In the early 2000’s I met a man who used herbs and tinctures to treat various illnesses, and though he wasn’t a doctor, his formulas were pursued by many people. I also met a man who at 86 years old, was a multiple marathon winner and looked no older than 50 years old! During those years I became Vegan (for the first time) and was exposed to some amazing people and experiences. I pursued more of such knowledge by studying Complementary and Alternative Medicine, where I was introduced to Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurvedic medical theories and a ton more, earning my Bachelor’s.
As a professional Chef with over 30 years of experience in many sectors of food service, I was introduced to the late Dr. Baxter Montgomery who as a Cardiologist, opened a vegan restaurant as part of his health practice in Houston, TX. There I witnessed in real time, the application of my studies as well as the profound impact of food on health outcomes, from a clinical perspective. My job was to create delicious dishes that were familiar, yet 100% organic and plant based and within the dietary and nutritional guidelines that were particular to each client.
My knowledge grew exponentially, and my focus became “integrative” & “regenerative” health. First, “integrative” health refers to your healthcare provider(s) making sure to include your input, thoughts, etc. in any treatment plans. They also communicate and work in tandem, such as your cardiologist and your primary care physician communicating with each other as well as keeping you informed, comfortable and satisfied with your health progression. This is called “Patient-Centered Care”.
Second, “regenerative” health includes the many ways in which the body can naturally restore, repair or optimize itself through intentional practices or therapies. An example would be how some individuals can reverse insulin resistance and restore normal blood sugar function with changes in nutrition, stress management and more!
These are the things I find amazing and am on a mission to learn and master all that I possibly can. This is in effort to do what I wholeheartedly believe is my spiritual calling, which is to serve and feed people life sustaining foods and information. To promote LIFE, however possible, and to help people truly “live”.