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Conferences and Conventions

The organization's first convention took place in April 1949, during which the name American Natural Hygiene Society was officially adopted. Dr. Herbert Shelton, a key figure in the movement, played a pivotal role in securing the necessary funds for the event's preparations. He also became the society’s first president, authored the organization's constitution, and assumed the lion’s share of the lecture duties at this inaugural gathering and for many years thereafter.

The first convention was held in 1949 and was co-chaired by Irving Davidson and Symon Gould. They oversaw a week of educational sessions. Among the distinguished speakers were Dr. Herbert Shelton, Dr. Christopher Gian-Cursio, Dr. William Esser, Dr. Gerald Benesh, Dr. Jesse Mercer Gehman, and Jack Dunn Trop. All of these men would eventually serve as ANHS presidents and help further the Society's mission. They, along with the other ANHS presidents, have left a lasting legacy. These early gatherings laid the foundation for what would become an enduring legacy of health education. We are indebted to these men and women who have done so much to further the cause of Natural Hygiene.

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Conference Year: 2026, 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, (2020 canceled - COVID), 2019, 2018, 2017, (2013-2016: conferences were not held), 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001 (no conference), 2000, 1999, 1998, 1997, 1996, 1995, 1994, 1993, 1992, 1991, 1990, 1989, 1988, 1987, 1986, 1985, 1984, 1983, 1982, 1981, 1980, 1979, 1978, 1977, 1976, 1975, 1974, 1973, 1972, 1971, 1970, 1969, 1968, 1967, 1966, 1965, 1964, 1963, 1962, 1961, 1960, 1959, 1958, 1957, 1956, 1955, 1954, 1953, 1952, 1951, 1950, 1949.

2026: Holiday Inn, Independence, OH - (June 25-28) - 70th conference

Photo Courtesy of Mark Huberman

KeyNote Speakers

  • Kristi Funk, MD, FACS, DipABLM: How Diet & Lifestyle Affect Breast Cancer Risk & Outcomes
  • Columbus Batiste, MD: Nutritional Resilience—Protecting the Heart in a Stressed World
Click here to see the program

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

2025: Holiday Inn, Independence, OH - (June 26-29) - 69th conference


Photo Courtesy of Mark Huberman

Click here to see the program.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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2024: Holiday Inn, Independence, OH - (June  27- June 30) -  68th Conference

Photo Courtesy of Mark Huberman
View Conference Highlights in the Health Science Magazine

Click here to see the program.

The sold-out 2024 NHA Conference was nothing short of extraordinary! It exceeded even the highest expectations — from the flavorful Vitamix welcome reception and perfect weather for morning hikes and fitness classes, to an inspiring lineup of speakers, including the legendary Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn (with Anne and Jane!), Dr. Neal Barnard, Dr. Joel Fuhrman, and many more. Attendees enjoyed abundant, delicious SOS-free buffet meals, an unforgettable evening of live music, and the kind of connection and community that only the NHA can deliver.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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2023: Holiday Inn, Independence, OH - (June 22 - June 26) - 67th Conference

Photo Courtesy of Mark Huberman

View Conference Highlights in the Health Science Magazine

Click here to see the program.

The 2023 NHA Conference celebrated its 75th Anniversary! It surpassed nearly everyone's high expectations, from the tasty Vitamix reception to the perfect weather for morning hikes and exercise programs, to the fabulous lineup of speakers, and, of course, the bountiful, delicious, and SOS-free meal buffets. 

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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2022: Embassy Suites, Independence, Ohio - (June  23 - June 27) -  66th Conference

Photo courtesy of Mark Huberman

Click here to see the program.

The conference, which was one of the most diverse in NHA history, had an energizing kickoff on Thursday evening by Cleveland’s own Jane Esselstyn, a dynamic, first-time presenter for the NHA who led everyone dancing around the ballroom, followed by her patented humorous-but-educational presentation, “Benefits of Plant-Based Eating—Above and Below the Belt.” Our lead sponsor, Vitamix, made the evening even more special by hosting a reception featuring their amazing smoothies, plant-based hors d'oeuvres, and a demonstration of their great new products by Chef Adam.

The conference formally kicked off on Friday afternoon with a welcome by Mark and Wanda Huberman, an inspiring lecture by NHA’s Director of Health Education, Dr. Frank Sabatino, an excellent food demo by Brittany Jaroudi, and an informative lecture on water-only fasting by Dr. Nathan Gershfeld. Following the NHA’s delicious and endless buffet dinner, the attendees were treated to an uplifting keynote address by cardiologist Dr. Columbus Batiste, who, in turn, was as inspired by us as we were by him. The remainder of the weekend was filled with an array of incredible speakers, including Dr. Joel Fuhrman, Dr. Stephan Esser, Dr. Alan Goldhamer, and renowned dietitian Brenda Davis, as well as a food demo by our own Dillon Holmes.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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2021: Embassy Suites, Independence, Ohio  - (Jun 24 - June 27) - 65th Conference

Photo Courtesy of Mark Huberman
View Conference Highlights in the Health Science Magazine 2021

Click here to see the program.

Our excellent speakers and presenters returned in force to provide inspiring lectures, impressive food demonstrations, and energizing exercise and yoga classes. Our Friday morning pre-conference hikes to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park showcased nature at its scenic best. The hotel staff could not have been more accommodating; their head chef (“Chef Sam”) and his kitchen crew outdid themselves in preparing our 100% SOS-free buffets. The weather was magnificent, and our attendees enjoyed a weekend of fantastic fun and fellowship, experiencing an extraordinary sense of long-overdue community among adherents to our lifestyle.

One of the things that made the 2021 NHA Conference so special was that we were the only event at the hotel, and the meals offered to guests—even those not part of our group—were our specially curated, whole-food, plant-based, SOS-free meals. Another first for our 2021 event is that we were able to offer a livestream option for those unable to attend. More than 700 people from over 23 countries took advantage of this option and actively participated, sharing their questions and comments.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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2020: Conference canceled due to Covid

2019: Cleveland Airport Marriott, Cleveland, OH - (June 27- 30) - 64th Conference

Photo Courtesy of Mark Huberman
View Conference Highlights in the Health Science Magazine - Summer 2019

Click here to see the program.

The 2019 sold-out Conference once again showcased the NHA at its best! It offered a weekend of extraordinary education, unrivaled meals, amazing fun and fellowship, and a true sense of community for those who adhere to our lifestyle. We had an all-star lineup of speakers packed into a memorable three-day weekend that conference goers would be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in the world. In addition to return presentations by NHA stalwarts, Drs. Joel Fuhrman, Alan Goldhamer, Stephan Esser, Frank Sabatino, Greg Fitzgerald, andPam Popper. This year, we were able to add inspiring lectures by the legendary Dr. Neal Barnard (our keynote speaker), the amazing Chef AJ, Victoria Moran, and John Pierre. We were also honored to introduce our conferees to Dr. Nathan Gershfeld (a protégé of Dr. Alan Goldhamer), who operates the Fasting Escape Retreat Center in Yorba Linda, California.

Keynote speaker: Dr. Neal Barnard: “Avoiding Alzheimer’s: Power Foods for the Brain.”

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Michelle Vakili: Yoga
  • Vitamix: Appetizers
  • Documentary: The Game Changers - followed by ( Q&A with Drs. Pam Popper, Greg Fitzgerald, Nathan Gershfeld, and John Pierre)
  • John Pierre: Fall Prevention and Balance Training; “Love and Compassion: The Universal Antidotes”
  • Cleveland Trolley Tour, Rock-N-Roll Hall of Fame, Guided Hike to Cleveland Metro Park (Mike Gullo and Dr. Victoria Li)
  • Dr. Greg Fitzgerald: “The 5 Keys to Stop Falling Apart in 21 Days”; “How Relevant is Natural Hygiene in Our High-tech Medicalized
  • Victoria Moran: “Plant-Based Living for Slow-Motion Aging”
  • Dr. Nathan Gershfeld: “Balance: Living Healthy in an Unhealthy World”
  • Mark Huberman: Welcome by the President
  • Mary-Louise Burt: Restorative Yoga
  • Jay Cohen: Yoga
  • John Pierre: Exercise to Fine-Tune the Brain & Nervous System; Agility Skill & Coordination Training
  • Dr. Pam Popper: “The Censorship Mentality: Scientific Fraud and Academic Freedom in Health Care”
  • Dr. Neal Barnard: “A Nutritional Approach to Type 2 Diabetes”
  • Dr. Frank Sabatino: “The Impact of Stress on Health, Disease, Aging and Weight Loss”; “Plant Exclusive Nutrition and the Gut-Brain Connection: The Impact on Inflammation, Heart Disease, Cancer-Anxiety and Depression”
  • Dr. Stephan Esser: “Autoimmune Disease: Quelling the Fire Within”; “The Intersection of Orthopedic Medicine, Movement and Nutrition: Why What You Do and How You Move Affects Your Orthopedic Health”
  • Dr. Alan Goldhamer: “The Transformation of Clinical Fasting from Quackery to Cutting-edge Research”
  • Panel Discussion: “The Ethical Imperative: Eating for an Enlightened World” (Dr. Frank Sabatino, Victoria Moran, and John Pierre)
  • Chef AJ: “Ten Commandments for Overcoming Your Weight-loss Obstacles”; Cooking Demonstration
  • Dr. Joel Fuhrman: “Applying Principles of Human Longevity to Slow Aging”; “Cooking Techniques and Recipes for Great Health
  • Talent Show hosted by Mark Epstein
  • Q&A Fasting (Dr. Alan Goldhamer, Dr. Gracie Yuen, and Dr. Nathan Gershfeld)
  • Mark Huberman: Conference Wrap-up with NHA President.
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2018: Cleveland Airport Marriott, Cleveland, OH - (June 28 - July 1) - 63rd Conference

Photo Courtesy of Mark Huberman
View Conference Highlights in the Health Science Magazine - Summer 2018

Click here to see the program.

The 2018 NHA Conference was one for the history books! The event was sold out—and from the many cards and emails we have received (several of which are reprinted in this issue), it was, by all accounts, an unqualified success and a fantastic experience for those in attendance. We had another all-star lineup of speakers packed into one three-day weekend that conference-goers would be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. Our attendees were treated to not only amazing return presentations by Drs. Joel Fuhrman, Alan Goldhamer, Stephan Esser, Joel Kahn, Pam Popper, Greg Fitzgerald, and Gracie Yuen, but this year we were able to add inspiring lectures by the legendary Dr. Frank Sabatino (a long-time NHA favorite) and energetic next-generation newcomers, Drs. Anthony Lim, Asa and Joanna Frey, and the amazing Jon McMahon, creator of the iThrive documentary series.

An unexpected yet remarkable aspect of this year’s conference was that, for many in attendance, our three-day weekend actually turned into a four-day weekend! Since we had over 100 attendees arriving on Thursday evening, we arranged unique Friday morning events, including a trolley tour of Cleveland, a trip to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and a guided hike to the beautiful Rocky River Reservation of the Cleveland Metro Parks.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Lolly the Trolley Tour of Cleveland, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Tour
  • Mike Gullo and Steve McDougald: Guided Hike to the Cleveland Metro Park
  • Mary-Louise Burt and Jay Cohen: Gentle Yoga
  • Cathy Fisher: Cooking demonstration
  • Dr. Greg Fitzgerald – Health Is an Orchestra: Are You Missing Any Instruments?; Unlock the Miracle from Within: The Enduring, Unique Message of the NHA
  • Jon McMahon – Together We Thrive!
  • Dr. Stephan Esser – Greens, Genes & Cancer Blues: The Link of Lifestyle and Cancer; Living a Healthy Lifestyle: Pitfalls & Pragmatism
  • Dr. Victoria Lee and Mike Gullo: Hiking
  • Dr. Frank Sabatino – The Fountain of Youth: The Science of Healthy Plant-Based Living; Looking Good in Your Genes: The Epigenetic Benefits of Hygienic Plant-Based Living
  • Dr. Anthony Lim – My Journey to Becoming a Plant-Based Physician; Valuable Life Lessons from the Blue Zones
  • Dr. Asa Frey – The Unseen Advantages of Fasting: Understanding the Principles of Health Through the Fasting Experience
  • Dr. Alan Goldhamer – Escaping the Pleasure Trap; Fasting: A Modern Look at an Ancient Practice
  • Dr. Joel Kahn – The Plant-Based Solution: Healing from the Ground Up
  • Dr. Gracie Yuen – Unlocking the Trigger Point: The Key to Pain Relief and Function
  • Dr. Joel Fuhrman – Fast Food Genocide; Live 100 Years in Great Health
  • Dr. Joanna Frey – Overcoming the Challenges of Raising Healthy Children
  • Dr. Pam Popper – Diet, Exercise, and Withdrawal from Psychiatric Medications
  • Mark Huberman: Wrap up with the NHA President
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2017: Cleveland Marriott East, Cleveland, OH - (June 22 - 25th) - 62nd Conference

Photo Courtesy of Mark Huberman
View Conference Highlights in the Health Science Magazine - Summer 2017

Click here to see the program.

The NHA Conference, which took place from June 23 to 25, 2017, will likely go down in the 69-year rich history of our Association as one of our very best ever, and those in attendance (one of our largest turnouts in more than a decade!) will be talking about it for years to come. By every measure, a great time was had by all. Our lineup of speakers, packed into our three-day weekend, was one of the strongest — and largest—in the history of our conferences, featuring inspiring lectures by NHA favorites, including Drs. Joel Fuhrman, Alan Goldhamer, Michael Klaper, and Stephan Esser, along with amazing newcomers, Drs. Pam Popper, Joel Kahn, Larry Karns, Gracie Yuen, andGreg Fitzgerald.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Mary-Louise Burt: Yoga
  • Dr. Greg Fitzgerald–Why Modern Healthcare is Failing: Looking for Answers in All the Wrong Places!
  • Cathy Fisher: Cooking Demonstration
  • Mark Huberman: Meet and Greet with NHA President
  • Dr. Joel Fuhrman: Principles to Maximize Longevity; Interactive Seminar: Advanced Applications for Reversing Disease
  • Dr. Alan Goldhamer: The 10 Most Important Actions to Ensure Optimum Health; Fasting Can Save Your Life
  • Dr. Gracie Yuen: Unlocking Chronic Pain: The Mystery of the Trigger Point; Foundation Training/Core 4
  • Dr. Pam Popper: InforMED™ Medical Decision Making: Leads to Diet and Lifestyle Change; Facts and Fiction of American Diet Crazes
  • Dr. Joel Kahn: Vegan Sex: The Best Supplement; The Miracle of Heart Disease Reversal
  • Dr. Stephan Esser: Plants, Brains, and Feelings: The Science of Emotion and Eating; Plant-based Myths Busted
  • Cathy Fisher: Cooking Demonstration
  • Dr. Michael Klaper: Tending the Garden in Your Gut; The Most Hopeful Trends in Healing Toda
  • Q&A Panel: (With all of the doctors)
  • Dr. Laurence Karns: Eye Health and Nutrition: Why a Plant-Based Diet is the Cure and Prevention of Disease
  • Mark Huberman: Wrap up with the President.
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2013-2016: No Conferences were held.

2012: Regency Spa in Hallendale, Florida - (July 19-23) - 61st Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine Summer 2012
Click here to see the entire program

Conference attendees experienced four enriching days dedicated to healthful living, featuring engaging education, interactive presentations, fitness activities, nourishing meals, and joyful camaraderie. The NHA conference provided abundant opportunities to form new connections while renewing long-standing friendships.


Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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2011: Regency Spa in Hallandale, Florida - (Sept. 22-26) - 60th Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - 2011
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Both new members and long-time enthusiasts gathered to celebrate the 60th NHA Healthy Living Conference. Attendees enjoyed nourishing and delicious meals, outstanding lectures, and informal question-and-answer sessions with speakers, along with a food demonstration by Chef John Nowakowski and a dynamic all-women’s panel. The program also featured yoga, stretching, tai chi, a variety of aquatic fitness activities, spa treatments, and morning walks along the Hollywood Broadwalk and beach. Complemented by Florida’s beautiful weather, the conference offered a rich and memorable experience that blended education, wellness, and community.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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2010: Flamingo Conference Resort, Santa Rosa, CA - (August 19-23) - 59th Conference


View Conference Highlights in the Health Science Magazine - Summer 2010

Click here to see the program.

An outstanding group of speakers delivered lectures on a wide range of topics that were inspirational, educational, and entertaining. NHA members from all around the world — Egypt, Japan, Australia, Great Britain, Russia, and Sweden, and throughout the United States — experienced four incredible days of healthful living, educational events, fitness activities, delicious meals, and joyous camaraderie at the Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa in beautiful Santa Rosa, California. 

Opportunities for Fun, Fitness, and Friendship The Conference offered many opportunities to meet new friends and renew longtime friendships. Attendees participated in a variety of fitness activities, including stretching exercises, yoga, and morning walks with Tiffany Esser. Another highlight of the Conference was the talent show, which took place on Sunday evening. NHA members were entertained with songs, impressions, poetry, and jokes. After the talent show, attendees viewed the movie Food Inc.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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2009: Regency Health Spa, Hallandale, FL - (July 23-27) - 58th Conference


View Conference Highlights in the Health Science Magazine - Summer 2009
Click here to view the program.

This exciting gathering united health-minded people from around the world and offered you a tremendous opportunity to expand your knowledge. The total Conference experience renewed and reaffirmed your commitment to healthful living and inspired you to become a shining example of health and happiness.

Caldwell Esselstyn, Jr., M.D., was the keynote speaker on Saturday evening, and he addressed a full house with his powerful lecture, "Making Yourself Heart Attack Proof."

Conference attendees enjoyed delicious food, excellent lectures by our outstanding group of international speakers, informal question-and-answer sessions with speakers, a food demonstration by Chef John Nowakowski, a tai chi class under the direction of Dr. Frank Sabatino, stretching and yoga classes by Tiffany Esser, fitness activities in the pool, a free spa treatment, morning walks along the boardwalk and beach, dancing, and much more.

One of the highlights of the Conference was the Century Club Luncheon. This event honors members of the Life and Century Club. The generous contributions of these members help make all of NHA's educational programs possible. We thank all of these members for their ongoing support.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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2008: Regency Health Spa, Hallandale, FL - (July 17-21) - 57th Conference


View Conference Highlights in the Health Science Magazine - Summer 2008
The program is not available

Members came from around the world – Sweden, Switzerland, Australia, Great Britain, Japan, Canada, and throughout the United States to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the National Health Association.

Brand new members as well as longtime enthusiast, enjoyed beautiful weather, delicious food, excellent lectures by our outstanding group of international speakers, informal question and answer sessions with our speakers, a food demonstration by Chef John Nowakowski, a panel discussion with President Jerry, Deutsch, and NHA members, a tai chi class under the direction of Dr. Frank Sabatino, a variety of fitness activities in the pool and ocean, a free spa treatment, and auction, morning walks along the boardwalk and beach, dancing, singing, and much more.

Joel Fuhrman, M.D., was the keynote speaker on Saturday evening, and he addressed a full house with his lecture, "Eat For Health; Reverse Disease, Look Younger, Live Longer," which was open to the public.

An outstanding group of speakers delivered lectures on a wide range of topics that were both inspirational and entertaining. Our speakers included: Alec Burton, M.Sc., D.O., D.C., Nejla Burton, Ms., D.O., D.C., Stephan Esser, M.D., Joel Fuhrman, M.D., Susan Smith Jones, Ph.D., Jeff Novick, M.S., R.D., L.D./N., Chef John Nowakowski, Frank Sabatino, D.C., Ph.D., and Keki Sidhwa, N.D., D.O.

One of the highlights of the conference was the Century Club luncheon. This event honored Life and Century Club Members. The generous contributions of these members help make all of the NHA’s educational programs possible.

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2007: Regency Spa in Hallandale, Florida, (July 19-23) - 56th Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine Fall 2007

Click here to see the entire program

NHA members from around the world gathered to celebrate the 56th NHA conference. The attendees enjoyed the beautiful weather, inspiring health, lectures, question and answer sessions, food, demonstrations, a variety of fitness activities in the pool and ocean, yoga, morning walks on the boardwalk and beach, dancing, and much more.

Keynote Speaker: T. Colin Campbell, Ph.D

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2006: Regency Spa in Hallandale, Florida - (June 1-5) - 55th conference


View Conference Highlights in the Health Science Magazine - Summer 2006

Click here to see the program.

This gathering united people from around the world who are affiliated with the NHA and offered a tremendous opportunity to expand the attendees' knowledge. The total conference experience renewed and reaffirmed our commitment to a healthy lifestyle and inspired participants to become shining examples of health and happiness.

NHA members gathered at the Regency Spa in Hallandale, Florida, to celebrate the 55th NHA Conference, June 1-5. Conference attendees enjoyed beautiful weather, delicious meals, educational lectures, engaging question-and-answer sessions with the speakers, a panel discussion with NHA members, and a cooking class. Attendees participated in a variety of fitness activities, including morning walks on the boardwalk, aquatics in the pool, and tai chi and yoga on the beach. Attendees also had fun participating in the Second NHA Silent Auction. Many members placed bids on historical books and magazines, beautiful jewelry, a weekend vacation, photography equipment, cookware, and more. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the auction's success, and congratulations to the lucky winners. One of the highlights of the Conference was the Century Club Luncheon. This event honored Life and Century Club members. Thanks to a very generous challenge from longtime Life members Bob and Irwin Goodman of Wisconsin, a number of large contributions were received at the Luncheon. We thank Bob, Irwin, and all members who gave gifts at the Luncheon for their ongoing support.

An outstanding group of speakers delivered lectures on a wide range of topics that were as inspirational as they were educational. These talks offered an outstanding introduction to Natural Hygiene for first-time attendees and reinforcement to the lifestyle changes for many longtime Conference attendees.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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2005: Regency Spa in Hallandale, Florida - (June 9-13) - 54th conference


View Conference Highlights in the Health Science Magazine - Summer 2005

Click here to see the program.

NHA members from around the world experienced four incredible days of healthful living — educational events, fitness activities, delicious meals, and joyous camaraderie at the Regency House. Information-packed lectures were presented to a filled-to-capacity audience on a wide range of topics, including fasting, women's hormones and health, physical fitness, stress and emotions, pain, children's health issues, and diet. Members especially enjoyed the engaging question-and-answer sessions with the doctors that followed each lecture. Chef John Nowakowski not only coordinated the delicious meals members enjoyed daily, but also presented two fabulous cooking classes on preparing healthy foods.

Longtime Life members Bob and Irwin Goodman of Wisconsin made a very generous contribution to kick off the fundraising for the Century Club Luncheon. Thanks to the challenge they made to NHA members, the NHA raised a total of $50,000 from this year's Conference. We thank Bob and Irwin Goodman, as well as all NHA members, who generously made donations and pledges at this year's Century Club Luncheon. 

This year, the NHA Conference featured a silent auction. NHA members enjoyed bidding on a variety of items, and those lucky enough to get the winning bids took home some great bargains. 

Attendees also enjoyed activities such as aquatics in the pool, yoga on the beach, fitness sessions, music and dancing, spa treatments at the Regency, browsing the book table, walks along the beach, and the hot tub. There were many opportunities to see old friends and make new ones

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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2004: Regency Spa in Hallandale, Florida - (July 22-26) - 53rd Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Fall 2004

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NHA presented Lifetime Achievement Awards. 

Executive Director Lynn Grudnik presented Lifetime Achievement Awards to two longtime, devoted Hygienic doctors at the 2004 NHA Conference. Dr. Alec Burton received an award in honor of his 50 years as a Hygienic physician. Dr. Keki Sidhwa was recognized for the 45th anniversary of publishing The Hygienist.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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2003: Regency Spa in Hallandale, Florida - (October 24-27) - NHA Health and Fitness Weekend


NHA members relaxing, learning, enjoying good company, conversation, and much more.
View Highlights in the Health Science Magazine - Fall Winter 2003

Click here to see the program.

Executive Director Lynn Grudnik joined NHA members at the Regency House Natural Health Spa in Florida. Members enjoyed good company, great conversations, and delicious meals. Guests sampled delicious recipes in John Nowakowski's cooking classes, relaxed by the pool or Jacuzzi in between lectures, and walked along the boardwalk and the beach. They exercised in the pool or in class, worked out in the gym, and danced to the music performed by Frank Sabatino and his blues band. The weekend provided members with an opportunity to reconnect with old friends and make some new ones. 

Members traveled from all across the US to attend and also received a private nutritional class with Dr. Sabatino, as well as access to a jacuzzi, sauna, and a fully equipped gym.  Members commented that the weekend was a great success and that they had a wonderful time.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Afternoon Activities (Stretch and Relaxation, Aqua Fit, Yoga, Meditation, Orientation)
  • Chef John Nowakowski: Cooking Class; Shopping Class
  • Frank Sabatino, D.C., Ph.D: Managing Stress in Your Life; "Healthy Weight Loss for Life"
  • Morning Activities: Step It Up, Aqua Fit/ Ocean
  • Afternoon Activities: Stretch and Relaxation, Yoga, Meditation, Tai Chi
  • Jeff Novick, M.S., R.D., L.D./N: "Health Food vs. Healthy Food: How Can You Really Tell The Difference?" - — Going Nuts?" The Real Facts on Fat!"
  • Afternoon Activities (Aqua Fit, Perfect Posture, Yoga, Meditation)

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2002: Conference Center - Chevy Chase, MD - (Saturday, March 16) - Health Seminar


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2001: No Conference

2000: Wyndham Miami Beach Resort, Miami Beach, Florida - (July 14 - 18) - 52nd Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Sept/Oct 2000

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Attendees sang the praises of the delicious meals and fantastic keynote speakers—Cowboy author Howard Lyman and renowned nutritional biochemist Dr. T. Colin Campbell of Cornell University.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1999: Wyndham Miami Beach Resort, Miami Beach, Florida - (July 23 - 27) - 51st Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Sept/Oct 1999

Click here to see the entire program

More than 300 ANHS members from around the world gathered to celebrate the 51st Annual International Natural Living Conference, held July 23-27 in Orlando, Fla. Conference highlights included powerful health lectures, meetings with doctors in workshops and round table sessions, and lots of opportunities to meet new friends.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1998: Orlando Marriott International Drive, Orlando, Florida - (July 31-August 4) - 50th Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Sept/Oct 1998

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Hundreds of ANHS members from around the world gathered in Orlando, Fla., to celebrate the ANHS 50th Anniversary at the 1998 International Natural Living Conference. Members from 21 countries learned about the joys of healthful living, learning together in an environment that promoted a high-energy exchange of ideas. Keynote speaker T. Colin Campbell, Ph.D., world-renowned nutritional biochemist from Cornell University, presented dramatic new information.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1997: DoubleTree Oceanfront Hotel, Fort Lauderdale, Florida - (August 1 - 6) - 49th Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine  - Sept/Oct 1997

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Members from 16 countries celebrated the joys of healthful living, learning together in an environment that promoted a high-energy exchange of ideas. An international group of renowned Hygienic physicians and other speakers presented talks that were as inspirational as they were educational. Lectures on a wide range of important topics included designing a healthful diet, maximizing the healing process, stress management, raising healthy children, and fasting.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1996: DoubleTree Oceanfront Hotel, Fort Lauderdale, Florida - (July 19 - 24) - 48th Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Sept/Oct 1996

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More than 350 participants from 19 countries gathered to celebrate, connect, and learn from world-renowned speakers at the Conference. Authors Harvey Diamond and Susan Smith Jones joined an exceptional lineup of Hygienic physicians, delivering talks to a full-capacity audience. The lectures covered a wide range of topics, including the Natural Hygiene diet, fasting, women's health concerns, the importance of rest and sleep, female hormone replacement therapy, emotional well-being and stress, and children's health issues. These presentations provided a comprehensive introduction to Natural Hygiene for first-time attendees and reinforced healthy lifestyle changes for returning participants. Paula Duvall captivated the audience with a mouth-watering food demonstration featuring a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1995: Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. - (June 30 - July 5) - 47th Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Sept/Oct. 1995

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This ANHS Conference had it all...great speakers, great friends, fantastic Food Festivals, and wonderful opportunities to learn, plus a great Fourth of July fireworks finale.  Dr. T. Colin Campbell of Cornell University headlined an outstanding roster of doctors and other speakers. 

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1994: Loyola College, Baltimore, Md. - (July 22 - 27) - 46th Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine  - Sept/Oct 1994

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Members gathered in record numbers at the  International Natural Living Conference to celebrate and renew their commitment to living the healthiest, happiest life possible!

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1993: Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. - (July 23 - 28) -  45th Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Sept/Oct 1993

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1992: Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. - (July 24 - 29) -  44th Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Sept/Oct  1992

Click here to see the entire program

Women have always played a strong role in Natural Hygiene, and the outstanding women on this year's Conference program carried that great tradition forward! Speakers Dr. Nejla Burton, Marilyn Diamond, Dr. Susan Smith Jones, Joy Gross, and Victoria Moran brought their message of happier lives through healthier living to record-setting audiences! The Conference was expanded to meet the needs of members who came from around the world to learn more and to celebrate together. Outstanding lectures by a host of talented doctors, great social events, a memorable field trip, and the annual Talent Show rounded out a nonstop program. This year's social activities kicked off with the festive Opening Night Social and bowed out with the Banquet and Dance on the last night. Harvey and Marilyn Diamond autographed their books and hosted a dazzling presentation on Saturday night that finished off with a social where members sipped fruit smoothies. Sunday's concert by pianists Miles Mauney and Charles Blanchard brought the audience to their feet with breathtaking performances.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • James Michael Lennon: The Power of Personal Transformation, How to Handle the Crises of Everyday Living: Personal Solutions that Work
  • Alec Burton, D.O., D.C.: The Biological Basis of Hygienic Care, Health and the Remedial Processes of Disease, Fasting: Regeneration and Rejuvenation
  • Nejla Burton, D.C.: The Stress Factor, Understanding Your Hormones
  • Joy Gross: Fabulous Food Festival
  • Susan Smith Jones, Ph.D.: Make Your Life a Great Adventure!; The Path to Self Mastery: Commit to Living Fully
  • Frank Sabatino, D.C., Ph.D.: Workshops on special topics,  Key Elements for Your Successful Natural Hygiene Lifestyle, The Impact of Physical Activity on Health and the Aging Process
  • Harvey & Marilyn Diamond - ‘Live from Washington’
  • Ralph C. Cinque, D.C.: Changing Habits: How to Live Hygienically in the Real World, How to Have a Successful Fasting Experience
  • Joel Fuhrman, M.D: Preventing and Reversing Arthritis and Osteoporosis, Women's Health Problems: Breast and Ovarian Cancer
  • Victoria Moran: The Love-Powered Diet: When Willpower Is Not Enough
  • D.J. Scott. D.C.: Natural Hygiene: A Demonstrable Science of Health
  • Keki Sidhwa, N.D., D.O.: Improvisation and Spontaneity: Two Keys to the Art of Living
  • Douglas Graham, D.C.: Contagion and Immunity: The Hygienic View, Setting and Realizing Your Hygienic Goals
  • Alan Fraley, D.C.: The Lifelong Benefits of Being Raised as a Natural Hygienist
  • Questions and Answers with Doctors

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1991: Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY - (July 26 - 31) - 43rd conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Sept/Oct 1991

Click here to see the entire program

Keynote speaker T. Colin Campbell, Ph.D., - Diet, Lifestyle and Mortality in China: From diseases of poverty to diseases of affluence 

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • James Michael Lennon: The Incredible Power Within You, Ten Steps to a Healthier and Happier Life
  • Alec Burton, D.O., D.C.: What Natural Hygiene Offers to Humanity, The Unity of the Body, Fasting and Its Benefits
  • Alan Goldhamer, D.C.: The Four Essential Factors of Health, The Importance of Living Healthfully after a Fast
  • Jennifer Marano, D.C.: Current Research in Support of Natural Hygiene
  • Questions and Answers with Speakers
  • Douglas Graham, D.C.: Food Demonstration; How to Design Your Personal Exercise and Fitness Program
  • Susan Smith Jones, Ph.D.: How Natural Hygiene Enriches Our Lives
  • Get Acquainted Social
  • Workshop 1: Raising Healthy Children
  • Workshop 2: Coping with Family
  • Workshop 3: Meal Planning That Works
  • Frank Sabatino, D.C., Ph.D.: Choose to be Healthy and Celebrate Life; Commitment is Everything: Commit to Live Full Natural Hygiene: A Process of Personal Integration and Self-Reliance; Weight Loss and Weight Gain: The Role of Metabolism
  • Ronald G. Cridland, M.D.: Why the Natural Hygiene Diet Is Your Best Choice; Overcoming Stress with Sleep
  • Ralph C. Cinque, D.C.: Separating Food Facts from Food Myths; How to Break a Bad Habit
  • Joy Gross: Fabulous Food Festival
  • Carolyn Zenk: Environmental Shopping: Powerful Choices You Can Make
  • James Filenbaum: How to Avoid Compulsory Inoculation
  • Workshop 4: Health Tips for Seniors
  • Workshop 5: Coping with Family
  • Workshop 6: Meal Planning that Works
  • Keki Sidhwa, N.D., D.O.: Laughing and Loving Your Way to Health
  • Joel Fuhrman, M.D.: The Truth about Herbal Extracts, Vitamins and Supplements
  • Questions and Answers with Doctors: Fasting Workshops
  • Nejla Burton, D.O.: The Psychology of Eating
  • D.J. Scott, D.C.: Dramatic Recoveries and Realistic Expectations in Fasting
  • Panel Discussion with Doctors. 

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1990: Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY - (July 27 - Aug 1) - 42nd conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Sept/Oct 1990

Click here to see the entire program

The educational level was high, the pace was lively, and we all had a great time. Everyone agreed! This summer's 4th Annual International Natural Living Conference was a great success! The food was great, the lectures were fantastic, the campus was beautiful, and the accommodations were first-class. An outstanding group of speakers at the conference delivered lectures that touched on many facets of understanding the principles and practices of Natural Hygiene and how to live a healthy and happy life. Lecture topics ranged from the environmental factors of health to the benefits of fasting, from understanding how your body works to building your immune system.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1989: Sans Souci Hotel, Miami Beach, FL - (July 28 - August 3) - 41st Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Sept/Oct 1989

Click here to see the entire program.

Members from across the country and around the world came together at this year’s annual conference to deepen, expand, and renew their understanding of Natural Hygiene. An exceptional lineup of speakers delivered inspiring, insightful lectures that explored the principles and practices of Natural Hygiene as a foundation for living a healthy, balanced, and fulfilling life. Topics ranged from managing emergency situations and cultivating a healthy psychology to embracing individuality and living “different” with confidence and style—creating a rich, empowering experience for all who attended.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1988: Lebanon Valley College, Annville, PA - (July 29 - August 4) - 40th Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Sept/Oct 1988

Click here to see the entire program.

People from around the world gathered to celebrate this unforgettable event, bringing together both new and longtime Natural Hygiene enthusiasts in a vibrant, welcoming community. Attendees were inspired by high-quality programming led by knowledgeable Natural Hygiene doctors and educators, whose engaging lectures and demonstrations explored the principles and practices of Natural Hygiene as a pathway to a healthy, happy life.

From nutrition and immune system education to breaking unhealthy habits and building positive lifestyle patterns, the presentations offered something meaningful for everyone. The reunion of old friends and the formation of new friendships made the experience especially memorable. Dancing and exercise classes energized the days and evenings from the very first night through the final banquet and dance, while the traditional Talent Night delivered its signature mix of joy, creativity, and delightful surprises—making the entire event both enriching and celebratory.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

Keynote Address: Hannah Allen



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1987: Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada - (July 24 - 31) - 39th Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Sept/Oct 1987

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Keynote Address: Hannah Allen, president

This year’s conference was truly a reunion to remember. Set in the lush fruit-growing region of the spectacular Niagara Falls area, the natural beauty of the surroundings created the perfect backdrop for an extraordinary gathering. Participants from around the globe—Australia, England, Israel, India, Japan, Finland, Peru, Trinidad, Canada, and the United States—came together to hear the world’s foremost Natural Hygiene speakers and educators address vital issues in personal, community, and global health.

The week-long celebration began on a joyful note with a lively “Get Acquainted Dance” on the first evening. Field trips through the scenic Niagara region offered memorable sightseeing experiences, culminating in an unforgettable afternoon at the majestic Canadian Horseshoe Falls. A special evening of theatre in Niagara-on-the-Lake featured a performance of a George Bernard Shaw play, adding culture and elegance to the week’s events.

The conference also honored excellence and service, as Dr. D. J. Scott received the ANHS Distinguished Service Award in recognition of his many years of dedication to Natural Hygiene—making this remarkable gathering both inspiring and deeply meaningful for all who attended.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1986: Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada - (July 19 - 25) - 38th Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Sept/Oct 1986

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People from countries all over the world, including Switzerland, England, India, Australia, Canada, France, and the United States, gathered to celebrate the joys of natural living. Longtime natural hygienists found the experience refreshing and reinforcing, and newcomers were inspired to follow through on lifestyle changes that they had only previously heard or read about. The learning opportunities offered at the conference are vital cornerstones of educational programs of the ANHS. Some of the world's foremost health educators speak at these annual conferences. Joy Gross was awarded the Distinguished Service Award In recognition of her multi-level contributions to ANHS.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

Keynote Address: Hannah Allen, President

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1985: University of California at Santa Barbara - (July 20 - 25) - 37th Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Sept/Oct 1985

Click here to see the entire program.

Immersed in an ideal, oceanside setting and treated to some of the best food and service ever at a conference, participants enjoyed innovative programming that included presentations by more than 25 different speakers. Longtime members, as well as new members and guests of the hygienic community, agreed that this was, by all accounts, one of the most satisfying and stimulating conferences ever. This year's program included musical performances each evening. In addition, participants shared their talents during impromptu performances at both the Century Club Luncheon and the Farewell Banquet. Four special awards were presented at the Farewell Banquet. Dedicated Service Awards were presented to Sophie Holzgreen for her tireless efforts in promoting natural hygiene in the Los Angeles area and to Joe and Gladys Aaron for their more than 25-year commitment to natural hygiene, in honor of the 25th anniversary of the founding of the Toronto Chapter. The award had special meaning for Joe Aaron, who was celebrating his 70th birthday. Immediate Past-President Mark Huberman, who skipped this year's event in favor of attending with his wife Debbie the birth of their first child, Lisa-Ann, was awarded the Distinguished Service Award for his Lifetime commitment to ANHS. The Herbert M. Shelton Award for dedicated service to natural hygiene was awarded to ANHS founder Jack Dunn Trop.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

Keynote Speaker: Alec Burton, D.O., D.C. of Australia.

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1984: Sans Souci Hotel, New Miami Beach, FL - (Aug 19 - 25) - 36th Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Sept/Oct 1984

Click here to see the entire program.

Opening night, attended by over 400 people, featured a keynote talk on “Healing is a Biological Process" by the thoroughly knowledgeable and entertaining Alec Burton, (D.O., D.C., N.D.), director of the Hygia Sanatorium in Australia; a mini food demonstration by Joy Gross, director of the Pawling Health Manor in New York; and case histories by Jack Goldstein and Craig Laroche. More than 20 speakers presented over 60 talks, lectures, and symposiums. Topics ranged from food combining; dealing with health problems (colds, fevers, allergies, colitis, arthritis, circulatory and heart diseases, digestive issues, diabetes and hypoglycemia, kidney problems, cancer); food supplements; mental influences on health; hygienic first aid; raising children; eating out; household insect control; drugs; fasting; relaxation techniques; exercise; and more.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Dr. David J. Scott: Immediate and Long Term Benefits of Natural Living and Case Histories; Basic Principles of Natural Hygiene: After a Fast: A Critical Consolidation Period; Remedy Mentality; Are Alternative Remedies Any Better Than Conventional Remedies?; Chelation, Laetrile, Ultrasound, Others; Why & How We Fast; Emergncies; Hygienic First Aid
  • Dr. Alec Burton: Healing is a Biological Process; Therapeutic Fastinc: Duration, Frequency, Motivation, Contra-indications; Surgery - Its Uses and Abuses: By-Pass, Transplants, Vasectomy, etc; Why We Avoid Vaccinations; Do Innoculations Damage the Body?
  • Joy Gross: The Joy of Natural Living and Food Preparation; Hygienic Living - The Family, The Social Scene, Eating Out, Traveling; The Vegetarian Child; A Food Festival! Lecture and Lunch; The Battle of the Bulge: Overeating, Dieting, Fasting
  • Mark Huberman: Our 36th Annual Health Learning Experience; Growing Up As A Natural Hygienist
  • Frieda Kabelac: What is Natural Hygiene?; Food Combining for Efficient Digestion; Our Drug Culture, Social Drugs and Narcotics
  • James Lennon: Starting out Right, When, Why & How to Become a Natural Hygienist; The Greatest Health Discovery; The Importance of Outdoor Activity; Natural Living: The Way of the Future
  • Hannah Allen: Case Histories: Questions and Answers Most Frequently Asked; Our Own Individual Food Program; Food Selection and Combining; Mind Over Matter: Mental Influences on Health; Transition to a Natural Hygienic Program
  • Dr. Keki Sidhwa: The Rejuvenating Effects of Natural Hygienic Living; Life at a Natural Hygienic Retreat; The False Tranquility of Conformity; The False Tranquility of Conformity; Are We Health Conscious?, Self Care Know How: Understanding the Signals of Your Body
  • Dr. V. V. Vetrano: Fasting vs. Healthful Living; Fasting Tubercular and Cancer Patients; How to Cope with Necessary Hospitalization: Your Rights and Options,  Blood Transfusions, X-rays, Iatrogenic Diseases; Vitamin B-12, Proteins, Food “Supplements”; Are There Any Acceptable Uses of Drugs?; Natural Hygienic Care vs Medical Care; Fasting vs Healthful Living
  • Dr. Phillip Martin: Osteoporosis: The Cause of Most Fractures in People Over 60; Other Problems of the Elderly
  • Sue Douglas and Paula Duvall: Workshop: Preparing for Your First Child; Raising Healthy Children
  • Ron Weston: Workshop: Physical Exercise: Important Link to Superior Nutrition; There is More to Health Than Good Eating: Exercise and Other Needs of Life, Stress Control and Moderation
  • Craig Laroche: Symposium: Health Concerns- Aids, Herpes, Respiratory Problems, Colds, Flu, Allergies, Hay Fever, Asthma, Candida Albicans; Peer Pressure and Dating
  • Special Sightseeing Tour to World Famous Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
  • Dr. Ralph Cinque: The Animals Film; Dealing with Cold, Fevers, Allergies; Is Fruitarianism Dangerous?; Fasting: Facts and Myths
  • Max Huberman: The Best is Organically Grown
  • Ruth Schoenfeld: Bates Method Eye Exercises
  • Jack Dunn Trop: Easing into Natural Hygienic Living; Forum: Food at Home or Away; Raising Children: Interaction with Non-Natural Hygienists; Home Appliances: Air Conditioners, Microwave Ovens; Insect Control, Pet Care; Health Care Education: Vegetarian Health Science and Natural Hygiene Press
  • Dr. Jack Goldstein: Triumph Over Disease, Food “Cures”; Food Supplements and Other Nutritional Fallacies; Tapping Your Mind Potential: Visual and Mental Relaxation Techniques
  • Dr. George Wootan: Breastfeeding, Pediatrics For Parents
  • Mark Huberman and Tom Finn: How to Avoid Inoculations: Your Legal Rights
  • Dr. Bernie Sharp: Your Feet are Important Too!
  • Gladys Aaron: Film: Vegetarian World; Starting New ANHA Chapters; Improving Existing Chapters
  • Symposium: Chronic Ailments - Arthritis, Circulatory and Heart Disease, Digestive Problems, Diabetes and Hypoglycemia, Kidney Problems, Cancer
  • Forum: What Natural Living has Done for Us.


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1983: University of North Carolina at Charlotte - (July 17 - 22) -  35th Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Sept/Oct 1983

Click here to see the entire program.

The opening night program was keynoted in style by 83-year-old former ANHS President and co-founder Jack Dunn Trop, followed by an impressive array of case histories from the files of Professional Hygienists Drs. D.J. Scott, V.V. Vetrano, Philip Martin, Alan Goldhamer, and Keki Sidhwa.  At the end, the most frequently heard comment was, "What a truly great convention had just been experienced!" The high-quality programming, peaceful atmosphere, and pastoral campus will be remembered for years to come.

Keynote Address: Health Care is Self-Care - Jack Dunn Trop

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Dr. Alec Burton, Dr. V. V. Vetrano, Dr. Norman Allard, Dr. Keki Sidhwa, Dr. D. J. Scott, Dr. Frank Sabatino, Dr. Philip Martin, Dr. Alan Goldhamer: Case Histories: Health Problems Overcome Through Fasting and Professional Natural Hygienic Care
  • Frieda Kabelac: Immunity Comes From Health, The Dangers of Drugs, Miseducation About the Body-How We Are Conditioned For Medicine and Drug Dependency
  • Joy Gross: Workshop: The Joy of Natural Living and Food Preparation; Feeding Your Family; The Vegetarian Child; Controlling Your Weight
  • Dr. V. V. Vetrano: A Battle for Health Freedom; Food Combining Made Easy
  • Dr. Alec Burton: AIDS, Herpes & Hepatitis: The Hygienic Answer; Coping With Colds, Fevers, and Allergies, Allergies and Hay Fever: The Hygienic Explanation; Dangers of Chelation
  • Jack Dunn Trop: Symposium of Professional Natural Hygienists: Innoculations (A Health Hazard), Childhood Diseases, Communicable Diseases, Vaccination Statistics, Epidemics & Immunity -- Film: The Greatest Adventure
  • Dr. George Wootan: Workshop: Homebirthing, Natural Childbirth and Breastfeeding-and How to be Your Own Pediatrician
  • Forum on Natural Hygienic Living Part I: The Hygienic Home and Family (1. Raising Children 2. Entertaining & Traveling 3. Home Appliances & Climate Control 4. Feeding Families: Eating in Restaurants 5. Pet Care)
  • Dr. Keki Sidhwa: A Commitment to Cosmic Laws, Taking Care of Your Skin: A Blueprint to Good Complexion; Overcoming Depression: Without Drugs
  • Max Huberman: Humor and a Hygienic Life: A Perfect Combination
  • Dr. D. J. Scott: Fasting at a Natural Hygiene Institute; Protein, B-12 and the Hygiene Diet: How Much Is Enough
  • Symposium of Professional Natural Hygienists: How to Cope with Hospitalizations (Blood Transfusions, Tetanus, X-Rays, Drugs, Hospital Meals, Intravenous, Broken Bones, & Anesthetics)
  • Jim Lennon: Problems with Peer Pressure
  • Craig Laroche: Coping with Dating Non-Hygienists
  • Dr. Alan Goldhamer: The Fallacy of Vitamin Supplementation; The Vitamin Fallacy
  • Hannah Allen: Feasting and Fasting: A Bad Combination
  • Forum on Natural Hygienic Living Part II: The Psychology of Living Hygienically (1. Interpersonal Relationships 2. Converting Non-Hygienists 3. Interaction with Non-Hygienists 4. Peer Pressures)
  • Dr. Jack Goldstein: My Six Week Fast: Recovery From a Nearly Fatal Illness, 2) Workshop: Visualization and Mental Relaxation Techniques- 3) Tapping Your Mind Potential
  • Symposium of Professional Natural Hygienists: The Stress Factor in Health( 1. Eating Under Stress 2. Working Under Stress 3. The Emotional Reactions to Stress 4. Coping with Stress)
  • Tom Tate: Proper Exercise
  • Dr. Philip Martin: Fasting: The Key to Detoxification
  • Mark A. Huberman: Workshop on Avoiding Inoculations

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1982: University of Bridgeport, Bridgeport, Connecticut  - (Aug 1 - 7th) - 34th Conference


Click here to see the entire program.

Keynote Address: "Health Care is Self Care" William Esser, N.D., D.C.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Tom Tate: Outdoor Exercises
  • David Stry: Eye Exercises; Overcoming World Hunger
  • Kate Sharp: Folk Dancing
  • Don Crichton: The Junior Hygienist (Pre-Teens)- Part I: What is Natural Hygiene?, Part II: What We Should Eat and Why?, Part III: Why We Get Sick and How to Get Well, Part IV: Why We Don't Take Shots, Part V: Fasting Isn't Starving, Part VI: How to Explain Natural Hygiene to Friends
  • Irving Schoenfeld: Pre-Teen Activities: Lectures, Sports, Games, Field Trips- Director
  • Alec Burton, N.D., D.O., D.C.: The Basic Principles of Natural Hygiene, 2) Heredity, Environment and Health, 3) The Causes of Disease,  4) Why We Reject Immunization, 5) Coping with Medical Emergencies-Tetanus, X-rays, Transfusions -
  • Joe Aaron: Vegetarianism and Natural Hygiene
  • Keki Sidhwa, N.D., D.O.: The Factors of Health, 2) How Much Protein, B-12, and Vitamins We Need- 3) From Where, The Whys and Hows of Food Combining, 4) Hearts, Not Just Heads in Natural Hygiene, 5) How To Handle Medical Emergencies, 6) The Mental Factors in Health Recovery
  • William Esser, N.D., D.C: The Causes of Disease
  • My Road To Natural Hygiene (1) Joe and Gladys Aaron (2) Max Huberman, (3) Hannah Allen, (4) Joy Gross (5) Mike Calhoun (6) Sophie Holzgreen (7) Ruth and Irving Schoenfeld (8) Dick Wangler (9) Mike McConkey (10) Craig Laroche
  • Forum: Living Hygienically: Doing Your Best-Striving for the Ideal
  • Hannah Allen: Food Combining Update, 2) Why and How We Fast, 3) Teaching Natural Hygiene
  • D. J. Scott, D.C.: Fasting: Nature's Way, 2) Sensible Eating, The Importance of Supervised Fasting, 3) How to Become a Professional Natural Hygienist
  • Symposium of Professional Natural Hygienists: (Natural Hygiene vs. Curing: (1) Cold Medicines, (2) Aspirins, (3) Antacids, (4) Vitamins, (5) Spirulina, (6) Fermented Foods)
  • Bernie and Kate Sharp: Dancing
  • Joy Gross: Food Demonstrations: Selecting and Preparing Natural Foods For Family and Friends
  • Jo Willard: Natural Hygiene-A Commitment to Humanity, Organizing an ANHS Chapter
  • Dr. Michio Kaku: Our Radioactive World
  • Michael McConkey: Musical Interlude
  • Jack Dunn Trop: Film: The Greatest Adventure; Living a Full Hygienic Life
  • Max Huberman: Exercising for Fun and Fitness; Laugh and Live Longer; Why We Should Avoid X-rays
  • Marie Burwinkel and Thelma Scott: Food Demonstrations: Sprouting Made Simple
  • Symposium of Professional Natural Hygienists: Current Diet Crazes: (1) The Beverly Hills Diet, (2) The Scarsdale Diet, etc.
  • Ida Honoroff: Animal Rights: An Emerging Imperative,  Pesticides and Our Poisoned Planet; Film: The Silent Spring
  • Mark Huberman: Workshop: Avoiding Compulsory Immunization; The Natural Hygiene Press and Library of Natural Hygiene, Workshop: Natural Hygienic Pet Care
  • Jeanne L. Ingress: Workshop For Women: Homebirth, Breastfeeding, and Gynecological Self Help
  • Outdoor Hygienic Recreation
  • Organic Gardening Demonstration
  • John Yiamouyainnis, PhD: Fluoridation, Pure Water, and Health Freedom
  • Dennis Bressack: Symposium of Professional Natural Hygienists: The Fallacy of Immunization,  Caring for Your Teeth
  • Dr. Dennis Bressack, Dr. Bernie Sharp: Workshop: Natural Hygiene: Dental Care/Foot Care
  • Frank Sabatino, D.С.: Natural Hygiene Truth; Health, Freedom
  • Symposium of Professional Natural Hygienists: (Hygienic Perspectives on Current Medical Practices: (1) By-Pass Operation, (2) Transplants, (3) Dialysis, (4) Ultrasound, (5) Vasectomy)
  • Craig Laroche: How to Live Hygienically in an Unhygienic World
  • Annual Farewell Banquet. 
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1981: The University of Hartford, Hartford, Connecticut - (Aug 2 - 8) - 33rd Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Oct/Nov 1981

Click here to see the entire program.

Keynote Address:  The International Association of Professional Natural Hygienists-A Milestone Dr. David Scott, Pres. IAPNH, Cleveland, OH

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1980: Bowling Green University- Bowling Green, Ohio - (July 20 - 26) - 32nd Conference


Photo from Health Science Magazine - Aug/Sept

Click here to see the program.

Keynote Address:  Natural Hygiene Principles Substantiated in the Medical Archives - Dr. Robert Gross

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1979: University of North Carolina, Charlotte, North Carolina - (July 29 - Aug 4) - 31st Conference


Photos from Health Science Magazine - Dec 1979

Click here to see the entire program.

Keynote Address:  An Inspiring Journey To Our Hygienic Roots - Dr. William Esser

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1978: State University College, Buffalo, New York - (July 30 - Aug 5) - 30th Conference


Photos from Health Science Magazine - Nov 1978

Click here to see the entire program.

Bravo to all those who planned, organized, and participated in ANHS's 1978 Convention, celebrating three decades of teaching the science of health. Families, friends, young and old, all participated in learning the Hygienic way of life, which is certainly the Cadillac of a truly natural, logical approach to healthcare to achieve vitality. 

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Dr. Gerald Benesh: Thirty Years of Teaching Health Science; How Your Mind Affects Your Health; Setting the Tone by Self-Awareness; Organic Limitations
  • Jack Dunn Trop: FILM: The Greatest Adventure; Living Life to Live It Longer
  • Bruce Meservey: Outdoor Exercise Class
  • Dr. William L. Esser: Proper Food Combining, Natural Hygiene, Me, and You, Cancer
  • Dr. Ralph Cinque: Vitamin and Mineral Content of a Hygienic Diet, Separating the Food from the Junk, Stimulation vs. Revitalization
  • Dr. D. J. Scott: Superior Nutrition; How Fasting Helped Me and How It Can Help You, Fasting: Its Role in Health
  • Tosca Haag: The Pursuit of Health Rights-Past and Present
  • Question Period
  • Elaine Bloom: Natural Hygiene and the Single Person
  • Dr. Virginia Vetrano: Cleanliness without Poisonous Chemicals: How to care for bodily parts (Hair, Teeth, Eyes, Ears, Complexion, Skin, etc.); Drugging Practices and Unnecessary Surgery; Toxemia: Disease Explained; How Radiation Affects Us; Learning to Interpret Bodily Voices for a More Perfect Hygienic Life; Obesity; How I Changed My Life Through Natural Hygiene
  • Hannah Allen: Foods for Health and Pleasure
  • Max Huberman: Health Foods, Health Freedom, and Natural Hygiene
  • Dr. Keki Sidhwa: Societal Conditioning and Hidden Factors; Rearing Healthy Children; Exercising to Keep Fit; How Fasting and Whole Living Saved My Life
  • Dr. Alec Burton: The Basic Principles of Natural Hygiene; Setting the Stage by Fasting; The Germ Theory: Fact or Fallacy; Inoculations, Natural Hygiene: How It Changed My Life and How It Can Change Yours
  • Dennis Bressack, D.D.S.: The Natural Way to Dental Health
  • Jo Willard and Frieda Becker: Goals For Growth:  Discussion of Health Science Chapter and City Reports (information and exchange); Resolutions and Goals Membership
  • Questions and Answers from the Audience
  • Helen Lamar and Art Andrews: Fifties' Dance; Friendship Hour for Newcomers
  • Corinne Goldstein: Feeding Your Family Hygienically: Infants, Children, Adults
  • Dr. Nejla Burton: Attitudes-On Being Different; open discussion of sex and its role in healthy living
  • Dr. Jack Goldstein: Digestive Problems, Chemicals and Your Health, Triumph Over Disease by Fasting and Natural Diet: A Story of Recovery from Ulcerative Colitis
  • David Stry: Organic Gardening
  • Dorothy Brosious and Ruth Huberman: More Ideas for Feeding the Family: Recipes, Party Foods, Raw Meals
  • John Hervey: Organic Gardening & Homesteading
  • Special Event: Square Dancing
  • Elena Marie Mileo: "Starting Over Again"
  • Marsha and Dennis Bressak: A Film Presentation: Normal Childbirth (Showing a hospital delivery and a home birth)
  • Bruce Meservey and Hannah Allen: Teaching Natural Hygiene
  • Joy Gross: Overweight and Obesity
  • Drs. Vetrano, Scott, Sidhwa, Burton, Esser, Cinque, and Benesh: Case Histories: Conditions Overcome Through Natural Hygiene
  • Line Dancing
  • Jo Willard: The Magic of You: how to realize your own healing power
  • Question and Answer Wrap-Up
  • Gala Farewell Banquet.
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1977: Tufts University, Medford, Mass - (Aug 7 - 13) - 29th Conference


Photos from Natural Hygiene News - Convention Issue 1977

Click here to see the entire program.

Hundreds poured into the dormitories at Tufts University near Boston the week of August 7 - 13 for the 29th annual convention of the Society. They spread themselves on campus grounds, packed lecture halls, exercised on the greens, had wonderful food in the dining hall, and lived for a week in sunshine and camaraderie. Vegetarian food was no stranger to those in charge of preparing meals, so there was no problem preparing the Hygienic food.

One of the significant events of the Convention was to hear outgoing national president Dr. Jack Goldstein again tell the story of his release from the medical practices that were destroying him. As related in his recently published book, Triumph Over Disease by Fasting and Natural Diet, he told how he overcame ulcerative colitis. He will be crisscrossing the country on TV and radio, telling his story.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Jo Willard: Freedom Through Knowledge; About the Double Standard of Aging
  • Dr. Virginia Vetrano: The Elements of Vibrant Health; Proper Food Combining; Drugging Practices and Unnecessary Surgery; Rearing Healthy Children, Foods: Their Role in Proper Nutrition; How Radiation Affects Us; High Blood Pressure; Exploding Protein Myth; Rearing Healthy Children
  • Jack Dunn Trop: Film: The Greatest Adventure; How to Live Long; Let's Talk -About Scientific Vegetarianism
  • Sophie Holzgreen: Folk Dancing
  • Art Andrews: Marijuana-What it does to you
  • Dr. Alec Burton: How Your Mind Affects Your Health/How Your Health Affects Your Mind; Mysteries and Miracles: Understanding Degeneration and Regeneration; The Basic Principles of Natural Hygiene; Abnormalities of the Reproductive Organs: The cause of problems with Breast, Ovaries and Uterus (Lumps, Cysts, Tumors, Cancer, Vaginal Infections); Drugs, Vitamin Supplements and Junk Foods: How They Interfere with Proper Nutrition; The Germ Theory: Fact or Fallacy; Inoculations; Harmful Effects of Synthetic Vitamins and Herbal Medicine
  • Dr. K. Sidhwa: The Importance of Fresh Air, Sunshine and Sleep, Environmental Pollution; Fasting: Its Role in Health; Natural Hygiene as a Career; Organic Limitations; Obesity; Hygienic First Aid
  • Dr. D. J. Scott: Superior Nutrition; Toxemia: Disease Explained; Fasting: Its Role in Proper Nutrition
  • Terri Tishko: Athletics; Physical Activity, and Their Importance to Health
  • Frieda Becker: Protein-How Much Do We Need?
  • Robert Poritzky, DDS: Natural Hygiene and Dental Health
  • Hannah Allen: Natural Foods for Health and Pleasure (Food demonstration); Let's Talk—About Preparing for a Happy Retirement
  • Joy Gross: From Heartache to Health: How I Overcame Psoriasis; Keeping Off the Weight You've Lost
  • Dancing
  • Greg Haag: Birth Control
  • Film on “Emotional Survival”
  • Helen Lamar: The Fun of Eating Hygienically
  • Art Andrews: Exercising to Keep Fit
  • Joseph Brenner: Organic Gardening
  • Dr. Jack Goldstein and Mrs. Goldstein: Feeding Infants and Children Hygienically
  • Hannah Allen, Florence Kaplan, and Ruth Huberman: Sprouting Demonstration
  • Jo Willard: One Woman's Experience with Arthritis, bout the Double Standard of Aging
  • Dr. Jack Goldstein: Fad Diets; Food Additives and You; Triumph Over Disease - A dramatic and inspiring presentation of recovery from ulcerative colitis
  • Dr. Robert Gross: Diabetes & Hypoglycemia, Dangers of Overweight,  The Drama of Fasting
  • David Stry: Twelve Good Reasons for Eating Unfired Foods
  • Michael McConkey: All About Fruit Growing, Drying, and Buying
  • Dorothy Brosious and Corinne Goldstein: Ideas for Feeding the Family; How to Steam Vegetables; Party Foods; Recipes
  • Dr. William Esser: The Philosophy of Fasting; Fasting: Its Role in Health
  • Larry Wilson: “Sugar Blues"
  • Debbie Gross - Irwin Goldstein - Ramona Coppa - Pamela Epstein: Panel: How to Cope with Being Different
  • Art Andrews -Greg and Tosca Haag - Helen Lamar: Normal Childbirth and Breastfeeding
  • Frieda Becker: What's Wrong with the American Diet?
  • Helen Lamar and Dr. V. Vetrano: Food Workshop & Demonstration
  • Bruce Meservey, Hannah Allen: The Teaching of Natural Hygiene—a workshop for potential teachers
  • Case Histories: Conditions Overcome Thru Natural Hygiene -  (Panel: Drs. Vetrano, Scott, Sidhwa, Burton, Gross, Esser)
  • Question and Answer Wrap-up: Professionals answer your questions
  • Gala Farewell Banquet.

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1976: University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI - (July 25 - 31) - 28th Conference


Photos from Natural Hygiene News - Sept 1976

Click here to see the entire program.

It was an odd combination: Milwaukee, the city noted for beer, and the American Natural Hygiene Society, the organization noted for natural living. But the two meshed well. The University was in the heart of the city, and ideally situated for both local and out-of-town guests.

Opening night had a Bicentennial flavor as we saluted the unique 19th-century women who played pioneer roles in the hygienic movement. The Milwaukee Journal, in a report on this feature, July 26, called them "the women of medical history". Mentioned were Susanna Way Dodds, Harriet Austin, and Lydia Folger Fowler -"a few of the names history has forgotten .... for although several of them were MDs, their unorthodox methods of healing met with skepticism in the medical world of the mid 1800s."

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Dr. Virginia Vetrano: A Bicentennial Salute to Women: America's Feminist Legacy of Biological Liberation: A Tribute to little-known, extraordinary 19th Century women; The Causes of Health; Proper Food Combining; Workshop: Female Biological Liberation Menstruation & Menopause; Environmental Pollution; Getting Straightened Out;  Fasting; How Radiation Affects Us; Feminine "Hygiene": The danger of douching; Abortion: What every woman should know about the physical effects of this surgical procedure; A Critical Appraisal of Hygienic Philosophy; Exploding the Protein Myth; Understanding Fats and Cholesterol and How they affect your heart and Arteries
  • Jack Dunn Trop: Film: The Greatest Adventure; Let's Talk- About Scientific Vegetarianism; Non-Smokers' Bill of Rights
  • Dr. G. Benesh and Bruce Meservey: Outdoor Exercise Class Leaders
  • Irma Benesh: Being a Vegetarian
  • Dr. Alec Burton: Marijuana-What it Does to You; The Health Dangers of Stress and Tension and how to deal with them; Mysteries and Miracles: Understanding Degeneration and Regeneration; The Basic Principles of Natural Hygiene; Female Biological Liberation Abnormalities of the Reproductive Organs: The Cause of Problems with Breast, Ovaries and Uterus (lumps, cysts, tumors, cancer, vaginal infections); The Germ Theory: Fact or Fallacy; Transfusions 
  • Dr. Gerald Benesh: How Your Mind Affects Your Health; Essentials for Health, Exercise and Mental Poise; Exercising to Keeр Fit and to Correct Defects; How Much Protein?; High Blood Pressure, Sleep-Recharging the Batteries
  • Dr. Keki Sidhwa: The Importance of Fresh Air, Sunshine & Sleep, Drugging Practices and Unnecessary Surgery; Fasting: Its Role in Health; Natural Hygiene as a Career, Obesity; Are You a Work-a-holic?
  • Dr. D.J. Scott: Superior Nutrition; Toxemia: Disease Explained; President Ford's Flu Shot Program - A National Tragedy
  • Mark Siegel and Terri Stryker: Athletics, Physical Activity, and Their Importance to Health
  • Dorothy Brosious, Corinne Goldstein, and Helen Fry: Food Demonstration: Feeding your family
  • Mental and Emotional Poise - Lee Bauer
  • Dr. W.L. Esser: Genetics; Rearing Healthy Children; Food, Organic Limitations; Diabetes and Hypoglycemia
  • Dorothy Brosious: Dancing and refreshment,  Let's Learn to Make Sprouts!
  • Dennis Bressak, DDS: Natural Hygiene and Dental Health; Look Ma, No Cavities!; How to have healthy Teeth; Vitamins-What about supplements?; Combining Economic Realism with Natural Living
  • Joy Gross: Obesity; Overweight and Your Health
  • Dr. Jack Goldstein: Food Additives: Nutrition, My Six Weeks Fast
  • Stanley Prorok: My Forty-Day Fast
  • Michael McConkey: Enjoying our Health through Music; All About Fruit: Growing, Drying, Buying
  • Stanley Prorok and Joseph Brenner: Organic Gardening
  • Joyce Wishart: Sprouting Demonstration
  • Jo Willard: From Lethargy to Vitality: One Woman's Experience with Arthritis; Let's Talk: About the Double Standard of Aging
  • Lee Bauer: Social Dancing,  Attaining Emotional Poise-a necessity for Optimum Health
  • Frieda Becker: What's Wrong with the American Diet
  • Hannah Allen: Let's Talk About Preparing for a Hapрy Retirement; Workshop & Food Demonstration: Transition to Natural Hygiene
  • Dr. Ralph Cinque: The Folly of Nutritional Supplements; What Medicine Can Do for Colitis
  • Dr. M. Eisenstein: Female Biological Liberation; Natural Childbirth & Breastfeeding
  • Irma Benesh: Diet for the Small Child
  • Ron Dunn: Becoming a Hygienic Vegetarian
  • R.J. Cheatham: Diagnosis: Cancer
  • Square Dancing
  • Pamela and Alan Fabian: Workshop: Female Biological Liberation • Conception Contraception: A Natural Alternative to Harmful birth control
  • Paul Horvat: Coop Food Program
  • Drs. Vetrano, Scott, Sidhwa, Burton, Benesh, Esser: Case Histories: Conditions Overcome Through Natural Hygiene
  • Terri Stryker: How Your Body Works
  • Allan Cott, M.D.: "Fasting: The Ultimate Diet"
  • Question & Answer Wrap-up: Professionals answer your questions
  • Gala Farewell Banquet

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1975: Fairfield University, Fairfield, Connecticut - (Aug 10 - 16th) - 27th Conference


Photos from Natural Hygiene News - Sept 1975

Click here to see the entire program.

From the opening night on (when the address was given by Dr. Fitzgerald, President of the University, in which he welcomed us with a most warm and sincere greeting), the enthusiasm and buoyancy of the attendees grew by leaps and bounds. One could see that this convention featured some of the best speakers on the Natural Way of Life, both in and out of the country.

The early mornings offered one of the high spots of the day. Even before 7 A.M., people were running or jogging around a spacious track surrounded by verdant, green grass sparkling with dew. At 7 A.M., David Phillips of Australia, assisted by Mark Segal of Detroit, held exercise and yoga classes. Then at 8 A.M., Sophie Holzgreen, President of the California chapter, led us in folk-dance sessions, which were an absolute joy to attend. After such enjoyable warm-ups, the breakfast of fresh fruits in the cafeteria was even more delicious than usual. There were quite a few teenagers and children present at this convention, and the program that had been especially prepared for them was excellent and was well-received. The discussions and activities aimed at them were well geared to their needs, and the youth enjoyed them immensely.

The evenings presented another high spot of the day. Immediately following the last lecture, luscious, juicy watermelon was served in the outdoor spacious patio, and then dancing began in the auditorium. We enjoyed all types; one night there was line-dancing, another night, folk-dancing, and one of the joyful nights featured a professional square-dance caller who had us going the whole time. Nearly every evening, there was ballroom dancing, and the farewell banquet featured a live orchestra that provided some excellent music for dancing.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1974: University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario - (July 21 - 27) -  26th Conference


Photos from Natural Hygiene News - Sept 1973

Click here to see the entire program.

All of our practitioners traveled great distances to widen our hygienic horizons and to give us inspiration and greater knowledge about how we could gain and maintain better health. Classes, lecture sessions, workshops, and food demonstrations all had large attendances, with people coming from neighboring communities to attend them. Jack Dunn Trop's film "The Greatest Adventure", shown at every Convention, is a picture that improves with age. It was very well received by newcomers and brought back nostalgic memories to those of us who see the “big picture” every year. TV, radio, and newspaper coverage brought many new interested participants.

Throughout the Convention, from the early morning exercise to the late evening gatherings, there prevailed an incredible feeling of relaxation, of acceptance, of good fellowship. The closing Banquet was a happy time, with an excellent band and entertainment. The children presented a dramatic skit, written by Pamela Epstein. Token gifts were distributed to show appreciation. 

Keynote Address: Irving Davidson, New York City President, Co-Founder American Natural Hygiene Society

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1973:  Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri - (July 22 - 29) - 25th Conference


Photos from Natural Hygiene News - Sept 1973

Click here to see the program.

A week of natural living, in congenial surroundings, filled with invaluable wisdom for a productive life of wellbeing, summarizes the offerings of our 25th Annual Convention. Every morning from Monday through Saturday, exercise classes were conducted outdoors by Bruce Meservey of California, followed by folk dancing under the direction of Sophie Holzgreen, president of the Los Angeles chapter.

President Irving Davidson offered this humorous parody of Lincoln's speech to celebrate the 25th anniversary: 

Five and twenty years ago, a group of spirited hygienists brought forth in this country a new organization - the American Natural Hygiene Society, conceived in wisdom and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created to seek and maintain better health. Now we are engaged in embarking on a new plan of expansion, testing whether our society, so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met at this great convention to signalize another landmark of Hygienic accomplishment for those who gave their efforts that our organization might flourish. The great Hygienic pioneers who have struggled to establish our principles have enriched them far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what we did here. It is for us to dedicate ourselves to the completion of the unfinished work and the great tasks remaining before us. We must all take increased and full measure of devotion to the cause of natural hygiene that this American Natural Hygiene Society shall have a new birth of progress, and that all the hygienists of the people, by the people, for the people shall not perish from the earth but shall seek the truth though the heavens fall.

The keynote address was given by President Dr. Virginia Vetrano.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1972: University of Redlands, Redlands, CA - (July 9  -  15th) - 24th Conference


Photos from Natural Hygiene News - Sept 1972

Click here to see the entire program.

ANHS President's Address: Natural Hygiene's Message to You - Dr. Virginia Vetrano

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Scott and Helen Nearing: Living the Good Life,  How to Live a Good, Long Life; Modern Pioneering in New England (A class in living the good life); Organic Gardening; Homesteading and Communal Living; Living Sanely in a Troubled World
  • Jack Dunn Trop: What is Natural Hygiene?; Film: The Greatest Adventure; The Laws of Human Life
  • Dr. Gerald Benesh: Morning exercises; How to Have a Healthy Heart; The Importance of Exercise in Your Health Program; Germs and Communicable Diseases; Fasting in Acute and Chronic Disease
  • Mary Stross: How Natural Hygiene Restored My Health
  • Florence Kaplan: How Diet Affects the Nation's Health
  • ; Dr. Virginia Vetrano: The Laws of Human Life; Sunlight and Radiation, (including TV, x-rays, radioactivity, high frequency cooking devices); You Don't Have to be Allergic!; The Emotional and Mental Side of Natural Hygiene; Heredity and Genetic
  • R. J. Cheatham: Food Additives and Their Effects on You; The Natural Diet for Man; Leukemia, Cancer and Tumors; Make Your Emotions Work for You!
  • Dr. Alec Burton: The Laws of Human Life; Say Goodbye to Respiratory Ailments;  Germs and Communicable Diseases; The Natural Diet for Man; Mental, Emotional and Motivational Factors in Life; Better Ecology through Natural Hygiene
  • Irving Davidson: Food preparation and proper combining; Natural Childbirth; Man: Vegetarian with a Sense of Humor; Proper Sex Activity of Man
  • Oscar Floyd: Ten Years on the Firing Line for the American Natural Hygiene Society;
  • Panel: Wendy Lee Cheatham, Mark Huberman, Roger French, Drs. Gerald Benesh and Alec Burton: Fad Diets, such as macrobiotics; Pesticides and other environmental health hazards; Yoga; The Pill; "Social Diseases"-such as syphilis; Careers in Natural Hygiene; Long-range effects of unnatural living; The rewards of living the natural hygiene way
  • Dr. J. M. Brosious: Why Be Bothered with Arthritis?
  • H. Jay Dinshah: The Delusion of Vaccination
  • Workshops: (1) Organic Gardening, (2) Raising Children Hygienically
  • Farewell Banquet (Entertainment- Dancing). 

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1971: Rockford College: Rockford, Ill - (July 25 - July 31) -  23rd Conference


Photos from Natural Hygiene News - Sept 1971

Click here to see the entire program.

The keynote address was given by President Dr. Virginia Vetrano.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Dr. Alec Burton: The Basic Principles of Natural Hygiene; Ecological Basis for Human Survival; The Basic Principles of Natural Hygiene; Workshop on Normal Childbirth and Family Care; The Essential Need for Rest and Sleep
  • Dr. Gerald Benesh: The Physiology of Respiration and its relationship to the maintenance of health; Organic Gardening; Germs Are Not the Cause of Disease; The Essential Need for Physical Activity; Hazards of Vaccination and Inoculation
  • Dr. D. J. Scott: Proper Food Combining for Health Maintenance; The Fasting Process; The Role of Fasting In Health Recovery
  • Dr. Virginia Vetrano: The Physiology of Digestion and its relationship to the maintenance of health; The Physiology of Absorption and its relationship to the maintenance of health; Regulation of the Acid Base Balance (stressing kidney function); Enervation: The Cause of Disease
  • Jack Dunn Trop: Film: The Greatest Adventure, Lessons 1, 2, and 3. Based on the books, You Don't Have to Be Sick, The Power of Love
  • Irving Davidson: Lessons 1, 2, 3 - Based on Dr. Herbert Shelton's book, Health For the Millions; Proper Sexual Activity of Mankind
  • Madge Cockburn: Living in Harmony with Nature
  • R. J. Cheatham: The Essential Need for Natural Food; The Essential Need for Sunshine
  • H. Jay Dinshah: The Essential Need for Emotional Poise
  • lan Malone: Exercise Class for all ages; Greetings from Australian Youth
  • Mark Huberman: The Essential Need for Pure Air and Water
  • Dr. J. M. Brosious: The Evils of Cooked Food; The Physiology of Circulation and its relationship to the maintenance of health; Injurious Effects of Drugs
  • Florence Kaplan: Pain's Soliloquy (a poem of impact)
  • David Stry: The Importance of Timing in Health Maintenance
  • Jack Goldstein: Case History of My 42 Day Fast
  • Oscar Floyd: Workshop on Expanding the Natural Hygiene Movement
  • Cylvia Margulias: How to Get the Most from Natural Hygiene
  • Drs. Virginia Vetrano, Gerald Benesh, and Alec Burton: Panel of Natural Hygiene Doctors will answer general questions
  • Drs. Gerald Benesh and Alec Burton: A panel on Food and Feeding: Purchasing and Selection, Storing, How to Eat, When to Eat, Preparing, Serving, When not to Eat
  • Farewell Banquet (Entertainment and Dancing).

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1970: Hiram College, Hiram, Ohio - (July 26 - August 1st) - 22nd Conference


Photos from Natural Hygiene News - Sept 1970

Click here to see the entire program.

The keynote address: Natural Hygiene: A Proven Method of True Health Restoration for Over 100 Years - Dr. Virginia Vetranо

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • R. J. Cheatham: Your Health is Your Business!; Natural Hygiene: The Solution to the Sickness of Our Time; What You Should Know About Nutritious Food - How to Select; The Time Factor in Recovery
  • Mark Huberman and Tosca Mariani: Natural Hygiene is the Best Cause for Youth to Pursue -A symposium
  • Stanley L. Prorok: The American Natural Hygiene Society: A Credo for Meaningful Living
  • Dr. D. J. Scott: Natural Hygiene is Not a Cure But a Continuing Way of Life for Good Health; How illness symptoms (fever, pain, inflammation) work to heal the body; Anatomy (Parts 1, 2); How illness symptoms (fever, pain, inflammation) work to heal the body; Nutrition (parts 1 and 2); Metabolism (Parts 1 and 2)
  • H. Jay Dinshah: Natural Hygiene: Human Progress Nonviolent Revolutionary Movement for Health; The Role of Creative Living in Good Health
  • Jack Dunn Trop: Film: "The Greatest Adventure”; Natural Hygiene Takes the Anxiety out of Living,  Moderation is an Important Key to Good Health
  • Dr. Alec Burton: Germs and viruses are not the cause of Disease; Simplified Biochemistry (Parts 1, 2, 3); Natural Hygiene: Life's Greatest Drama - the remarkable process of health maintenance and health restoration; Organic limitations
  • Dr. Vivian Vetrano: The principles of food combining for good digestion; The Role of Hygienic Eating in Good Health; The fasting process in depth (parts 1 and 2)
  • Tosca Mariani: Organic Farming: The development of the natural system for raising nutritious food; What is Normal? -
  • Dr. Arthur Doll: The Role of Exercise in Good Health
  • Irving Davidson: Natural Hygiene Helps to Eliminate and Overcome All Forms of Addiction (food, sweets, alcohol, tobacco, aspirin, and other drugs); Natural Hygiene Lessens the Pollution of Our Environment
  • Dr. John M. Brosious: Why food supplements and vitamin pills have no place in health achievement; The Role of Rest and Sleep in Good Health; The case against drugs in health recovery and their harmful effects
  • Dr. William Esser: The fasting process simplified; The evolution of illness out of enervation; The Role of the Emotions in Good Health; The Role of Fresh Air, Light & Sun in Good Health
  • Mark Huberman: The Role of Natural Hygiene in the Student Movement
  • Sophie Holzgreen: The Natural Hygiene Movement: A Glorious Era in Human Progress
  • Adele Davidson: Natural Hygiene Equips Young People to be Good Parents; What You Should Know About Nutritious Food; Methods of Storage
  • Sally Burkham: Best sources
  • Ann Floyd: What You Should Know About Nutritious Food; Methods of Storage: In the country
  • Cylvia Margulias: The Wonderful Simplicity of Natural Hygiene
  • Max Huberman: Faddism vs. Natural Hygiene
  • Dr. Vetrano, Dr. Burton, Dr. Esser, Dr. Brosious, Dr. Scott, and Dr. Benesh: A Symposium on Case Histories: Conditions I have Seen Overcome While Fasting
  • Dr. Gerald Benesh: Natural Hygiene Solves the High Cost of Living and Health Care; A Reliable Way to Reduce or Gain Weight Through Natural Hygiene; The Physiology of the Emotions
  • Sally Burkham andJean Lazar: What You Should Know About Preparing and Combining Food -Sprouting
  • Ruth Huberman and Jean Lazar: What you Should Know About Preparing and Combining Food - Combining of fruits, vegetables, proteins, starches
  • Kayla Dworin and Hannah Allen: Preparing daily meals
  • Adele Davidson and Rose Lazar: Preparing meals for special occasions
  • Workshops: A. Raising children healthfully, B. Easy childbirth the Natural Hygiene Way, C. Adapting Hygiene to the Middle Aged, D. Adapting Hygiene to the Elderly, 
  • Films: The Physiological Process,  The Effect of Fluoride on the Cell
  • Drs. Vetrano and Burton: A Symposium: How To. Build Your Health Future After the Convention
  • Drs. Benesh and Esser: How to Build Your Health Future After the Convention - through the fasting institution
  • Oscar Floyd: How To Build Your Health Future After the Convention -through Hygienic community centers, chapters, clubs
  • Gala Farewell Banquet

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1969: Ithaca College, Ithaca, New York - (July 16 - 27) -  21st Conference


Photos from Natural Hygiene News - Sept 1969

Click here to see the entire program.

It was a "happening" that lasted almost two weeks, when over 500 members and friends gathered on the campus of Ithaca College.  First, there were the two days before the pre-convention period started on July 16. There was no organized program, but the hygienic elements were there in abundance, to enjoy and use to the fullest ... the fresh air, the sunshine, the spacious grounds, the outdoor swimming pool, the hygienic meals, the lack of tension, and the lovely scenery, as one looked out of the tower dormitories toward Lake Cayuga. As it does with every convention, the first few hours of arrival were filled with the excitement of greeting old friends and meeting new ones from all parts of the country, including Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. Meal times became delightful periods for fellowship, as were the evening socials, the watermelon parties, and dancing.

Then came a wealth of valuable instruction each day in proper walking, standing, sitting, bending, reaching, and exercising while standing. Students were also taught how to use ground inclines to help strengthen their legs. The stairs leading up to the dormitories became working tools. "Take two steps at a time, and if the stairs are wide or the legs are short, pull yourself up by grabbing the railing", the instructor told them. Making the muscles work hard was the predominant theme, and the students were shown how to do this from the top of the head down to the soles of the feet. Each afternoon, there were sightseeing trips to a different place of interest...to Cornell University, a cruise on Lake Cayuga... tours to the world-renowned Corning Glass Works, the Jackson & Perkins Rose Gardens (their last year in the east), and Niagara Falls.

The culminating event of the convention was a gala party with a Hawaiian theme. Young people garlanded guests with leis in a rainbow of colors, as the exotic strains of the island rhythms wafted into the air. The beautiful dining room was gaily decorated with streamers and balloons. Following a succulent dinner, entertainment was dispensed in generous measure by young and old. David Phillips offered a rollicking version of "Waltzing Mathilda" in a resonant baritone.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Tours: Ithaca College and Cornell University, Guided cruise on Lake Cayuga, Corning Glass Works, Niagara Falls, Jackson & Perkins Rose Gardens
  • R. J. Cheatham: An Explanation of Natural Hygiene; Everyday Living the Natural Hygiene Way
  • Jack Dunn Trop: Natural Hygiene has the Answer to the Young Generation Revolution; Three Square Meals a Day Will Kill You!
  • Irving Davidson: Laughing Your Way to Better Health; Laughter: An aid to the Disease Process
  • Dr. Keki Sidhwa: The Fallacy of Vitamin and Food Therapy; Wonderful World of Natural Hygiene; Hay Fever, Sinusitis, Enervation and Inflammation, Overcoming Overweight and Underweight; Physiology of Exercise and Activity; Cause and Remedy of Heart Disease; The Physiology of the Emotions
  • Dr. Virginia Vetrano: A Critique on Drug Therapy; The Dangers of Ionizing Rays (TV, x-rays, cooking equipment, etc.); Bronchitis, Asthma, Emphysema, Tuberculosis; Proper Diet and Food Combining; The Cause and Remedy of Metabolic Impairments, i.e., Gouty Arthritis, Diabetes, Digestion and Assimilation; Regaining Positive Health After the Fast
  • Dr. Alec Burton: Why Germs Do not Cause Disease; The Laws of Human Life; Tumors; The Physiology of Rest and Sleep; Raising Children the Natural Hygiene Way; The Natural Hygiene Approach to Obstetrics, Heredity and Genetics; The Folly of Heart Transplants and Blood Transfusions
  • Dr. John M. Brosious: Outdoor Activities: Hiking, Jogging, or International Folk Dance Class; Exercise Participation Session: Improving your Posture; Physiology of Reproduction; Colds, Influenza, Pneumonia, Colitis, and Ulcers
  • Ruth Huberman: Workshop on Organic Food
  • Jack Solomon: Workshop on Fluoridation
  • Dolores Burns: Class on Emotional Development; The Wonderful World of Wellbeing
  • Mark Huberman and Ruth Huberman: Practical Ways of Communicating Natural Hygiene to Neighbors, Friends, and Relatives
  • Film: The Physiology of Respiration
  • Sophie Holzgreen: Exercise Participation Session: Limbering the joints - Effective Procedures for Introducing Natural Hygiene
  • Film on Food Digestion
  • Dr. William Esser: Gall Bladder and Liver Disorders; The physiology of fasting (parts 1 and 2); Cause and remedy of high and low blood pressure, Cerebral Hemorrhage, Arteriosclerosis
  • Adele Davidson: Exercise Participation Session: Strengthening all parts of the body - Workshop for Parents of Growing Children
  • Sally Burkham: Workshop for Hygienic Travellers
  • Adele Davidson and Ruth Huberman: Volleyball Team Contests; Food Demonstration
  • Workshops: (a) How to build an ANHS chapter, (b) How to develop hygienic centers in your area, (c) How to develop public institutes for hygienic education, (d) How to Get More Practitioners into Practice
  • Panel - Drs. Esser, Sidhwa, Vetrano, and Burton: Problems of the Aging Process and How to Retard It
  • Jay Dinshah: Initiation of the New ANHS Over 60 Club - Exercise Participation Session: Tai Chi - The Creative Life and You
  • Cylvia Margulias: The Life You Preserve is Your Very Own
  • Gala Farewell Banquet and Dancing. 

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1968: Ithaca College, Ithaca, New York - (July 21 - 28) -  20th Conference


Photos from Natural Hygiene News - Mid 1968

Special classes in Natural Hygiene covered topics such as the physiology of digestion, exercise, the fasting process, the unity of disease, the role of food in nutrition, the action of vitamins, minerals, oxidation, and food combining. Other subjects covered: Emotional and Mental Factors in Health - Dr. Alec Burton, Proper Selection, Preparation, and Storing of Food: (Dr. Vetrano, Ruth Huberman, Adele Davidson, Mary Longner, Rose Lazar, Sophie Holzgreen, and Sylvia Evans), Sprouting and a Seminar on Ways Chapters Can Develop Food Cooperatives - Sally Burkham, Personal Account of Natural Childbirth - Kerrie and Paul Malone, Raising Children Hygenically - Adele Davidson, The Hygienic Answer to the Folly of Heart Transplants - Dr. William Esser, Contamination of the Environment Through Air Pollution, Artificial Foods and Drugging - Professor James Dooling.

From: Shelton, H. (1968, September). 1968 Hygienic Convention Report. Dr. Shelton's Hygienic Review, 30(No 1), PP 7-9, 15.


Click here to see the entire program.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations:

  • Lectures: Irving Davidson and Dr. Alec Burton: "The Germ Theory: Mankind's Greatest Health Hoax,”
  • Seminar - How chapters can set up food cooperatives
  • Demonstration - How to select and store food properly
  • Seminar - Weight gain and weight reduction
  • Lecture - Natural childbirth (based on personal experience)
  • Seminar (a) Developing Hygienic Centers in your (b) Building an ANHS chapter area (c) How to develop a school for public education in hygiene
  • Mark Huberman: Youth talk
  • Dolores Burns: Natural Hygiene Institute: a Dynamic New Tool for Expanding Hygienic Knowledge
  • Dr. Virginia Vetrano: Lecture
  • Jack Dunn Trop: Life from Conception Through Childhood; Lecture: Life from childhood to middle age; Life from Maturity to Death
  • Class - A dynamic new method for learning how to talk effectively
  • Lecture: Evaluating the various popular types of exercises: Jogging, slant board, general calisthenics, treadmill, isometrics, weight lifting, and yoga
  • Class: Developing your physical and mental potential (with emphasis on improving human relations through greater sensitivity awareness
  • Dr. William L. Esser: Lecture: Hygienic first aid and other lectures not listed.
  • Harry Gross: Demonstration - How an Octogenarian Keeps Himself Fit
  • R. J. Cheatham: Lecture
  • Demonstration: Food combining and preparation of food
  • Class: How the family with children can make use of the Hygiene way of life
  • Seminar: Problems in Achieving the Benefits of Hygiene
  • Seminar - Examining in depth the body's reactions to the intake of the various hygienic elements
  • Ruth Huberman: Lecture: How to raise children hygienically
  • Jack Solomon: The Fluoridation Hoax
  • Dr. John M. Brosious: Lectures
  • Demonstration: Putting variety into daily meals and on spec. occasions
  • Seminar: Organic gardening
  • Panel: Problems and Approaches to Setting up a Professional Hygienic Practice
  • Lee Bauer: Approaches to Emotional Well-Being
  • Demonstration - Keeping the Home Free of Air Pollutants
  • Oscar Floyd: Lectures
  • Class: Dynamic speaking in hygiene made easy (Part 2)
  • Seminar: Achievements made in the past year of hygienic living
  • Workshop: How chapters can promote hygiene more effectively
  • Lecture: Medical Malpractice
  • Jay Dinshah: Natural Hygiene around the world (based on an eight-month trip)
  • Panel - Convention summation
  • Reception and Banquet (Entertainment - Dancing)
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1967: Edgewater Beach Hotel, Chicago, IL - (July 7 - 16) - 19th Conference


Click here to see the entire program.

The college campus at Ithaca, New York, was selected for the 20th annual convention. This was the first time we hosted on a college campus. The environment was free from the unhealthful aspects that we had to contend with previously. Large, rolling lawn areas, outdoor heated swimming pool, golf, tennis, and horseback riding were terrific on the campus that overlooked Lake Cayuga.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 


Photos from Natural Hygiene News - Aug/Sept 1967
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1966: Barcelona Hotel, Miami Beach, FL - (July 17 - 23) - 18th Conference


Click here to see the entire program.

An airline strike reduced out-of-town attendance and grounded many participants. Nevertheless, the week offered many highlights, as reflected in the photos, which capture a memorable gathering of education in healthful living, fellowship, recreation, and inspiration.

CONVENTION KEYNOTE: Why the American People Must Adopt Natural Hygiene (Jack Solomon, Stanley Prorok, Dolores Burns, Sophie Holzgreen, Charles Tamarkin, John Scott, Maurice C. Weiss)

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 


Photos from Natural Hygiene News - Aug/Sept 1966
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1965: Carter Hotel, Cleveland, OH - (July 18 - 24th) - 17th Conference


Click here to see the entire program.

Keynote Address Natural Hygiene Convention: The Answer to America's Mounting Health Problem - Oscar Floyd

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Max Huberman: Seven Days You'll Long Remember
  • Jack Dunn Trop: Film: "The Greatest Adventure”,  Stop Being a Slave to Three Meals a Day, Natural Hygiene: The best weapon against America's big three disease Killers,  Are you clean on the outside, but dirty on the inside
  • Dolores Burns: 135 Years of Meeting America's Greatest Education Need
  • Herbert M. Shelton: Your Way of Living is the Cause of What Ails You!; Pinpointing the Responsibility for Birth Defects; Natural Hygiene is the sure and safe way to gain weight or reduce; Natural Hygiene is the answer to Female Ailments
  • Gerald R. Benesh: Change Your Disease Conscious Attitude and Become Health Conscious; The Importance of Proper Body Mechanics in your health picture; The Individuality of Man: How different are you?
  • Film: Childbirth Without Fear
  • Panel: Natural Childbirth, the stepping stone to healthy offspring (Featuring 5 mothers)
  • Jack Solomon: You Can Win the Fight Against Fluoridation
  • Prince P. V. Gajapati: Natural Hygiene and Hindu Philosophy
  • Virginia Vetrano: Natural Hygiene Feeding: A vital factor in child health, Parenthood Without Anxiety
  • Robert W. Anderson: Natural Hygiene, and not medical care, is the most pressing need of elderly people; Pain is a Blessing in Disguise!
  • Workshops: A Practical Approach to Hygienic Living, a) How to maintain good social relations while eating differently. b) Advantages of hygienic living c) Practical ways to gain emotional poise
  • Mrs. Mildred Loomis: Achieving Health in a Technological World
  • Panel: Breastfeeding - the child's best health insurance for life: Experienced mothers
  • Arthur F. Doll: Natural Hygiene: The best insurance against the so-called "incurables" asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, hay fever, and allergies
  • H. Jay Dinshah: Trade Your Bad Habits for Good Health
  • William. L. Esser: Natural Hygiene is the Solution to Constipation and Headaches: You Can't Have Good Health Without Mental and Emotional Poise; First Aid Without Drugs or Modalities
  • Demonstrations: A Practical Approach to Hygienic Living a) Meal preparation (both daily & party). Food sampling! b) Practical Daily Exercises for Health
  • Edwina Kaye: Maintenance - Adopted Into Good Health
  • John P. Persona, Gerald Benesh: Physical Fitness Contests for all ages
  • Mark Huberman and Mark Rubenstein: Weight Lifting Demonstration
  • Bob Hoffman: Physical Training and Its Benefits
  • Sophie Holzgreen: Are the Stories of the Healthy Hunzas True?
  • Cylvia Margulias: I Fasted Fifty Days to Health
  • Benesh, Esser, Anderson, Persona, Trop: Panel: Your health questions professionally
  • John Persona: Your Physical Fitness Age is Your Real Age; Your Secret Health Weapon at any Age is Proper Physical Movement; How to Release Your Hidden Energy
  • Workshop: a) Practical Ways of Rearing Children Healthfully b) Preparation for Parenthood
  • Workshops: Problems in Hygienic Living a) The Single hygienist b) The elderly hygienist
  • Ray Beard: The Creation of Life
  • Benesh - Esser - Anderson - Persona - Trop: Panel: Your health questions professionally answered
  • Joseph Brenner, Oscar Floyd, Jack Solomon: Panel: Organic Gardening
  • Gala Hygienic Banquet: Entertainment and Dancing. 

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1964: Hotel Statler - Hilton, NYC, NY - (July 5 - 12) - 16th Conference


Click here to see the entire program.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 


Photo from Natural Hygiene News - Aug/Sept 1964
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1963: U.S. Grant Hotel, San Diego, CA - (July 14 - 20) - 15th Conference


Click here to see the entire program.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Jack Dunn Trop: Film: "The Greatest Adventure”
  • Mrs. Sophie Holzgreen: A Dramatic Return to Health Through Natural Hygiene
  • Dr. Robert A. Anderson: The Meaning of Natural Hygiene, Nutritional and Physical Preparation for Motherhood,  The Relationship of Organic Gardening to Health; Causes and Care of the Aging Processes, Sex and Natural Hygiene
  • Dolores Burns: The American Natural Hygiene Society; film Biography of the Unborn
  • Dr. Gerald Benesh: The Importance of Health Consciousness, Mechanisms of Childbirth-Normal and Abnormal, Importance of Exercise for Vibrant Health, Food Combining Essentials
  • Dr. William L. Esser: Infant and Childhood Feeding-Orthodox and Hygiene, Stomach-Intestinal Sickness, Рopular, Orthodox Health Fallacies
  • Mr. Oscar Floyd: Presidential Address
  • Mrs. Cylvia Margulias: What Natural Hygiene Is, What it is Not; Case History
  • Dr. Herbert M. Shelton: Enervation and Toxemia—The Cause of All Sickness; The Real Drug Story; Eating for Health (Vitamin-Mineral Myth); Causes and Management of Respiratory Difficulties; Understanding the Basic Principles of Natural Hygiene; Meaning of Acute and Chronic Diseases - special reference to Female Diseases; Return to Vigorous Health Thru Natural Hygiene
  • Charles Tamarkin: Film "Normal Childbirth”
  • Dr. D. J. Scott: Vaccination and Inoculation of Children and Adults, Truth of Arthritis, Film, "Digestion of Food”
  • Advisory Clinic (Questions and Answers) Hygienic practitioners participating
  • Film, "Fundamentals of the Nervous System”
  • Film, "Heart Disease”, lecture Heart Disease
  • Film, "The Work of the Kidneys”
  • Dr. Robert R. Gross: The Cancer Story; Mental, Emotional Sickness and Natural Hygiene; Film, "Obesity”; The Weight Reduction Problem
  • Irving Davidson: Humor, Key to Emotional Poise, Compassion, Love and Understanding in Natural Hygiene; The Art of Normal Living
  • Wm. S. Peavy,  Drs. Shelton, Gross, Scott: Panel Discussion: Vitamins, Minerals, and Proteins
  • Drs. Shelton, Esser, Scott, Benesh, Gross, and Anderson: Hygienic Round Table: Questions and Answers
  • Gala Hygienic Banquet: Entertainment and Dancing

Photos from Natural Hygiene News - Aug/Sept 1963
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1962: Hotel Seville, Miami Beach, FL - (July 2 - 7) - 14th Conference


Click here to see the entire program.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 


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1961: Pick Congress Hotel, Chicago, Ill - (Jul 3 - 8) - 13th Conference


Click here to see the entire program.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

A young Mark Huberman - Photo courtesy of Mark Huberman
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1960: New York: Henry Hudson Hotel - (June 27-July 2nd) - 12th Conference

R.J. Cheatham, past president and general manager,  and Joseph Brenner,  chairman of the convention, distinguish themselves, indeed, by their great contribution. Nobody who partook of them will ever forget the wonderful morning walk through Central Park under the guidance of Doris Johnstone or Jack Dunn Trop.   We had about 40 enthusiastic hikers, and we really had a run, hop, skip, and jump through the park. 

And how about the lectures? Esser, Anderson, Gross, Scott, Davidson, Dunn Trop, and various others distinguish themselves by their fine expositions and their fidelity to natural hygiene.  A delightful surprise was the lecture “Tooth Decay, and Natural Hygiene” by Robert Poritsky, a distinguished member of the dental profession from Peekskill, New York. Another session, which excited considerable comment, was  “The Preparation of Meals, The Hygienic Way,”  demonstrated by Adele Davidson and Alice Schneider.  A memorable highlight was the demonstration of exercises, participated in by Joe Atkins of Newark, New Jersey, an excellent physical specimen at the age of 50, and Doris Johnstone. A lecture that went down the grapevine as being one of the best was “The True Meaning of Sex” by Irving Davidson.

So there we have just a few highlights. There were many other moments of high achievement that will remain indelibly in our memory. There were Sally Burkham from St. Louis, Mrs. Dewey from Idaho, and Mrs. Wangler of Buffalo, busy as bees, preparing the Century Club luncheon; the irrepressible Sally Burkham's provocative interview appeared in the World Telegram, and the great activity around the counter, where our youth were selling their merchandise and constantly running out of nuts and dates. They were greetings between old friends as they met in the lobby, the lecture hall, and at the book counter, realizing that we were all together, that through all of our trials and tribulations and growing pains, we are slowly expanding, and our future lies ahead of us, bright, shiny, and full of promises.

One of the convention's lecture events featured a food demonstration. Alice Schneider of Manhattan Beach, mother of four dynamic, hygienically reared youngsters, prepared a sample day's menu for her children. She also showed how party delicacies can be made by grinding dried fruit and rolling small balls in sesame seeds or shredded coconut. Ethel Leifer, mother of two studious, active hygienists from Far Rockaway, Long Island, artistically prepared various tempting salads, using nature, beautifully prepared and colored produce in its uncooked state. Adele Davidson demonstrated the most effective, least expensive way to sprout mung beans and alfalfa seeds.

Jack Dunn Trop, in his quiet, unassuming manner behind the scenes, engineered a most beautiful, hygienically eye-pleasing, taste-tempting, healthful uncooked feast. Getting and having fun on Saturday night served as a reward for a week of concentrated lectures and information. Who says hygienists have to be serious and talk about food all the time? Hygiene is merely an instrument to give you the energy, the time, and the will to go out and help your fellow man by making yourself a useful, contributing, worthwhile member of the society.

Information about the Convention from:

Dunn Trop, J. (1960, October). Convention Highlights. Dr. Shelton's Hygienic Review, 22(No 2), PP 31-32.

Davidson, A. (1960, November). A Woman's View of the Hygienic Convention. Dr. Shelton's Hygienic Review, 22(No 3), PP 67-68.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

Photo courtesy of Mark Huberman
New York Convention at the Henry Hudson Hotel
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1959: The Statler Hilton, Detroit, MI - (June 24th - 29th) -  11th Conference

All hail and thanks to R.J. Cheatham, Convention Manager, and now our new president, for directing the finest of all Hygienic Conventions.   There was fun and food for thought, from opening day on June 23rd, when we registered with Aaron Rogat and were duly welcomed by retiring President William Esser.  By 9:30, attendees of the lectures began gathering in the foyer of the ballroom. They admired the magnificent display of fruits and nuts guarded by Sergeant-at-Arms Jack Solomon, and they browsed at Lora Ross' Good Life Publications book display —the educational and cultural center of the Convention.   

The lectures in the ballroom were well attended, with as many as 300 in attendance at the daytime sessions and over 500 for the evening sessions featuring Dr. Shelton and Dr. Gross. Those who attended received a comprehensive course in Natural Hygiene taught by a world-famed faculty. Woodland Kahler of Paris and Dr. Stella Lief of England spoke on the moral aspects—a reverence for life demands a meatless diet and an antivivisectionist stance. Dr. L. O. Bailey of Australia brought his "Vibrant Message of Health" from Australia, where he cares hygienically for orphans on 750 organic acres of land. Our favorite movie, "The Greatest Adventure," was introduced by its producer, Jack Trop. Dr. Esser lectured on "Female Difficulties" and on the hygienic raising of children. Dr. Robert Anderson of Rhinebeck, N.Y., lectured on fasting, and Dr. Scott lectured on vitamins and minerals. Dr. Royal Rood, of the Responsible Enterprise Assn. Educational Foundation documented the dangers of increasing Government control (fluoridation of our water, enforced shots,

Mr. John Persona of Milwaukee demonstrated slant board exercises with Joy Gross as a model for "health and weight reduction" and convinced everyone they were skimping on real exercise. He classifies walking or tennis as mere recreation. Mr. Irving Davison of New York gave us the prescription for what he calls "the least harmful of tranquilizers," along with some pointers on "how to disagree without being disagreeable" and letting those who "are going to great lengths to shorten their lives" "die of sceptic poisoning."  The Saturday night banquet, a feast of fruits, nuts, and green leaf vegetables, marked the end of the formal Convention program, Sunday and Monday being devoted to sightseeing.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

Photo courtesy of Mark Huberman
Learn more from Natural Hygiene News - Aug 1959
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1958: Ambassador Kingsway Hotel, St. Louis, MO - (June 23-28) - 10th Conference

The 1958 Convention of the American Natural Hygiene Society was disappointing... in that it couldn't have gone on and on and on. What wonderful moments these! This year was particularly gratifying. Complete harmony permeated every activity and person, prevailing throughout the entire convention. Tranquility reigned while business was conducted in open session and at the Executive Board meetings. All lecture sessions, classes, workshops, book sales, tours, banquets, luncheons, parties, dances, and entertainments went off without a hitch.

Dr. William Esser became the first president ever to succeed himself. R. J. Cheatham was chosen Vice-President, and Joy Jacaruso, Secretary-Treasurer. All voting was unanimous. Innovations that received universal approval were the classes and workshops. Each morning and evening, educational sessions began with a lecture, a case history, and another lecture. Then, the audience had the opportunity to attend special, more personalized classes on various aspects of Natural Hygiene. The classes repeated themselves each day, so that by attending all sessions, one could complete all classes if desired. 

A "case history" at every session was a big favorite with the audiences. The evening testimonials focused on cases of severe illness that had been successfully treated through the application of hygienic principles. The morning "case histories" were in a lighter vein, where people who had not necessarily been critically or chronically ill told how they had been introduced to Natural Hygiene.

Dr. Harry Burrus, Chairman of the Department of Health & Physical Education at Washington University in St. Louis, was one of many new speakers to take the platform at this year's convention. Others included Professor Henry Devlin Thomas, a consulting biochemist; Jack Welch, president of the St. Louis Chapter; Dr. D. J. Scott, professional hygienist from near Cleveland, Ohio; and Noah Alper, Director of the Henry George School of Social Studies. Sally Burkham proved herself an apt wit, keeping the audience in a jolly mood as she discussed "Humor."

The Ambassador-Kingsway Hotel won the loyal support of everyone present. Salvatore, the chef, proved to be an experienced hand in preparing healthy food. (He ended up buying a copy of Dr. Esser's Dictionary of Foods.) Ann Rosen, Catering Manager, turned out to be a recognized Kosher caterer. Her understanding of Hebrew dietary laws nicely bridged the gap between conventional food service and hygienic eating habits.  Raw nuts and four kinds of raw nut butters were available along with excellent fresh vegetable salads and fruit plates. Freshly squeezed juices and generous slices of melons were available at all times of the day or night.

Never before has Natural Hygiene received such warm and friendly consideration from the press, radio, and TV. Monday morning saw four hygienists on TV with complete freedom to present their views and stories. There were two radio interviews and newspaper coverage almost every day in both morning and evening papers.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Noah Alper: Sound Economics, An Essential for a Healthy Nation
  • Dr. Robert Anderson: Why Bother Growing Old?;  Conserving Your Vital Energies; Walking Hikes
  • Arthur Andrews: Convention Agenda; How I Became a Natural Hygienist
  • Lee Bauer: Best Ways for Getting Your Message of Natural Hygiene Across to Others
  • Beryl Beard: Case History
  • Joseph Brenner: How I Became A Natural Hygienist
  • John M. Brosious: Rheumatism and Arthritis - Does Real Help Exist?
  • R. J. Cheatham: Case History: Cancer; The Role Of Local Society as an Effective Force in Community Life
  • Mary Jean Cignetti: Best Ways for Getting Your Message of Natural Hygiene Across to Others
  • Carl Correale: How to Combine Your Foods and Why; The Hygienic Approach to Diseases of the Heart and Blood Vessels
  • Irving Davidson: Humor: An Ingredient in Balanced Living; How to Get Natural Hygiene Before Youth; Happy Tho' Healthy
  • Jack Dunn Trop: The Importance of Balanced Living; Film -"The Greatest Adventure"
  • Muriel Egizi: Case History
  • William Esser: Address of Welcome; Applying the Law of Cause and Effect to Human Health; Enervation and Toxemia - Their Relationship to Disease
  • Therese Gay: Give Life New Meaning
  • Joy (Jacaruso) Gross: Progress Report; A Short Series of Practical Exercises for Everybody
  • Robert Gross: Medically Induced Diseases; A Discussion of Various Diseases
  • Sophie Holzgreen: How I Became a Natural Hygienist; The Local Society as an Effective Force in Community Life
  • Wilma Hutton: Case History
  • Woodland Kahler: Case History
  • James McEachen: Self-Conducted Short Fasting for Well People
  • Ted Parks: The Fine Art of Getting Rid of Bad Habits
  • Marge Parks: The Local Society as an Effective Force in Community Life
  • William Peavy: The Minerals and Vitamins You Need and Where to Obtain Them; Garden Your Way to Health No Matter Where You Live
  • E.J. Pflugrath: How to Get Natural Hygiene Before Youth
  • David J. Scott: Diseases of the Stomach and Intestines; What Foods to Eat and Why
  • Herbert Shelton: Basic Principles of Natural Hygiene; Scientific Fasting in Acute and Chronic Diseases;  The Recovery of Health; The Hygienic Care of Children in Sickness and in Health; Natural Hygiene Applied to Mental Disorders and Nervous Disease
  • David Stry: How I Became a Natural Hygienist
  • Prof. Henry Devlin Thomas: Ethics and Diet
  • Virginia Vetrano: The Well Woman and How to Be One
  • Jack Welch: Youth is Ready Now
Photo courtesy of Mark Huberman
1958: Ambassador Kingsway Hotel, St. Louis, MO
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1957: Henry Hudson Hotel, New York, NY - (July 15-20th) - 9th Conference


Click here to see the program.

The convention was wonderful! It was a joy to come together again, to renew old Hygienic acquaintances, and to make many new friends. The week was filled with fine lectures, business meetings, sightseeing tours of New York, gatherings in each other’s rooms, and with Hygienic fellowship, climaxed by the beautiful banquet on Saturday evening.

One of the highlights of the convention was the appearance of Murray Rose, Olympic swimming champion. It was a privilege to have so young and so enthusiastic a Hygienist with us from time to time throughout the week. 

Our retiring president, Christopher Gian-Cursio, gave the welcoming address on Monday evening to a large and responsive audience. Dr. Herbert M. Shelton lectured to audiences in 8 out of 10 lecture sessions. These audiences, long hungry for direct health guidance from the world's foremost authority, hung on his every word. He was deluged with questions following each lecture. Arthur D. Andrews—teacher, promotionalist—presented a fresh approach to Hygiene as he discussed Morality and Maturity. Especially well-liked was Irving Davidson's lecture on Natural Hygiene and Humor. Mr. Davidson, New York Attorney,  enraptured the audience with his wit and charm. Other fine lectures were delivered by Joseph Brenner, William L. Esser, Dr. Robert Anderson, Robert R. Gross, Jack Dunn Trop, Jesse Mercer Gehman, Henry Bailey Stevens, Bill Peavy, Joy Jacaruso, Birdie Rauch, Adele Davidson, Therese Gay, Stella Leif, and others.

New officers elected for the coming year were as follows: Dr. William L. Esser of Lake Worth, Florida, President; Robert Rowe, organic farmer of Dalton City, Illinois, Vice President, and Joy Jacaruso Affton, Missouri, Secretary-treasurer.

Dr. Shelton and Dr. Gian-Cursio, thanks to Symon Gould's good work, appeared on 2 all-night radio programs in New York City, on 2 different stations. It is hard to estimate how many listeners were reached, but interesting inquiries have come in already from several different states.

The banquet, held on Saturday night, was a spectacle to behold! Long tables spread with gleaming white cloths were groaning under their load of beautifully arranged and luscious raw fruits, vegetables, and nuts-all that's good from nature's bounty. Individual tables were set up, each one centered with a candle. Dancing and entertainment followed the meal.

The warm feeling of goodwill lingered as goodbyes were said and as the banquet hall emptied in the wee hours of Sunday morning. Hygienists from all over the United States, Canada, Australia, England, Puerto Rico, France, and other countries left, full of enthusiasm and inspiration, with fond memories and great expectations for the future of Natural Hygiene!

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 


Photos from Natural Hygiene News - Aug 1957
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1956: Alexandria Hotel, Los Angeles, CA - (July 10 - 14th) - 8th Conference


Click here to see the program.

by KEN KERN

Not often can one secure a four-day education that is, from my point of view, more valuable than a four-year college course on food and nutrition. Over thirty lectures were presented by such eminent Hygienists as Dr. Herbert M. Shelton, Dr. Chris Gian-Cursio, Dr. Robert Anderson, Hereward Carrington, and others.

On the desk before me, I have spread out the score or more pages of notes and references that I made while attending the Convention. In one sense, it has become challenging to organize and synthesize this material into a coherent report. The subjects were broad and often contradictory. Also, Natural Hygiene is not a simple system of cure that can be easily itemized. It is, instead, a way of life that concerns all the phases of everyday living — from food to posture to emotional poise. Yet I very soon became aware of the fundamental principle of Natural Hygiene, which, in varying degrees and with varying eloquence, was so positively expressed. If I were to name this underlying principle, which in so many ways seemed to set the tone of the whole Convention, I would call it SENSITIVITY.

It seemed to be an inner comprehension or awareness of the total life process, and its conspicuous presence in the convention hall may have been partially due to its apparent absence outside. Inside, for instance, we were told that the basic principle of Natural Hygiene lies in the fact that it is the body which acts on food, and not food which acts on the body: that there is no such thing as a "cure" — a doctor can only care (which is to say love, as to care is to love). Dr. Shelton stated that he would not "cure" a patient even if such a process were possible: to cure a disease without removing the cause would be dehumanizing and demoralizing. It would give the patient justification for continuing his unhealthy lifestyle. He even went so far as to say that disease is actually a life-giving process, in the same way that fever is a positive indication of the organism's self-cure. A correct, natural way of living (the term' Normal Living' was often used) will remove the cause of disease, whereas drugs and medicines merely mask the symptoms. It should be clearly evident that the medical doctor is not sensitive to the functioning organism when he administers pills and potions. Nor is the patient sensitive to his disease when he accepts palliative stop-gap "cures."

Dr. Gian-Cursio has a highly acute comprehension of this concept of organic sensitivity. During each of his lectures, I was given the feeling that this man comes mighty close to understanding—in his most humble manner—the very essence of life-giving forces. When he spoke of the importance of physiological rest (commonly termed the Fast) in health and disease, I began to understand the positive qualities of this therapeutic agent. He was careful not to present fasting in negative terms (as a means of removing poisonous toxins), as is so often done by some "Natural Hygienists." Instead, he employs the fast to maintain life: when the organism lives off itself, it simultaneously refines itself. From his point of view, the fast is a positive reversal: the positive function of eating, when in health, is equally positive during a fast when in dis-ease. In the same sense, exercise in health is synonymous with rest in dis-ease. The logic of absolute immobilization, including neural, muscular, and digestive systems, is not difficult to appreciate once it is realized that the most significant differences in the body occur when the body is completely inactivated. These changes that occur are proportionate to the amount of rest one receives. Witness the sleeping baby who undergoes far greater physiological development than the adult, who spends many more waking hours than the infant does. This understanding of rest and relaxation, as well as therapeutic fasting, is just one more instance of the sensitive awareness that these Hygienists have for the intricate makeup of the human organism. How vital this adaptation is when it is met by the tension and fatigue, as well as the overworked systems, that plague modern man! 

This concept of organic sensitivity was nowhere better expressed than in relation to food and diet. Natural Hygienists adopt a much more comprehensive diet regimen than do garden-variety vegetarians. Dr. Shelton, for instance, presented a sound argument against combining starches and proteins, proteins and other proteins, acids and starches, and sugars and proteins at the same meal. In the case of mixing proteins, he stated that different proteins have varying time sequences for maximum flow of digestive juices—from one hour for eggs to four hours for nuts. The fact that digestive juices alternate between alkaline and acidic states, and that digestion occurs anywhere between the mouth and the intestine, naturally suggests the contention that one type of food tends to inhibit the flow of gastric juice when eaten simultaneously with another kind. Whereas the modern man, in his sensuous gluttony, deposits all manner of foodstuffs and liquids down his gullet, the Hygienist has achieved a remarkable respect for what he eats, how it is grown, and the methods of preparation and combination.

It was refreshing to hear Doctors Shelton and Gian-Cursio lambaste the juice brigade food faddists, the wheat germ, blackstrap molasses advocates, as well as the uninformed cooked-food meat eaters. In the case of the extreme faddists, the search is for a wonderful food, or for some gadget which will somehow enhance the quality of some typical food. These people never seem to be able to get off the subject of food. In the instance of the uninformed, we find advocates of partial reform who still tenaciously hold on to sacred "tastes" and appetite habits. Raw sugar may be substituted for white, whole wheat flour for bleached white flour, etc., but the harm is in the sugar itself, and the method of baking, and could not be alleviated by the meager reforms instituted. Conscientious Natural Hygienists eat only raw fruit, vegetables, and seeds. They do not believe in altering foods from their natural state—either by mechanical equipment, heat, chemicals, seasoning, or other processes. They are sensitive to the natural flavors of organically grown, fresh, unprocessed food. Their concept of food consumption and assimilation, as well as their concept of a natural way of life in its totality, is apparently too subtle for many to adopt.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Dr. H. M. Shelton: Address of Welcome by the ANHS President 
  • Dr. Wm. L. Esser: Prenatal Nutrition; The Mind and Health; Essential Food Factors-Their Sources; Feeding Children from Two to Ten; Natural Hygiene-The Oldest and Newest Remedy; Fasting Infants and Children; Feeding the Aged
  • Dr. Chris. Gian-Cursio: Food Preparation; History of Natural Hygiene; How Health Happens; Experiences in Fasting; The Importance of Rest in Both Health and Disease; The Hygiene of Pregnancy
  • John T. Clark: The Human Side of Food
  • Art Andrews: The Importance of Youth in the Hygienic Movement; How to Sell Natural Hygiene Successfully and Convincingly
  • Eleanor McBean: Hidden Dangers in Vaccines
  • Dr. Robert W. Anderson: Regeneration of Man by Vegetarianism; Natural Hygiene as a Way of Life
  • Dr. H. M. Shelton: Feeding Infants; Correct Food Combining; Natural Hygiene in Health and Disease; The Sick Child; The Essential Nature of Disease
  • Lee Bauer: A Layman Looks at Hygiene
  • Robert Gross: The Germ Theory of Disease; Toxemia
  • Hereward Carrington: Physical and Mental Factors in Health
  • Dr. James McEachen: Clinical Experiences; Fasting for Kidney Stones
  • Jack Trop: The Basic Principles of Natural Hygiene
  • Margaret Corbett: Corrective Eye Exercises,
  • Drs. Gian-Cursio, Esser, McEachen, Shelton: Round Table Discussion:
  • Joy Jacaruso: Natural Childbirth
  • Grand Hygienic Banquet: Entertainment and Dance.

Photo courtesy of Mark Huberman
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1955: Shoreham Hotel, Washington, DC, - (July 5 - 9) - 7th Conference

The Seventh Annual American Natural Hygiene Society Convention

by Dr. Jesse Mercer Gehman (from Journal of Natural Hygiene - Aug 1955)

We believe, that few who at- 33- tended the sessions would disagree that by far the most important accomplishment of the Seventh Annual American Natural Hygiene Society Convention, held at the Shoreham Hotel, Washington, D. C, July 5th to 10th, was the progress developed through the long business sessions where every one had a chance to be heard, and which resulted in an intensity of understanding and cooperativeness of spirit, which if retained and put to use, is the greatest surety of our future.

After a brief welcome, Dr. Gerald Benesh, President, launched into the business of the organization, asking for considered but prompt action as there was much to be done.

Dr. Gian-Cursio was given a vote of commendation and appreciation by the entire body for his tireless efforts and devotion to publishing the Journal, despite facing almost insurmountable obstacles. Similar expressions of thanks were voiced for the efforts of others in this direction. His life is hectic, which even his severest critics could not possibly envy, but would have to admire. Dr. Herbert Shelton, Editor and Publisher of Dr. Shelton's Hygienic Review, of San Antonio, Texas, was unanimously elected President, and immediately set about to prevent a duplication of Journal difficulties by appointing a Journal Committee to inquire into the requirements of the Society for a publication, and what could be afforded by the Society based on present costs.

It is impossible to cover the numerous interesting lectures delivered at the Convention.  There were excellent talks given by Drs. Herbert Shelton, William Esser, Robert Anderson, Gerald Benesh, and Dr. Christopher Gian-Cursio. The writer delivered both scheduled and unscheduled talks, the former and latter each delivering at least five talks. All of these men, along with Jack Trop, have appeared on the roster fairly regularly since the Society began.

Mr. Art Andrews, an ardent natural hygienist and a Professor of Biology, hailing from St. Louis, Missouri, delivered a stimulating talk on "Educating for Health," brimming with good sense and teeming with enthusiasm.

Mr. Robert Gross, of Newark, New Jersey, a long-time stalwart of natural hygienics and recently returned from Italy, where he had pursued his medical studies, also delivered an interesting address built around his impressions and experiences.

Miss Theresa Gay of New York held the attention of her audience throughout with her splendid dissertation, "Optimum Living”. 

It was most refreshing and encouraging to observe the appearance of so much new blood, young people, on the platform proclaiming the virtues of Natural Hygiene, exemplifying in themselves the principles of it, and asking their fellowmen to go and do likewise. To us, this was a real highlight of the convention, and so far as we recall, the first time we have had as large an array of young speakers and Chairmen.

The Book Mart, as usual, provided a good variety of worthwhile books that all Natural Hygienists want to own, and the sale proved the interest of those assembled.

In another section of the hall, there was a graphic demonstration of stainless steel cooking utensils, with complete instructions by Mr. Overbeck, who provided many morsels for the interested and hungry.

As a special feature, Mr. Howard B. Bishop delivered a lecture, "Formula for a Better Way of Living," and showed a 30" colored film, "One In 20,000," which was well received. Emphasizing the impact of the picture, Human Engineers, of which Mr. Bishop is the founder, gave a copy of "Is Smoking Harmful?" by Jesse Mercer Gehman, to each one who attended the convention. Hundreds of these books were distributed absolutely free of charge.

The convention was climaxed by the gala event of all conventions— the Grand Banquet, on Saturday evening. In all our long experience attending national conventions for many years, we have never seen food so uniquely and beautifully presented. Truly, the picture which greeted one's eyes as he came into the long banquet hall will not be soon forgotten—it was a a picture which all the Natural Hygiene pioneers would have cherished. The 1955 Banquet was unquestionably the finest all-around raw or uncooked food we have ever seen served, and we have no doubt that all those present could say no less. It was an extravaganza of variety designed to satisfy the tastes of all, and it did.

An incident which impressed us personally was the meeting of a young man of 80 old years who had turned to Natural Hygiene more than twenty-five years ago, when doctors said he could not live. He began a plumbers' supply business with his good wife during the leanest days of the Nation, around 1935, and does a terrific gross business every year. Here is a young natural hygienist in his 80s. He lives for all to emulate.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1954: Morrison Hotel, Chicago, Ill - (July 6-19) - 6th Conference


Click here to see the program.

A Report on the Sixth Annual American Natural Hygiene Society Convention

By Joseph Pastore, President, Buffalo Natural Hygiene Society - (from Journal of Natural Hygiene - Sept 1954)

Perhaps little known to the rest of the world, yet highly regarded by the followers of natural hygiene, the Chicago convention held significant importance for the stalwart group of Crusaders. The reverberations of what took place there may someday be felt worldwide. Natural hygiene is a philosophy; a wave of life that has changed many to give and serve in this movement that is now held so close to their hearts.

The first day of the convention was one of meeting many old acquaintances from cities all over the country. There were many handshakes and smiling faces as members of the various societies, delegates, and interested laymen registered in the lobby. Newcomers, the public, and everyone else found congenial ground for conversation as the tempo of interest grew in the auditorium with the impending presentation of dynamic speakers. Just a small group of men gathered here to inspire all with a message so vital to all ears that its propensity becomes immeasurable. From the congested corners of the United States and Canada, the world leaders came to give their message, share friendships, and guide the layman in the stupendous task of advancing the cause of natural hygiene.

The practitioners were there to teach the layman and the public the holy tenets of this great philosophy. All of these men, such as Dr. Anderson with his warm fireside philosophy; Dr. Shelton, and his straight from the shoulder frankness – enforced with honest facts – presented in such a vociferous manner as to revealed small, but penetrating raise of his true, deep, heartfelt love for humanity; Dr. Gian-Cursio presenting a fathomless understanding of fasting and dietetics understood by only a few in the world today; Dr. Gehman with a fine common sense, or on the approach to the human betterment, and how to accomplish it, seldom heard among speakers today. Dr. Benish and Dr. Esser projected the timeless wisdom of natural hygiene into a highly receptive audience, sincerely and truthfully bringing together the highest moral intellect on the subject of human development.

One of the significant highlights of the convention was a C.B.S. telecast film made at the convention hotel, later shown on the news television program. This film, for the first time, brought the unusual message of natural hygiene 200s of thousands of TV viewers all over the country. In the film, Dr. Shelton and Dr. Gian-Cursio announced to the world that the only natural diet of man was the raw fruits, vegetables, and nuts displayed before them. On the tables were such rare and nutritious fruits as mangoes, papayas, persimmons, and many others that are very familiar to us all. These noted leaders stood behind the tables laden with natural foods as they faced the TV camera, giving their short talk. They explained that Man may attain usefulness and longevity on foods prepared only by Mother Nature. Who can deny these words or refuse the delicacy of these fruits?

The demonstration by John persona on the slanting board drew lively attention from those seeking better figures. Lee Pritzker from Toronto, Canada, drew admirable applause for his talk of combined Shavian and hygienic philosophy. Speakers, such as Richard Calore, Jean Campbell, and David Stry, added much to the informative talks to a very appreciative audience.

The most enjoyable part of the convention program was the banquet held on the last evening of activities. The dinner consisted of vegetable salad, minestrone soup, a steamed vegetable plate, and, for the climax, Dr. Gian-Cursio made a special Health ice cream. 

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

Photo courtesy of Mark Huberman
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1953: Delano Hotel, Miami Beach, FL - (May 5 - 9) -  5th Conference


Click here to see the program.

Description of the Conference was from:
Orphic (1953, June). Activities of the Fifth Annual Convention of the ANHS. Dr. Shelton's Hygienic Review, 14 (No 10), PP 226-233, 235.

The 1953 annual convention of the American Natural Hygiene Society was the greatest convention we have ever had. Canada alone sent us 25 hygienists. Detroit, Buffalo, Cleveland, Akron, Chicago, Washington DC, New York City, Philadelphia, and other cities supplied representative groups of enthusiastic hygienists for the first time. Texas was well represented at the convention, with San Antonio alone sending six citizens to the convention.

Hygiene is attracting an increasing number of people. It is even invading our universities. Certain of our universities are now engaged in buying out-of-print works on hygiene to add to their libraries.

The convention got off to a flying start on 5 May. Dr. Gian Cursio's welcoming address, which was well received, officially launched the convention activities. For a man who has been through so much, he showed a remarkable degree of enthusiasm, and all his talks were well-delivered. He was followed by Dr. Robert Anderson, who described in detail a number of remarkable recoveries from incurable states which he had witnessed under hygienic care. These Case Histories proved interesting, instructive, and inspiring to his audience.

On the afternoon of the second day, Dr. Gian-Cursio exposed the fallacies of the so-called eliminating diets that are disappointing and have disappointed so many people who have been led to believe that, in order to recover from their sicknesses, they need only consume a full bucket of juice a day for a few days.

Dr. Shelton discussed exercise for body symmetry and muscular efficiency. The evening of the second day was employed by Dr. Anderson, Dr. Shelton, and Dr. Esser in giving more health truth to those present. The hall was filled to capacity when Dr. Anderson delivered a talk on the regeneration of Man. Carefully, he led his audience, step-by-step, from the poor state of health that is everywhere so common today, and up to better and better health, until the pinnacle of Health is reached. 

Dr. William Esser followed with the discussion of heart disease. First discussing the structure and function of the heart, he followed with the description of the various diseases of the heart, their symptoms, causes, and general termination. He explained that the hygienic care of the heart patient and showed, from actual Case Histories, the vast superiority of this plan of care over those in Vogue. Dr. Esser also acquitted himself brilliantly with his discussion of preventing and remedying Catarrh.  Pointing out that catarrh is possible in any organ that is lined with a mucus membrane and tracing catarrh to toxemia and the customary table excesses, he pointed his listeners to a simple, easily followed, hygienic plan of care that would certainly and quickly remedy the catarrh by removing the systemic condition.

Dr. Earl N. Kahn, a newcomer in the ranks of natural hygiene, followed with a talk that proved interesting to everyone present, but especially to the woman who heard him. From the title of his lecture, “The Emancipation of Woman,” everyone had thought he was going to discuss a further freeing of women from social and economic bondage. Instead, he discussed the emancipation from those diseases that are called "diseases of women" and from the sufferings and dangers inherent in childbirth as we see it today.  His talk was full of meat (not flesh), and the young doctor proved himself worthy to wear the proud name of natural hygienist.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

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1952: Hotel Statler, Buffalo, NY - (July 9-12) - 4th Conference


Click here to see the program.

Description from:

Shelton, H. (1952, September). Activities of the Fifth Annual Convention of the ANHS. Dr. Shelton's Hygienic Review, 14(No 1), PP10-19.

Gould, S. (1952, August). Highlights of the 1952 Buffalo Convention. Dr. Shelton's Hygienic Review, 13(No 12), PP274-274.

The fourth annual convention of the American Natural Hygiene Society, held in Buffalo, New York, was a model of peace and harmony. The fact is, as reported to me since my return home, by people who were on the spot, that the convention was so well publicized by the Buffalo newspapers, and by the people who attended, that those who missed the convention were a melancholy lot. One correspondent writes: The four days of the convention were filled with priceless golden hours. Numerous people have become aware of that and bemoan the loss.”

The newspapers of Buffalo did a splendid job of covering each session of the convention. Reporters were on hand at all times, and several interviews of individuals, as well as coverage of the various lectures, were reported in the afternoon and morning papers. We are thankful to the Buffalo Press for its generous coverage of the convention and its sympathetic treatment of our cause.

Dr. Gian-Cursio did a fine job in organizing the convention and enraging a splendid program of intellectual food and entertainment for those fortunate enough to attend. Most of our states were well represented, while Canada came through with a fine group of enthusiastic representatives.

Jack Dun Tropp presented at one of our business meetings a plan to prepare a hygienic handbook for the use of those who desire to organize local groups of hygienists. His plan was very comprehensive and was adopted by unanimous vote.

Prof. Henry Bailey Stevens journeyed down from New Hampshire and gave us the intellectual treat of the convention with his lecture on the whys and wherefores of man's carnivorous tendencies. That man is just crammed with knowledge, and actually covered 50,000 years in 15 minutes, and did it without skipping a millennium here or there.

Dr. Herbert M. Shelton really outdid himself in his major address on Friday: “The Recovery of Health.” He ranged over the subject of health and disease, leaving no aspect untouched. He kept them there until midnight, and luckily, the lecture was tape recorded so that natural hygienists can access it.

Irving Davidson presented his usual store of stories, quips, and jokes as the master of ceremonies at the banquet. However, he showed his serious side and delivered a splendid lecture, starting with the letter A and enumerating the health dangers in our food. However, he was struck down by the chairman along about the letter N and was told to mind his P’s and Q’s for another talk.

Bernarr “Physical Culture” Macfadden flew in from New York at 6:45 pm, made his usual forceful pitch for right living, and flew back at 9:45 PM that night! Here you have a sterling example of octogenarian hardihood at its best because Bernard has just passed his flying test!

Dr. Benesh gave an impressive demonstration of physical exercise. Symmetrical muscles and a torso that measures just right. More hygienists should shape up that way, so we can show the world that we can be healthy and look like ancient Greek athletes as well.

I mustn't forget that arch Crusader against fluoridation and other chemical evils that are undermining the health of the American people. Dr. Charles T. Betts. This dentist gave up his practice and goes up and down the land, exposing the crooks that want to make a fast million bucks by polluting our water with poison. He's doing a great crusading job and always licks them because he uses facts and more facts, which they can't dispute!

The convention ended on a note of gaiety Saturday evening, with a banquet that was enjoyed by everyone, followed by equally pleasant entertainment and dancing, in which all who cared to took part.


Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 


Photo from
Shelton, H. (1952, September). Activities of the Fifth Annual Convention of the ANHS. Dr. Shelton's Hygienic Review, 14( No. 1), pp. 12-13.
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1951: Hotel Hollenden, Cleveland, Ohio - (June 6-9) - Third Conference

The third annual convention of the American Natural Hygiene Society was held in Cleveland. Ohio was truly the very best held since its inception. 

Dr. Gerald and Mrs. Benesh are to be congratulated on the very successful management of the entire affair, with, of course, the able assistance of those in attendance, which made possible the huge and great success that the convention was.

Dr. Jesse Mercer Geham, president of the original American Naturopathic Association, who had attended all the past conventions of the American Natural Hygiene Society, said, "The convention was an outstanding landmark in the history of natural hygiene." Dr. Benesh certainly did an excellent job. What particularly impressed me so favorably at the convention was the presence of so many young people, and I feel that the subject directed to the attention of mothers and children, for example, that were covered by Dr. Gian-Cursio and also Dr. Shelton's work on Saturday morning were particularly effective and will help lay a solid foundation for the propagation of the work in the future.

Present for the convention, where people from Florida, New England, California, the Midwest, Canada, and elsewhere. Chicago, Milwaukee, Detroit, and other large cities were well represented. Among the guests were many doctors from Chicago, Illinois; San Francisco, California; Milwaukee, and other parts of the United States.

Dr. Shelton's Keynote address stressed the fact that natural hygiene is not one method approach to the problem with health, disease, and healing, but that it is an integrated and correlated system composed of all the elements of normal living, employed in keeping with the needs and capacities of the living organism under all of the many and very conditions of health and disease. Drs. Gian-Cursio, Benesh, Anderson, Esser, and Gehman followed Dr. Shelton in emphasizing this vital fact. 

Lady Eve Balfour’s address on The Living Soil was filled with food for thought and was well received by an appreciative audience. Dr. Shelton's lecture on the master of life was filled with humor that kept the audience laughing. Dr. Benesh created a sensation with his personal demonstrations of exercise for different purposes. Mrs. Benesh’s talk on food preparation and the demonstration of her work were also enthusiastically received. Dr. Gehman gave a splendid talk on vegetarianism. Dr. Anderson gave what Dr. Shelton declared to be the best lecture of his lifetime. Dr. Gian-Cursio's lecture on the care of mothers and their offspring was one of the highlights of the whole convention. Indeed, all of the lectures were so vitally important that those who missed them missed a great intellectual feast.

A banquet took place on Saturday at 6 o'clock. Many of the guests present at the guest table gave short, impromptu talks. 

The hygienist movement is growing. Many new members were added to the society; many people were given an opportunity to learn about it for the first time, and their enthusiasm was refreshing. It should be the duty of every hygienist, wherever he or she may be located, to bring natural hygiene to the attention of the millions of hungering people everywhere. Natural hygiene has something sound and enduring to offer people. Conventions come, but once a year – you can work at it every day.

As a finale, our very able Dr. Gerald and Mrs. Benesh planned a hygienic picnic, which was held on the grounds of the Benesh Health School in Avon, Ohio. No effort was spared to make this the very best and most successful gathering of hygienists. It was a very informal setting that allowed the hygienists to get acquainted with one another. There were benches and tables that accommodated many people.  A vegetable and fruit man was on hand with an abundance of fine fruits and vegetables, all washed, cleaned, and ready to eat. There were games, races, tug-of-war, and other activities to enjoy during the picnic.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 


Photo from 
Shelton, H. (1951, July). Report of the 3rd Annual Convention of the American Natural Hygiene Society
Dr. Shelton's Hygienic Review, 12(No 11), PP 242-244.
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1950: Capital Hotel, New York, NY - (May 17-20) - Second Conference -

Report of the Second Annual Convention of the ANHS

from Gould, S. (1950, April). Report of the Second Annual Convention of the ANHS. Dr. Shelton's Hygienic Review, 11(No 11), pp. 247-248.

At first, it looked as if Jupiter Pluvius, the God of Rain, was in league with the American Medical Association to make a failure of the Second Annual Convention of the American Natural Hygiene Society.  It literally poured for the first three days. Still, the crowds kept coming, afternoons, evenings, and then on the fourth day, when the weather cleared, over 500 Natural Hygiene-minded individuals showed up to make the final session a gala climax of talk, music, food, and general good fellowship that sent everyone away at 2 A.M.

Dr. Shelton, the principal lecturer and speaker, in the opinion of all those who attended, outdid himself in the series. He provided a wealth of material, factual and inspirational, which made new converts to natural hygiene and reinforced the appreciation and understanding of hygienic principles in his long-standing followers. His afternoon series dealt with specific subjects relating to the fundamental practices of natural hygiene, and each of the lectures contained priceless information.

J.D. Trop, one of the foremost lay lecturers on natural hygiene, delivered the address of welcome on the opening night. He was introduced by Symon Gould, who briefly explained the purpose of the convention and paid tribute to Mr. Trop for his cooperation in perfecting the arrangements for this year's convention, particularly with regard to the hygienic dinner, of which he took full charge.  In his talk, Mr. Trop indicated the vital significance which natural hygiene held for the individual as regards his health, as well as his spiritual and mental well-being. He spoke of the benefits which he and his family had derived from the principles and practice of natural hygiene, and he paid tribute to Dr. Shelton as the acknowledged leader of the movement.

Dr. Shelton was most eloquent in his lecture in which he exhaustively depicted the values of the new in expanding ideals of life and living, and the great contribution which natural hygiene could make not only to the life of the individual, but also to the community and nation at large. He demonstrated how simple it was to appreciate the logic of the hygienist position as contrasted with the complicated and confused interpretation taken by the routine medical man. He called for greater cooperation on the part of hygienists in making the ideals of natural living better known to the public.

Dr. Anderson presented an irrefutable case for the success of the vegetarian diet based upon hygienic principles. Doctor Shelton was in superb form and delivered, what was considered by all who heard him, the finest and most convincing lecture on the why and where of a vigorous, hygienic health. And telling point after point, he built up the case for natural hygiene, literally taking his audience into the cells and tissues of the body and showing how the correct functioning of each was the only route to true health.

On Friday, Dr. Christopher Gian-Cursio, the Crusader, who is again in the toils of the law because of his indomitable decision to defy the illegal restrictions that prevent him from helping an alien humanity, journeyed down from Rochester to deliver a most illuminating talk on the destructiveness of eating in sickness. He quoted a particularly impressive case to support his contention in the person of the attorney, who defended him during one of his trials and who recently suffered death through the unnatural methods of the treatment of the medical profession. He also presented fact after fact, proving that the giving of food to a person in a sick state was tantamount to his execution in many instances.

A surprise addition to the night program was the appearance of Dr. Gerald Benesh, recently convicted of practicing natural hygiene in the state of Ohio. Dr. Benesh was giving a rousing reception and his modest talk on his experiences, as well as explanations of the virtues of natural hygiene in helping the ailing, won him the attention and appreciation of the audience.

Doctor Shelton concluded the evening’s talks with a highly informative lecture, delivered in his accustomed, eloquently emphatic style, in which he drove home the preventative ideas relating to chronic diseases. He showed the necessity of curbing all diseases in their inception and checking all abuse, especially in the young, so that the foundations for the degenerative diseases of later life would not sink their roots and get a firm hold, which makes it difficult, if almost impossible, to remedy in later years.  He showed how wrong living inevitably results in cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic diseases.

The last evening featured the guest Speaker, Scott Nearing, the eminent economist, radical thinker, and ardent Tolstoyan vegetarian. 

The spring health festival concluded with a magnificent buffet dinner, prepared in a truly hygienic manner by J. D. Trope, assisted by Dr. Anderson and several men and women volunteers. Under the organization and chairman's direction of Symon Gould, the evening was voted a superb manifestation of the hygienic spirit in every respect.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

Program from

Shelton, H. (1950, April). Program of the 1950 Convention. Dr. Shelton's Hygienic Review, 11(No 8), pp. 180-181.

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1949: Hotel Diplomat, NYC, NY - (April 24 - 30th) - First Conference


Click here to see the program.

Report from

Gould, S. (1949, May). Report of the 1949 Convention of Natural Hygienists. Dr. Shelton's Hygienic Review, 10(No 9), PP 207-208.

From the first press conference on Sunday afternoon, which was strictly unattended by the drug prejudice, medical servile press, to the last frolic of our big dance, dinner concert, the outstanding element which impressed me most during convention week was the quiet though omnipresent element of inner strength reinforced by complete faith, which hovered like an inspired presence over all the events and activities.

Natural hygienists from Texas, Iowa, Ohio, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maine, Georgia, California, Michigan, and other points of the compass gave the assemblies a nationwide significance, and indicated that seekers after hygienic truths are not confined to one section of our country. This augurs well for the movement and indicates that we have a broad foundation of people to build upon.

In the natural hygiene movement, I sense a dynamic enthusiasm that creates not only an inner urge to pursue the principles of this way of living and thinking for one's own sweet and selfish purposes, but a spirited determination to spread the truth inherent in its philosophy and bestow upon it a communal and brotherly significance. I will not call it religious further; rather, when I call it a creed for active interpretation into living realities now, and for the future, by those willing to fight for true principles and wrestle with certain untruths which have shackled the general public and imprisoned them, which definitely terminate in degeneration and disease.

Our able co-operator, J.D. Trop, newly re-entered into the motion picture field, will undoubtedly have lead plans for the production of the first natural hygiene film to be unveiled at the 1950 convention.

Their thirst for new hygienic, ideas and data was superbly quenched with the never-ending stream of lectured offered by Herbert M. Shelton in his eight course talks, his conferences, personal talks climax by his monumental one and 1/2 hour lecture on the “Principles of Natural Hygiene”, delivered to a large audience at the Roosevelt Auditorium, located on famous Union Square, in New York City.

Lectures, Classes, and Presentations: 

  • Dr. Christopher Gian-Cursio: Hygiene: The Science Relating to the Preservation and Improvement of Health; "Is Hygienic Fasting an Effective Method to Maintain or Regain Health?
  • Jack Dunn Trop: Can the General Application of Hygienic Practice Elevate American Health Standards?
  • Film: Human Growth
  • Max Warmbrand: Can Hygiene and Rational Living Eliminate Chronic Disease?
  • Dr. William Esser: Living Hygienically in an Un-Hygienic Environment
  • Dr. Gerald Benesh: Can You Think Yourself Into a Better Hygienic Condition?
  • George David Boutwell: Natural Hygiene, a Basic for Social Behavior
  • Dr. Robert Anderson: The Failures of the Vegetarian Diet If Not Based on Hygienic Principles
  • Dr. Luis Mendiola: Some Laws of Cellular Biology as Foundations of Hygienic Care for the Sick
  • Dr. Herbert Shelton: The Principles of Natural Hygiene
  • First Annual Banquet Dinner, Concert, and Dance.
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Conference Program.  Independence, OH. – 2025
Conference Program.  Independence, OH. – 2025
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