The American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM) defines lifestyle medicine as: Lifestyle medicine is a medical specialty that uses therapeutic lifestyle interventions as a primary modality to treat chronic conditions including, but not limited to, cardiovascular diseases, type2 diabetes, and obesity. Lifestyle medicine certified clinicians are trained to apply evidence-based, whole-person, prescriptive lifestyle change to treat and, when used intensively, often reverse such conditions. Applying the six pillars of lifestyle medicine—a whole food, plant-predominant eating pattern, physical activity, restorative sleep, stress management, avoidance of risky substances and positive social connections—also provides effective prevention for these conditions.
Lifestyle Medicine
Whole Food, Plant-Slant Diet
Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.
Gen. 1:29 (ESV)
Regular Physical Activity
She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong.
Prov. 31:17 (ESV)
Restorative Sleep
In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe.
Psalm 4:8 (NLT)
Avoidance of Risky Substances
Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and Whoever is led astray by it is not wise.
Prov. 20:1 (ESV)
Positive Social Connection
How good and pleasant it is when God’s People live together in unity!
Psalm 133:1 (NIV)
Stress Management
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27 (NIV)