My switch to a plant-based diet started with the intention of using my decision-making power to improve my and my family’s health. Years ago, I watched Forks Over Knives, which planted a seed. At the time, my reasons for making a life change must not have been strong enough because, while I found the documentary compelling, I did not execute a complete dietary overhaul.

In 2020, everyone had the same rude awakening: the COVID-19 virus struck everywhere in the world, but not equally. Some people were more susceptible to the devastating effects of the virus. Chronic illnesses or poor health habits increase the chances of a bad outcome from COVID-19 infection. Adding whole plant foods to our diets can improve overall health in innumerable ways, including increasing resilience against infections like COVID-19.

My reasons for changing my eating pattern were more personal. I learned that eating a whole food plant-based diet reduces breast cancer risk. Thank you, Dr. Kristi Funk, MD, for writing Breasts: The Owners Manual to explain the science behind this assertion. I also read Dr. Gregor’s How Not to Die and Dr. T. Collin Campbell’s The China Study around the same time. There is a strong history of breast cancer in my family, and I have three daughters. I aim to educate them about how to improve their chances of avoiding breast cancer rather than living in fear of it as I have. Learning about the connection between diet, lifestyle, and breast cancer was a light bulb moment for me.

Our health does not have to be and should not be a passive process reliant on the medical system for management. The modern medical system is very good at treating severe, sudden illness. I practice in the acute psychiatric setting, where we are an excellent asset for treating acute illnesses. My husband is an interventional cardiologist. Thanks to cardiac catheterization, he saves people’s lives in minutes.

I would never diminish the vital work being done daily. More to the point, it is essential to know that we don’t have to wait around until an illness crops up. Instead, we can change our habits to reduce the likelihood of needing active medical treatments. It bears reminding that preventative medicine in the form of routine check-ups and screening tests is essential. No matter how much we optimize our lifestyles, problems are much better treated when identified early.

I want doctors to feel empowered to educate themselves and patients and offer evidence-based advice about disease prevention. Most of us do not feel equipped to do this. We can start with intention. I intend to educate myself and at least gain an awareness of the choices available for achieving and maintaining good health while hopefully setting a good example in the process.

Do you feel comfortable talking to your medical providers about how food impacts your health?

*As always, this website and blog information is not medical advice. Please consult your medical professional if you are changing your health behaviors, including starting a new diet or exercise program.