What is Culinary Medicine?
I have a deep love of culinary medicine. Like aesthetics, this is a field of medicine that is a lovely blend of creativity and science to promote overall well-being. But it can be hard to adequately describe or explain, so let’s explore the topic more fully here.
What is Culinary Medicine?
Culinary medicine is a field that combines the art of cooking with the science of medicine to promote health and prevent disease. It involves using food and nutrients as part of a holistic approach to healthcare, and emphasizes the role that diet and lifestyle play in maintaining good health. You are essentially combining the principles of nutrition and culinary arts with a dash of science. This can involve using fresh, whole foods and herbs to create flavorful, nutrient-rich meals that are tailored to an individual's specific needs.
Culinary medicine practitioners may work with patients to develop personalized meal plans that are tailored to their individual health needs and goals, and may also provide education and support to help individuals learn how to cook and eat in a way that supports their health. This may include guidance on how to select and prepare nutrient-dense foods, as well as how to incorporate physical activity and stress management into a healthy lifestyle.
Some of the key principles of culinary medicine include:
Eating a varied diet that includes a wide range of nutrient-dense foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Choosing whole, minimally processed foods whenever possible.
Cooking at home using fresh, whole ingredients.
Using herbs, spices, and other flavorings to add flavor and nutrition to meals without relying on added sugar, salt, or unhealthy fats.
Paying attention to portion sizes and eating mindfully.
Culinary medicine can be an effective tool for improving health and preventing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. It can also be beneficial for managing specific health conditions, such as high blood pressure or food allergies.
Resources and Courses for Clinicians
Culinary Health Education Fundamentals (CHEF) Coaching—The Basics from Harvard Medical School
This is a paid-for course geared towards medical professionals. You can find out more here.
LifeStyle Medicine 1: The Future of Healthcare is Lifestyle Medicine from Inspired Medics
Lifestyle Medicine 2: Lifestyle Medicine in Clinical Practice from Inspired Medics
Stanford Medicine Introduction to Food and Health
If you’re interested in cultivating your love of food and beautiful meals, you can find my favourite recipes here.
I have a deep love of culinary medicine. Like aesthetics, this is a field of medicine that is a lovely blend of creativity and science to promote overall well-being. But it can be hard to adequately describe or explain, so let’s explore the topic more fully here.
What is Culinary Medicine?
Culinary medicine is a field that combines the art of cooking with the science of medicine to promote health and prevent disease. It involves using food and nutrients as part of a holistic approach to healthcare, and emphasizes the role that diet and lifestyle play in maintaining good health. You are essentially combining the principles of nutrition and culinary arts with a dash of science. This can involve using fresh, whole foods and herbs to create flavorful, nutrient-rich meals that are tailored to an individual's specific needs