Wellness Wake Up Call

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.

  1. 131

    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. 

  2. 130

    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. 

  3. 129

    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. 

  4. 128

    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. 

  5. 127

    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. 

  6. 126

    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. 

  7. 125

    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.  

  8. 124

    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. 

  9. 123

    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. 

  10. 122

    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. 

  11. 121

    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. 

  12. 120

    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. 

  13. 119

    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.

  14. 118

    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! 

  15. 117

    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. 

  16. 116

    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. 

  17. 115

    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. 

  18. 114

    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.

  19. 113

    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.

  20. 112

    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. 

  21. 111

    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. 

  22. 110

    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.

  23. 109

    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.

  24. 108

    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.

  25. 107

    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. 

  26. 106

    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.

  27. 105

    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. 

  28. 104

    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. 

  29. 103

    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.

  30. 102

    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. 

  31. 101

    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.

  32. 100

    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.

  33. 99

    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. 

  34. 98

    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. 

  35. 97

    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.

  36. 96

    Healthy Aging Month: Nutrients of need as we age

    As we age, our bodies absorb and process nutrients differently, and certain vitamin and mineral needs may increase. Listen in for four nutrients to pay special attention to. 

  37. 95

    Fueling student-athletes for success

    As students prepare for a busy and active athletic season, it is more important than ever that they focus on good nutrition. A balanced diet supports physical performance, recovery, academic achievement, and overall health- all key components for healthy student-athletes.

  38. 94

    Back-to-school weeknight fuel

    If your evenings are filled with homework, sports, activities, and deadlines, mealtime shouldn’t add to the chaos. A little weekend prep goes a long way to keeping dinners stress-free and nutritious.

  39. 93

    Physical activity and academic performance

    Have you heard that encouraging more physical activity can support better academic performance among students? It’s true! Allocating time during the school day for recess, physical education, or even short movement breaks integrated into lessons can significantly boost students’ academic performance, concentration, behavior, and overall well-being. 

  40. 92

    Give your kids a smart start this school year with better nutrition

    As a new school year begins, help the children in your life succeed by fueling them with nutritious, brain-boosting foods. 

  41. 91

    Summer skin care and nutrition for healthy, glowing skin

    Summer sunshine can do wonders for your mood—but your skin needs a little extra care during the warmer months. Between sun exposure, sweat, and outdoor activities, your skin works hard all summer long. Keep your skin healthy with the following skincare habits. 

  42. 90

    Stay safe this summer: Tips for Midwesterners

    Summer in the Midwest brings sunshine, green landscapes, and plenty of outdoor fun—but it also comes with a few health and safety risks to keep in mind. Whether you're spending time on the water, at the park, or in your backyard, here are some essential tips to enjoy the season safely.

  43. 89

    Summer food safety tips

    Summer is in full swing with barbeques and picnics galore! Make sure you keep your food safe with these four tips in the hot weather.

  44. 88

    Stay Alert: July is the peak month for grill fires

    This month, we’re sharing important summer safety tips, starting with grilling safety. Did you know, on average, over 22,000 people visit the emergency room yearly due to grill-related injuries? Additionally, gas grills are responsible for an average of over 9,000 home fires annually. Listen in for tips to keep your cookouts safe all summer long. 

  45. 87

    The power of pigments: How colorful foods benefit health

    Pigmented phytochemicals—natural compounds responsible for the vibrant colors in fruits and vegetables—offer significant health benefits. Learn more about them and how they can support your overall well-being.

  46. 86

    Fresh, Frozen, Canned- Fuel Your Plate, Your Way

    Fresh, frozen, and canned fruits and vegetables can all fit into a healthy diet and provide the nutrients your body needs. This week, incorporate these 3 shopping tips so you can enjoy fresh and affordable meals.

  47. 85

    Celebrating seasonal produce

    This week, check out what’s in season by visiting your local farmer’s market. Try a new variety or a new way of preparing an old favorite! 

  48. 84

    5 tips to increase your fruit and vegetable intake

    June is Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month. The USDA recommends adults consume 2 cups of fruit per day and 2 ½ cups of vegetables per day. Remember the 5 S's when reaching your fruit and vegetable goals! 

  49. 83

    Why we all need more fruits and vegetables

    Did you know most Americans aren’t getting the recommended levels of fruits and vegetables each day? Eating more fruits and vegetables is good for so many reasons. Here are 5 benefits you don’t want to miss out on!

  50. 82

    Dining out with food allergies: Tips to staying safe

    Food allergies are not only life-threatening, they are also life-altering. Eating away from home presents additional challenges and can cause anxiety. However, with some planning and effective communication, one can enjoy dining out while minimizing risks. 

Type above to search every episode's transcript for a word or phrase. Matches are scoped to this podcast.

Searching…

No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.

Showing of matches

No topics indexed yet for this podcast.

Loading reviews...

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

URL copied to clipboard!