Following the Science (and Your Common Sense)

Science is ever changing. That is what makes it so exciting—and also so confusing. Every week there seems to be a new headline claiming to have the “secret” to health or the final word on nutrition. Scroll long enough and you will meet passionate experts, charismatic influencers, and “data-driven” gurus all shouting their own truth.

Some mean well. Others have something to sell. Sadly, a few are simply dangerous. Even respected institutions can lose sight of objectivity because money, power, and prestige can and will complicate pure science. Truly, it is not easy to know what—or who—to believe. Most people do not have the time or inclination to dig into the research behind the research. Following the money helps, but even that can get tricky. So I approach most things with curiosity and, yes, a pinch of skepticism. We all need to get better at this.

Over the years I have dug deep and feel comfortable following two of the greats in the plant movement: Dr. T. Colin Campbell from Cornell University and founder of The Center for Nutrition Studies, and Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn from the Cleveland Clinic and author of Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease. These two “oldies but goodies” are in their 90s, still writing, researching, and thriving. Their families have lived a Whole Food Plant Based (WFPB) lifestyle for 55+ years, grounded in evidence—not hype.

That being said, I continue to pay attention to as many legitimate physicians and researchers as I can. Following a WFPB lifestyle has served me well—that is that. My goal is not to convert or convince but to create awareness. This is why “Health” is the very first pillar of Rebellious Aging. I have witnessed transformation in myself and in others, and I simply want people to know this path exists, even if it feels too big a change right now.

Please do not ever follow blindly. I will continue to give you resources and references. Be the CEO of your own health. Ask questions. Stay curious. Be open, but remain a bit skeptical. That is the rebel way.

Even 83-year-old Grannies can be a bit sketch sometimes.

***Suz