Food as medicine

The Gajer Practice Blogs

June 15, 2024

Dear readers,

Over the last 100 years, modern medicine has invented many amazing pharmaceutical and procedural treatments for disease. Despite these advancements, food remains the most powerful medicine we can use to cultivate health.

At the most fundamental level, the food we eat creates a blueprint for our biology. Our cells constantly regenerate, completely replacing themselves every seven years.  This means that our physical bodies are made of entirely new matter every decade. While our genes dictate how our cells differentiate, gene expression is largely dependent on the cofactors and nutrients available in our bodies.

Humans evolved over 200,000 years in an austere environment where food was scarce, movement was necessary, and calorie-dense foods were essential for survival. Our genes therefore adapted to crave high sugar, fat, and salt to protect us from starvation. However, in the past 75 years, food has become overly abundant, and the emergence of food science has created foods that trigger these cravings, making it nearly impossible to moderate intake. This has led to a metabolic crisis, with many illnesses today—including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and dementia—stemming from poor metabolic health.

When we eat whole, minimally processed foods, our metabolic health can recover.  This can also markedly reduce our risk of the diseases that are most likely to shorten our lives.  Whole foods support the gut microbiome, which is crucial for digestion, immune system regulation, and mental health. Processed foods, on the other hand, harm our gut microbiome and deplete it of essential nutrients.

A whole-food diet is also vital for hormonal balance. It provides the necessary nutrients and antioxidants for hormone production, reduces inflammation, and supports overall hormonal stability. Healthy fats from whole food sources are crucial for hormone synthesis, ensuring optimal function and well-being. By prioritizing a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods, we can enhance our metabolic health, gut health, and hormonal balance, leading to improved overall health and well-being.

While modern medicine has made remarkable strides in treating diseases, it is crucial to remember that the foundation of our health lies in the foods we consume. By prioritizing whole, minimally processed foods, we can support our metabolic health, gut microbiome, and hormonal balance, ultimately preventing many of the chronic illnesses that plague our society today. Embracing the concept of food as medicine not only empowers us to take control of our health but also aligns with our evolutionary biology, promoting a balanced and thriving life. Let us make mindful food choices, recognizing that what we eat profoundly impacts our overall well-being, and harness the incredible power of nutrition to achieve optimal health.

Warm regards,

Dr. Gajer

SHARE THIS
Search
RECENT POSTS
RELATED ARTICLES
April 10, 2025

3 Dangerous Men’s Health Myths Debunked

In my years of practice, I've noticed that men often receive less nuanced healthcare information than women. While women's health has rightfully received increased attention and specialized care, men's health often remains oversimplified and clouded by persistent myths. These misconceptions can prevent men from seeking appropriate care and addressing issues that significantly impact their quality of life.
April 9, 2025

These 3 Foods Are Uncanceled!

In the ever-shifting landscape of nutrition advice, certain foods have been unfairly vilified, only to be later redeemed by advancing science. As a physician focused on evidence-based nutrition, I've watched with fascination as research continues to overturn outdated beliefs about several nutrient-dense foods.
April 8, 2025

From Health Care to Sick Care: How Our Medical System Lost Its Way

In theory, our healthcare system exists to help people live healthy lives. In reality, we've created a sophisticated sick care system that excels at treating diseases but largely fails at preventing them.

Submit a contact form to be contacted by our team!

Are You At High Risk?? –

Tired of Doing Everything Right and Still Not Losing Weight?

Qualifier mock-up

Click the button below to start losing weight in just two weeks with this doctor-created plan. Free for a limited time.