Plant Chat: Jami Dulaney, MD

I am so excited to have Jami Dulaney on the blog today! Jami is a physician who is committed to helping others live a better lifestyle through encouraging plant-based diets and exercise. She also runs her own website and podcast, which is updated frequently with new guest speakers (including myself!) and information. You can listen to her plant-based wellness podcast at jaimeladulaneymd.podbean.com, but keep reading to learn more about Dr. Dulaney!

What inspired you to introduce plant-based eating into your practice? 

I initially became vegan for ethical reasons after reading the book by John Robbins, “A Diet for a New America”. Not until I watched Forks over Knives did it click for me that I wanted to teach this information in my practice. I watched and read everything I could get my hands on with regard to plant based nutrition. I has been really exciting and gratifying to be able to take people off their medications by changing the way they eat.

What benefits can people experience with this lifestyle?

I have had people be able to discontinue blood pressure medications, cholesterol medication as well as see patient’s angina disappear. Their psoriasis clears as does their joint pain.

Can you share your experience, as a physician, when it comes to the positive outcomes you’ve seem with your patients when they eat a plant-based diet? 

Patients lose weight and gain more energy. I have had a patient with amyloidosis that was end stage become vegan as a last resort. She denied further experimental chemotherapy and had heart and kidney involvement. I suggested she just give eating plant based a try. Her daughter happened to be vegan so she had great support. She is doing well 2 years out off of all medications.

What are your favorite tips that you share with your patients for moving towards a plant-based diet?

I suggest they keep things simple and create their own “go-to” meals by substituting beans for the meat. I ask them what vegetables they currently like and build from there. A sharp chopping knife, a small food processor, and a rice cooker can make food preparation a lot quicker.

What are your personal 5 favorite foods that you just can’t live without?

I have a morning kale smoothie after my morning run or swim. Kale, banana, blueberries, flaxseed, and hemp seeds are the basis. We do bean and rice burritos almost weekly. Large lunch salads with beans, peppers, tomato, carrot and sprouts. Favorite foods: kale, blueberries, tomatoes and peppers.