Gut Feeling with Dr. Pal

Are your periods actually normal? And how do you know when a symptom is simply part of your menstrual cycle or something you should get checked? In this episode, Dr. Pal sits down with Dr. Tanaya Narendra, popularly known as Dr. Cuterus, for an honest and practical conversation about women’s health, periods and the changes women experience throughout their lives. They break down the questions women often Google but may hesitate to ask — from period blood colour, period pain, heavy bleeding and blood clots to irregular periods, delayed periods, vaginal discharge and breast pain. The conversation also explores mens...

Is the rice, wheat and everyday food on your plate as nutritious as you think?

In this episode Dr. Pal speaks with Ravindra Grover from HarvestPlus about the changing nutritional quality of our food, hidden hunger, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, soil health and the role of biofortification.

They explore why modern rice and wheat may contain fewer micronutrients, how iron and zinc deficiencies can contribute to malnutrition, and why being full doesn’t always mean being well-nourished.

The conversation also covers food adulteration in India, food labels, ultra-processed foods, organic vs biofortified food, ca...

In this episode of Gut Feeling with Dr. Pal, we explore how childhood trauma can quietly shape the way we think, feel, parent, work and build relationships as adults. From emotional neglect, people-pleasing and hyper-independence to loneliness, workaholism, silent treatment and difficulty asking for help, the conversation looks at how early experiences can continue to influence adult behaviour long after childhood.

Dr. Pal and his guest also unpack some less-discussed signs of unresolved childhood trauma: feeling lonely even around people, apologising just to avoid conflict, using work as an escape, struggling with vulnerability, or becoming e...

In this episode, Dr. Pal explores the fascinating connection between the brain and the gut with 11-year-old Varenya. The conversation looks at why the gut is often called the “second brain,” how nervousness can create butterflies in your stomach, and why the gut and brain constantly communicate with each other. They discuss meal timings, digestion, fibre, fruits, whole foods, junk food, ultra-processed foods, sleep, screen time, probiotics and protein, and how everyday habits can influence gut health. Varenya also shares her understanding of a “perfect day” for Gutman, the importance of outdoor play and family meals, and her own creative...

The conversation also explores Gen Z parenting, emotional resilience, healthy boundaries, trauma responses, and breaking generational patterns. 

Watch the full conversation to understand how your childhood may still be influencing who you are today and how greater awareness can help change what gets passed on to the next generation. In this episode, Dr. Pal and Dr. Riri explores the hidden impact of childhood trauma, adverse childhood experiences, emotional neglect, parenting styles, family conflicts, bullying, people pleasing, emotional triggers, anxiety, depression and relationship problems.

They discuss how experiences from childhood can inf...

Is going vegan actually healthy or harmful? In this episode Dr. Pal explores the health, nutrition and ethical debates surrounding veganism and plant-based diets. From protein, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D and Omega-3 to gut health and supplements, the conversation breaks down what people should consider before going vegan.

They discuss the realities of the meat, dairy and slaughterhouse industries, animal welfare, farming practices and whether choosing a vegan lifestyle can truly reduce animal suffering.Can you get everything your body needs without meat and dairy? Is every vegan diet automatically healthy? And what should...

Health insurance in India can be confusing—how much coverage do you actually need, why do claims get rejected, and what should you check before buying a policy?

In this episode, Dr. Pal sits down with the co-founder of Ditto Insurance to break down health insurance from A to Z.They discuss claim settlement ratios, cashless hospital networks, room-rent limits, disease-specific sub-limits, restoration benefits, pre-existing disease waiting periods, and why medical disclosure matters.

The conversation also covers insurance for diabetes, hypertension and obesity, health insurance for parents, family floater plans, employer insurance, medical inflation, and ho...

In this episode Dr. Pal explores a question most of us rarely ask, Is the water we drink actually healthy?

He speaks with a senior leader from Crompton about water quality, RO water purifiers, TDS, essential minerals, contaminants, heavy metals, microplastics, water wastage, and CDI water purification technology.

The conversation explains how RO purification removes contaminants but may also remove naturally available minerals such as calcium and magnesium, why lower TDS isn’t always better, and how CDI technology aims to retain essential minerals while reducing water wastage. They also discuss mineral ca...

In this special episode 7-year-old Agniv joins Dr. Pal for a fun, insightful and surprisingly smart conversation about gut health, food and healthy habits.From understanding good and bad gut bacteria to learning why fiber is so important, Agniv and Dr. Pal break down complex gut health concepts in a way that kids and parents can easily understand. They talk about fermented foods, curd, fruits, vegetables,  processed foods, probiotics, the digestive system and why eating a colourful 'rainbow diet' can support a healthier gut.

Dr. Pal also explains how everyday food choices can aff...

In this episode, Dr. Pal sits down with fertility and IVF expert Dr. Sulbha Arora to break down what couples should really know before beginning fertility treatment. From understanding the difference between natural conception, IUI and IVF to how age, ovarian reserve and embryo quality can affect success.Dr. Sulbha also explains IVF success rates, IVF after 35 and 40, donor eggs, embryo selection, AI in IVF, advanced incubators and the role of an experienced embryologist. The conversation also explores how couples can choose the right fertility clinic, what questions they should ask, why financial transparency matters and what an IVF...

Why are more couples struggling with infertility today? What is the best age to plan a pregnancy, and does IVF really work? In this episode of Gut Feeling with Dr. Pal, fertility specialist Dr. Sulbha Arora explains the science behind fertility, pregnancy, IVF and egg freezing.The conversation explores how fertility changes with age, why ovarian reserve may decline earlier in Indian women, and how tests such as AMH and antral follicle count can help assess reproductive health. Dr. Sulbha also explains when women should consider egg freezing and what couples should know before starting IVF.The episode also...

Heart disease is affecting younger Indians like never before. But is cooking oil really the biggest reason? Can someone who exercises every day still have three blocked arteries? And are olive oil, palm oil, ghee and seed oils as dangerous as social media makes them seem?

In this episode of Gut Feeling with Dr. Pal, Dr. Pal sits down with Dr. Varun Bansal, a leading cardiac surgeon, to separate facts from myths around heart disease, cholesterol, cooking oils, lifestyle, genetics and sudden cardiac deaths in young Indians. Through real patient stories and evidence-based research...

Struggling with bloating, constipation, IBS, acid reflux, fatty liver, gluten sensitivity or frequent digestive issues? This episode of Gut Feeling with Dr. Pal breaks down the science of gut health in a simple, practical way.

Dr. Pal is joined by gastroenterologist Dr. Shubham Vatsya to discuss why gut problems are increasing, how stress, poor sleep and night shifts affect digestion, and the warning signs that may point to serious conditions like colon or stomach cancer.

They also cover celiac disease, gluten-free diets, low FODMAP diets, Isabgol, GERD, PPI medicines...

Most people think blocked blood vessels only cause heart attacks. In this episode, Dr. Raja Gopala explains how blood clots form, what causes poor circulation, and why symptoms like leg pain, swelling, varicose veins, and skin colour changes should never be ignored. We also discuss how diabetes, smoking, prolonged sitting, and long flights affect your blood flow, along with the latest minimally invasive treatments that can help prevent serious complications. If you want to understand blood clots, vascular health, and the warning signs your legs may be giving you, this conversation is for you.

We spend thousands on skincare products, supplements, and treatments, but how much of it is backed by science? In this episode, dermatologist Dr. Geoffrey Vaz and I separate facts from myths. We discuss what really causes skin aging, whether collagen supplements actually work, the truth about Botox and fillers, Ozempic face, face yoga, sunscreen, retinol, and the biggest skincare mistakes people make. We also explore how lifestyle, diet, stress, and weight loss affect your skin. If you want healthier, younger-looking skin and evidence-based advice instead of social media trends, this episode is for you.

Most people think health is just about exercise. But what if movement could also train your focus, calm your mind, and improve your connection with your body?

In this episode, I sit with Shifu Avinash, an internationally recognized Tai Chi Grandmaster, to explore the philosophy, science, and practice of Tai Chi. We discuss focus, stress, healthy aging, mind-body integration, gut-brain connection, and why Tai Chi is often called “meditation in motion.”

Whether you're curious about Tai Chi, looking for a new way to stay active, or interested in combining movement with mindfulness, this conversation will give...

In this episode, I discuss with psychologist Dr. Saranya about something silently affecting modern life, screens, gaming, social media, validation, attention spans, emotional trauma and the way constant stimulation is changing our minds and behaviour.

From childhood emotional wounds to dopamine addiction and modern parenting struggles, this is a deeply important conversation about mental health, relationships and the digital world we now live in.

A conversation every parent, adult and teenager should hear.

In this episode, Dr. Saranya and I speak about modern family life honestly, screen time during meals, emotionally stressful homes, parenting conflicts, teenage struggles, emotional distance between couples, and how family fights quietly affect us growing up.

We also discuss parenting in the US vs India, emotional intelligence in children, relationships, boundaries, sex education, and why peaceful homes matter more than “perfect parenting.”

I think many people will see their own family experiences in this conversation.

In this episode, I sit with Krish Ashok author of Masala labs, to break down the biggest food myths Indians still believe, from burnt roti and cancer to dal as “protein” and the fear around oil, Teflon, and microplastics. We go beyond viral claims and look at what actually matters for your health: habits, quantity, and real risk. If you’ve ever felt confused by conflicting nutrition advice, this conversation will help you think clearly about food again, using science, not fear.

In this episode,I speak with Padma Shri Dr. Khader Valli, the “Millet Man of India,” about how to improve gut health, digestion, and the right way to start a millet-based diet. Learn about fermented millet drinks like ambali, soaking grains, gut microbiome, fiber digestion, and why rice vs millets matters. We also discuss hunger control, processed foods, and how traditional diets support better health, energy, and disease prevention. Watch this completely to know about millets and if you found this helpful, like, share it with someone who needs this, and subscribe for more.

In this episode, I speak with Dr. B. Sesikeran former Director of National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), about why modern Indian diets are making us unhealthy.We break down low-protein diets, carb-heavy plates, low fiber intake, anemia, vitamin deficiencies, and the myths around millets, milk, ghee, and ‘healthy’ packaged foods.Dr. B. Sesikeran also shares how refined foods, poor food choices, and low physical activity are silently driving diabetes and other lifestyle diseases in India.We also touch upon how everyday staples like the atta we use, fit into our diets, and what actually makes a meal balanced or harm...

In this podcast, I speak with Dr. Lakshmi Sundar on gut health, plant-based diet, protein myths, rice, and ultra-processed foods. We break down how your daily diet impacts diabetes, weight loss, inflammation, and chronic disease. From whole foods vs processed foods to red meat risks, B12 deficiency, and microbiome health, this episode clears common nutrition myths with science. If you struggle with bloating, gut issues, or confusing diet advice, this is for you. Learn how to eat better without extreme dieting and improve your long-term health naturally.

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Nisha Chellam MD about metabolic health, insulin resistance, fatty liver, gut health, and weight loss. We break down why you feel tired, how snacking and meal frequency affect metabolism, and the real causes of belly fat, poor digestion, and hormonal imbalance. We also discuss stress, sleep, and time-restricted eating for long-term health. If you’re dealing with fatigue, fatty liver, PCOS, or weight gain, this episode will help you understand the root cause and fix it naturally.In this episode, I speak with Dr. Nisha Chellam MD about metabolic health, insulin resistance, fa...

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Meera Raghavan, a senior obstetrician and gynecologist, about hormonal imbalance, perimenopause, PMS, and menopause in women. We break down early signs, the impact of stress and cortisol, sleep issues, mood changes, and symptoms like bloating and fatigue. We also discuss women’s health, gut health, and how lifestyle factors affect hormones. This episode will help each women understand better on what’s happening inside your body and what to do next.

Are millets actually better than rice for gut health? In this episode of Gut Feeling, I speak with Padma Shri Dr. Khader Valli, the “Millet Man of India,” about how millets, fiber, and fermented foods can support the gut microbiome, improve digestion, and help manage blood sugar and diabetes. We explore the science behind rice vs millets, gut bacteria, and why modern diets may be harming metabolic health. If you care about gut health, microbiome diversity, fiber-rich foods, and traditional Indian nutrition, this conversation is for you.

In this episode, I speak with Mr. Nandakumar, CEO and Co-Founder of ‪@KshetraFoods‬ about the importance of ingredient quality in modern food. We discuss the truth about cooking oils, spices, and food processing, and why today’s market often prioritizes cheap production over nutritional value.We also explore how to preserve the potency and healing properties of food, and why food should be medicine. If you care about gut health, real ingredients, and understanding what goes into your food, this conversation will change how you think about the ingredients you use every day.

In this podcast, I speak with Dr. Mahipal about eye health in the digital age, why screen time increases myopia, how dry eyes and blue light cause eye strain, and the silent risks of glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts. We break down simple habits like the 20–20–20 rule, UV protection, and safe use of eye drops. We also cover modern cataract surgery, LASIK/SMILE options, and contact lens safety. So you can protect your vision with science-backed clarity.

In this episode, I speak with Aathitiyan Somu founder & CEO of CookdTV about biryani, Indian food habits, calories, poriyals, Salads, gut health, and why tasty food is often calorie-dense. We break down why restaurant food tastes better, why South Indian meals are carb-heavy, and how to balance taste with health. We also discuss weight loss basics, portion control, protein vs fiber, salads, sambar, poriyal, pasta, and how to choose better food brands by reading labels. Practical, no-nonsense food advice for everyday eating

In this podcast, I speak with Dr. Priyanka Udawat about the real causes of gas, bloating, acidity, IBS, and poor digestion. We discuss gut health, the gut–brain connection, stress, screen time, sleep, food timing, and common nutrition mistakes that affect digestive wellness. This episode explains why acidity medicines often fail and how lifestyle medicine, mindful eating, and simple daily habits can significantly improve digestive health and long-term wellbeing.We also discuss the importance of adequate iodine intake for children, especially its role in supporting learning, memory, and attention. With Aashirvaad Iodised Salt, just one spoon can meet up to...

In this episode, I sit with Dr. Nrutya to unpack why Indians develop diabetes, heart disease, and other lifestyle diseases much earlier than expected. We talk about the Indian diet, protein intake, ghee and saturated fat, grains, vegetables, dairy, and why many people feel confused despite trying to eat “healthy.” This conversation goes beyond calories and weight loss and explains how plate balance, food quality, cooking methods, and everyday habits affect blood sugar, insulin resistance, gut health, and long-term metabolic health. We also discuss lifestyle medicine, plant-predominant diets, disease prevention, and why food often matters more than medication when it c...

In this episode of the Dr. Pal Podcast, I speaks with Dr. Moinudeen, expert Bariatric Surgeon from Manipal Hospital, about the real truth behind weight loss surgery.We discuss:✔️ How bariatric surgery works✔️ Safety, risks & common myths✔️ Cost & long-term results✔️ Pre & post-surgery lifestyle careIf you’re struggling with obesity or considering weight-loss surgery, this episode gives you clear, science-backed answers.🎧 Watch till the end for expert insights on sustainable weight management.

In this episode, I speak with orthopedic pain specialist Dr Bharath Chidige about why neck pain, back pain, knee pain and constant body pain are becoming common in urban Indians. We discuss tech neck, phone posture, sitting jobs, wrong exercise habits, and why pain before 40 is not normal. We also talk about non-surgical pain treatments, when MRI is needed, and how surgery can often be delayed.This episode explains what usually isn’t discussed in clinic visits. Watch the full conversation for clarity.

In this episode, I talk with Dr Prema, about breast and cervical cancer and why they’re rising at younger ages in India and how early detection can save lives. We break common myths around painless breast lumps, mammograms, chemotherapy, and cancer screening by age. Dr Prema explains the role of hormones, obesity, PCOS, breastfeeding, and lifestyle, and also covers cervical cancer prevention, HPV vaccination, and Pap smear screening. A must-watch conversation for every woman and family.

In this episode, Dr. Siddharth Warrier, a neurologist breaks down how stress, dopamine, sleep, habits, and modern life are actively rewiring your brain. We explore the real difference between stress, fatigue, and burnout, why willpower keeps failing, how dopamine traps keep you stuck starting but not finishing, and what actually helps your brain recover.This conversation explains neuroplasticity in simple terms , how your brain adapts to pressure, scrolling, hustle culture, poor sleep, and chronic stress and how you can rewire it safely without burning out.If you’re struggling with focus, anxiety, mental fatigue, or burnout, this episode will he...

In this episode, I sit with Dr. Venkatesh Movva, a sports and regenerative medicine specialist, to break down how modern, non-surgical treatments are changing the way we manage knee pain, joint problems, and sports injuries. We talk about why muscle strength and movement matter, when surgery is actually needed, and how regenerative therapies can support healing and recovery. A practical, science-backed conversation for anyone dealing with chronic pain, injuries, or looking to stay active and mobile as they age.

In this podcast, I talk with Dr. Niveditha Kamaraj, an OBGYN, about intimacy and desire in Indian marriages. We explore why female desire changes after marriage, common causes of low libido in women, painful sex, emotional disconnect, and why many couples lose intimacy over time. We also discuss how emotional safety, stress, hormones, and daily life pressures impact sexual health, especially for Indian women. If you’re married and struggling with loss of spark, intimacy after marriage, or emotional distance, this episode offers clear, science-backed answers and practical insights.

In this episode, I sit down with Dr Sheela Nambiar to break down everything people are confused about when it comes to exercise, muscle, fat loss, and long-term health. We talk about why Indians lose muscle early, why the weighing scale is misleading, how exercise changes the brain, mood, and stress levels, and why strength training is essential after 30. We also discuss exercise for busy people, beginners, women, PCOS, diabetes control, and how to rewire negative thoughts. A clear, science-backed conversation on building a healthy life through exercise

Heart attacks and heart disease are rising faster than ever, especially among young Indians, and in this episode I sit down with a leading cardiologist to uncover what’s really hurting your heart. We talk about passive smoking, stress, LDL, HDL, sugar, lifestyle habits, and why many young people suffer from early heart problems. You’ll learn practical ways to protect your heart, prevent heart attacks, and understand the tests that truly matter. If you want to keep your heart healthy and your family safe, this conversation could genuinely save your life. Watch the full episode now.

Health insurance in India is confusing, expensive, and often feels like a gamble. In today’s episode, I sit down with Dr. Praveen Raj, a doctor and the CEO of one of India’s largest hospital chains, to break down the truth behind medical bills, insurance approvals, rejections, cashless claims, and the real relationship between hospitals and insurance companies. If you’ve ever wondered what your policy actually covers, why claims get denied, or how to choose the right insurance for your family, this conversation will save you stress, money, and heartbreak. Watch this before you buy another policy.

In today’s episode, I sit down with dermatologist Dr. Aanchal to break down the biggest skincare mistakes most of us don’t even know we’re making.

From using the wrong products and overdoing routines to the truth about vitamin C, retinol, oily skin and home remedies, we unpack everything with science and simple, practical solutions.

If you’ve ever wondered why your skincare isn’t working or how to finally build a routine that keeps your skin healthy, balanced and acne-free, this conversation is for you. Stay till the end, your skin will thank you...