The Exam Room by the Physicians Committee

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  The Science of Willpower: How to Make Healthy Habits Stick | Dr. Gemma Newman 17.09.2026 41min

  Why do some healthy habits become part of your life while others disappear after a few days or weeks? Dr. Gemma Newman joins Chuck Carroll to explore the psychology behind lasting lifestyle change — and why willpower alone may not be enough. They discuss research suggesting that sustainable change is often connected to identity, purpose, personal values, and finding a deeper "why." Dr. Newman also shares her BLEND IT framework for helping patients, friends, and family make healthier choices without lecturing, judging, or telling them what to do. Plus, discover how whole-food plant-based diets may support weight management without constant calorie counting, why high-fiber lower-calorie-density foods can help with hunger, the role of volume eating, and how healthy eating can become something you genuinely enjoy. You'll also hear a deeply personal discussion about compassion, self-worth, motivation, and why major life transitions can sometimes become powerful opportunities for change. Dr. Newman is also the author of Get Well, Stay Well. Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom 🙏 Dr. Gemma Newman 👉 https://gemmanewman.com 📗 Get Well, Stay Well 👉 https://amzn.to/4r9xHAu This episode is fueled by Dr. Brooke Bussard 👉 https://drbrookebussard.com 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 action
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  Can Chocolate Protect Your Heart? A 21,000-Person Study Found Out | Dr. Howard Sesso 14.09.2026 54min

  Can chocolate actually protect your heart or are we giving candy a health halo it doesn't deserve? Dr. Howard Sesso from Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School joins Chuck Carroll to reveal what the landmark COSMOS trial discovered about cocoa extract, cardiovascular disease and cognition. The randomized clinical trial included more than 21,000 participants. One secondary outcome showed a 27% reduction in cardiovascular disease death among participants assigned to cocoa extract. However, the primary cardiovascular outcome did not reach statistical significance. Dr. Sesso explains what both findings mean and why the distinction matters. You'll also learn: Whether dark or bitter chocolate is automatically healthier The difference between cocoa, cacao and cocoa flavanols Why cocoa powder and cacao nibs may be better choices Cocoa's effects on inflammation and cognition Flavan-3-ols sources and why they matter Why the findings still need to be replicated Exam Roomie of the Week Charles Shryock Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. All gifts of $20 or more receive a mention on the show. Gifts of $100 or more receive an exclusive Exam Room Podcast tote! 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom 🍫 COSMOS Trial 👉 https://cosmostrial.org 📗 Howard Sesso Additional Research 👉 https://bit.ly/sesso-research 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 action
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  Diet Power: Olympian Gets Stronger, No Longer Eats Meat | Kendrick Farris 09.09.2026 45min

  Can an athlete become stronger, recover faster, and clean and jerk more than 440 pounds without eating meat? Three-time Olympian Kendrick Farris says the answer is yes. Kendrick represented the United States at the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Olympic Games and was featured in the hit documentary The Game Changers. He ate a standard American diet during his first two Olympic appearances. By his third, he was completely plant-based—and he says the difference was extraordinary. Kendrick tells Chuck Carroll that he did not lose explosiveness after changing his diet. He believes he gained more, recovered faster, completed more work, and became stronger. He also opens up about growing up in poverty in Shreveport, Louisiana, where there were days when his family did not have enough food. When he asked his mother what they were eating, her answer was sometimes, "Fast and pray." That experience helped build the faith and discipline that would eventually carry him to the Olympic stage. In this episode: How much protein an Olympic weightlifter eats How his performance changed after going plant-based His experience competing nine times in one year Why recovery became his greatest advantage Why he replaced whey with plant-based protein The bloating he experienced before changing protein sources How to order plant-based food at any restaurant What The Game Changers did for plant-based athletes Why he believes strength is physical, mental, and spiritual The Physicians Committee's Plant-Powered Performance sports nutrition course begins Sept. 14 and features live instruction, expert Q&A, recordings, athlete-focused recipes, and practical strategies for improving energy, endurance, strength, and recovery. 🎉 PCRM Sports Nutrition Course 👉 https://bit.ly/PlantBasedAthletePCRM 🏋🏿‍♂️ Kendrick Farris 👉 https://blessthegymforever.com 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom 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 action
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  Fiber May Matter More Than Protein for Muscle and Longevity 07.09.2026 1t 8min

  Can fiber be even more important than protein for athletic performance, muscle health, and healthy aging? Dr. Regan A. Stiegmann and Dr. Sharon McDowell-Larsen join "The Exam Room Podcast" to challenge some of the biggest assumptions in fitness and sports nutrition. Dr. McDowell-Larsen is an exercise physiologist, nine-time Ironman finisher, and age-group world champion who remains an elite competitor at 65. She reveals how changing her diet helped resolve debilitating breathing problems, eliminate her need for three asthma medications, and revive an athletic career she thought was over. Dr. Stiegmann is a former U.S. Air Force major and flight surgeon who helped advance lifestyle and performance medicine in the military. She explains why nutrition can influence everything from muscle recovery and cognitive performance to military readiness and long-term health. Together, they explore the emerging gut-muscle connection and explain why America's obsession with protein may be causing athletes to overlook fiber. In this episode: Why protein alone may not prevent age-related muscle loss How fiber supports muscle, bone, and metabolic health What a 65-year-old Ironman champion eats in a typical day The relationship between gut health and muscle function Why exercise cannot erase the effects of a poor diet The potential risks of extreme endurance exercise How a plant-based diet may improve recovery Why some professional athletes keep plant-based eating a secret How daily choices determine the trajectory of aging Dr. Stiegmann and Dr. McDowell-Larsen are the co-authors of "Staying in the Game," an evidence-based guide to maintaining physical, mental, and metabolic performance throughout life. The six-week online course begins Sept. 14 and features live instruction, expert Q&A, recordings, athlete-focused recipes, and practical strategies for improving energy, endurance, strength, and recovery. Chuck and professional wrestler Dan Healy, known to wrestling fans as Austin Aries, will be among the featured presenters.   🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom 🎉 PCRM Sports Nutrition Course 👉 https://bit.ly/PlantBasedAthletePCRM 📕 Staying In The Game Book 👉 https://amzn.to/3UUx5T4 🚴‍♀️ Sharen McDowell-Larsen Substack 👉 https://sharonmcdowelllarsen.substack.com   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 action
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  The Pleasure Trap Is Getting Worse. Here's How to Escape It. | Dr. Doug Lisle 02.09.2026 1t 20min

  Why does healthy eating feel so hard—even when we know exactly what to do? Dr. Doug Lisle joins Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room to explain the psychology behind The Pleasure Trap and why today's food environment may be even more difficult to navigate than it was two decades ago. Dr. Lisle is the co-author of The Pleasure Trap and a longtime voice in evolutionary psychology. In this conversation, he shares his perspective on why highly processed foods can be so alluring, why shame and willpower are not enough, and how people can build a more sustainable whole-food plant-based way of eating. In this episode: Why the modern food environment can feel impossible to escape The psychology of pleasure, pain avoidance, and habit Why healthy diets can fail when they feel too restrictive Dr. Lisle's "vegan Bushman" approach to calorie density and satisfaction What he thinks about GLP-1 weight-loss medications How to judge dietary progress without obsessing over daily scale changes A preview of his upcoming book, Sherlock Holmes and the Secret of Life   Dr. Lisle will also be joining Chuck at the Plant Powered Party in Las Vegas, September 4–6. Chef AJ, Dr. Michael Greger, Dr. Brooke Goldner, Dr. Joel Fuhrman, Dr. Columbus Batiste, and many more will be there, too. Can't make it to Vegas? Watch all three days live from anywhere with replay access for a full year. This is Chef AJ's last event for a long while, so don't miss it.  Exam Roomies of the Week Evan Haas Lucy EverHope   Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom 🎉 Plant-Powered Party Las Vegas 👉 https://bit.ly/ChefAJParty 📕 The Pleasure Trap 👉 https://amzn.to/4xX1hes 📗 Sherlock Holmes and the Secret of Life 👉 https://bit.ly/SherlockLisleBook   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 action
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  Food Is Medicine? Meet the Doctor Growing It 31.08.2026 50min

  Can food really be medicine? Dr. Ron Weiss is a physician who believes the answer starts long before a meal reaches your plate—it starts in the soil. In this episode of The Exam Room Podcast, Chuck Carroll visits with Dr. Weiss about his unique model of care at Ethos Farm in New Jersey, where regenerative farming and lifestyle-based primary care come together. They explore why soil health matters, what "living soil" means, and how whole plant foods can become a practical, powerful part of a healthier life. Dr. Weiss also shares how he helps patients make lasting changes without turning healthy eating into an impossible all-or-nothing assignment. From the first plant-based meal to a more intentional plate, this is a conversation about making better health feel more approachable. You'll learn: Why Dr. Weiss says the first priority is to eat more whole plants What regenerative farming and healthy soil have to do with the food we eat How minimally processed plant foods differ from heavily processed options Why a healthy lifestyle should be practical, personal, and sustainable What patients can expect from Dr. Weiss's farm-based model of care How coaching, lab work, and lifestyle changes can fit into a long-term health plan Why community support can make healthy change easier to maintain How to take your first realistic step toward eating more plant-based foods Dr. Weiss will also be joining Chuck, Chef AJ, Carleigh Bodrug from PlantYou, Dr. Will Bulsiewicz and others at the Plant Powered Party in Las Vegas, September 4–6, 2026. It's a full weekend of inspiring speakers, practical presentations, delicious plant-based food, and community. Join in person or watch online from anywhere. Exam Roomies of the Week Meng Tee Andrea Bonnett  Carolyn Doyle Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom   🎉 Plant-Powered Party Las Vegas 👉 https://bit.ly/ChefAJParty 🩺 Ethos Primary Care 👉 https://ethosprimarycare.com 🥕 Ethos Farm 👉 https://ethosfarmtohealth.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 action
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  She Survived Cancer and a Heart Transplant, Then Made History | Dr. Dawn Mussallem 27.08.2026 1t 9min

  Dr. Dawn Mussallem survived stage 4 cancer, received a heart transplant, and became the first person in history to complete a full marathon just one year later. Her remarkable story doesn't end there. After experiencing unimaginable loss, Dawn found new love in the produce aisle—thanks to a purple sweet potato. And after 25 years at Mayo Clinic, she is beginning another major chapter as chief medical officer at Fountain Life. Dawn joins Chuck Carroll to share her extraordinary journey and the health lessons she has learned along the way. They discuss: The difference between longevity and health span The foods associated with healthier aging Why fiber may be one of the most overlooked health tools Protein needs for active adults and people taking GLP-1 medications The surprising reason Dawn developed prediabetes How sleep can affect blood sugar Personalized nutrition and the gut microbiome Her historic marathon after receiving a heart transplant Finding new love in the produce aisle Her major career move after 25 years at Mayo Clinic Chuck and Dawn will both appear at the Plant Powered Party, September 4–6 in Las Vegas. Explore the complete speaker lineup, schedule, tickets, and current virtual-access information at the link below. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom   🎉 Plant-Powered Party Las Vegas 👉 https://bit.ly/ChefAJParty   🎉 Dr. Dawn Mussallem 👉 https://dr-dawn.co   This episode is powered by Dr. Brooke Bussard — a lifestyle medicine health coach who believes in the power of plants to maximize wellness. 👉 https://drbrookebussard.com   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 action
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  How to Get Healthy When Nobody Else Is | Brenda Workman 24.08.2026 49min

  Brenda Workman transformed her health. Now she is working to transform an entire state.   After losing 60 pounds and getting off cholesterol and blood pressure medication with a plant-based diet, Brenda became a Food for Life instructor and dedicated herself to improving health in her home state of West Virginia.   She teaches cooking classes, speaks to nursing students and businesses, appears on television, and trains community organizations to bring practical nutrition education to the people they serve.   In this inspiring conversation with Chuck Carroll, Brenda explains why personal stories can reach people when facts alone cannot, how to talk about healthy eating without creating defensiveness, and why you should never wait for your family to change before taking responsibility for your own health.   🧠 You'll also learn: How to eat plant-based when your family isn't plant-based Why respect is more effective than shame How to cook healthy food for one or two people Ways to make plant-based eating practical and affordable How Brenda is training others to teach healthy cooking Why delicious food is essential for lasting change   Brenda's Wellness Weekend is coming to Canaan Valley Resort in West Virginia on October 9–10, 2026. Chuck will be there with Brenda, Cyrus Khambatta, and Kylie Buckner from Evolution Health for presentations, workshops, exercise, delicious plant-based food, and an unforgettable fall weekend.   Exam Roomies of the Week Barbara Kurtzweil Kelly Bonnell Marjorie Lewis Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee.   🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM  👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom   📘 Wellness Weekend Tickets  👉 https://bit.ly/WellnessWeekendWV   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 action
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  How to Keep One Bad Meal From Ruining Your Diet | Alan Stein Jr. & Dr. Hana Kahleova 20.08.2026 1t 1min

  What happens when you know exactly what you should do for your health but you still don't do it? Motivation may not be the answer. Best-selling author and performance expert Alan Stein Jr. joins Dr. Hana Kahleova and Chuck Carroll to reveal the "next play" mindset that can help you bounce back from bad decisions, stop self-sabotage, and become more consistent with your health. Before becoming a keynote speaker, Alan spent 20 years in basketball performance and had the opportunity to observe some of the greatest athletes in the world, including Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant. What separates elite performers isn't perfection. They miss shots. They have bad days. They make mistakes. The difference is what they do next. In this episode of The Exam Room Podcast, you'll learn how to stop one unhealthy meal from becoming an unhealthy week, why emotions should inform your decisions rather than control them, how to build discipline when motivation disappears, and why your environment may matter more than willpower. Chuck also opens up about weighing 420 pounds and eating as many as 10,000 calories of fast food a day — and why he is learning to have compassion for the person he used to be instead of continuing to punish himself for the past. Plus, Alan shares the daily routines that help him protect his mindset and explains why small wins eventually become enormous changes. Your last play is over. What will you do next? Exam Roomies of the Week Yvonne Brinson Ilaria Ottino Ken Swartz Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom   📘 Next Play by Alan Stein Jr.  👉 https://amzn.to/4quiIkk   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 action
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  Chef AJ: How to Keep Going When Life Gets Hard 17.08.2026 47min

  Chef AJ has been through one of the hardest chapters of her life. But she is still laughing. Still exercising. Still showing up. Still making plans. And most importantly, still finding reasons to enjoy life. In this deeply personal and often hilarious conversation, Chef AJ joins Chuck Carroll to talk about continuing to move forward despite health challenges, treatment and unexpected obstacles. She shares why improv comedy and exercise remained priorities even during some of her most difficult days—and why doing the things that make you feel better can matter most when you least feel like doing them. Chuck and AJ also open up about the friendship they've developed while both navigating their own health challenges and the messages of encouragement they've exchanged along the way. Plus, Chef AJ talks about laughter, improv, overcoming fear, taking chances, creating your own luck and why sometimes the first step forward is the hardest—and most important—one. And there is plenty of fun ahead! Chef AJ is hosting the Plant Powered Party in Las Vegas September 4–6, where Chuck will also be appearing along with an incredible lineup of plant-based doctors, chefs and experts. Can't make it to Las Vegas? You can join the party virtually from anywhere in the world and watch online. Use the link in the episode notes to learn more. This is a conversation about friendship, resilience and finding joy even when life doesn't go according to plan. Never stop moving forward. Exam Roomies of the Week Hemma Werner Gail Sears Anette Cathrine Nedreli Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom   🎉 Plant-Powered Party Las Vegas 👉 https://bit.ly/ChefAJParty   📕 Chef AJ Books 👉 https://amzn.to/3U4HTxB   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 action
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  Meat Causes Erectile Dysfunction: How and Why | Dr. Neal Barnard 13.08.2026 47min

  Is meat really masculine or could it be causing erectile dysfunction? Dr. Neal Barnard joins Chuck Carroll to examine the connection between meat, blood flow, heart health, testosterone, muscle, fertility, prostate health, and ED. Dr. Barnard explains why erectile dysfunction may sometimes appear before more obvious signs of cardiovascular disease. He also discusses whether meat actually improves testosterone or muscle growth, how a high-fat meal may affect athletic performance, and why strong muscles on the outside do not always mean healthy arteries on the inside. You'll also learn: How quickly circulation may begin to improve after changing your diet Why plant foods can provide the protein needed to build muscle The possible connection between dairy, fertility, and prostate health What a practical day of eating for men's health could look like Why tomatoes, beans, whole grains, and other plant foods deserve a place on the menu Plus, Chuck and Dr. Barnard preview the International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine, happening August 13–15 in Washington, D.C.   🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 https://www.pcrm.org/icnm Use code EXAMROOM100 to save $100 on tickets   Exam Roomies of the Week Teri Lynn Yunus, NP Kathy D'Ambrosio Joanne Pinner, MSN Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom   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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  Lower Cholesterol With Food: The Portfolio Diet Explained | Dr. David Jenkins 10.08.2026 45min

  Can you lower LDL cholesterol by changing the foods you eat?   Dr. David Jenkins, the pioneering nutrition researcher behind the Portfolio Diet, joins Chuck Carroll to explain how a carefully selected combination of foods may help bring cholesterol under control.   Dr. Jenkins reveals why oats and barley may be particularly effective for lowering cholesterol, how their sticky soluble fiber interacts with bile acids, and why simply telling someone to "eat more fiber" may not be specific enough.   You'll also learn: The difference between LDL and HDL cholesterol Whether dietary cholesterol is necessary for good health How the Portfolio Diet was developed Why soy may lower LDL while replacing less healthy proteins The difference between fats from plants and animals Why nuts can be beneficial despite being high in fat and calories What extra-virgin olive oil may offer beyond unsaturated fat How plant-based eating can benefit human and planetary health Why partial dietary changes can still be meaningful How diet may be used alongside cholesterol-lowering medication   Dr. Jenkins is a professor of medicine and nutritional sciences at the University of Toronto and one of the world's leading researchers on diet, cholesterol, diabetes, plant protein, and soluble fiber.   Hear more from Dr. Jenkins at the International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine, Aug. 13–15, 2026, in Washington, D.C.   🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 https://www.pcrm.org/icnm Use code EXAMROOM100 to save $100 on tickets   Exam Roomies of the Week Michelle Walker Steven Alongi Todd Lindley   Support The Exam Room Podcast and Physicians Committee and hear your name mentioned on the show!   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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  Can't Poop? Do This to Help Constipation | Dr. Will Bulsiewicz 06.08.2026 1t

  Gastroenterologist Dr. Will Bulsiewicz returns with a complete guide to constipation, including the symptoms many people overlook even when they are having a bowel movement every day. Dr. B joins Chuck Carroll to explain the different patterns of constipation, including slow transit, pelvic-floor or outlet dysfunction, IBS with constipation, and the surprisingly common problem of a digestive system that has simply fallen out of rhythm. They also discuss the morning habits that may help train your body when to go, foods associated with constipation relief, magnesium and fiber supplements, questions surrounding long-term laxative use, and why a full colon can contribute to bloating, nausea, early fullness, and loss of appetite. Chuck shares his own experience after years of severe constipation and reveals the routine that has helped him become more regular while improving his bloating and appetite. 🧠 You'll learn: Why your bowel movements should generally follow a pattern How a morning routine may help train your body when to go The connection between constipation, bloating, nausea, and appetite Foods associated with constipation relief, including kiwi, prunes, and chia seeds The forms of magnesium Dr. B discusses for constipation Concerns surrounding long-term laxative use Why several days without a bowel movement followed by diarrhea may still be constipation How travel can throw your digestive system completely out of rhythm Plus, Dr. B explains why going several days without a bowel movement followed by diarrhea may still be a constipation problem. Exam Roomies of the Week Javier Santiago Dr. Mickey Witte Kimberly Cadieux  Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom   🩺 38 Tera DMN and RCE 👉 https://www.38tera.com   🩺 Dr. Will Bulsiewicz Courses 👉 https://www.theguthealthmd.com   🎉 Plant-Powered Party Las Vegas 👉 https://bit.ly/ChefAJParty   🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 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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  When Healthy Eating Becomes Unhealthy | Dr. Matthew Lederman 04.08.2026 1t 4min

  Can trying to eat perfectly actually make you less healthy? Dr. Matthew Lederman joins Chuck Carroll to explore the hidden connection between food perfectionism, fear, chronic stress, gut health, sleep, and the nervous system. A nutritious diet remains an essential foundation for good health. But what happens when healthy choices are driven by anxiety? When a small amount of oil, salt, or sugar feels dangerous? Or when every unexplained symptom sends you searching for another food intolerance, supplement, or dietary rule? Dr. Lederman explains why two people can eat the same healthy meal while experiencing completely different physiological responses. One may be eating from joy and self-care. The other may be eating from fear—and that fear can keep the body locked in a state of heightened vigilance. Chuck also shares candid stories from his own health journey, including the years when strict food rules created additional stress and the relief he experienced after allowing himself greater flexibility. 🧠 You'll learn: When discipline may actually be fear in disguise How stress and perceived danger can affect the gut Why a "perfect" diet cannot address every health problem The relationship between nervous-system regulation and sleep How to build healthy habits that feel sustainable and enjoyable Why health should make your life feel bigger—not smaller Dr. Matthew Lederman is a board-certified internal medicine physician, medical strategist, and Certified Trainer with the Center for Nonviolent Communication.   Exam Roomies of the Week Kay Gustin Kathleen Herman Ruth Allstadt Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom   🩺 Connection Docs 👉 https://www.connectiondocs.com   🎉 Plant-Powered Party Las Vegas 👉 https://bit.ly/ChefAJParty   🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 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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  Real Meat vs. Fake Meat: Which Is Healthier? | Dr. Neal Barnard 30.07.2026 41min

  Are Impossible Burgers and fake meats worse for you than a steak or hamburger? Dr. Neal Barnard joins Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room Podcast to examine one of today's biggest nutrition debates. A veggie burger and a beef burger may both be classified as processed, but does that make them nutritionally equal? What about plant milk versus dairy milk, packaged cereal versus bacon and eggs, or a protein bar versus a cheeseburger? Dr. Barnard explains what "ultra-processed" actually means, why certain foods can encourage overeating, and whether the widely used NOVA classification system paints with too broad a brush. He also explores why saturated fat, cholesterol, fiber, calorie density, and a food's source may matter just as much as—or more than—the number of ingredients on its label. 🧠 You'll learn: Whether all ultra-processed foods are equally unhealthy How a veggie burger compares with a beef burger Whether plant-based meat and dairy alternatives are healthy Why ultra-processed foods may interfere with fullness Which additives and ingredients deserve a closer look The packaged plant-based foods Dr. Barnard considers reasonable choices What to look for first on a nutrition label How to make healthier choices when time and money are limited   The conversation also previews the International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine, happening Aug. 13–15, 2026, in Washington, D.C. Dr. Barnard will be joined by more than 30 leading experts for presentations on ultra-processed foods, GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, diabetes, heart disease, the gut microbiome, pain, cancer prevention, kidney health, the new Dietary Guidelines, and much more. Exam Roomies of the Week Atchareeya Archatawan William Klein Sali Ortiz Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom   🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 https://www.pcrm.org/icnm   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 👉 https://gregoryreiterfund.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.
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  Food Addiction Is Real: How to Break Cravings | Susan Peirce Thompson, PhD 28.07.2026 1t 6min

  Junk food was harder for Susan Peirce Thompson to quit than crack cocaine.   The founder and CEO of Bright Line Eating joins Chuck Carroll for a deeply personal conversation about food addiction, compulsive eating, cravings, and long-term weight loss.   Susan shares her remarkable journey from crystal meth and crack addiction to becoming a PhD and internationally recognized expert in the psychology of eating. She explains why food addiction can be uniquely difficult to overcome when triggers are everywhere and eating remains necessary for survival.   Chuck also revisits his own addiction-driven 10,000-calorie days, including a daily Taco Bell meal containing more than 4,000 calories.   Together, they explore the foods that may be most addictive, dopamine downregulation, ultra-processed foods, the return of cravings years into recovery, and the personal guardrails that can help someone finally break free.   Susan also shares lessons from her book Maintain and explains why lasting weight loss is not simply about completing a diet. It requires a fundamental shift in identity and becoming devoted to the habits that support your health.   Susan also explains why a person's recovery plan must be individualized and why occasionally experiencing a craving does not mean that years of progress have been lost.   Chuck and Susan will be speaking at the Plant Powered Party in Las Vegas with Chef AJ, Dr. Will Bulsiewicz and many others. Tickets are available now for the Labor Day weekend bash.   Exam Roomies of the Week Peggy Fuchs Monna Throop Kathleen Adamson   Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee.   🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom   📕 Maintain Book 👉 https://amzn.to/4wjv4Oa   ❓Food Addiction Quiz 👉 https://www.foodaddictionquiz.com   🍽️ Bright Line Eating 👉 https://www.brightlineeating.com   🎉 Plant-Powered Party Las Vegas 👉 https://bit.ly/ChefAJParty   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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  Why Modern Medicine Isn't Making Us Healthy | Drs. Joel Fuhrman & Columbus Batiste 22.07.2026 1t 10min

  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 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom   🍽️ Food For Life Instructor Applications 👉 https://bit.ly/food-for-life-instructor   🩺 Dr. Joel Fuhrman 👉 https://www.drfuhrman.com   🩺 Dr. Columbus Batiste 👉 https://drbatiste.com   🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 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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  Raw Milk and Cow Hearts: Dr. Neal Barnard on Soccer Star's Dangerous Diet 16.07.2026 54min

  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 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom   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 👉 https://gregoryreiterfund.org   🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 https://www.pcrm.org/icnm 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.
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  She Survived a Mass Shooting, Then Cancer | Krista Ryan 13.07.2026 47min

  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 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom   📕 KFG Book 👉 https://amzn.to/4f0RiOL   💪 Krista Ryan  👉 https://www.kristaryan.com   PCRM Cancer Resources 👉 https://www.pcrm.org/health-topics/cancer   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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  What Your Doctor Isn't Telling You About Food | Dr. Alan Desmond 08.07.2026 1t 1min

  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 👉 https://bit.ly/SupportExamRoom   📕 What Your Doctor Isn't Telling You About Food 👉 https://amzn.to/4vSO460   🩺 Dr. Alan Desmond 👉 https://www.alandesmond.com   🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 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.