Special Programs

In addition to providing medical care, Barnard Medical Center physicians, James Loomis, MD, and Vanita Rahman, MD, and registered dietitian, Shannon Menhardt, RD, lead a variety of educational programs that are helpful in weight management, diabetes control, and binge and emotional eating.

Binge and Emotional Eating Program and Study

Vanita Rahman, MD, and Shannon Menhardt, RD, have partnered with clinical psychologist Liana Abascal, PhD, to help you tackle binge and emotional eating. This is a 12-week, Zoom-based program offered by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, with weekly live classes that include peer-to-peer support, education, and helpful tips.

Program dates and times: June 10 to Aug. 26, 2026; 12 weekly meetings on Wednesdays, 12-1 p.m. ET

The program is ongoing, and registration is currently closed.

Diabetes Reversal Online Program

A healthy plant-based diet can lower blood sugar levels and even reverse type 2 diabetes. This program offered by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine will help you improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels while following a plant-based diet. Vanita Rahman, MD, and Shannon Menhardt, RD, will provide you with valuable scientific information, practical tips, recipes, and ample time for group interaction and support.

Additionally, you may register for DXA scans to assess body composition before and after the program. DXA scans are one of the most accurate tests to assess body composition, and body composition plays a crucial role in insulin sensitivity and diabetes management.

Program dates and times: July 10 to Oct. 2, 2026; Fridays, 12-1 p.m. ET (no class on Aug. 14) via Zoom

Registration and additional information: https://www.pcrm.org/events/drop