Q: As a medical doctor and scientist, what natural health practices do you embrace?

A: when it comes to nutrition and health, a general rule of thumb is that closer to nature is better. Human beings and food have interacted on this planet for a very long time. Our metabolism and physiology evolved in response to the natural foods to which we had access. These are the foods we are, in essence, designed to run on. The more we alter foods from their natural state, the less likely it is that they are well suited for the needs of our bodies, and our health. Of course, foods can be modified in ways that make them more nutritious; nature does not have all the answers! But usually, the more we stray from nature, the more we stray from health.
Personally, I and my family consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, legumes, nuts, and seeds. When we buy items in bags, boxes, bottles, and jars, we look for short ingredient lists of natural items. A long list of ingredients, particularly non-natural ingredients, pretty reliably identifies a product not well suited for human consumption!

Q: What advice or guidance can you provide to someone who is just beginning to incorporate natural and organic products into their lifestyle?

A: First, focus on the fundamentals of good health and nutrition. Generally, organic means good for you, and good for the planet. But don’t be gullible about it. Organic jelly beans are still jelly beans! So think healthful, nutritious foods- vegetables, fruits, and whole grains- first and foremost. Then, focus on organic to derive additional benefits. You avoid or minimize chemical exposures that might very well be harmful. And you protect the planet’s health along with your own!

But don’t make perfect the enemy of good. Shop organic when you can, but even when you can’t, focus on achieving the best nutrition possible. Good health and good eating become a habit, and get easier over time. Your skill power will gradually increase, and you’ll get better and better at finding healthful, nutritious, organic options- and making them part of a diet you can love, that loves you back!

Q: As a medical doctor, how did you become introduced to natural and organic products?

A: I think we all grow up knowing about organics. My interest in nutrition made the topic particularly important for me. I have learned a lot from experts at organic food companies, such as Nature’s Path cereals, and Stoneyfield Farm. And I have come to appreciate more and more that we all have a responsible for the health of the planet, along with the health of ourselves and our families. Natural and organic foods are a way of pursuing personal and planetary health at the same time. You don’t need to be a doctor to recognize the value and importance of that.

Q: Do you and your family eat natural and organic food?

A: Yes. Organic is not a religion with us, but it is important. We eat foods close to nature. And we eat organic whenever possible.

Q: How do you maintain balance in your life with your busy schedule?

A: I think a balanced life begins with a balanced perspective; knowing what matters. I love my wife, and I love my children. I never allow myself to lose sight of how fortunate I am to have this wonderful family. That keeps me mentally strong. As for health and fitness, I don’t wish for them – I make them a priority. I exercise daily not because i have time to - but because it’s a priority. My schedule is too demanding for me not to exercise! Being fit and healthy keeps me strong, energetic, focused, and enthusiastic. I have to invest time in exercise- but it pays me back with interest. And my whole family is committed to good nutrition. A high performance body needs and deserves high performance fuel. We love one another; we want one another to be healthy and vital so we support one another’s commitment to eating well. In unity, there is strength. My family is my strength.