Time to Revamp Nutrition Education for Physicians

Obesity is a national and global epidemic and is usually the result of a poor diet and lifestyle. Obesity is a strong risk factor for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, which are leading causes of morbidity and mortality. Ample scientific evidence supports that nutritional interventions involving plant-based diets can be effective in the prevention and treatment of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Many patients are interested in improving their eating habits and frequently look to physicians for dietary advice. However, most physicians are unable to provide meaningful guidance because of a lack of nutrition education. We launched programs to educate our physicians and patients about the benefits of plant-based diets, with an overwhelmingly positive response. Because physicians are at the forefront of fighting the obesity epidemic, it is imperative to emphasize nutrition education for current and future physicians.