Living Better

Even a short walk around the block after dinner aids digestion, helps regulate blood sugar and promotes a better night's sleep. Annie Otzen/Getty Images hide caption

Research shows after a break from weight lifting, your strength may return quickly thanks to phenomenon called muscle memory. EyeEm Mobile GmbH/iStockphoto/Getty Images hide caption

Dark nights and light days predict mortality, a new study finds. Mar Lei/Getty Images hide caption

Mycoplasma pneumonia causes upper respiratory symptoms, including a lingering cough. It can also cause red eyes or rashes. Catherine McQueen/Getty Images hide caption

Crocs are comfy, water-resistant shoes that are popular with kids, but some podiatrists say they should be alternated with sturdier footwear. sandsun/Getty Images hide caption

Mosquitoes kill more people than any other creature in the world. So the key is — try not to get bitten. Cavan Images/Getty hide caption

Magnesium is important for many processes in the body, including regulating muscle and nerve function, blood sugar levels and making protein and bone. Mizina/Getty Images hide caption

Researchers say multiple factors are likely impacting early puberty, including obesity, stress and endocrine-disrupting hormones which are widespread in the environment. SDI Productions/Getty Images/E+ hide caption

Tai chi has many health benefits. It improves flexibility, reduces stress and can help lower blood pressure. Ruth Jenkinson/Getty Images/Science Photo Library hide caption

Mark Guttridge, farmer and co-owner at Ollin Farms, feeds the chickens. The farm benefits from a county program that helps small growers get their produce to more people. Rachel Woolf for NPR hide caption

Iain Campbell, a researcher in Scotland, has lived with bipolar disorder since he was young. After trying the ketogenic diet, he discovered profound improvements in his symptoms — and now wants to learn if it can do the same for others. He shared his recent findings at the Metabolic Health Summit in Clearwater, Fla., on Jan. 25. Tina Russell for NPR hide caption

A student named Royce closes his eyes during a mindfulness session in class at Patricia J. Sullivan Partnership School in Tampa, Fla. Students say the daily lessons help them cope with their feelings. Octavio Jones for NPR hide caption

Maribel Martinez shops the produce section at King Sooper's in Boulder, Colo., the day after picking up her Fruit & Veg coupons. Selena Simmons-Duffin/NPR hide caption