairy

    From probiotics to protein, fermented dairy packs more than just flavor. Tune in to learn how these foods may support gut and overall health. 

  12. 123

    Beyond dairy: Exploring milk alternatives

    Thinking about switching from dairy? This episode breaks down common milk alternatives and the key nutrients to consider before making the swap. 

  13. 122

    When milk makes you sick: Allergy vs intolerance

    Is it a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance? Learn the key differences, common symptoms, and where hidden milk ingredients may be found in everyday foods. 

  14. 121

    How to give your meals a Mediterranean makeover

     Looking for simple ways to eat healthier without overhauling an entire diet? This episode shares easy Mediterranean-inspired swaps—from whole grains to healthy fats—that can help build balanced meals and support long-term health. 

  15. 120

    The Mediterranean Diet: Sustainable, balanced, proven

     With so many diets out there, how can the right one be chosen? This episode explores why the Mediterranean diet stands out as a flexible, sustainable approach to eating, supporting long-term health while still being enjoyable, practical, and easy to adapt to everyday life. 

  16. 119

    Elements of the Mediterranean Diet

    What does the Mediterranean Diet Pyramid really look like in everyday life? This episode breaks down simple, practical ways to build meals, balance food groups, and incorporate lifestyle habits that support overall health. 

  17. 118

    Mediterranean Diet Month: A timeless approach to healthy living

    This May, we are celebrating the Mediterranean Diet, which goes beyond food and incorporates social, cultural, and environmental factors. 

  18. 117

    Dysbiosis: Signs, triggers, and next steps

    This episode explores what gut health means and how imbalances, known as dysbiosis, can impact digestion, energy, and mood. Learn common signs, potential triggers, and when to seek professional support for ongoing concerns. 

  19. 116

    Lifestyle factors that improve gut health

    How many gut-healthy habits are you practising each day? This episode explores five lifestyle behaviors to help improve gut health. 

  20. 115

    Probiotics for better health

    Probiotics can help restore balance in the gut. This episode explores current research and how to incorporate probiotics whether through food or supplements. 

  21. 114

    Nourish your gut with fiber

    Gut health plays a vital role in overall well-being, and diet is a powerful factor impacting the gut microbiome. Are you getting the recommended amount of fiber each day? More than 90% of people are not, which could mean negative consequences for gut health. 

  22. 113

    Good health starts in the gut

    This week, listeners will learn what the gut microbiome is and why it plays such a powerful role in digestion, immunity, and even mood. Expect simple, practical tips for supporting gut health through balanced eating, hydration, plant diversity, and stress management. Tune in each week in April to explore easy, practical tips for keeping your gut healthy.  

  23. 112

    National Nutrition Month: Building Healthy Habits, One Step at a Time

     As we wrap up National Nutrition Month, listeners can expect practical, realistic strategies for turning healthy intentions into everyday habits. This week focuses on simple meal prep ideas, smarter swaps for sweet cravings, and easy ways to limit ultra-processed foods, helping build sustainable changes one small step at a time. 

  24. 111

    National Nutrition Month: 7 tips to stay nourished on any budget

    This week, learn how to stretch your food dollars while still putting nutritious meals on the table. Listeners can expect simple, realistic tips for planning ahead, shopping smart, and cooking in ways that save money without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. 

  25. 110

    National Nutrition Month: Find Nutrition Advice Backed by Science

    This week, discover how to cut through nutrition myths and find advice you can trust. Learn where to look for credible, science-backed information and how working with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist can help turn research into realistic, personalized steps toward your health goals. 

  26. 109

    National Nutrition Month: Power Your Day with Good Nutrition

     Celebrate National Nutrition Month with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and discover how small, balanced choices can make a big impact on your health. This week’s focus, “Power Your Day with Nutrition,” highlights simple, practical tips like eating from all five food groups, enjoying a colorful variety of foods, and building sustainable habits that fuel your body for the long run. 

  27. 108

    The fuel to fight cancer

    Cancer treatments can bring challenging side effects like fatigue, nausea, changes in taste, and loss of appetite. Eating may feel difficult, but nourishing your body helps maintain strength, supports healing, and improves energy. 

  28. 107

    The power of physical activity in cancer prevention

    In 2025, more than two million new cases of cancer were diagnosed in the U.S. We all know movement matters, but understanding why helps us realize the importance of physical activity.

  29. 106

    Which cancer screenings are right for you?

    Did you know that roughly one in three people will get cancer at some point in their lifetime? Cancer rates are rising, which makes regular screenings more important than ever. Find out which ones are right for you! 

  30. 105

    Lifestyle factors impacting cancer risk

    Cancer is a complex disease with many potential causes and remains the second most common cause of death in the United States. Assessing your lifestyle and behaviors can help you take steps to lower your risk of cancer in the future. 

  31. 104

    Improve your circulation with these 3 tips

    Blood is the body’s lifeline, carrying oxygen and nutrients to every organ. In winter, circulation can slow, but there are things you can do to improve your circulation despite the cold temperatures. 

  32. 103

    Understanding the components of blood and why they matter

    Did you know blood has 4 main components, each having its own specific role in the body? Testing can help screen for a wide range of health problems. 

  33. 102

    Blood donations: factors affecting eligibility

    January is National Blood Donor Month, a time to recognize the lifesaving impact of donors and encourage more people to give blood. However, before rolling up a sleeve, it’s essential to understand the factors that affect blood donor eligibility.

  34. 101

    Give the gift of life and donate blood

    As we ring in the New Year, we also celebrate National Blood Donor Month. During the winter months, supplies often run low. So, consider rolling up your sleeve this January to give the gift of life.

  35. 100

    Cultivating a new year mindset

    Too often, we rush into resolutions without taking time to reflect. However, reflection provides clarity, and clarity fuels growth. This episode offers an activity to help you create a new year mindset. 

  36. 99

    What to eat for illness prevention

    Preventing a cold and alleviating its symptoms may be of high priority this time of year. Here is how your diet can play a role. 

  37. 98

    Being thankful for moments of joy and growth

    The holiday season can be both joyful and challenging. As we reflect on the past year, it’s natural to think about life’s challenges or unexpected changes. One powerful way to navigate these emotions is by practicing gratitude.

  38. 97

    Keeping your cool when the holidays heat up

    Many people experience heightened stress during the holidays, but there are ways to manage it. Here are five tips to help make the holiday season a little less stressful.

  39. 96

    Savor the season: Holiday eating tips when managing diabetes

    Figuring out what to eat when you have diabetes can sometimes feel overwhelming, and this can be especially true during the holidays. The good news is that you can enjoy the holidays with a little planning while still managing your health.

  40. 95

    How to prepare for hypoglycemia

    Did you know if you give yourself insulin, you are MORE likely to experience hypoglycemia, also known as low blood sugar? Prepare now to prevent future complications. 

  41. 94

    5 reasons to get blood sugar under control

    Did you know that high blood sugar can damage nearly every system in the body? Let’s dive into what’s really at stake.

  42. 93

    Are you at risk for diabetes?

    November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. It’s estimated that 38.4 million people in the U.S. are living with diabetes, and another 8.7 million may have the condition but remain undiagnosed. 

  43. 92

    Healthy Lung Month: Preventing and managing upper respiratory infections this season

    Not only is it Healthy Lung Month, but it is also the unofficial start of cold and flu season. Rachel Mannen shares important reminders and tips on how to prevent and manage URI's this season. 

  44. 91

    Healthy Lung Month: Improving indoor air quality

    Indoor air pollutants can have short-term and long-term effects on health such as headaches, skin irritation, emphysema, and even cancer. Follow these 7 steps to improve your indoor air quality and protect your health.

  45. 90

    Healthy Lung Month: Prevent lung damage from COPD

    COPD is inflammation in the lungs that make it harder to breath. Damage to the lungs can’t be reversed, but the good news is, COPD can be prevented. 

  46. 89

    Healthy Lung Month: Simple actions to prevent asthma

    By taking steps today to reduce exposure to harmful substances, you can help protect your lungs and lower your risk of asthma in the future.

  47. 88

    Breathe better during Healthy Lung Month

    As the calendar turns to October, we mark Healthy Lung Month—a dedicated time to shine a spotlight on one of the most essential yet often overlooked organs: your lungs. Each week throughout October, we’ll be highlighting several lung health concerns and practical steps to keep your lungs functioning well.

  48. 87

    Healthy Aging Month: Support your digestive health

    Aging is a natural part of life, and with it comes changes in how our bodies function, including our digestive system. Additionally, lifestyle factors like diet, physical activity, medication use, and sleep habits also impact digestive health. However, simple daily habits can help support a healthy digestive system. 

  49. 86

    Healthy Aging Month: Preventing urinary tract infections

    Urinary tract infections become more common as we age—especially for women over 65—yet many don’t realize simple daily habits can lower their risk. 

  50. 85

    Healthy Aging Month: Brain health tips

    As we age, our bodies change, but did you know our brains also change? There are steps you can take to help your brain stay sharp and age well, starting with nutrition.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Wake up to better health with Wellness Wake Up Call! In just two minutes, University of Illinois Extension and WVIK, Quad Cities NPR, bring you bite-sized, science-based guidance to support lasting health and well-being. Each episode offers simple, practical tips and motivation to help you take small steps toward a healthier, happier life.

HOSTED BY

Kristin Bogdonas

Produced by WVIK, Quad Cities NPR

CATEGORIES

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Wellness Wake Up Call have?

Wellness Wake Up Call currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Wellness Wake Up Call about?

Wake up to better health with Wellness Wake Up Call! In just two minutes, University of Illinois Extension and WVIK, Quad Cities NPR, bring you bite-sized, science-based guidance to support lasting health and well-being. Each episode offers simple, practical tips and motivation to help you take...

How often does Wellness Wake Up Call release new episodes?

Wellness Wake Up Call has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Wellness Wake Up Call?

You can listen to Wellness Wake Up Call on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Wellness Wake Up Call?

Wellness Wake Up Call is created and hosted by Kristin Bogdonas.
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