In the conversations surrounding plant-based diets, while there’s significant focus on the protein sources for plant eaters, the equally crucial aspect of fiber tends to be overlooked.

One person who is well-versed on the value of fiber is Dr. Will Bulsiewicz. Known by most as simply Dr. B, this week’s featured expert has been advocating for more discussion about the importance of fiber in one’s diet for years.

Dr. Bulsiewicz discussed the connection of traditional medicine and holistic wellness, emphasizing the importance of considering both aspects in the pursuit of optimal health.

Dr. Bulsiewicz faced weight gain challenges during his college and med school years due to excessive fast-food consumption. The impact was significant, adding 50 pounds to his once athletic physique. It was a pivotal moment when he looked in the mirror and recognized the necessity for drastic changes. Motivated by this realization and with the support of his wife, he embarked on a plant-based journey.

Drawing from his extensive background as a healthcare professional, Dr. Bulsiewicz’s passion for fiber was closely connected to his passion for a holistic approach to patient care as a complement to conventional treatments, creating a comprehensive and personalized approach to patient care.

Mind-Body Connection and Spiritual Wellness

The conversation evolved into the intricate relationship between the mind and body, exploring the profound effects of mental well-being on physical health. Dr. Bulsiewicz emphasized the importance of nurturing the mind-body connection and shared his perspectives on incorporating spiritual practices into daily life.

Physical Activity for Wellness

Given Dr. Bulsiewicz’s background in sports and a commitment to holistic well-being, the discussion touched upon the importance of physical activity in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Whether it’s through hiking, running, or other forms of exercise, Dr.  Bulsiewicz emphasized the transformative impact of regular physical activity on both physical and mental health.

Gut Microbiota: The Miraculous Support System

Dr. Bulsiewicz emphasized the miraculous nature of the gut microbiome, portraying it as a supportive force intent on making us healthier. He highlighted how dietary choices can influence the cultivation of specific enzymes within microbes, ultimately impacting our overall well-being .

Food Choices and Gut Microbiome: A Reflective Relationship

Drawing from a study by Professor Christopher Gardner, Dr. Bulsiewicz presented a scenario regarding the order of consuming plant-based and meat-based burgers. The study showcased how our food choices can shape the composition of the gut microbiome, with potential benefits or detriments depending on the dietary context.

Dr.  Bulsiewicz’s Books

Dr. Bulsiewicz is the author of two outstanding books that focus on the topic of fiber. “Fiber Fuel” and the “Fiber Fuels Cookbook” are excellent additions to any personal plant-based libraries.

For more information on Dr. Bulsiewicz visit www.theplantfedgut.com,  where a wealth of resources, including social media connections, courses, and newsletters, are available.

Episode Highlights

[02:30]                  Raised on hot dogs and pizza took its toll.             

[05:30]                  Dr.  Bulsiewicz couldn’t exercise his way out of his weight gain.

[11:15]                  The so-called “experts” often don’t have a clue.

[16:00]                  Is it a conspiracy?

[20:00]                  95% of adults in the U.S. don’t do this.

[22:30]                  What really happens to the fiber we consume?

[27:45]                  The importance of the gut barrier.

[36:30]                  The average American consumes more than their body weight in meat.

About Dr. Will Bulsiewicz

Dr. Will Bulsiewicz (or “Dr. B”) is an award-winning gastroenterologist, internationally recognized gut health expert and the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today-bestselling author of Fiber Fueled and The Fiber Fueled Cookbook. He is Adjunct Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Emory School of Medicine.

With a passion for empowering his community through accessible health education, he serves

as the U.S. Medical Director of ZOE, the Chief Medical Officer of Methodology, has authored

more than twenty articles published in peer-reviewed scientific journals, has given more than

forty presentations at national meetings, presented to Congress and the USDA, and has taught

over 10,000 students how to heal and optimize their gut health.

He completed a bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University, a medical degree from

Georgetown University, and a master’s in clinical investigation from Northwestern University. Dr. B was the chief medical resident at Northwestern and the chief gastroenterology fellow at The University of North Carolina, and received the highest award given by both his residency and fellowship. He completed an epidemiology fellowship on a grant from the National Institutes of Health at UNC’s prestigious Gillings School of Global Public Health.

He lives in Charleston, South Carolina with his wife and children. You’ll find him on Instagram

and Facebook as @theguthealthmd, on TikTok as @theguthealthmd_, and at his website

www.theplantfedgut.com and www.theplantfedgut.com

About Dr. Frank Sabatino

As a recognized authority on the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle, Dr. Frank Sabatino has cared for and inspired thousands of people for over 40 years. Dr. Sabatino has a PhD in cell biology and neuroendocrinology and has done extensive landmark research on calorie restriction, stress, and aging. He currently is on staff at the TrueNorth Health Foundation in Santa Rosa, CA, and serves as the Director of Health Education at the NHA.

Dr. Sabatino’s passion and life’s work include raising awareness about the benefits of whole-food, plant-exclusive nutrition (without added salt, oil, or sugar), health rejuvenation and stress management.

About NHA

The National Health Association (NHA), founded in 1948, is a nonprofit organization that promotes the benefits of a plant-based diet. The Association provides educational materials, educational events, and services to thousands of people around the world.

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

The NHA also provides travel experiences around the globe through the NHA Plant-Based Travel and cruise division.

More information: https://www.healthscience.org/

Scholarships

A unique benefit of the NHA Conference is the selection of two medical students who receive a full scholarship to the conference.

Contact Wanda Huberman for more information on how to apply for the scholarship.  [email protected]

NHA membership

For a very nominal investment, you can enjoy incredible benefits of the NHA membership.

Members of the NHA enjoy a subscription to the award-winning quarterly health journal, Health Science, access to the “Members Only” section of the NHA Website (which contains all 43 years of back issues of the magazine),  the ability to download for free many classic out of print eBooks on the history of the Natural Hygiene Movement, including Fasting Can Save Your Life and The Greatest Health Discovery, discounts on books, and early notice of the NHA events.

Only $35 a year for basic membership within the United States.  https://www.healthscience.org/join-renew/