Here at Flourish Integrative Health, we do not take a “one size fits all approach” to healing but really view each person as a unique ecosystem. This is a big reason why we resonated so deeply with the recently released book, The Palovedic Diet, by Akil Palanisamy, M.D., a Harvard-trained physician who practices integrative medicine. Dr. Palanisamy’s approach to nutrition arose from his personal experience with healing through a pragmatic, personalized approach to wellness. The Paleovedic Diet combines the ancient Indian system of medicine, which is based on the idea of balance in bodily systems, and another ancient form of nutrition, the Paleolithic diet. The Paleo diet has resurfaced as a more recent diet fad, and Dr. Palanisamy’s interpretation demystifies the modern iteration and shows how the Paleo diet should be combined with your own body’s innate constitution, which is explained through Ayurvedic philosophies and practices.
Dr. Palanisamy does an incredible job writing about these ancient medical and nutrition principles in a very comfortable, conversational tone. Even if you are new to learning about Ayurveda and Paleo, Dr. Palanisamy’s writing style is approachable and enjoyable. After he shares his astounding story of healing through a personalized integrative nutrition-based approach, Dr. Palanisamy continues by clarifying the Paleo diet and sharing what our ancestors actually ate (it’s not as meat-focused as the modern-day trend would have you believe!). After discussing how the Paleo diet should be individualized, highlighting the reasons behind grain and gluten sensitivity, and distinguishing between good and harmful fats, Dr. Palanisamy then shares how you can discover your Ayurvedic type and tailor your diet accordingly. Additionally, he does not forget about emphasizing the importance of exercise, sleep, and the mind-body-spirit balance in the wellness journey.
For those looking for specific answers on what to actually eat and what to avoid, Dr. Palanisamy does a very thorough job of highlighting specific foods to include in your diet, both daily and seasonally, as well as foods to avoid. Even better, the end of the book is rich with delicious recipes to aid in the detoxifying process!
There is no one “prescription” for everyone; our journey to health and vitality is as unique as our own fingerprints. At Flourish Integrative Health, we utilize the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, and other Eastern Medicine practices to help you discover what your body and spirit need to flourish fully!
Vladi Starkov is a Licensed Acupuncturist, Herbalist, and natural health practitioner in Sonoma County who comes from a lineage of women healers in Bulgaria. She holds extensive training in the areas of pain, women’s health, fertility, Ayurveda, and psycho-spiritual emotional balance. To learn more about how Flourish Integrative Health can assist you in your journey with IVF and fertility, visit www.flourishintegrativehealth.com or call (707) 861-4022.
