

The Dose
CBC
A weekly look at the health news that matters to you. Dr. Brian Goldman brings you the best science from top experts in plain language. He cuts through the BS and confusion to give you a dose of smart advice that you won’t find anywhere else. New episodes every Thursday.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 2, 2025 • 27min
What does the evidence tell us about Tylenol, leucovorin, and autism?
The Trump administration has claimed Tylenol in pregnancy causes autism, despite no conclusive evidence, and promoted the drug leucovorin as a potential treatment for autism symptoms. Pediatric neurologist Dr. Evdokia Anagnostou breaks down the science and what’s really known about these claims.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.Fill out our listener survey here. We appreciate your input!

Sep 25, 2025 • 25min
What might testosterone replacement therapy mean for me?
The internet is full of hype for products claiming to boost mood, reduce fatigue, and enhance sexual performance—including testosterone supplements. Low testosterone can affect both men and women, but OB/GYN Dr. George Arnold says supplements rarely raise hormone levels; only prescribed testosterone can.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Sep 18, 2025 • 23min
How can I reduce my risk of computer vision syndrome?
An estimated 70 per cent of people have experienced computer vision syndrome (CVS), or digital eye strain. It's a condition caused by staring at a digital screen that's too close for too long and can lead to headaches, dry or blurry eyes, and neck, shoulder or back pain. Optometrist Meenal Agarwal says simple habits like taking regular breaks can help prevent CVS.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Sep 11, 2025 • 25min
What does the latest research say about the benefits of GLP-1 drugs?
GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic are proven effective for type 2 diabetes and weight management. Researchers are now exploring their potential to reduce heart, kidney, liver, and even Alzheimer’s disease risks. But experts, including obesity specialist Dr. Sean Wharton, warn against off-label use. He breaks down the latest research and what the future might hold.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Sep 8, 2025 • 16min
BONUS: TED Health: What staying up all night does to your brain
TED Health is a podcast from TED that shares interviews, stories, and TED Talks that will help you better understand your health. You can learn the latest ideas on what exercise does to your brain, whether or not psychedelics can treat depression, why your body fights weight loss, and more. In this episode: You’re just one exam away from a relaxing spring break. But you still have so much to study! You decide to follow in the footsteps of many before you, and pull an all-nighter. So, what happens to your brain when you stay up all night? And does cramming help you prepare for a test? Science journalist Anna Rothschild explores how a sleepless night affects your cognitive function. And host Dr. Shoshanna Ungerleider delves into the effects of sleep deprivation on other aspects of your health–starting with the heart. Listen wherever you get your podcasts or go to: https://link.mgln.ai/f7pFxv

Sep 4, 2025 • 29min
What should I know about asking ChatGPT for health advice?
As a growing number of Canadians use AI, physician groups like the Ontario Medical Association are warning against using it for medical help. Family physician Dr. Danielle Martin explains how AI chatbots can be useful, but risky when it comes to personal medical advice.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Aug 14, 2025 • 50min
The Dose Summer Special: Super-aging
The Dose is still on summer break, but we've curated some of our most popular episodes to make your summer a little healthier. In this double-episode, we explore what the research shows about the benefits of creatine supplements, as well what we can do now to live longer and healthier.

Jul 24, 2025 • 53min
The Dose Summer Special: Women's health
The Dose is still on summer break, but we've curated some of our most popular episodes to make your summer a little healthier. In this double-episode, we explore how women can have better sex, as well as how heat affects women's bodies.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.Fill out our listener survey here. We appreciate your input!

Jul 4, 2025 • 23min
What do I need to know about high-potency cannabis?
Recreational cannabis has become increasingly potent since Canada legalized it in 2018. That means intense and longer-lasting highs. Psychiatrist Dr. Philip Tibbo sheds light on what high-potency cannabis is, its physical and mental effects, and how to safely consume the drug.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Jun 19, 2025 • 28min
How does poor air quality affect my health?
Wildfire smoke can feel unavoidable during summer in Canada, and that's on top of the air pollution that most cities experience during warmer months. Respirologist Dr. Chris Carlsten, head of University of British Columbia's Air Pollution Exposure Lab, explains how poor air quality affects our health, and how masks and air filters can help.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.