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SPECIAL FEATURE successful in reinforcing new habits and providing a unique and supportive learning environment," she says. Dr. Sigal teaches three different courses in a repeating cycle. "In truth, no single course is repeated exactly the same; the science is so dynamic, and there is constantly new, important evidence coming up," she explains. "Although my role is to be cutting edge, I must also ensure that what I teach is hardcore fact, not fad." The seven-week Kickstart Course offers the general knowledge base in plant-based nutrition, providing a sweeping view of how profoundly this way of eating affects health and well-being, prevents the majority of chronic diseases, and is capable of reversing a multitude of them. The seven-week Cancer Course is aimed at cancer prevention and cancer survivorship all at once. The eight-week Diabetes Course is a how-to in diabetes prevention and reversal. "Many clients who understand the benefits and want to embrace the lifestyle need close monitoring and supervision when medications need to be adjusted," Dr. Sigal says. "I see these clients privately in an ongoing, one-on-one relationship. Anyone can come and take any of the courses; in fact, most people take more than one. But those who wish to see me as 'patients' are required to take one of the courses, depending on their medical needs, since this education is key to success and cannot be provided one-on-one. "Each class is two hours long and consists of didactics in the form of lectures, videos, quizzes, etc. But the most important aspect of the learning experience is the cooking demonstration, which happens in each class. I demonstrate three to four recipes in each class, and participants get to taste all the foods. Nothing is more convincing than seeing and tasting." Clients who seek Dr. Sigal's medical expertise often have complex issues and include: cancer patients with certain organ insufficiencies, patients with autoimmune disorders who are on powerful immunosuppressive drugs and patients with longstanding chronic bowel problems that have defied therapy in the past, to name a few. "I do not replace the PCP or their other specialists in any form or fashion," Dr. Sigal says. "On the contrary. I collaborate. I also take a lot of time with the client." Indeed, the first encounter lasts 90 or more minutes and occurs only after the client has returned a 16-page questionnaire to Dr. Sigal for review. "Keeping food journals is extremely important. I use professional software that allows the patient the convenience of online data entry and submission via email. On my end, I can perform a variety of analytical tests on the information, which is important if the patient has specific medical nutritional needs. But often times, it is a simple analysis I perform to correct a patient's dietary habits. On the patient's end, food journals encourage mindfulness and awareness, which often have profound effects on the client." Follow-up visits last between 45 and 60 minutes. "Initially, some patients need frequent followups. The beauty of this approach is that patients learn tools to become independent and self motivated," Dr. Sigal explains. "The relationship they have with me is relatively short term; some like to have 'refreshers' after a while, but most are on their way and do great. "Once you have experienced freedom from drugs and improvement in your health, that usually carries with it weight loss, new found energies, vigor, stamina, better sleep, etc. No one wants to ever go back to the way they felt before! People are on autopilot. "I can say today for the first time in my professional life that I am truly helping people and making a real difference in their lives," Dr. Sigal says with a tremble in her voice. "And that's why I went into medicine all those years ago. I still have that passion." For more information about Nourish Health With Food For Life, please call 978-717-5804 or visit www.nhwffl.com. I 12 | Greater Boston MD NEWS I MDNEWS.COM