The Exam Room by the Physicians Committee

Dive into the science of your diet! Learn how a humble blueberry can fight cancer or what the longest living people in the world are eating. Every episode is packed with facts that will raise your health IQ and boost your nutrition knowledge. "The Weight Loss Champion" Chuck Carroll is joined by Dr. Neal Barnard, a leading voice in nutrition science and founder of The Physicians Committee, and other elite doctors and dietitians. Unlock the secrets to living longer and healthier life and how to fight diseases with every meal.

Why Modern Medicine Isn’t Making Us Healthy | Drs. Joel Fuhrman & Columbus Batiste 07/22/2026

Why Modern Medicine Isn’t Making Us Healthy | Drs. Joel Fuhrman & Columbus Batiste Why do chronic diseases remain so common when we have more medicine and medical technology than ever before? Chuck Carroll is joined by two leading physicians for a powerful live conversation about what truly creates health. Dr. Columbus Batiste is a board-certified interventional cardiologist and passionate advocate for protecting the heart through lifestyle. Dr. Joel Fuhrman is a board-certified family physician, nutritional researcher, and seven-time New York Times bestselling author. Learn about Dr. Batiste and Dr. Fuhrman. Recorded at the National Health Association Conference, this conversation explores: Why medicine alone may not be enough to create lasting health How food and daily habits influence chronic disease The effects of stress on the heart and body Why people sabotage their health despite knowing what to do How movement, sleep, gratitude, and community support longevity What doctors can do to better connect with and motivate patients How to turn health information into sustainable change Exam Roomies of the Week Chuck's mom, Ann Carroll Daria Dreher Sheral Lee Schowe Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 🍽️ Food For Life Instructor Applications 👉 🩺 Dr. Joel Fuhrman 👉 🩺 Dr. Columbus Batiste 👉 🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42185600

Raw Milk and Cow Hearts: Dr. Neal Barnard on Soccer Star's Dangerous Diet 07/16/2026

Raw Milk and Cow Hearts: Dr. Neal Barnard on Soccer Star's Dangerous Diet Erling Haaland eats six meals and roughly 6,000 calories every day to fuel his extraordinary performance on the soccer field. But should anyone else be eating like him? Haaland’s highly publicized routine includes raw milk, beef liver, cow heart, steak, eggs, fish, pasta, vegetables, and honey. In this episode of The Exam Room Podcast, Dr. Neal Barnard joins “The Weight Loss Champion” Chuck Carroll to examine whether the foods powering one of the world’s greatest athletes could create serious health risks for the average person. Dr. Barnard explores the immediate food-safety concerns surrounding raw milk and the potential problems associated with regularly consuming organ meats. Could highly concentrated amounts of dietary cholesterol, heme iron, vitamin A, and copper become too much of a good thing? 🧠 You will also learn: Why an elite athlete may require thousands more calories than the average person Whether eating six meals a day provides a metabolic advantage The difference between short-term athletic performance and long-term health Why looking lean and powerful does not necessarily reveal what is happening inside the body Healthier ways to fuel exercise, recovery, strength, and endurance This is not about criticizing Haaland’s talent or discipline. It is about understanding why a diet created for an extraordinary athlete should not automatically become a nutrition plan for everyone else. Exam Roomies of the Week Roy Wessbecher LuAnne Siwiec Isabel Fernandes, PhD Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 This 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. 🌱 Gregory J. Reiter Memorial Fund 👉 🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 EXAMROOM100 to save $100 on tickets! 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42104980

She Survived a Mass Shooting, Then Cancer | Krista Ryan 07/13/2026

She Survived a Mass Shooting, Then Cancer | Krista Ryan Krista Ryan survived the mass shooting at the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival in Las Vegas. Years later, she faced another life-altering challenge when she was diagnosed with stage 3 rectal cancer. Four surgeries, chemotherapy, an ileostomy, and a difficult recovery followed. But Krista kept going. She joins Chuck Carroll to share the resilience philosophy she calls KFG: Know, Focus, Go. The initials also carry another, considerably more forceful meaning that captures the determination required to move forward when life becomes unimaginably difficult. Krista explains why true resilience does not mean hiding fear or pretending that everything is fine. She shares how allowing herself to feel anger, grief, and vulnerability ultimately gave her more strength. You will also hear how a brief conversation with another cancer survivor prompted Krista to seek testing, what it was like to tell her children about the diagnosis, how humor helped her through treatment, and why even the smallest action can be a meaningful act of perseverance. This episode is for anyone living with illness, recovering from trauma, supporting someone they love, or searching for the courage to write the next chapter of their story. Exam Roomies of the Week Jennifer Rogers Danica Brooks X-tine Goodreau Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 📕 KFG Book 👉 💪 Krista Ryan 👉 PCRM Cancer Resources 👉 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42061340

What Your Doctor Isn’t Telling You About Food | Dr. Alan Desmond 07/08/2026

What Your Doctor Isn’t Telling You About Food | Dr. Alan Desmond 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? 🧠 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 health Dr. 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 Clifford Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 📕 What Your Doctor Isn't Telling You About Food 👉 🩺 Dr. Alan Desmond 👉 🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42015040

Brain Tumor Diagnosis Changed How Top Doctor Sees Health Care | Dr. Bobby Mukkamala 07/06/2026

Brain Tumor Diagnosis Changed How Top Doctor Sees Health Care | Dr. Bobby Mukkamala 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 matters Exam Roomies of the Week Carol Kimsey MJ Donahue Tomi Gail Lemmen Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee: PCRM.org/SupportExamRoom 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 🌱 Lotus Health Foundation 👉 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/41975970

Billy Bob Thornton's 'Ultra Restrictive' Diet: Dr. Neal Barnard Reacts 07/02/2026

Billy Bob Thornton's 'Ultra Restrictive' Diet: Dr. Neal Barnard Reacts 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. 🧠 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 type Exam Roomies of the Week Andreas Ebert Kris Grabowski Laurie Rowe 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 This 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. 🌱 Gregory J. Reiter Memorial Fund 👉 🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/41924785

The Doctor Visit That Could Change Your Life | Anthony Masiello 06/30/2026

The Doctor Visit That Could Change Your Life | Anthony Masiello 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 — 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. 🧠 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” thinking This 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, MD 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 🌱 Lifestyle Telemedicine 👉 🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/41832715

PlantYou Quickies: How to Eat Healthy When You Have No Time | Carleigh Bodrug 06/25/2026

PlantYou Quickies: How to Eat Healthy When You Have No Time | Carleigh Bodrug 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 — Save Our Sanity meals for the nights when you almost order delivery. 🧠 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 desperation Carleigh 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 Ormsby 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 📕 PlantYou Quickies Book Pre-Orders 👉 🌱 Carleigh Bodrug Website 👉 💪 NHA Conference in Cleveland 👉 🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/41796090

“Healthy” Foods Are Fooling Us: How An FFL Instructor Is Fighting Back 06/23/2026

“Healthy” Foods Are Fooling Us: How An FFL Instructor Is Fighting Back 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. 🧠 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. 🍽️ Food For Life Instructor Applications 👉 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 🌱 Lyn Grady 👉 🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 - 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/41692530

Weight Loss After Menopause: This Type of Protein Helps | Dr. Neal Barnard 06/18/2026

Weight Loss After Menopause: This Type of Protein Helps | Dr. Neal Barnard 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. 🧠 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 make Exam Roomies of the Week Pauline White Alix Weisz Brenda Hoy This 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. 📕 Menopause Study 👉 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 🌱 Gregory J. Reiter Memorial Fund 👉 - 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/41682845

Dr. Will Bulsiewicz & The Most Googled Gut Health Questions: GLP-1s, Healthy Soda, & More 06/11/2026

Building Muscle and Bone After 50 | Brenda Davis, RD 06/09/2026

Building Muscle and Bone After 50 | Brenda Davis, RD You can build strong bones and muscles as you age without eating meat or dairy foods. Registered dietitian Brenda Davis joins 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? 🧠 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 eating Brenda 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. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 📗 Brenda's Plant-Powered Seniors Book 👉 📕 Brenda's Plant-Powered Protein Book 👉 💪 Brenda's Website 👉 - 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/41585925

12 Surprising Health Benefits of Mint | Dr. Hana Kahleova 06/04/2026

Chris Beat Cancer: Food, Faith, And The Will To Live 06/02/2026

Chris Beat Cancer: Food, Faith, And The Will To Live 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. 🧠 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 conversation Colorectal 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 Callahan 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 📗 Chris Beat Cancer Book 👉 💪 Chris Beat Cancer Website 👉 🎉 Las Vegas Plant Powered Party 👉 This 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/41498540

Why You Can’t Stop Eating: The Science of Weak Willpower | Dr. Vanita Rahman 05/28/2026

Why You Can’t Stop Eating: The Science of Weak Willpower | Dr. Vanita Rahman 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 — 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. 🧠 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 spiral Dr. 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 or call 507-218-3095. Exam Roomies of the Week - Sharon Smith - Mary DeCoster 💪 Binge & Emotional Eating Program 👉 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 🏥 Barnard Medical Center 👉 🎉 International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine 👉 This 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/41442740

Lupus and Sjögren's Symptoms Reversed In Weeks With This Diet | Brooke Goldner, MD 05/26/2026

Lupus and Sjögren's Symptoms Reversed In Weeks With This Diet | Brooke Goldner, MD Could lupus and Sjögren’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 Sjögren’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. 🧠 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, Sjögren’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 changes Exam Roomies of the Week Elvira Northey from Macomb, MI DeeDee O'Connor from Bellingham, WA 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 👩🏻‍⚕️ Dr. Brooke Goldner Website and Courses 👉 📗 Dr. Brooke Goldner Books 👉 🎉 Las Vegas Plant Powered Party 👉 This 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/41381610

Doctor Reveals the 2 Foods to Avoid: Ultra-Processed Foods Aren’t the Problem 05/21/2026

Doctor Reveals the 2 Foods to Avoid: Ultra-Processed Foods Aren’t the Problem 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. 🧠 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 nutrition Exam Roomies of the Week Dana Kennett from Saint Johns, FL Lori Baum from Sandusky, OH 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 🙏 Gregory J. Reiter Memorial Fund 👉 🎉 International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine 👉 📗 Dr. Neal Barnard Books 👉 This 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/41353435

Is 2,000 Calories Too Much? Dr. Joel Fuhrman Explains 05/19/2026

Is 2,000 Calories Too Much? Dr. Joel Fuhrman Explains 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 — 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. 🧠 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 — greens, beans, onions, mushrooms, berries, and seeds — 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 health Dr. 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 Württemberg, Germany 🌱 Dr. Fuhrman Events and Courses 👉 📗 Dr. Fuhrman Books 👉 💪 NHA Conference in Cleveland 👉 🎉 Las Vegas Plant Powered Party 👉 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 This 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/41334405

Brain Fog, Bloating, Joint Pain? Inflammation and Your Gut May Be the Link | Dr. Will Bulsiewicz 05/14/2026

Brain Fog, Bloating, Joint Pain? Inflammation and Your Gut May Be the Link | Dr. Will Bulsiewicz Inflammation is tied to some of the biggest health problems in the world — 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 — 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. 🧠 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 microbiome Dr. 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. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 👨‍⚕️ Dr. Bulsiewicz's Free Inflammation Workshop 👉 📺 Dr. B's YouTube Channel 👉 🎉 Las Vegas Plant Powered Party 👉 - 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/41284140

Hantavirus Outbreak: Virus Expert Explains Risk, Immunity, And Diet Impact | Dr. Roger Seheult 05/12/2026

Hantavirus Outbreak: Virus Expert Explains Risk, Immunity, And Diet Impact | Dr. Roger Seheult 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. 🧠 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 problem The 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. 📺 Dr. Seheult YouTube Channel 👉 💡 Light Boxes 10,000 Lux 👉 🎉 Las Vegas Plant Powered Party 👉 🎉 International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine 👉 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 - 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. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/41251940