The Exam Room by the Physicians Committee

Physicians Committee
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  • Nutrition
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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.

  1. 2d ago

    How to Keep One Bad Meal From Ruining Your Diet | Alan Stein Jr. & Dr. Hana Kahleova

    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

    How to Keep One Bad Meal From Ruining Your Diet | Alan Stein Jr. & Dr. Hana Kahleova

  2. 4d ago

    Chef AJ: How to Keep Going When Life Gets Hard

    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

    Chef AJ: How to Keep Going When Life Gets Hard

  3. Aug 13

    Meat Causes Erectile Dysfunction: How and Why | Dr. Neal Barnard

    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.

    Meat Causes Erectile Dysfunction: How and Why | Dr. Neal Barnard

  4. Aug 10

    Lower Cholesterol With Food: The Portfolio Diet Explained | Dr. David Jenkins

    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.

    Lower Cholesterol With Food: The Portfolio Diet Explained | Dr. David Jenkins

  5. Aug 6

    Can't Poop? Do This to Help Constipation | Dr. Will Bulsiewicz

    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.

    Can't Poop? Do This to Help Constipation | Dr. Will Bulsiewicz

  6. Aug 4

    When Healthy Eating Becomes Unhealthy | Dr. Matthew Lederman

    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.

    When Healthy Eating Becomes Unhealthy | Dr. Matthew Lederman

  7. Jul 30

    Real Meat vs. Fake Meat: Which Is Healthier? | Dr. Neal Barnard

    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.

    Real Meat vs. Fake Meat: Which Is Healthier? | Dr. Neal Barnard

  8. Jul 28

    Food Addiction Is Real: How to Break Cravings | Susan Peirce Thompson, PhD

    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.

    Food Addiction Is Real: How to Break Cravings | Susan Peirce Thompson, PhD
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About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Physicians Committee
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    785
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026. All rights reserved. Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine
  • Show Website
    The Exam Room by the Physicians Committee

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