Chasing Life

In this engaging discussion, CNN medical correspondent Meg Tirrell shares insights from her recent NIH visit, revealing the challenges scientists face in understanding ultraprocessed foods. The conversation dives into the alarming health risks tied to these foods, including links to diseases and mental health issues. Tirrell and Dr. Sanjay Gupta explore the addictive nature of ultraprocessed foods and their economic impacts on consumer choices. They also address the complexities of changing food policies and the importance of mindful eating to combat overeating.

Exciting developments in pain management are on the horizon with the FDA's approval of a new opioid-free medication, Suzetrogene. This innovative drug blocks pain signals effectively, offering a fresh approach to relief after 25 years. Discussions also include Jernovex, which targets sodium channels for acute pain, though its chronic pain benefits are still being evaluated. Additionally, the episode tackles flu shot timing, reassuring listeners that getting vaccinated later in the season can still offer protection, especially for travelers.

Joli Hamilton, a research psychologist focusing on jealousy, joins Dr. Sanjay Gupta to explore this often-misunderstood emotion. They discuss how jealousy is a natural human experience, even present from a young age. The conversation reveals that jealousy can actually strengthen relationships when managed openly. Joli shares insights on navigating jealousy with strategies for healthier connections, especially amid pressures like Valentine's Day. The episode emphasizes the importance of communication and understanding in fostering intimacy and personal growth.

Discover the science behind intermittent fasting as Dr. Sanjay Gupta shares personal insights and key tips for implementation. With cruise season underway, learn essential strategies to dodge norovirus, including the importance of hand hygiene and sanitation. Delve into the characteristics of the virus and how to maintain health while enjoying your vacation. This engaging discussion combines dietary advice with practical health tips, ensuring you stay fit and safe during your travels.

Eric Tivers, an ADHD coach and host of ADHD Rewired, shares insights on motivation strategies that go beyond sheer willpower. He introduces the DopaMenu, a personalized toolkit of small, enjoyable activities designed to boost focus and well-being. Tivers discusses how different brains, particularly those with ADHD, engage with motivation and the crucial balance between short-term joys and long-term satisfaction. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection in crafting effective, personalized strategies for mental health.

Explore the rising trend of non-alcoholic beverages, especially among younger generations. Discover tips from an expert mixologist on crafting healthier mocktails with reduced sugar. Learn how to balance flavors and savor smaller portions for a satisfying drink experience. Dive into the popularity of flavorful mocktails that offer rich tastes without the alcohol. Plus, get inspired to spice up your social gatherings with delicious zero-proof options!

In an enlightening discussion, Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, a renowned psychiatrist and author of The Body Keeps the Score, shares his insights on trauma's profound effects on the body. He explores how trauma is stored physically, advocating for holistic healing approaches beyond pharmaceuticals. The conversation highlights innovative therapies like EMDR and the transformative potential of psychedelics in trauma recovery. Additionally, Dr. van der Kolk emphasizes the healing power of movement practices such as yoga and Tai Chi.

Dr. James Hamblin, a Yale lecturer and journalist, has sparked a conversation by quitting regular showers. He challenges societal norms around hygiene, revealing how excessive cleansing can disrupt skin health and microbial balance. The discussion delves into the shift from the hygiene hypothesis to the biodiversity hypothesis, emphasizing the importance of microbial exposure for a robust immune system. Hamblin encourages personal empowerment in creating hygiene routines and critiques the commercial influences on our cleanliness standards.

James Danckert, a cognitive neuroscientist at the University of Waterloo and co-author of "Out of My Skull: The Psychology of Boredom," dives into the surprising benefits of boredom. He explores how embracing this often-avoided state can ignite creativity and foster self-reflection. The conversation highlights the pitfalls of modern distractions and offers practical strategies for managing boredom through task-oriented activities. Danckert also discusses boredom's evolutionary role as a motivator for exploration and personal growth.

Ellen Hendrickson, a clinical psychologist at Boston University's Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders and author of "How to Be Enough," discusses letting go of perfectionism. She examines its impact on mental health and advocates for 'anti-resolutions' focused on self-acceptance. The conversation emphasizes nurturing authentic relationships and practicing vulnerability over pursuing unattainable ideals. Strategies like cognitive diffusion and self-compassion are explored, making a compelling case for redefining our relationship with perfection.