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Inaugural Doctors Health Challenge

A taste of wellness: healthcare professionals embrace a month of WFPB eating

Throughout November, we ran our FREE Doctors Health Challenge. Over 200 healthcare professionals—who were not following a whole food plant-based eating pattern—signed up to experience the benefits of this way of eating. Guided by doctors and dietitians, this self-paced challenge was designed to help healthcare professionals better understand and assist their patients in implementing lifestyle changes while reaping the health benefits.

In terms of self-reported dietary patterns of our pre-challenge survey respondees, the largest group was Reducetarians (actively reducing their intake of animal products), followed by Omnivores and Pescatarians. Almost 60% of participants had dabbled in trying a whole food plant-based diet at some point.

The challenge was crafted to provide the necessary support and practical guidance for individuals looking to try out a whole food plant-based lifestyle, hoping to help them stick with it if they choose to do so.

Mexican nourish bowl

Even if participants didn’t fully adopt the lifestyle after the challenge, the trial granted them insight into the experiences of their patients pursuing similar health paths.

The Doctors Health Challenge’s success was also in its transformative impact on participants. The multifaceted approach, including cooking demonstrations, live Q&As, and a self-paced online course system, offered practical guidance and accessible learning avenues.

Rebecca and Heleen reviewing food labels

The suggested food swaps proved invaluable, enabling easy transitions toward plant-centric meals. Modules covering how to choose healthier options at the supermarket as well as when dining out, and how to put together balanced meals without recipes, served as a link between understanding what to do and effectively implementing it.

Trying recommended recipes became a delightful exploration, showcasing the delicious possibilities of whole food plant-based cuisine. Additionally, the guidance on adapting existing family meals helped integrate healthier options into daily routines.

However, what truly resonated with participants was the education about how whole food plant-based eating is a preventive measure against chronic diseases. This knowledge empowered them to make informed choices about their health.

         [I joined the challenge] to become healthier and to know firsthand what this is like so I can help my patients overcome any barriers.

– GP, South Australia

Many individuals joined with the goal of enhancing their own and their families’ dietary habits, as well as aiding their patients. With a significant population grappling with lifestyle-induced chronic illnesses like Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, possessing expertise in a healing dietary approach facilitates more effective conversations about addressing these conditions.

The post-challenge survey revealed a remarkable shift in mindset among the respondees. An overwhelming 90% expressed their intention to incorporate significantly more whole plant foods into their diets, indicating a profound and lasting impact. The combination of practical tools, educational resources, and the enticing appeal of plant-based meals spurred immediate changes and fostered a long-term commitment to healthier eating habits among many healthcare professionals.

Nourish bowls

Due to the interest and enthusiasm we’ve had, we’re looking to run another version of the challenge in 2024, expanding its reach to a wider audience eager to embrace the benefits of whole food plant-based eating. You can register your interest to keep in the loop about when this will happen.

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