Chasing Life

The Miracle and Mystery of Consciousness

Can modern science explain, or even define, the mystery of human consciousness? Dr. Sanjay Gupta sits down with writer Michael Pollan to talk about his new book, A World Appears: A Journey Into Consciousness, and explore the unmapped territory of our inner lives. They discuss where (and if) consciousness lives in the brain, whether plants and artificial intelligence can be conscious, and why we must protect our inner lives in an increasingly technological world.  Our show was produced by Jesse Remedios with assistance from Jennifer Lai. Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices [https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices]

Are Showerhead Filters and LED Face Masks Worth It?

Showerhead filters and LED face masks come with a lot of beauty claims...but do they deliver? Dr. Sanjay Gupta tackles two popular hair and skin trends, with insight from dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick, breaking down what the science says and whether they’re worth trying at home.  Producer: Kyra Dahring   Medical Writer: Andrea Kane   Showrunner: Amanda Sealy   Senior Producer: Dan Bloom   Technical Director: Dan Dzula  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices [https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices]

How Hibernation Could Redefine Space Travel and Medicine

Animals can hibernate, slowing down most metabolic functions — heart rate, blood flow, brain activity, and body temperature — then waking as if nothing happened. Humans have never done this, but what if they could? Could hibernation extend life or even save it?  Dr. Sanjay Gupta explores global research into the molecular mechanics of hibernation and how these abilities might one day help fight cancer, prevent heart disease, treat depression, and even enable travel to Mars. This episode was produced by Amanda Sealy Medical writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy  Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices [https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices]

Think You’re Too Young for Colorectal Cancer? Think Again.

Colorectal cancer is rising quickly among young adults – in fact, it’s the leading cause of cancer deaths for adults under 50 in the United States. And after actor James Van Der Beek’s diagnosis and death at 48, many are wondering how to tell when everyday symptoms might actually be something more serious. On this week's Paging Dr. Gupta, we break down the red flags and tell you what to know about screening. Plus, vibration plates are popping up in gyms and living rooms — but do they actually deliver the benefits they promise?  More on what’s behind the rise of colon cancer in young people [https://www.cnn.com/audio/podcasts/chasing-life/episodes/b92e6ff6-37bb-11ef-8219-cb5733d70d41] with Dr. Kimmie Ng. This episode was produced by Andrea Kane, Jennifer Lai and Kyra Dahring.  Showrunner: Amanda Sealy  Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices [https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices]

The Science Behind a Broken Heart

Love can be one of life’s greatest joys and heartbreak one of its deepest pains. Sanjay talks with psychiatrist and neuroscientist Yoram Yovell about how heartbreak affects the body, why emotional pain can feel physical, and what actually helps people heal. Producer: Kyra Dahring  Medical Writer: Andrea Kane  Showrunner: Amanda Sealy  Senior Producer: Dan Bloom  Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices [https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices]