Afleveringen
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A leading gastroenterologist reveals that many doctors are never taught about food, nutrition, and the diseases that can been prevented with diet education.
Dr. Alan Desmond joins Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room Podcast to discuss his new book, What Your Doctor Isn't Telling You About Food, and the conversations he believes every doctor should be having with patients.
Why do so many doctors avoid talking about nutrition? Are carbs really bad for you? Should healthy people worry about glucose spikes? Do GLP-1 medications fix the root problem? And what does the gut microbiome have to do with heart disease, diabetes, obesity, inflammation, and long-term health?
π§ You will learn:
The food conversations doctors and patients should be having Why nutrition training is still limited in medical school How food became a major driver of chronic disease The truth about carbs and blood sugar spikes What GLP-1 medications can and cannot do Why "30 plants a week" is helpful but not magic The role of fiber, legumes, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables How diet can work alongside modern medicine Why gut health remains central to overall healthDr. Desmond also discusses the science behind plant-based nutrition, the power of simple dietary changes, and why building a healthier food environment may be one of the most important steps anyone can take.
Exam Roomies of the Week
Eric Knepper Christina CliffordMake a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee.
π Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom
π What Your Doctor Isn't Telling You About Food
π https://amzn.to/4vSO460
π©Ί Dr. Alan Desmond
π https://www.alandesmond.com
π ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15
π https://www.pcrm.org/icnm
This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world.
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The president of the American Medical Association became the patient after being diagnosed with a large brain tumor.
Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, immediate past president of the AMA, joins Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room Podcast for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about how his diagnosis changed the way he sees health care, medicine, prevention, access, and the patient experience.
Dr. Mukkamala opens up about being diagnosed with a grade 2 astrocytoma, the shock of seeing an eight-centimeter brain tumor on his scan, and what it felt like to suddenly experience the health care system from the other side of the exam room. He also reflects on the extraordinary care he received at Mayo Clinic and the difficult reality that most people do not have access to that same level of care.
The conversation also explores the crushing cost of medication, including a new treatment that can cost nearly $900 per day, and why medical bills remain such a devastating burden for so many families.
Chuck and Dr. Mukkamala also discuss lifestyle medicine, plant-based nutrition, the future of health care, dietary guidelines, health equity, and why progress can still be powerful even when perfection is not realistic.
This interview was recorded at the Lotus Health Foundation Symposium in Rochester, Minnesota, just days before Chuck's major surgery at Mayo Clinic. At the time of the conversation, Dr. Mukkamala was still serving as president of the American Medical Association.
Topics discussed include:
What happens when a doctor becomes the patient Brain tumor diagnosis and recovery The emotional impact of serious illness Health care access and inequality The high cost of prescription medication Mayo Clinic and world-class care Lifestyle medicine and disease prevention Plant-based nutrition and health The role of doctors in improving public health Why progress over perfection mattersExam Roomies of the Week
Carol Kimsey MJ Donahue Tomi Gail LemmenMake a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee: PCRM.org/SupportExamRoom
π Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom
π ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15
π https://www.pcrm.org/icnm
π± Lotus Health Foundation
π https://lotushealthfoundation.org
This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Billy Bob Thornton stopped eating dairy after discovering it was causing health problems. But is that a healthy decision?
Dr. Neal Barnard joins Chuck Carroll to separate fact from fiction.
Could milk and cheese be behind symptoms such as bloating, stomach pain, fatigue, skin issues, congestion, brain fog, or feeling sick after eating?
Dr. Barnard explains the difference between a true dairy allergy, lactose intolerance, and dairy sensitivity. He also discusses what PCRM research shows about dairy, saturated fat, cancer risk, heart health, and the health benefits of choosing dairy alternatives.
Then we look at Thornton's wheat sensitivity. What is a true wheat allergy? How is it different from celiac disease or gluten sensitivity? And when should someone get tested before removing gluten from their diet?
Plus, Billy Bob Thornton also said he eats for his AB-negative blood type. Dr. Barnard explains what the research actually says about blood-type diets, and whether blood type should determine what you eat.
π§ In this episode:
Billy Bob Thornton's dairy-free and wheat-free diet Dairy allergy vs. lactose intolerance Common symptoms of dairy intolerance How quickly symptoms may improve after removing dairy PCRM research on dairy and health risks Best plant-based dairy alternatives Wheat allergy vs. celiac disease vs. gluten sensitivity Gluten-free diets and when they are necessary AB-negative blood type statistics The truth about blood-type diets Dr. Barnard's research on plant-based diets and blood typeExam Roomies of the Week
Andreas Ebert Kris Grabowski Laurie Roweπ Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoomThis episode is sponsored by The Gregory J. Reiter Memorial Fund, which supports organizations like the Physicians Committee that carry on Greg's passion and love for animals through rescue efforts, veganism, and wildlife conservation.
π± Gregory J. Reiter Memorial Fund
π https://gregoryreiterfund.orgπ ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15
π https://www.pcrm.org/icnmThis episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. -
What if your doctor had time to actually listen to you?
Anthony Masiello, Founder and CEO of Lifestyle Telemedicine, joins Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room Podcast for a powerful conversation about what health care can look like when the focus shifts from simply managing symptoms to addressing the root causes of chronic disease.
Anthony shares his own incredible story of being denied a 20-year life insurance policy because of his health β only to outlive that policy and become healthier than he was two decades ago.
Now he is helping others take control of their health through lifestyle medicine, telemedicine, whole food plant-based nutrition, better sleep, stress management, movement, and real physician support.
π§ In this episode:
Why your current health is not your destiny How Anthony lost 160 pounds and reclaimed his health Why comparison can derail progress How to build habits that actually last Why cheat days can create mental chaos How family pressure can make healthy eating harder What a Lifestyle Telemedicine appointment is really like The role of sleep, stress, movement, and purpose in healing Why America may need a Super Bowl commercial for lifestyle medicine How to move beyond "there's a pill for everything" thinkingThis is a hopeful conversation for anyone who has felt dismissed, stuck, overmedicated, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin.
Exam Roomies of the Week
Michelle Oberg Lori Vitello Cheow Meng Tee, MDπ Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoomπ± Lifestyle Telemedicine
π https://lifestyletelemedicine.comπ ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15
π https://www.pcrm.org/icnmThis episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. -
Fast food doesn't have to be junk food. Carleigh Bodrug from PlantYou is here to prove that!
The recipe genius, two-time New York Times bestselling author, and social media powerhouse joins Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room Podcast to share the fastest ways to make healthy plant-based meals when life is busy, groceries are expensive, and takeout is calling your name.
Carleigh's new cookbook, PlantYou Quickies, features more than 140 fast plant-based recipes for busy people, including five-minute prep ideas, Dump & Bake dinners, and S.O.S. Suppers β Save Our Sanity meals for the nights when you almost order delivery.
π§ In this conversation, Carleigh and Chuck talk about:
Quick healthy meals when you have no time Easy plant-based dinner shortcuts Frozen vegetables and pantry staples that save money High-fiber meals and plant diversity Plant Points for gut health Raising a plant-based family Healthy meals for busy parents How to make comfort foods healthier Why takeout tastes better when it is a choice, not desperationCarleigh also shares details about PlantYou Quickies, her favorite recipe shortcuts, and a special pre-order bonus for Exam Roomies.
She is offering a six-month membership to her weekly plant-based meal plans and shopping lists for anyone who preorders PlantYou Quickies, so you can get cooking right away. Email a screenshot or photo of your receipt to support at plantyou.com, and mention you heard about it on The Exam Room Podcast.
Exam Roomies of the Week
Annie Frassinello Earsley, RD Deborah J. Colbert Todd Ormsbyπ Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoomπ PlantYou Quickies Book Pre-Orders
π https://amzn.to/4eTFWvTπ± Carleigh Bodrug Website
π https://plantyou.comπͺ NHA Conference in Cleveland
π https://bit.ly/NHAConf2026π ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15
π https://www.pcrm.org/icnmThis episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. -
The biggest and healthiest changes in your community can begin with one person. Lyn Grady is a Food For Life instructor with the Physicians Committee who is helping people understand food as medicine, one class at a time. In this episode of The Exam Room Podcast, Lyn joins Chuck Carroll to talk about why so many people are confused by food labels, why "healthy" marketing can be so misleading, and how Food For Life classes help people build confidence in the kitchen. She shares stories from her classes, including the moment someone worried about the sugar in fruit after eating coffee cake, and an athlete who thought he was drinking a healthy aloe juice until Lyn showed him the label said zero percent juice. This conversation is about more than food. It is about community, education, generational health, and becoming the person who helps others take their first step toward a healthier life. Applications are now open for the Fall 2026 Food For Life instructor training. π§ In this episode: Why Food For Life is not a diet How "healthy" labels can mislead shoppers Why fruit is not the same as cake How cooking classes build community Why Food For Life instructors can create generational health What the instructor training is like How to apply to become an instructor
Exam Roomies of the Week
Gary Hunt Susan Johnson Mark Reis-Henrie This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. π½οΈ Food For Life Instructor Applications π https://bit.ly/food-for-life-instructor π Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom π± Lyn Grady π https://www.lyngrady.com π ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 π https://www.pcrm.org/icnm - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. -
Swapping animal protein for plant protein may help women lose weight after menopause.
Dr. Neal Barnard joins Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room Podcast to discuss a new study he co-authored that finds replacing animal protein with plant protein may be a powerful strategy for weight loss in postmenopausal women.
The study found that total protein intake did not need to change. Instead, the source of protein appeared to matter most. As women reduced animal protein and increased plant protein from foods such as soybeans, beans, and grains, they experienced significant weight loss.
Dr. Barnard explains why not all protein is created equal, how plant protein may affect metabolism differently than animal protein, and why this could be especially important for women after menopause.
π§ In this episode:
Why protein source matters for weight loss The connection between menopause, metabolism, and body weight Plant protein vs. animal protein Soy, beans, grains, and healthy weight Whether calories tell the whole story Methionine and metabolism Hot flashes, soy, and menopause symptoms Practical food swaps anyone can makeExam Roomies of the Week
Pauline White Alix Weisz Brenda HoyThis episode is sponsored by The Gregory J. Reiter Memorial Fund, which supports organizations like the Physicians Committee that carry on Greg's passion and love for animals through rescue efforts, veganism, and wildlife conservation.
This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
π Menopause Study
π https://bit.ly/postmenopausal-weight-lossπ Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoomπ± Gregory J. Reiter Memorial Fund
π https://gregoryreiterfund.org- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. -
Could eating late at night be hurting your gut health? Are prebiotic and probiotic sodas actually good for your microbiome? And what do GLP-1 weight loss drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy mean for digestion, constipation, and gut bacteria?
Dr. Will Bulsiewicz joins Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room Podcast to answer the most Googled gut health questions from listeners.
π§ On this episode:
- Why late-night eating and chronic stress may be a double hit to your gut
- How your microbiome follows a circadian rhythm
- Whether "healthy" sodas are really worth the hype
- The best fermented foods for gut health
- Why cabbage is having a nutrition moment
- What constipation may reveal about Parkinson's disease risk
- Whether microbiome stool tests can really tell you what to eat
- What we know so far about GLP-1 medications and the microbiome
- How to support gut health while losing weightDr. B also shares his thoughts on cravings, nighttime routines, tart cherry juice, fiber supplements, and why diet and lifestyle still come first.
Exam Roomies of the Week
Linda Verchimak Luanne Siwiec Marlene Ervenπ Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoomπ¨ββοΈ Dr. Will Bulsiewicz
π https://theguthealthmd.comπΊ Dr. B's YouTube Channel
π https://www.youtube.com/@theguthealthmdπ Dr. B's Books
π https://amzn.to/4e1CiQdπ International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine
π https://www.pcrm.org/icnmThis episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about cancer screening, treatment, and any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. -
You can build strong bones and muscles as you age without eating meat or dairy foods.
Registered dietitian Brenda Davis joins Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room Podcast to explain how a well-planned plant-based diet can support strength, bone health, and independence after 50.
Can plant protein really support muscle? What nutrients matter most for preventing osteoporosis and sarcopenia? And how much protein do older adults actually need?
π§ In this episode, you'll learn:
How much protein older adults may need Whether plant protein can support muscle as well as animal protein The best plant-based protein sources for aging muscles Why some vegans may have higher fracture risk How to get enough calcium without dairy Why spinach is healthy but not the best calcium source The role of vitamin D, B12, omega-3s, and other nutrients How resistance training and weight-bearing exercise help protect bones Why a high-quality plant-based diet matters more than just "going vegan" Brenda's practical, nonjudgmental approach to healthy eatingBrenda also discusses her upcoming book, Plant-Powered Seniors, and shares simple food swaps that can help increase protein from 40 grams a day to 70 grams a day without overhauling your entire diet.
This is a must-watch conversation for anyone over 50, anyone caring for aging parents, anyone worried about osteoporosis, and anyone wondering whether a plant-based diet can truly support strength and longevity.
This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about cancer screening, treatment, and any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
π Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoomπ Brenda's Plant-Powered Seniors Book
π https://amzn.to/49G33Hqπ Brenda's Plant-Powered Protein Book
π https://amzn.to/4ukIbgrπͺ Brenda's Website
π hhttps://brendadavisrd.com- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. -
Dr. Hana Kahleova reveals the surprising science behind mint. From digestion and blood flow to coughing, inflammation, exercise performance, and antioxidants, mint may be doing far more for your health than you realize.
In this episode, you'll learn how compounds in mint may support the body in multiple ways. Dr. Kahleova joins Chuck Carroll to explain how mint has been used for centuries, what modern research shows, and why simple options like mint tea, fresh mint leaves, and topical menthol can offer unique and powerful benefits.
π§ You'll learn:
Why Dr. Kahleova ranks mint as a "12 out of 10" healthy food How menthol may increase local blood flow Why mint may help calm coughing and support the airways How peppermint oil may help digestion, bloating, spasms, and IBS symptoms Whether mint may improve exercise performance and breathing Why mint is surprisingly rich in antioxidants The best ways to use mint: fresh, tea, inhaled, or topicalExam Roomies of the Week
Arin Weitzman Ana Jagπ Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoomπ©Ί Dr. Brooke Bussard
π https://drbrookebussard.comπ International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine
π https://www.pcrm.org/icnmThis episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about cancer screening, treatment, and any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving and improving human and animal lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of nearly one million members and supporters worldwide. -
Chris Wark was just 26 years old when he was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer.
What happened next changed his life forever.
In this deeply personal conversation, Chris joins Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room Podcast to share the story behind Chris Beat Cancer, the decisions he made after surgery, and why he believes food, faith, mindset, purpose, and self-advocacy all became part of his healing journey.
You'll hear the emotional story of how Chris went from fear and uncertainty to feeling empowered again and why he says healing happens at home.
π§ In this episode, you'll learn:
What Chris wishes every cancer patient would ask their oncologist Why he believes nutrition became a turning point in his journey The hospital meal that shocked him after colon surgery How he built his "overdosing on nutrition" approach Why purpose and family became central to his will to live What "healing happens at home" means to him How a whole food plant-based diet fits into the cancer conversationColorectal cancer is rising among younger adults, making conversations like this more important than ever. The American Cancer Society reports that colorectal cancer rates have been increasing in adults under 50 in recent years, while rates have declined among many older adults.
Exam Roomies of the Week
Harriet Leveen Robert Callahanπ Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoomπ Chris Beat Cancer Book
π https://amzn.to/4nbVsFYπͺ Chris Beat Cancer Website
π https://www.chrisbeatcancer.comπ Las Vegas Plant Powered Party
π https://bit.ly/ChefAJPartyThis episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about cancer screening, treatment, and any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. -
Binge eating and emotional eating are not simply about willpower. According to Dr. Vanita Rahman, they are often driven by stress, shame, biology, habits, food environment, and the way the brain learns to use food as a coping mechanism.
In this episode of The Exam Room Podcast, Dr. Rahman joins Chuck Carroll to explain what is really happening when someone feels out of control around food β and how to begin breaking the cycle.
Chuck also shares his own experience with food addiction, emotional eating, and eating in secret before losing 280 pounds and transforming his health.
π§ You'll learn:
- The difference between binge eating, bulimia, emotional eating, and stress eating
- Why shame keeps the binge eating cycle alive
- Why nighttime can be the biggest danger zone
- Why binge eating can happen even with healthy vegan foods
- Why "willpower" may be the wrong word entirely
- How a whole food, plant-based diet may help reduce cravings and support recovery
- Why group support can be so powerful for long-term success
- What to do after a binge to avoid falling into a spiralDr. Rahman is leading a 12-week Binge and Emotional Eating Program through the Physicians Committee beginning June 10. The program focuses on mindfulness, identifying triggers, nourishing foods, reducing vulnerability, and building tools for long-term success.
Also mentioned in this episode: The Rochester Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota is hiring a Lifestyle Medicine physician or provider. Learn more at https://www.RochesterClinic.com or call 507-218-3095.
Exam Roomies of the Week
- Sharon Smith
- Mary DeCosterπͺ Binge & Emotional Eating Program
π https://bit.ly/overcoming-binge-eatingπ Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoomπ₯ Barnard Medical Center
π https://www.pcrm.org/barnard-medical-centerπ International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine
π https://www.pcrm.org/icnmThis episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about cancer screening, treatment, and any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving and improving human and animal lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of nearly one million members and supporters worldwide. -
Could lupus and SjΓΆgren's symptoms improve in just weeks with the right diet and lifestyle changes?
Dr. Brooke Goldner joins Chuck Carroll to share the remarkable stories of patients with autoimmune disease who experienced dramatic recoveries after following her Goodbye Autoimmune Disease protocol.
This conversation is especially personal for me. There are people close to me who have struggled for decades with many of the same issues Dr. Goldner and I discuss in this interview. I shared this episode with one of them before releasing it publicly, and they were blown away by what she had to say.
Dr. Goldner discusses her 2024 case series involving three women with both lupus and SjΓΆgren's syndrome who reported symptom remission within weeks after following a raw, whole-food, plant-based nutrition protocol. She also shares her own story of being diagnosed with aggressive lupus as a teenager, facing kidney failure and mini strokes, and later living symptom-free for more than 20 years.
π§ In this episode, you'll learn:
What "hypernourishment" means Why raw cruciferous vegetables may be central to Dr. Goldner's protocol How omega-3s and hydration may support healing Why stress and trauma may worsen autoimmune disease How lupus, SjΓΆgren's, Hashimoto's, RA, Crohn's, and other autoimmune conditions may overlap Why Dr. Goldner believes inflammation can sometimes be addressed and reversed What patients should know before making major diet or medication changesExam Roomies of the Week
Elvira Northey from Macomb, MI DeeDee O'Connor from Bellingham, WAπ Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoomπ©π»ββοΈ Dr. Brooke Goldner Website and Courses
π https://goodbyelupus.comπ Dr. Brooke Goldner Books
π https://amzn.to/4uGteGxπ Las Vegas Plant Powered Party
π https://bit.ly/ChefAJPartyThis episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about cancer screening, treatment, and any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving and improving human and animal lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of nearly one million members and supporters worldwide. -
Are ultra-processed foods really as unhealthy as we've been told? New research suggests the answer may be more complicated than the headlines make it seem.
Dr. Neal Barnard joins Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room Podcast to break down findings showing that much of the health risk linked to ultra-processed foods may be driven by two specific categories: processed meat and sugar-sweetened beverages.
That means foods like bacon, sausage, ham, bologna, pepperoni, hot dogs, and soda may be doing much of the heavy lifting when it comes to increased disease risk.
But what about breakfast cereal? Plant-based burgers? Vegan snacks? Olive oil? Cheese? Steak? And what about studies linking ultra-processed foods to cognitive decline and dementia risk?
Dr. Barnard helps separate nutrition fact from fiction and explains what really matters when you're reading a food label.
π§ In this episode, Dr. Barnard explains:
The two foods most strongly linked to processed food health risks Why processed meat may be more concerning than other ultra-processed foods Whether plant-based processed foods are healthier Why sugar in soda is different from sugar in foods with fiber How cheese can be higher in sodium than potato chips Why steak and chicken don't get a free pass What new research says about ultra-processed foods and cognition How to choose healthier foods without overcomplicating nutritionExam Roomies of the Week
Dana Kennett from Saint Johns, FL Lori Baum from Sandusky, OHπ Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoomπ Gregory J. Reiter Memorial Fund
π https://gregoryreiterfund.orgπ International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine
π https://www.pcrm.org/icnmπ Dr. Neal Barnard Books
π https://amzn.to/4u6zQxmThis episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about cancer screening, treatment, and any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving and improving human and animal lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of nearly one million members and supporters worldwide. -
Is 2,000 calories a day too much?
Dr. Joel Fuhrman joins The Exam Room to challenge one of the most familiar numbers in nutrition and explain why the "standard" 2,000-calorie diet may not be right for everyone β and for many people, it may be more food than the body actually needs.
According to Dr. Fuhrman, consistently eating more calories than your body requires may do more than cause weight gain. It may speed up metabolism in ways that contribute to faster aging. The key, he says, is finding your personal caloric window: enough food to meet your needs, but not so much that you are constantly overeating.
π§ In this episode, Dr. Fuhrman explains:
Why 2,000 calories a day may be too much for many adults How overeating calories may affect aging What your personal "caloric window" means Your body's response to the "caloric rush" Why the Nutritarian diet is different from a vague "plant-based" diet How G-BOMBS β greens, beans, onions, mushrooms, berries, and seeds β support longevity Why nuts and seeds may help with satiety and weight loss How sugar, oil, and animal fat may drive cravings Why salt may be a bigger concern than many people realize How microplastics and toxins are affecting modern healthDr. Fuhrman also shares remarkable stories from his medical career, including patients facing autoimmune disease, severe migraines, digestive illness, and cancer.
Exam Roomies of the Week
R. Nagtegaal from Washington Cross, PA Suzanne Gergely from WΓΌrttemberg, Germanyπ± Dr. Fuhrman Events and Courses
π https://www.drfuhrman.com/eventsπ Dr. Fuhrman Books
π https://amzn.to/42Iv6lzπͺ NHA Conference in Cleveland
π https://bit.ly/NHAConf2026π Las Vegas Plant Powered Party
π https://bit.ly/ChefAJPartyπ Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoomThis episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about cancer screening, treatment, and any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving and improving human and animal lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of nearly one million members and supporters worldwide. -
Inflammation is tied to some of the biggest health problems in the world β heart disease, diabetes, cancer, autoimmune conditions, gut disorders, brain health issues, fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, mood changes, and more.
And one of the best ways to understand what is driving that inflammation may begin in your gut.
Dr. Will Bulsiewicz, bestselling author of Fiber Fueled and Plant Powered Plus, joins Chuck Carroll to reveal how the gut microbiome can shape inflammation throughout the body β and what you can do to start reducing inflammation naturally.
Dr. B also shares practical steps for people with sensitive stomachs, bloating, IBS, or food intolerances who want to improve gut health without making symptoms worse.
This is your gut-first guide to understanding inflammation, identifying what may be driving your symptoms, and taking the first steps toward better health.
π§ You'll learn:
What inflammation actually is Why chronic inflammation is so dangerous How gut bacteria influence the immune system The best foods to start eating today Exercises that can reduce inflammation How sleep, stress, and weight also affect inflammation The biggest food drivers of inflammation Why ultra-processed foods may raise inflammatory markers How fiber helps produce anti-inflammatory short-chain fatty acids Why eating 30 plants per week can support a healthier microbiomeDr. B also shares details about his free live workshop, Discover the Inflammation Phenotype Driving Your Symptoms, happening Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at 7 p.m. ET. The 90-minute webinar will explore how inflammation may express itself differently from person to person, why symptoms such as bloating, autoimmune flares, brain fog, joint pain, hormonal issues, fatigue, and mood changes can show up together, and what may connect them beneath the surface.
Exam Roomies of the Week
Doreen Kupau from Hawaii and Anita Kregielska from Edinburgh, UK.
You can become an Exam Roomie of the Week by supporting PCRM.π Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoomπ¨ββοΈ Dr. Bulsiewicz's Free Inflammation Workshop
π https://bit.ly/DrBFreeWorkshopπΊ Dr. B's YouTube Channel
π https://www.youtube.com/@theguthealthmdπ Las Vegas Plant Powered Party
π https://bit.ly/ChefAJParty- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world.This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about cancer screening, treatment, and any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
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A deadly hantavirus outbreak linked to a cruise ship is making headlines around the world. But how worried should you really be?
Dr. Roger Seheult joins Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room Podcast to explain what is known about the outbreak, how diet and lifestyle may impact the risk of becoming sick, how Andes hantavirus spreads, why this situation is different from COVID-19, and why health officials are taking it seriously while still assessing the risk to the general public as low.
Dr. Seheult is the co-founder of MedCram, an Associate Clinical Professor at UC Riverside School of Medicine, an Assistant Clinical Professor at Loma Linda University, and is quadruple board-certified in internal medicine, pulmonary diseases, critical care medicine, and sleep medicine.
π§ In this episode, Dr. Seheult will teach:
What hantavirus is What makes Andes hantavirus different The possible role of diet in the body's ability to fight the virus How concerned the average person should be Why this does not appear to spread like COVID-19 How inflammation may affect infection risk What sleep and circadian rhythm have to do with immunity Why morning sunlight may support health How light at night can interfere with melatonin Why Dr. Seheult says "dark days and bright nights" are a major problemThe conversation begins with the breaking news about hantavirus and expands into a larger discussion about how food, sleep, sunlight, and everyday habits may help support the immune system.
This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about cancer screening, treatment, and any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
πΊ Dr. Seheult YouTube Channel
π https://www.youtube.com/@Medcramπ‘ Light Boxes 10,000 Lux
π https://amzn.to/3P518oLπ Las Vegas Plant Powered Party
π https://bit.ly/ChefAJPartyπ International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine
π https://www.pcrm.org/icnmπ Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. -
Every day there's a new headline about health.
Coffee is good. Coffee is bad.
Fat is the problem. No, sugar is.
Eat this. Avoid that.So what does the science actually say?
Cardiologist Dr. Andrew Freeman breaks down the biggest health and nutrition studies of the past year and explains what they really mean for your life.
π§ You'll learn:
- The difference between healthspan vs lifespan
- Why chronic disease rates aren't improving
- The shocking rise in childhood obesity worldwide
- How sugar-sweetened beverages impact heart health
- The truth about ultra-processed foods
- The benefits of flavonoids and antioxidant-rich diets
- What new research says about coffee and tea
- How fruits, vegetables, and legumes impact longevityDespite thousands of studies and an increased focus on health, millions are still getting sicker. Why?
Dr. Freeman connects the dots and shows how to actually use science to live longer, healthier, and better.
π Las Vegas Plant Powered Party
π https://bit.ly/ChefAJPartyπ Dr. Brooke Bussard (our wonderful sponsor)
π https://drbrookebussard.comπ International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine
π https://www.pcrm.org/icnmπ Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. -
Is the raw vegan diet the ultimate health upgrade or is there more to the story?
Lissa and Nate Maris from Raw Food Romance join Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room to break down what really happens when you go all-in on raw foods.
They share their journey, the benefits they've experienced, and the challenges most people don't talk about.
Plus, we take a look at the science behind raw diets, including studies on weight loss, heart health, and potential risks.
Lissa and Nate also open up about their own romance that spawned from their raw food diet.
π§ You'll learn:
- What a raw vegan diet actually is β and what you can (and can't) eat
- Why some people experience rapid weight loss and increased energy
- The biggest mistakes beginners make when going raw
- Whether raw vegan diets are nutritionally complete
- The science behind raw diets β including benefits for heart health and metabolism
- Potential risks like nutrient deficiencies and low calorie intake
- Whether you need to go 100% raw to see results
- Practical tips for adding more raw foods into your daily routine
π Las Vegas Plant Powered Party
π https://bit.ly/ChefAJPartyπ₯ The Ultimate Raw Vegan Bundle (ends May 11)
π https://bit.ly/rawveganbundle2026π PlantYou Quickies - Pre-order Now
π https://amzn.to/48EquQQπ Raw Food Romance Skool, E-Books, Recipes and More
π http://www.sociatap.com/rawfoodromanceπ International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine
π https://www.pcrm.org/icnmπ Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM
π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom- About Us -
The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. -
Fatty liver disease is one of the most common health conditions in the world β affecting 1 in 3 people globally β and most don't even know they have it. π§ In this episode of The Exam Room Podcast, Dr. Neal Barnard joins Chuck Carroll to break down: - What causes fatty liver disease - How to reverse fatty liver disease - Foods that help fatty liver - How quickly fatty liver can be reversed - Foods that cause fatty liver - Why it's strongly linked to diabetes - The exact foods that help remove fat from the liver Plus β the surprising truth about sugar, coffee, and even "healthy fats." Key stat: Up to 70% of people with type 2 diabetes may have fatty liver disease. π International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine π https://www.pcrm.org/icnm π± Gregory J. Reiter Memorial Fund π https://gregoryreiterfund.org π Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM π https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world.
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