Science Vs

Celebs and wellness blogs treat water like a magic elixir that will make us the most attractive and healthiest version of ourselves. But do these claims hold water? And how much do we really need to be drinking to stay healthy? We speak to Professor Hollie Raynor, Professor Stavros Kavouras and Dr. Tamara Hew-Butler to find out.Find our transcript here: https://bit.ly/3AEtH0WThis episode was produced by Wendy Zukerman, with help from Nick DelRose, Michelle Dang, Meryl Horn, Courtney Gilbert, Rose Rimler and Disha Bhagat. We’re edited by Blythe Terrell with help from Caitlin Kenney. Fact checking by Diane Kelly. Mix and sound design by Sam Bair. Music written by Bumi Hidaka, Emma Munger, Bobby Lord, So Wylie and Peter Leonard. Thanks to the researchers we got in touch with for this episode, including Dr. Andrew Brown, Dr. Jason Lee Kai, Dr. Jodi Stookey, Dr. Vincent Ho, Dr. Tristan Struja, Dr. Stephen Goodman, Dr. Ekua Annobil, Professor Barbara Rolls and Dr. Krista Casazza. Special thanks to Rasha Aridi, Eric Mennel, The Zukerman Family and Joseph Lavelle Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There’s tons of misinformation, fads and strong opinions floating around out there — but then there’s SCIENCE. Season 13 starts on September 8! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a candid discussion, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the Chief Medical Advisor to the U.S. President and a leading infectious disease expert, delves into the slow response to the monkeypox outbreak. He highlights the logistical complexities of vaccine distribution and the stigma faced by affected communities, drawing parallels to early HIV struggles. Fauci emphasizes the urgency of preventing the virus from becoming endemic and the critical need for equitable access to vaccines and treatments. His insights shed light on improving future public health responses.

Professor Chloe Orkin, an infectious disease doctor specializing in HIV care at Queen Mary University of London, dives deep into the monkeypox outbreak. She discusses its painful symptoms and complicated transmission patterns, especially among men who have sex with men. The conversation also addresses the stigma surrounding monkeypox, the implications for pregnant individuals, and the urgency of vaccination. With insights into the virus's mutations, the need for safe practices, and community impact, the episode sheds light on how to navigate this public health concern.

The discussion kicks off with the Supreme Court's decision on Roe v. Wade and its far-reaching impact on abortion laws. Insights into fetal development dispel common myths, particularly around pain perception. Listeners are guided through the scientific truths about early pregnancy and the intricacies of first and third-trimester abortions. Personal stories from women seeking abortions highlight diverse motivations, emphasizing the emotional challenges they face. The episode connects scientific facts to the political landscape, unraveling the complex narratives surrounding abortion.

In this episode, marine biologist Olga Shpak shares her harrowing experiences researching bowhead whales in the Okhotsk Sea, revealing the intertwined challenges of wildlife conservation and the war in Ukraine. Malacologist Jaynee Kim discusses the alarming health risks posed by the rat lungworm parasite, linked to invasive slugs—an issue affecting both animals and humans. From brutal natural conflicts to the eerie, psychological effects of nightmares, this conversation explores the haunting realities of life in chaos.

Can the mind truly heal the body? This episode dives into the fascinating placebo effect, highlighting a woman's remarkable improvement from irritable bowel syndrome thanks to sugar pills. Experts discuss how patient expectations can drive genuine health benefits, sometimes rivaling real medications. Historical insights reveal the evolution of this phenomenon, while new research explores the biochemical changes in the brain linked to belief. Journeying into the Alps, the interplay between environment and health outcomes is also examined, raising intriguing questions about our medical practices.

Rosamund Adu-Kissi-Debrah, a fierce clean air advocate and mother of Ella Kissi-Debrah, shares her heart-wrenching journey to uncover the mystery behind her daughter's death. She battles against systemic issues of air pollution and highlights its devastating effects on vulnerable communities. Listeners learn about Ella's rare condition and the shocking truths revealed during Rosamund's investigation. This powerful story not only personalizes the impacts of pollution but also ignites a call for urgent reforms to protect public health.

ASMR is taking the internet by storm, bringing unique sensations of relaxation and tingles to millions. Experts dive into the science behind these whispered sounds and their calming effects, especially during stressful times. The discussion includes fascinating personal journeys from viewers to creators and how ASMR is reshaping wellness strategies. Groundbreaking research explores the emotional and physiological responses triggered by soft sounds, along with the intriguing differences in individual experiences. Join in as humor and discovery collide in the world of ASMR!

What drives a person to become a serial killer? Experts discuss the chilling duality of Ed Kemper, exploring his deceptive charm hidden behind brutal crimes. The conversation dives into the realities versus media portrayals of serial killers, debunking myths about their intelligence and motivations. Childhood trauma is examined as a key factor in their psyche. The podcast also critiques Hollywood's glamorization of these figures and emphasizes the need for a more nuanced understanding of violence and its complex roots.