Chasing Life
CNN Podcasts
All over the world, there are people who are living extraordinary lives, full of happiness and health – and with hardly any heart disease, cancer or diabetes. Dr. Sanjay Gupta has been on a decades-long mission to understand how they do it, and how we can all learn from them. Scientists now believe we can even reverse the symptoms of Alzheimer’s dementia, and in fact grow sharper and more resilient as we age. Sanjay is a dad – of three teenage daughters, he is a doctor - who operates on the brain, and he is a reporter with more than two decades of experience - who travels the earth to uncover and bring you the secrets of the happiest and healthiest people on the planet – so that you too, can Chase Life.
Episodes
Mentioned books
5 snips
Mar 4, 2025 • 13min
How Safe Are Your Food Storage Habits?
Is it safe to refrigerate hot food right away? Discover surprising facts that debunk common myths about food storage. Learn how improper practices can lead to foodborne illnesses and what steps you can take to keep your meals fresh. Dr. Sanjay Gupta delves into the hidden dangers of plastic containers, including chemical leaching, and shares safer alternatives like glass and stainless steel. Equip yourself with effective tips to enhance your food storage habits and protect your health!
15 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 19min
Measles is Back. How Worried Should We Be?
The resurgence of measles has caught attention, particularly in a low-vaccination community in West Texas. With measles being extremely contagious, the podcast delves into the outbreak's origins and health risks, especially for unvaccinated children. It also highlights the importance of community engagement and effective communication about vaccines to combat hesitancy. Personal stories from families illustrate the urgent need for vaccination to protect vulnerable individuals. The episode emphasizes herd immunity's role in public health.
8 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 15min
What People Should Know About Measles
Measles is making a surprising comeback, particularly in a rural Mennonite community with low vaccination rates. The importance of achieving a 95% vaccination rate to ensure herd immunity is emphasized. Historical context reveals the deadly impact of measles before vaccines. Listeners learn about symptoms, transmission, and the necessity of vaccinations, debunking myths along the way. The podcast dives into vaccine durability, detailing the crucial two-dose schedule and how to monitor immunity during outbreaks.
23 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 33min
Ultraprocessed Foods: How Bad Could They Be?
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.
13 snips
Feb 18, 2025 • 12min
A Breakthrough in Pain Management Without Opioids
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.
11 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 30min
Relax, Jealousy is Normal
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.
6 snips
Feb 11, 2025 • 14min
Fasting and Fighting Cruise Ship Viruses: What You Need to Know
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.
51 snips
Feb 7, 2025 • 29min
How to Hack Your Brain’s Reward System
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.
5 snips
Feb 4, 2025 • 11min
Want a Healthier Mocktail? Here’s How
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!
50 snips
Jan 31, 2025 • 39min
What If Healing Your Mind Starts in Your Body?
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.
