Dr. Dominic Brandy, renowned board certified cosmetic surgeon, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, an incurable cancer, in November 2017. This changed his life, and he transformed from a successful plastic surgeon to a cancer lifestyle coach, adopting a whole food plant-based diet, exercising and practicing yoga, meditation, and visualization. He believes that cancer is not just a disease of the body but also of the mind and spirit. Dr. Brandy helps cancer patients by providing guidance on lifestyle changes that can help manage their cancer. The Medical Truth Podcast explores the benefits of a plant-based diet and how lifestyle changes can have significant impact on managing cancer.

After reading the book “How Not to Die” by Michael Gregor, Dr. Brandy decided to adopt a whole food plant-based diet, which is rich in antioxidants that neutralize free radicals responsible for DNA mutations that cause cancer. He takes over 30 herbal supplements, exercises, and practices yoga, meditation, and visualization. Exercise is crucial, and Dr. Brandy cites studies that show the benefits of running on lowering the chances of relapse. Sleep is also vital for DNA repair, and he stresses the importance of getting enough rest.

A whole food plant-based diet includes legumes, fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, herbs, and spices. Dr. Brandy practices tie restricted eating, and his last meal is at 8:00 p.m. the night before. He breaks his fast at noon and consumes nuts as a snack before taking his supplements. Dr. Brandy highlights the importance of phytochemicals in plant foods, which can help fight cancer, and explains how combining different foods can result in a synergistic effect that provides even more benefits. Eating a diverse range of plant foods can support a healthy microbiome. Finally, Dr. Brandy cites a 2019 Lancet study, which found that high fiber consumers have a 30% lower risk of premature death compared to those who consume less fiber.

Dr. Brandy’s cancer journey began with a pop in his right shoulder while performing surgery in September of 2017. He initially ignored the pain, but it kept getting worse. By the last week of October, it was starting to keep him up at night. Dr. Brandy thought he had bone cancer, and after an MRI, he was diagnosed with IgA multiple myeloma, the most aggressive type of myeloma. When he went to see the oncologist, he was recommended to undergo a triple regimen of two oral medications and another medication that he would have to go in every week and get a shot in his abdomen, called Velcade. Dr. Brandy did not ant to risk the side effects of the treatment, which could have resulted in peripheral neuropathy of his feet and hands. Instead, he started doing research on his own and came across various studies that indicated a whole food plant-based diet could help manage his cancer. Dr. Brandy met with Dr. Dean Ornish, who has conducted extensive research on reversing heart disease through lifestyle changes, and Dr. T. Colin Campbell, who is known for his research on the benefits of a plant-based diet.  These meetings convinced Dr. Brandy that he could manage his cancer through lifestyle changes, and he became a cancer lifestyle coach.

Dr. Brandy’s experience is a testament to the importance of adopting healthy lifestyle habits and making informed decisions when it comes to healthcare. Lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on managing cancer, and cancer is not just a disease of the body but also of the mind and spirit. A plant -based diet can decrease the risk of getting diseases at an early stage of life.  Whole grains and legumes are essential components of a plant-based diet. James Egidio and Dominic Brandy discussed the benefits of more fiber in the diet. These are just a few examples of the numerous benefits of a whole food plant-based diet that Dr. Brandy shares in his book and interviews.

Dr. Brandy’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of taking care of our bodies and minds through healthy lifestyle habits. While plant-based diet may not be a cure for all diseases, research has shown that it can have a significant impact on preventing and managing chronic ilnnesses such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.

If you’re interested in adopting a whole food plant-based diet, it’s important to do your research and consult with a healthcare professional. Dr. Brandy’s book and interviews are a great starting point for learning about the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle and the practical steps you can take to make the transition.

In summary, Dr. Dominic Brandy’s journey from a successful plastic surgeon to a cancer lifestyle coach is a testament to the power of lifestyle changes in managing chronic illnesses such as cancer. His story highlights the benefits of a whole food plant-based diet, exercise, and stress reduction techniques such as yoga and meditation in promoting overall health and well being. Whether you’re a cancer patient or simply looking to improve your health, Dr. Brandy’s insights can serve as a valuable resource for taking control of your health and making informed decisions about your healthcare.

James Egidio brings more than 24 years of experience as a medical practice owner, manager, entrepreneur, author and host of the Medical Truth Podcast.