Dr. Alec Burton - Publications & References - National Health Association

Dr. Alec Burton – Publications & References

Publications

***Fasting Supervision and Lifestyle Care in the Tradition***
*of Natural Hygiene* (pp. 165-170). National Health Association.

Burton, A. (1978, April). Junk Foods. Health Science – Official Journal of the American Natural Hygiene Society, Inc., V 1 (No. 1), Pg 24-25.
https://www.healthscience.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/April-1978-CORRECTED.pdf

Dr. Alec Burton critiques the modern diet and culture of junk food consumption, highlighting how deeply embedded and normalized unhealthy eating has become. Using humorous anecdotes (like a visit to a “Doggy Diner” in San Francisco), he exposes the absurdity of processed food trends and the misleading sense of satisfaction people feel after eating such “foods.”
Burton urges readers to avoid junk food, eat only when truly hungry, and follow natural laws of eating—in moderation, with proper food combinations. This, he believes, leads to better health, longer life, and genuine well-being.

Burton, A. (1979, Oct/Nov). Junk Foods. Health Science – Official Journal of the American Natural Hygiene Society, Inc., V2 (No 5), Pg 144-146.
https://www.healthscience.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/V2-N5-Health-Science-oct.-nov.-1979.pdf

Dr. Alec Burton addresses concerns about whether a fast can be “too long,” arguing that such claims often stem from misunderstanding. He distinguishes clearly between fasting (a controlled, voluntary abstinence from food while nutritional reserves are sufficient) and starvation (when those reserves are depleted). The core message is that fasting, when done correctly and under medical supervision, is a natural, safe, and restorative process, not a dangerous one.
Only a trained and experienced professional can properly judge the safe duration of a fast. With careful monitoring, fasting is not inherently dangerous—even when it is extended—unless it is mismanaged or misunderstood. Burton emphasizes that competent supervision and personalized care are key to ensuring safety and success.

Burton, A. (1966). Essays on Health – An Introduction to Natural Hygiene – Edited by Alec Burton. The Australian Natural Hygiene Society, Sydney, N.S.W.
https://www.healthscience.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Burton-EssaysOnHealth-1996.pdf

Philosophy of Natural Hygiene, Alec Burton, N.D., D.Ö., D.Orthp.
Diet — Whole Foods vs. Supplements, Herbert M. Shelton, N.D., Ph.D., D.Orthp.
The Genesis of Disease, Alec Burton, N.D., D.O., D.
Orthp. Principles of Hygienic Care of the Sick, Dr. R. T. Trall
Psychology and Natural Hygiene, Gerald Benesh, N.D., D.C.
Hygienic Fasting, Alec Burton, N.D., D.O., D.Orthp.
Simplicity of Infant Feeding, Wm. Esser, N.D.
Are Drugs Necessary?, Alec Burton, N.D., D.O., D.Orthp.
Hygienic Principles in Gardening and Farming, Gerald Benesh, N.D., D.C.

Burton, A. (1980, Feb/Mar). Health and Disease are Interrelated. Health Science – Official Journal of the American Natural Hygiene Society, Inc., V2 (No 7), Pg 200-204.

https://www.healthscience.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/V2-N7-Health-Science-feb.-march-1980.pdf

In his presentation at the 31st Annual Natural Living Conference, Dr. Alec Burton explores the intricate relationship between health and disease. He notes that while health is often discussed, it is rarely defined meaningfully. Many view health and disease as opposing forces, leading to a fragmented understanding of both concepts. Dr. Burton argues that health, derived from the Anglo-Saxon word for “wholeness,” encompasses more than just the absence of disease symptoms.
He proposes viewing health and disease as a continuum, with health at one end and death at the other. This perspective acknowledges that health is not a static state but a fluctuating quality influenced by various factors, including the environment and lifestyle choices. The concept of toxemia, or the accumulation of toxins within the body, plays a significant role in disease development. Dr. Burton emphasizes that the body naturally produces toxins, and when these toxins exceed the body’s elimination capacity, disease may manifest as a defensive response.
Ultimately, Dr. Burton suggests that health cannot be produced artificially. Instead, it’s essential to remove the causes of disease and provide the body with what it needs to restore health. This holistic view underlines the importance of understanding the individual as a whole, considering both physical and environmental factors in any discussion of health.

Burton, A. (1980, Jun/Jul). An Interview with Dr. Alec Burton. Health Science – Official Journal of the American Natural Hygiene Society, Inc., V 3 (No 2), Pg 12-17.
https://www.healthscience.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/V3-N2-Health-Science-june-july-1980.pdf

In 1949, Dr. Burton’s journey into Natural Hygiene began when the individual experienced a severe illness while completing their second year of medical studies at Manchester University. Faced with the recommendation of immediate surgery for an inflamed appendix, they were apprehensive due to the risks involved. Fortunately, their family consulted Dr. Malcolm Black, a naturopath who advocated for a non-surgical approach. Under his supervision, the individual fasted for eight days, leading to the resolution of their health issue without the need for surgery. This experience opened their mind to alternative health perspectives, prompting them to explore the ideas of Natural Hygiene further. They began reading works by Dr. Herbert Shelton and Dr. John Tilden, ultimately shifting their focus away from conventional medicine. As they pursued education in chiropractic and naturopathy, they encountered skepticism from peers and faculty regarding their beliefs in self-healing and natural health. Despite facing challenges, including scrutiny from health authorities, the individual remained dedicated to the principles of Hygiene, finding deep satisfaction in the belief that the body can heal itself when provided with the right conditions.

Burton, A. (1980, Feb/Mar). A Potpourri of Questions on Health Achievement. Health Science – Official Journal of the American Natural Hygiene Society, Inc., V2 (No 7), Pg 204-207.
https://www.healthscience.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/V2-N7-Health-Science-feb.-march-1980.pdf

Overview
Dr. Alec Burton addresses various health topics, including diet, stress, medication, and the overall impact of lifestyle on health.
Diet
- Sodium-potassium imbalance may occur in conventional diets.
- Vegetarians can maintain a healthy balance with proper food choices.
- Junk food can temporarily sustain athletes but is not ideal for long-term health.
Stress
- Distinguishes between good and bad stress; both can lead to enervation.
- Good stress can still exhaust the body.
Medication
- The body adapts to medications, requiring higher doses over time.
- Antibiotics can lead to resistance in both the body and microbes.
Lifestyle Factors
- Sleep needs vary; individuals should rest when tired.
- Fasting does not release toxins rapidly into the bloodstream.
- A positive mental attitude is beneficial but not a substitute for healthy living.

Burton, A. (1980, Aug/Sept). Perspectives on Body Movement and Energy Conservation. Health Science – Official Journal of the American Natural Hygiene Society, Inc., V3 (No 3), Pg 12.
https://www.healthscience.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/V3-N3-Health-Science-August-September-1980.pdf

The text discusses psycho-physical re-education, emphasizing the importance of developing our sixth sense—kinesthesia, which provides awareness of the body’s internal state through muscles, joints, and ligaments. By improving this sense and achieving balance in the nervous system, we can distribute energy more efficiently throughout the body.
This leads to greater physical energy, better posture, and reduced tension. Rather than relying on corrective exercises that may increase tension, the focus should be on improving body awareness, especially the head-neck-back relationship, a key control center.
We gain better control over ourselves through increased awareness of mental, emotional, and physical habits, leading to more vivid experiences, improved memory, and a stronger sense of vitality. The passage encourages mindful movement and posture and recommends The Alexander Principle by Dr. Wilfred Barlow as a guide.

Burton, A. (1984, May/Jun). Holistic Medicine. Health Science – Official Journal of the American Natural Hygiene Society, Inc., V7 (No 3), Pg 18-19.
https://www.healthscience.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/V7-N3.5-Health-Science-may-june-1984.pdf

Alec Burton critiques the modern trend of holistic medicine, arguing that it’s a rebranded form of eclecticism, not truly revolutionary or rooted in a deeper understanding of health. He clarifies that “holistic” doesn’t mean treating the whole person meaningfully, but instead refers to using multiple therapies (e.g., homeopathy, acupuncture, diets) simultaneously, often with little real understanding or scientific basis.
Burton contrasts holistic practitioners with Natural Hygienists, stating that while holistic healers view diet as a cure, Natural Hygienists see it as a potential cause of disease, not a direct cure. Health improvement, he argues, happens when harmful elements (like poor diets or habits) are removed, not when supposed healing elements are added. For example, sobriety comes from stopping alcohol, not from drinking juice.

Burton, A. (1996, July/Aug). Healing is a biological process! The powers of growth, repair, and defense are inherent in the living organism. Health Science – Living in Harmony With Nature, V 19(No 4), pp19.
https://www.healthscience.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/V19-N4-Health-Science-july-august-1996.pdf

Healing is a natural, biological process driven by the body’s own inherent powers. The human body is self-constructing, self-defending, and self-repairing. While external factors like food or environment are necessary, they do not cause growth or healing—the body itself does. Disease responses, such as vomiting or coughing, are defensive actions by the body to protect itself. True healing comes from within, and healthcare’s role is to support the body by creating conditions that allow its natural healing processes to function effectively.
Excerpted from a talk, “The Difference of Hygiene and the Difference It Makes,” presented by Dr. Burton at the 1995 ANHS Interntionai Conference held in Washington, D.C

Burton, A., Shelton, H., Sidhwa, K., Mendelsohn, R., Coumentakis, P. T., & Flynn, M. (2000). AIDS: Don’t Die of Ignorance. Igiene Naturale, Italy.

Burton, A., Burton, N., & Krachler, B. (2018). Fasting Supervision and Lifestyle Care in the Tradition of Natural Hygiene (pp. 165-170). National Health Association.
https://www.amazon.com/Fasting-Supervision-Lifestyle-Tradition-Natural-ebook/dp/B07BGZH5YB

Fasting Supervision and Lifestyle Care in the Tradition of Natural Hygiene by Dr. Alec Burton, Dr. Nejla Burton, and Dr. Benno Krachler is an empirical work that compiles over five decades of clinical experience in fasting supervision and lifestyle reform. The book offers insights into managing clinical challenges within a lifestyle clinic, particularly focusing on water-only fasting.
Dr. Alec Burton, the primary author, founded the Arcadia Health Centre in Sydney in 1961, where he and his team guided thousands of patients through lifestyle reforms, including fasting. The centre is recognized by the International Association of Hygienic Physicians and has served as a training institution for various healthcare professionals.
The book emphasizes the importance of individualized care, highlighting that the duration and supervision of fasting should be tailored to each patient’s unique needs and health conditions. It underscores the role of qualified professionals in overseeing such practices to ensure safety and efficacy.

National Health Association (2009, May 23). An Interview with Drs. Alec and Nejla Burton. HealthScience.Org. Retrieved April 15, 1960, from
https://www.healthscience.org/interview-drs-alec-and-nejla-burton/

Dr. Alec Burton discusses the founding of the Arcadia Health Centre, which was born from his dream of creating a hygienic institution focused on the body’s basic needs—air, water, sunshine, rest, sleep, food, and exercise. He believes these elements facilitate the body’s self-healing abilities. Over the years, he has seen between 35,000 and 45,000 patients, primarily those suffering from chronic diseases who have exhausted other treatment options. Initially, many patients came as a last resort, but a growing awareness of natural health practices has led to a more diverse clientele. Dr. Burton emphasizes that the human body is naturally capable of healing itself, provided it is given the right conditions and is free from obstacles such as stress and poor diet. He also critiques the prevailing low-fat diet trends, arguing for including healthy fats in a varied diet. Dr. Burton encourages physicians to understand and embrace natural healing methods, offering internship opportunities at the center for dedicated individuals. He concludes by advocating for a revolution in healthcare that prioritizes natural remedies over pharmaceuticals.

[Vegan Archive of Australia]. (2016, January 20). Dr. Alec Burton – Health, Our Real Needs [Video]. YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4_9r9myqI8

Dr. Burton reflects on his journey in understanding health, disease, and healing, starting from their challenging experience as a medical student. He emphasizes that health is a complex concept that extends beyond merely the absence of disease; it encompasses physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
The term “health” derives from an Anglo-Saxon word meaning “whole,” underscoring the importance of wholeness in health. He advocates for a scientific approach to health through the principles of hygiene, which is testable and has been validated by numerous studies.
Healing is described as a biological process rather than an art, asserting that all healing is self-healing. Dr. Burton notes that while there is a point of no return for some individuals, generally, if a person can become ill, they can also recover. Furthermore, health and disease are framed as a continuum, where disease is viewed as a process of the body making adjustments rather than a tangible entity. Overall, the focus is on understanding and achieving holistic health through a scientific lens.

[Vegan Archive of Australia]. (2016, January 21). Alec Burton – Common Ailments- The Natural Hygiene Perspective [Video]. YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bqMQnHfTCw

The lecture discusses the hygienic system, introduced by Dr. Isaac Jennings over 150 years ago, emphasizing his concept of “orthopathy”—the idea that disease is a survival mechanism and a defensive process rather than something to be outright cured. It highlights how symptoms like vomiting after ingesting poison are vital for the body’s defense and should not be suppressed. The video critiques the focus of modern medicine on finding cures, particularly for diseases like cancer, which manifests in various forms. It argues instead for understanding the individual needs of patients since everyone responds differently to health issues. While acknowledging that cancer is often viewed as largely irreversible from a hygienic perspective, it recognizes that recovery is possible for some. The approach emphasizes the importance of understanding physiological and pathological mechanisms rather than solely developing drugs for treatment.

[Vegan Archive of Australia]. (2016, January 21). Alec Burton: Health, the Toxemia Theory of Disease [Video]. YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5YNOOOL-e0

Dr. Burton discusses the understanding of disease regarding signs and symptoms, illustrating how conditions like measles or smallpox are often viewed as distinct entities. It highlights the metaphysical and epistemological problems in medicine, particularly regarding the concept of causality and the role of drugs. The author argues that drugs should be seen as having effects rather than actions, as actions imply an actor—namely, the living organism itself.
The video also discusses the hygienist’s perspective on health and disease as existing on a continuum, where health fluctuates, and disease manifests as a consequence of the body’s inability to cope with environmental factors. Two early figures in hygiene, Dr. Isaac Jennings and Dr. Russell T. Troll, debated the causes of disease, with Jennings attributing it to a deficiency of vital force and Troll attributing it to poisoning from various sources. Dr. John H. Tilden later sought to unify their theories with his toxemia theory, suggesting that disease arises from a combination of vital force deficiency and metabolic disturbances leading to an accumulation of harmful substances in the body. Dr. Burton concludes by noting the often-overlooked factors influencing disease development, including heredity, environment, and functional use.

[Vegan Archive of Australia]. (2016, January 27). Dr. Alec Burton: Everyone Can Learn More About Healthy Living. Part 1 [Video]. YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_3mChbhnQY

Dr. Alec Burton discusses the impact of diet on health, emphasizing that while many people are concerned about what they eat, they often overlook the issue of overeating. He explains that certain foods generate free radicals, which can damage red blood cells, and many people exceed their nutritional needs. Burton points out that the individual, or “feeder,” is just as important as the food itself when it comes to nutrition, as dietary needs can vary greatly from person to person. He encourages individuals to take responsibility for their health and recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all diet. Instead, people should focus on understanding their own nutritional needs rather than strictly adhering to popular dietary programs.

[Vegan Archive of Australia]. (2016, January 27). Dr. Alec Burton: Everyone Can Learn More About Healthy Living. Part 2 Q and A [Video]. YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_3mChbhnQY

The discussion covers the effects and recommendations related to fasting, particularly the practice of fasting one day a week. It argues that a one-day fast may not provide significant benefits since the body doesn’t have enough time to adapt fully to fasting. It typically takes about two to three days for the body to switch from using glycogen and protein to fat for energy, meaning that a weekly 36-hour fast could lead to unnecessary stress on the body.
The conversation also touches on sleep apnea, suggesting that many people have upper respiratory problems contributing to this condition, often linked to environmental factors. A lifestyle change may benefit sleep apnea more than special treatments.
Regarding cystic breast disease, the speaker emphasizes the importance of examining hormone levels, as fluctuations can contribute to the condition. Women may monitor their hormones and look for imbalances as a first step. The speaker does not recommend juice fasting, highlighting that juices should not be equated with true fasting due to differences in how the body processes them.

[Vegan Archive of Australia]. (2017, April 2). The Wisdom of The Body – Dr. Alec Burton [Video]. YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oTD5yRWrJN0

Dr. Burton discusses the importance of understanding the reasons behind actions and the application of scientific theories, particularly in the context of hygiene and health. They emphasize that scientific theories should be testable and applicable, contrasting them with untestable theories.
He highlights the complexity of living organisms, stressing that various systems must be viewed as interdependent rather than isolated. They criticize the trend toward specialization in medical science, which can overlook the patient as a whole and the interplay of different body organs.
Furthermore, he notes the differences between the inorganic and organic worlds, emphasizing that while principles of physics and chemistry apply to biology, living systems are governed by additional complexities. They illustrate this with the law of cause and effect, noting that symptoms may vary in different individuals despite similar causes. Overall, the talk underscores the need for a holistic view of health and the interconnectedness of bodily systems.

[Vegan Archive of Australia]. (2017, April 6). Hay Fever and Asthma – Dr. Alec Burton [Video]. Youtube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DXqVEW1qnQ

The talk discusses hay fever and bronchial asthma, highlighting their similarities as they both stem from irritation of the mucous membranes in the respiratory system. Hay fever is characterized by acute, seasonal inflammation primarily affecting the nasal membranes and sometimes the eyes. In contrast, bronchial asthma involves difficulty breathing due to bronchial tube irritation, often preceded by colds and other upper respiratory issues.
The speaker emphasizes the relationship between hay fever, asthma, and chronic conditions like nasal catarrh, which can lead to chronic inflammation. Two forms of nasal catarrh are identified: hypertrophic (thickening of membranes) and atrophic (shrinkage with possible discharge). Chronic laryngitis, often caused by stomach acid irritation, can also contribute to respiratory discomfort.
Acute bronchitis frequently arises from an extension of nasal and throat inflammation, potentially leading to more serious conditions like capillary bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis may develop if acute bronchitis isn’t properly managed. The speaker indicates that, while these respiratory issues are common, they also share underlying causes and can be complex to treat.

[Vegan Archive of Australia]. (2017, April 6). The Physiological Basis of Natural Hygiene – Dr. Alec Burton [Video]. Youtube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPr3JJQ-HQ8

Dr. Alec Burton outlines how modern physiology increasingly supports natural hygiene, which views the body as an integrated whole. He critiques the oversimplified medical view of cause and effect, emphasizing that symptoms reflect systemic imbalances, not just local issues. Cancer, for example, is seen not as an isolated disease but as the result of long-term internal toxicity. Burton argues that disease symptoms are the body’s healing responses, not purely harmful events.
He also discusses the evolving medical views on fever and inflammation, which are now recognized as beneficial bodily processes. He challenges the germ theory, suggesting disease stems more from internal conditions than from invading microbes. Finally, he outlines key hygienic principles: that each living cell has innate healing power, only the body can act (not substances), and the body distributes energy based on priority, meaning overstimulation of one part can weaken another.

[Vegan Archive of Australia]. (2017, April 8). Food and Feeding – Dr. Alec Burton [Video]. Youtube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hOGwML7xia8&t=40s

The video emphasizes that food does not actively heal or strengthen the body; rather, it serves as raw material for the body to utilize. The quality and quantity of food consumed are crucial, as they provide the necessary building blocks for the body to function, repair, and grow. However, despite advancements in nutritional science, many findings have not been effectively applied in daily life. People often consume excessive amounts of food beyond their digestive capacity without recognizing that the body can use the food that truly matters for health and strength. Health is ultimately a product of the body’s own processes using nutrients from food, fresh air, water, and other environmental factors, rather than any external substances or claims from advertising.
He argues that the body requires specific nutrients such as proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, each serving distinct functions. Proteins are vital for growth and repair, while carbohydrates provide energy. Fats have both energy and structural roles in the body. Additionally, he highlights the need for vitamins and minerals but questions the terminology around these elements. The lecture advocates for a deeper understanding of nutrition and its impact on health rather than a superficial approach to food consumption.

References

Burton, N. (1996). Interview with Dr. Nejla Burton. Retrieved April 16, 2025, from the Nov/Dec 1996 issue of Health Science magazine.
https://arcadiahealthcentre.com.au/interview-with-dr-nejla-burton/

Huberman, M. (1980, Jun/Jul). An Interview with Dr. Alec Burton. Health Science – Official Journal of the American Natural Hygiene Society, Inc., V 3 (No 2), Pg 12-17.
https://www.healthscience.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/V3-N2-Health-Science-june-july-1980.pdf

Huberman, M. (1990, Nov/Dec). Alec Burton, a world-renowned Natural Hygiene doctor, speaks out about fasting supervision and professional Natural Hygiene care. Health Science: Living in Harmony With Nature, V 13 (No 6), Pg 8-11. https://www.healthscience.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/V13-N6-Health-Science-nov.-dec.-1990.pdf

[National Health Association]. (2024, December 18). Jean Oswald Interviews the Late Dr. Alec Burton [Video]. YouTube. National Health Association

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Practitioners

The NHA wishes to remind the readers that nothing in this or other publications is intended to constitute medical treatment or advice. Readers should be aware that some previous publications do not reflect the NHA’s current health teachings or approach to health in several areas.

Our Mission

The mission of the National Health Association is to educate and empower individuals to understand that health results from healthy living. We recognize the integration of all aspects of health: personal, environmental, and social.

We communicate the benefits of a plant-based diet, exercise and rest, a healthy environment, psychological well-being, and when indicated, the use of fasting.