Dr Pal Manickam: Taking A Visionary Approach To Healing And Wellness Through Gut Health
Dr Pal Manickam
Co-Founder
Pal Manickam, Co-Founder of Dr Pal’s Newme, is a seasoned expert and a passionate advocate for gut health, sharing valuable insights with the world on the topic. Newme is a groundbreaking wellness program that takes a holistic approach to addressing metabolic disorders by utilizing the benefits of time-restricted eating.
In a personal interview, Dr Pal opened up about his journey, the challenges he has faced, and his vision for the future.
Please provide a brief overview of your professional background and experience. What drives and inspires you in your daily routines?
I began my medical journey at PSG Medical College, Coimbatore, earning my MBBS from 2000 to 2006. Driven by my middle-class roots and a desire for quicker career stability, I sought opportunities in the United States, attracted by its advanced medical practices. However, with limited visas for foreign medical graduates at the time, I pursued a Master’s in Public Health (MPH) from 2006 to 2008, during which I completed all three USMLE licensing exams.
This effort led me to a residency from 2008 to 2011, and advanced training in Gastroenterology and Endoscopy from 2012 to 2015. For the past nine years, I’ve passionately practised as a gastroenterologist, fueled by the belief that gut health is the cornerstone of overall well-being. Whether it's diabetes, hypertension, obesity, or even mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, I see the gut as the key to healing.
This conviction drives my mission to empower patients and transform lives every day.
Briefly tell us about your wellness programs designed to make lasting changes to people's lifestyles.
In my first five years of practice, I saw a growing number of patients from the Indian community, many of whom struggled with chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity due to poor gut health. I created a simple protocol, with help from my physician assistant, and the results were incredible.
My Google reviews quickly hit a 5-star rating. Recognized as a gut health expert, I expanded the program through social media, reaching over 1,500 patients and helping many reverse diabetes, improve blood pressure, and enhance metabolic health. Our focused, high-quality care has made a real difference, especially for Indian professionals whose disrupted circadian rhythms worsen gut issues. The success stories and testimonials I receive continue to fuel my passion for promoting sustainable, medication-free wellness through gut health.
Can you share insights into your leadership approach? What principles or strategies do you adhere to as a leader?
Throughout my career, I’ve em¬braced leadership roles such as Director of Endoscopy and Program Director, where my approachable style fostered open communication. Transitioning to social media and leading Newme Gut Health pro¬gram taught me invaluable lessons in delegation. I lead a team of 35 with a focus on inclusivity, autonomy, and recognition. By mentoring new members and granting them 90 percent independence, I ensure efficiency and empowerment. Our outcome-based incentives boost motivation, fostering collaboration and innovation, leading to streamlined operations and a thriving creative environment.
How do you keep yourself up-to-date with ongoing industry trends?
Balancing social media and medical advancements has been challenging, but it’s allowed me to carve a unique niche. I focus on areas that resonate with me, like circadian rhythm research, and staying updated by following top experts. On the other hand, I study the art of stand-up comedy to refine my delivery, ensuring it’s engaging and relatable to my audience. By blending these two passions, I’ve pioneered a new genre I like to call 'MedCom', medical education delivered with a comedic twist.
Briefly tell us about your wellness programs designed to make lasting changes to people's lifestyles.
In my first five years of practice, I saw a growing number of patients from the Indian community, many of whom struggled with chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity due to poor gut health. I created a simple protocol, with help from my physician assistant, and the results were incredible.
My Google reviews quickly hit a 5-star rating. Recognized as a gut health expert, I expanded the program through social media, reaching over 1,500 patients and helping many reverse diabetes, improve blood pressure, and enhance metabolic health. Our focused, high-quality care has made a real difference, especially for Indian professionals whose disrupted circadian rhythms worsen gut issues. The success stories and testimonials I receive continue to fuel my passion for promoting sustainable, medication-free wellness through gut health.
Can you share insights into your leadership approach? What principles or strategies do you adhere to as a leader?
Throughout my career, I’ve em¬braced leadership roles such as Director of Endoscopy and Program Director, where my approachable style fostered open communication. Transitioning to social media and leading Newme Gut Health pro¬gram taught me invaluable lessons in delegation. I lead a team of 35 with a focus on inclusivity, autonomy, and recognition. By mentoring new members and granting them 90 percent independence, I ensure efficiency and empowerment. Our outcome-based incentives boost motivation, fostering collaboration and innovation, leading to streamlined operations and a thriving creative environment.
How do you keep yourself up-to-date with ongoing industry trends?
Balancing social media and medical advancements has been challenging, but it’s allowed me to carve a unique niche. I focus on areas that resonate with me, like circadian rhythm research, and staying updated by following top experts. On the other hand, I study the art of stand-up comedy to refine my delivery, ensuring it’s engaging and relatable to my audience. By blending these two passions, I’ve pioneered a new genre I like to call 'MedCom', medical education delivered with a comedic twist.
It’s an approach that not only educates but also entertains, making complex health concepts more accessible and impactful.
Could you reflect on some of the toughest challenges you have encountered in your journey so far? How did you overcome them and what did you learn from them?
One of the toughest moments in my journey came on social media, where my science-based views on food habits sparked backlash. Critics labelled me a fearmonger, which hit hard, especially since my social media work was a passion project alongside my full-time gastroenterology career.
At one point, I nearly walked away from it all. But during a talk show in Malaysia, a 42-year-old woman shared how my intermittent fasting approach helped her lose weight and conceive after years of infertility. Her heartfelt gratitude reignited my purpose, reminding me that even amidst criticism, my work is making a real impact. Since then, I’ve embraced the journey, driven by stories like hers that reaffirm the value of what I do.
What is the future destination you are heading towards?
Looking ahead, my journey is driven by a belief in good karma. I believe that doing good for others brings positivity in return. This philosophy shapes my work and my involvement in a nonprofit. I’m passionate about addressing India’s rising diabetes crisis, fueled by ultra-processed foods and a lack of health awareness.
My mission is to reverse this trend by promoting gut health and sustainable lifestyle changes, starting with one family at a time. Transforming one person’s health inspires their entire family, and preventing health disasters is the greatest reward, fueling my commitment to lasting change.
Dr Pal Manickam, Co-Founder, Dr Pal’s Newme
Dr Pal Manickam is a highly experienced physician with a strong focus on gut health and its impact on overall wellness. With years of practice in the medical field, he is dedicated to helping patients improve their health through evidence-based, holistic approaches.
Could you reflect on some of the toughest challenges you have encountered in your journey so far? How did you overcome them and what did you learn from them?
One of the toughest moments in my journey came on social media, where my science-based views on food habits sparked backlash. Critics labelled me a fearmonger, which hit hard, especially since my social media work was a passion project alongside my full-time gastroenterology career.
At one point, I nearly walked away from it all. But during a talk show in Malaysia, a 42-year-old woman shared how my intermittent fasting approach helped her lose weight and conceive after years of infertility. Her heartfelt gratitude reignited my purpose, reminding me that even amidst criticism, my work is making a real impact. Since then, I’ve embraced the journey, driven by stories like hers that reaffirm the value of what I do.
My advice to healthcare leaders is simple but crucial, 'stay ethical'
What is the future destination you are heading towards?
Looking ahead, my journey is driven by a belief in good karma. I believe that doing good for others brings positivity in return. This philosophy shapes my work and my involvement in a nonprofit. I’m passionate about addressing India’s rising diabetes crisis, fueled by ultra-processed foods and a lack of health awareness.
My mission is to reverse this trend by promoting gut health and sustainable lifestyle changes, starting with one family at a time. Transforming one person’s health inspires their entire family, and preventing health disasters is the greatest reward, fueling my commitment to lasting change.
Dr Pal Manickam, Co-Founder, Dr Pal’s Newme
Dr Pal Manickam is a highly experienced physician with a strong focus on gut health and its impact on overall wellness. With years of practice in the medical field, he is dedicated to helping patients improve their health through evidence-based, holistic approaches.