Many individuals who follow the Nutritarian diet write to Dr. Fuhrman about their success. Keep in mind that results vary from person to person. As always, consult your physician if you have a medical history and/or condition that may warrant individual recommendations.
Leah is free of leg pain caused by peripheral artery disease and does not need the meds her doctor had urged her to take
In March of 2006 I noticed a cramp in my calf when walking. I went to a chiropractor thinking it was a back issue. Then in June 2006 my husband died, I was devastated. The two years following his death I was in a fog. I ate cottage cheese, hot dogs and yogurt. I couldn't swallow I was so despondent. Then I realized I could not walk more than 20 or 30 steps without extreme cramping of my left calf. I finally went to the doctor. I was sent first to a back class, then physical therapy, then acupuncture, then to a back surgeon. The back surgeon said I had normal wear and tear on my back but could not pinpoint any spot that required surgery. He asked me what I thought was the problem; I told him I thought it was PAD (peripheral artery disease).
He sent me to a vascular surgeon who diagnosed me in five minutes. This took two years. He told me I needed surgery which I did twice. He then prescribed cholesterol medication and blood pressure medication. I refused to take either and was bombarded and plagued with numerous phone calls and registered letter urging me to take these drugs. I was desperate to find a solution to my problem without drugs.
I found Dr. Fuhrman and he made sense to me. So for six months I ignored the other doctors and went on Dr Fuhrman’s plan religiously. When I returned to the doctor I had lost 35 pounds. My cholesterol LDL was under 100. My HDL 90 and my blood pressure 117/ 67. My doctor (overweight by the way) started asking me for advice. It is approaching two years that I have been following this plan. It has not been easy, but I have maintained a thin weight and can walk five miles without pain. When I asked my vascular surgeon if my diet has helped me he said I can never remove the plaque I have! After my surgery I could walk 60 steps until the pain came. I can only base my judgment on how I feel and function. Shame on those doctors for being so discouraging. God bless Dr Fuhrman.
Results may vary.