More people are turning to AI for health advice, but how reliable is it? Dr. Sanjay Gupta sits down with Dr. Bob Wachter, author of "A Giant Leap," to unpack how AI is already helping patients and doctors, where it can go wrong, and how to use these tools safely without over relying on them. Dr. Gupta is a practicing neurosurgeon and member of the National Academy of Medicine’s AI Code of Conduct Steering Committee. He has previously provided limited consulting to OpenEvidence as a medical advis...
May 08, 2026•31 min
We all know drinking alcohol is bad for our health, but how much can it reduce our risk of cancer if we drink less or even cut it out entirely? This week, Dr. Sanjay Gupta digs into the correlation between consuming alcohol and risk of cancer as well as alternatives to alcohol if you’re feeling pressured to drink. Plus, we explain if silicone is a better alternative to replace plastic and what the differences between these two materials are. This episode was produced by Leying Tang Showrunner: A...
May 05, 2026•16 min
GLP-1s are no longer only for weight loss or diabetes. Dr. Sanjay Gupta invites CNN's Meg Tirrell back to Chasing Life to update on the drug’s benefits and risks. Plus, why they’ve personally considered -- and decided against – taking one. Our show was produced by Sofia Sanchez 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...
May 01, 2026•31 min
A listener named Victoria wants to know what comes next for her autistic teenage son. This week on Paging Dr. Gupta , we look at how the needs of autistic kids change as they grow up. Plus, common misconceptions about independence, college, and work for autistic teens and adults, with insight from autism researcher and Arizona State University professor Dr. Joshua Anbar. If you want to get a glimpse into the lives of Victoria and Mason, see this photo essay. This episode was produced by Jennifer...
Apr 28, 2026•17 min
In response to a listener's call about her autistic son, Dr. Sanjay Gupta invited leading autism researcher Dr. Matthew Lerner, Director of the Social Connections and Treatment Lab at the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, to break down how our understanding of autism has changed, what it means to be “on the spectrum” and why diagnoses are on the rise. The conversation continues next Tuesday on Paging Dr. Gupta , where Sanjay explores what growing up and transitioning into adulthood really looks like...
Apr 24, 2026•30 min
Can using cannabis help women manage health issues related to endometriosis and perimenopause? Should women use weed while pregnant or breast feeding? CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Dr Sanjay Gupta tackles some of your health questions regarding weed and women. Learn more about the effects of cannabis on women, by watching the latest installment of Dr. Gupta’s documentary series, Weed 8: Weed and Women , available stream now on the CNN app. This episode was produced by Andrea Kane and Leying Ta...
Apr 21, 2026•19 min
Most people might think hypnosis is just stage tricks. But the science tells a different story. Dr. Sanjay Gupta talks with Stanford’s Dr. David Spiegel about how clinical hypnosis may help with pain, anxiety, and bad habits. He also explains why elite athletes use it to improve focus and performance, and how you might be able to use it yourself. Producer: Kyra Dahring Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about y...
Apr 17, 2026•28 min
Four astronauts returned to Earth recently, after a historic 10-day lunar flyby mission in which they ventured farther into space than any human has before. They were part of Artemis II, NASA’s flight to test how well the agency’s Orion spacecraft, and the astronauts, operate in deep space — all in preparation for longer-term trips to the moon and beyond. CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Dr Sanjay Gupta answers some of your health-related questions about the mission, including: How do they sleep ...
Apr 14, 2026•16 min
Even though everyone poops, most of us don’t really want to be reminded of that fact: we downright avoid discussing bowel habits with anyone — even our own doctor. But what happens in our gut is inextricably linked to our overall health. Dr. Sanjay Gupta sits down with neurogastroenterologist and author of the new book “ You’ve Been Pooping All Wrong, ” Dr. Trisha Pasricha, to discuss the brain-gut axis, the microbiome and what really is normal . Producer and Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunn...
Apr 10, 2026•29 min
For decades, beta blockers were the go‑to prescription after a heart attack - meant to slow the heart rate and prevent future heart attacks. However, doctors are now reconsidering that long‑held approach. This week, Dr. Sanjay Gupta explains who may still need these drugs, who might not, and why tapering safely matters. Also, a listener question about the long‑term side effects of beta blockers. This episode was produced by Jennifer Lai and Nadia Kounang Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer:...
Apr 07, 2026•12 min
When the first iPhone was unveiled, it sparked a tech revolution. But who could have imagined how much it would reshape our lives? In this episode, Sanjay sits down with CNN’s Chief Climate Correspondent Bill Weir to talk about his new documentary 50 Years of Apple — exploring how our devices have woven themselves into our homes, our habits, and even our parenting. They dig into the rise of screen addiction, what constant device use may be doing to our brains, and where Apple (and our tech‑fille...
Apr 03, 2026•33 min
As more of us spend our days staring at screens, keeping our eyes healthy matters more than ever. This week, Dr. Sanjay Gupta digs into the small habits, smart food choices, and the right eye drops that can help protect your “super peepers” for the long run. Plus, we dig into why one listener feels weak even while staying active -- and why the difference between strength and muscle mass matters. This episode was produced by Leying Tang and Jennifer Lai. Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: ...
Mar 31, 2026•17 min
Cortisol gets blamed for everything from sleepless nights to stubborn belly fat, but the real story is far more complicated. Dr. Sanjay Gupta talks with Dr. Robert Sapolsky , a neuroscientist, biologist, and Stanford University professor, and author of Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers , about what this stress hormone actually does and why it matters. Sapolsky explains how chronic stress affects sleep, metabolism, mood, and long‑term health, and shares what we can learn from creatures who manage stres...
Mar 27, 2026•28 min
If you thought high cholesterol was something to worry about later in life, you’re not alone. But new advice has a lot of people wondering if they should be getting checked sooner. Dr. Sanjay Gupta breaks down the new guidelines, who should pay attention, and what it actually means for you. Want to check your risk? Try the American Heart Association’s PREVENT calculator. Producer: Kyra Dahring Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan...
Mar 24, 2026•15 min
“All About Allergies” is the new book by Dr. Zachary Rubin, a double-board certified allergist and immunologist who joins Dr. Sanjay Gupta to break down what distinguishes an allergy from an intolerance, what flags to watch out for before a reaction, and explain what to expect from a trip to the allergist’s office. Plus, Dr. Gupta shares a surprising story about a time he swelled up from eating a mango. Produced by Sofia H. Sanchez Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Prod...
Mar 20, 2026•32 min
Americans eat hundreds of eggs a year. But when it comes to cholesterol, how much of an impact do those eggs make We crack open the science on this week’s Paging Dr. Gupta. Plus, what really happens to your pelvic floor when you lift heavier weights? This episode was produced by Jennifer Lai Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...
Mar 17, 2026•16 min
Most of us assume major brain decline and memory loss are inevitable as we age, but research shows that’s not the case. So what does it take to keep your brain healthy and even help it grow? Dr. Sanjay Gupta talks to neurologist and neuroscientist Dr. Majid Fotuhi about his new book, “The Invincible Brain.” It lays out a 12-week, science-backed program for preventing and even reversing cognitive decline by tapping into the brain’s remarkable ability to adapt, rebuild and even improve at any age....
Mar 13, 2026•38 min
Whether it’s a cultural custom or hygiene preference, many households keep a strict no-shoes policy. But, how much healthier does it really keep us? Dr. Sanjay Gupta gets to the bottom of your shoes -- literally. Plus, tips on how to manage stress and anxiety when the news cycle is overwhelming. This episode was produced by Andrea Kane and Sofia H. Sanchez Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/...
Mar 10, 2026•16 min
We all know caregiving takes time, energy, and emotional bandwidth — but it may also change us for the better. Sanjay sits down with writer Elissa Strauss, author of When You Care: The Unexpected Magic of Caregiving , to explore how caregiving affects the brain, why it could be good for your health, and practical ways to care without losing yourself. Our show was produced by Jennifer Lai with assistance from Jesse Remedios. Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Da...
Mar 06, 2026•30 min
US health officials have recently reduced the childhood vaccine schedule, taking cues from Denmark's leaner approach. Dr. Sanjay Gupta travels to Copenhagen to understand why some Americans think Denmark's model is worth copying. Producer & Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...
Mar 03, 2026•16 min
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 Re...
Feb 27, 2026•27 min
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...
Feb 24, 2026•15 min
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 produ...
Feb 20, 2026•25 min
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 de...
Feb 17, 2026•15 min
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...
Feb 13, 2026•28 min
Is it possible to have too much of a good thing? Dr. Sanjay Gupta breaks down what research says about long-distance training and neurodegenerative diseases. Plus, he reports on which type of field is safer for young athletes to play on: turf or grass. This episode was produced by Jesse Remedios. Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...
Feb 10, 2026•15 min
We all know exercise is good for our health, but have you already quit your New Year’s fitness goal? Dr. Sanjay Gupta sits down with psychologist Dr. Diana Hill to break down why we don’t want to move and how to find our personal motivation to exercise throughout the year. This episode was produced by Leying Tang Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Executive Producer: Steve Lickteig Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...
Feb 06, 2026•29 min
CBD and THC are being used more than ever for arthritis and joint pain. But does microdosing cannabis really help with inflammation, and what should you know before trying it? We’ll dig into the science and also take a closer look at research suggesting lifestyle changes may help slow - or even improve - early Alzheimer’s. This episode was produced by Jennifer Lai Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Executive Producer: Ste...
Feb 03, 2026•18 min
We all know we should brush and floss our teeth. But the reason goes beyond a sparkling smile and keeping bad breath at bay. The mouth is a critical and often overlooked organ when it comes to improving overall health. Dr. Sanjay Gupta sits down with Dr. Kami Hoss, author of “If Your Mouth Could Talk,” to discuss the importance of oral health and the brushing routine he recommends for morning and night. For more on Dr. Hoss’ oral care recommendations, check out his e-book: https://supermouthcdn....
Jan 30, 2026•31 min
Strength training can be confusing enough on its own. But mix in what —and when— to eat, and you might just choose to sit on the couch instead. Dr. Sanjay Gupta serves up answers in this episode of Paging Dr. Gupta. Plus, getting to the root cause of hair loss in women can help narrow down treatment choice. Producer & Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Executive Producer: Steve Lickteig Learn more about your ad choice...
Jan 27, 2026•17 min
