Being committed to a vegan lifestyle, and as a qualified naturopath, I have been able to promote veganism as a superior healthy dietary choice. At the outset of my studies in the mid-1970s, I was a long-time vegetarian. Influenced by a group of students, I had embraced veganism by the time I graduated. Following graduation I lectured part-time while establishing my home practice.
Naturopathy, as taught in the London College, is a comprehensive 4-year medical course, giving students a thorough grounding in anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, nutrition, gynaecology and paediatrics, and with two years of clinical experience. As naturopathy embraces different types of treatment, including osteopathy, many of my patients over the years have presented with acute spinal and joint problems. Treatment of the presenting symptom always includes a prescription for dietary change. Removing all animal products in the patient’s diet is an essential component of my naturopathic regime, and gives amazingly fast improvement in the topical presenting symptom. For non-osteopathic patients, many of whom present with long-time pathologies, the change to a vegan diet always has a positive outcome.
Knowledge of metabolism and organ function is imperative, and various therapies to work on the liver, pancreas, heart, kidneys, lungs, and colon, work towards improvement in circulation and function. General well-being is a measurable outcome of a professionally prescribed vegan diet.
There is no ONE perfect vegan diet for all patients. Differences in age, fitness, and genetic types all require specific focus for a prescribed diet, as well as consideration of season and climate. In a plant-based diet, consideration of seasonal variation is very important. Now that most plant-food types are available all year round, with imports from around the world, many patients have developed food intolerances due to year-round use of certain fruits, vegetables and nuts. It is noticeable that the vegan emphasis on soy, as an excellent source of protein, is a point of contention amongst orthodox practitioners. A balanced plant-based diet is not dependent on soy, and all nutritional requirements are supplied by a wide variety of plant types.
Human health and fitness is so important in advocating veganism. Although for vegans this is the ethical and rational choice, we have to show that we don’t just get by without animal products, but are distinctly healthier and fitter on a plant-based diet. This is my role as a vegan naturopath.
Special thanks to Butterflies Katz for including this in her compelling essay collection highlighting diversity amongst vegans:
I’M A VEGAN: One Movement, Many Voices.
