Dear Listener,
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with the renowned Dr. John McDougall – author of The Starch Solution, creator of the McDougall Program for Maximum Weight Loss, and a pioneer in the field of plant-based nutrition. Dr. McDougall has been advocating for a starch-based diet for over four decades, drawing from his extensive experience as a sugar plantation doctor in Hawaii and his own personal health journey.
We discussed the alarming rise of obesity and chronic diseases in the United States. A staggering 72% of Americans are now overweight or obese, and Dr. McDougall thinks that number may be an underestimate. He shared his perspective on the root cause of this epidemic: the shift from traditional, starch-based diets to those high in animal products and processed foods.
Our conversation examines the idea of a diet centered around starches like rice, corn, and potatoes, complemented by fruits and vegetables.
I have spent many years of my long life following the McDougall program, with good results, although my current diet has evolved to include some lean meat and animal proteins, as well as healthy fats. You’ll have to listen to hear his answers when I pressed him on the potential for protein and calcium deficiencies following his program.
We also touch on the environmental and ethical implications of our food choices, with Dr. McDougall sharing his journey towards understanding the impact of animal agriculture on both animal welfare and the planet.
Between the two of us, Dr. McDougall and I share over 150 of experience. Hopefully this gives us something meaningful to say about these issues.
Golden light,
Dr. Richard Louis Miller
Links:
Meer.org - The Mirrors for Earth's Energy Rebalancing Project
Listen to Learn
The rise of obesity and chronic diseases in the United States and their connection to the Western diet
The power of a starch-based, whole-food, plant-based diet in promoting optimal health and weight management
Dispelling the myths surrounding protein and calcium deficiencies in plant-based diets
The environmental and ethical implications of our food choices, particularly regarding animal agriculture
Dr. McDougall's personal health journey and his experience as a sugar plantation doctor in Hawaii
The concept of geoengineering as a potential solution to the climate crisis
The importance of educating children and families about healthy eating habits
The role of the food industry in shaping public perception and influencing dietary choices
Practical tips for transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle and overcoming common challenges
My Books
Freeing Sexuality: Psychologists, Consent Teachers, Polyamory Experts, and Sex Workers Speak Out
Psychedelic Wisdom: The Astonishing Rewards of Mind-Altering Substances
Psychedelic Medicine: The Healing Powers of LSD, MDMA, Psilocybin, and Ayahuasca
Integral Psychedelic Therapy (co-edited with Jason A. Butler & Genesee Herzberg)
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