The Exam Room by the Physicians Committee

Katherine Lawrence, BCAS is a nutritionist, board certified autism specialist, and mom to a child with autism, ADHD, and OCD. She’s seen firsthand how certain foods can make symptoms worse, like stimming and challenging behavior, while others help her son feel calm, focused, and in control.   Backed by science and grounded in real life, Katherine shares what every parent of a neurodivergent child should know about food: what to avoid, what to prioritize, and how to ensure even the pickiest eaters get the nutrition they need.   In this episode of The Exam Room, you'll learn:   - The best foods for neurodivergent brains - The worst foods for neurodivergent brains - How processed foods and sugar affect behavior and self-regulation - The smoothie routine that changed everything for Katherine's neurodivergent child - Practical tips for helping selective and picky eaters get the nutrition they need - The most powerful gift you can give your neurodivergent child   — — SHOW LINKS — — Katherine Lawrence Neurodivergent Nutrition Masterclass: https://bit.ly/NeurodivNutrition Use code EXAMROOM to save 30%   Ted X Talk: https://youtu.be/tsTnl-2KkNg?si=tvy0ydfsl6oTS-Wk   — — EVENTS — — International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine Where: Washington, DC When: August 14-16, 2025 Tix & Speakers: https://www.pcrm.org/icnm Use code NUTRITION50 to save $50 — — — Wellness Weekend Where: Canaan Valley Resort - Davis, WV When: Sept. 26-27, 2025 Tix & Speakers: https://www.brendaworkmanspeaks.com/wellness-weekend   — —EXAM ROOM NEWSLETTER — — Sign up: https://www.pcrm.org/examroomvip   — — THIS IS US — — The Exam Room Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theexamroompodcast — — — Chuck Carroll Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ChuckCarrollWLC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChuckCarrollWLC X: https://www.twitter.com/ChuckCarrollWLC — — — Physicians Committee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/physicianscommittee Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PCRM.org X: https://www.twitter.com/pcrm YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/PCRM Jobs: https://www.pcrm.org/careers   — — SUBSCRIBE & SHARE — — 5-Star Success: Share Your Story Apple: https://apple.co/2JXBkpy​​ Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2pMLoY3 — — — Please subscribe and give the show a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or many other podcast providers. Don’t forget to share it with a friend for inspiration!

Dr. Neal Barnard, founder of The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, tackles the controversial topic of processed foods. He discusses recent survey findings that reveal Americans' confusion about the health implications of these foods. Barnard identifies the most popular processed items and evaluates which are actually healthy. He emphasizes the significant health risks associated with ultra-processed options and encourages a shift towards plant-based foods. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of nutrition and public perceptions!

At 19, Marisa was told her colon might need to be removed to heal her ulcerative colitis. At 29, she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. But today, she’s thriving—and sharing how she used food, intuition, and determination to heal.   In this powerful episode of The Exam Room, Chuck Carroll sits down with Marisa to unpack her two-decade-long health journey. From life-threatening flare-ups and hospital stays to a macrobiotic diet, emotional resilience, and the importance of advocating for your body, Marisa’s story is a beacon of hope for anyone navigating chronic illness.   In this episode, you'll learn:   - How Marisa used macrobiotics to heal - Why Marisa said “no” to surgery—and what happened next - How trauma, stress, and intuition played a role in recovery - The life-changing mindset shift she wants everyone to hear   Don’t miss this one—especially if you or someone you love is struggling with ulcerative colitis, thyroid issues, or chronic inflammation   Key Takeaways   What is a macrobiotic diet? Marisa describes a macrobiotic diet as eating "a perfect plate" -- one that is plant-based and balanced in foods containing carbohydrates and starches, and healthy fats, for example.   What’s the connection between stress and chronic illness? Marisa’s flares often followed emotional events. Her journey highlights how stress and trauma can manifest physically, and why emotional healing is vital.   Who is Marisa Marinelli? Marisa is a health and wellness advocate who healed from ulcerative colitis and thyroid cancer. She says a macrobiotic diet, self-education, and emotional resilience played a significant role in her recovery.   — — SHOW LINKS — — Marisa Marinelli Instagram: instagram: https://www.instagram.com/macromarinelli — — — Holistic Holiday at Sea Cruise https://holisticholidayatsea.com — — — Gout Cereal Study https://bit.ly/cerealgoutstudy — — EVENTS — — International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine Where: Washington, DC When: August 14-16, 2025 Tix & Speakers: https://www.pcrm.org/icnm — — — Wellness Weekend Where: Canaan Valley Resort - Davis, WV When: Sept. 26-27, 2025 Tix & Speakers: https://www.brendaworkmanspeaks.com/wellness-weekend — —EXAM ROOM NEWSLETTER — — Sign up: https://www.pcrm.org/examroomvip — — THIS IS US — — The Exam Room Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theexamroompodcast — — — Chuck Carroll Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ChuckCarrollWLC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChuckCarrollWLC X: https://www.twitter.com/ChuckCarrollWLC — — — Physicians Committee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/physicianscommittee Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PCRM.org X: https://www.twitter.com/pcrm YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/PCRM Jobs: https://www.pcrm.org/careers — — SUBSCRIBE & SHARE — — 5-Star Success: Share Your Story Apple: https://apple.co/2JXBkpy​​ Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2pMLoY3 — — — Please subscribe and give the show a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or many other podcast providers. Don’t forget to share it with a friend for inspiration!

Dr. Will Bulsiewicz, a gastroenterologist and best-selling author known for his expertise in gut health, discusses the significant differences between soda and kombucha. He explains how kombucha can positively impact gut health while soda may lead to issues like autoimmune disorders. The conversation highlights the effects of added sugar and microplastics in beverages. The importance of informed dietary choices is emphasized, along with the benefits of fermentation. Additionally, a health update on Chuck Carroll sheds light on his journey and new medical insights.

Brenda Workman, a plant-based eating advocate from West Virginia, transformed her life by losing 60 pounds and ditching medications through diet changes. She shares five powerful habits to thrive in a junk food world, focusing on health rather than weight loss. Brenda discusses fighting cravings, practical tips for adopting a plant-based lifestyle, and the importance of community support. Her inspiring journey highlights the transition from yo-yo dieting to sustainable eating, proving that mindful choices can lead to genuine health transformations.

Neal Barnard, President of the Physicians Committee and best-selling author, dives into the surprising impact of diet on sleep quality. He reveals how fruits, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates can enhance rest, while high-protein diets and alcohol disrupt it. Listeners learn about unexpected food choices to avoid before bed and Dr. Barnard's five essential rules for better sleep. The fascinating connection between melatonin and dietary choices is also explored, challenging traditional beliefs about what to eat for a good night's sleep.

Angela Crawford, a psychologist, Food for Life instructor, and author of The Vegan Transformation, explores the unexpected psychological and emotional impacts of a plant-based diet. She discusses how going vegan can enhance emotional well-being, deepen one's sense of purpose, and even transform personal values. Angela shares insights from her study of 350 vegans, highlighting the journey of self-discovery and authenticity that often accompanies adopting this lifestyle. Listeners will uncover the profound connection between their food choices and mental health.

Dr. Roxie Becker, a specialist in muscle science and longevity, reveals that strength training is crucial for healthy aging and can be done at home, no gym required. She discusses the importance of protein—both plant-based and otherwise—and shares tips for effective muscle-building. Listeners learn about VO₂ max, its relevance to fitness, and how to improve it. Becker emphasizes that it's never too late to start building strength and maintaining muscle mass for a longer, healthier life.

Dr. Hana Kahleova, a physician and clinical researcher at the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, dives into the alarming presence of microplastics in our bodies and their potential health risks, including links to dementia and heart disease. She discusses how these tiny particles infiltrate our food supply, especially seafood, and shares tips on minimizing exposure. Discover the powerful benefits of plant-based diets in helping to eliminate microplastics from our systems, and learn practical lifestyle choices to protect your health.

In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Neal Barnard, President of the Physicians Committee and a prominent advocate for plant-based diets, dives into the dangers of ultraprocessed foods. He highlights their links to 32 diseases, from type 2 diabetes to various cancers. Listeners learn how these foods can manipulate hunger cues and the importance of distinguishing between healthy and unhealthy processed options. With practical tips for healthier eating, Dr. Barnard empowers everyone to take control of their health through mindful dietary choices.