Dean Ornish

American physician and researcher

Dean Ornish

Dean Ornish in 2024

Dean Michael Ornish (born July 16, 1953) is an American physician and researcher. He is best known for his work in the field of lifestyle medicine, particularly for developing the Ornish Diet, which emphasizes plant-based nutrition, stress management, and exercise as a means to prevent and reverse heart disease.

Early Life and Education

Ornish was born in Dallas, Texas. He attended Rice University before transferring to Harvard University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities. He then earned his medical degree from the Baylor College of Medicine.

Career

Ornish is the founder and president of the Preventive Medicine Research Institute in Sausalito, California. He is also a Clinical Professor of Medicine at the University of California, San Francisco.

Research

Ornish's research has focused on the impact of lifestyle changes on health. His studies have demonstrated that comprehensive lifestyle changes can lead to improvements in coronary heart disease, prostate cancer, and other chronic conditions. His program includes a low-fat, whole foods, plant-based diet, moderate exercise, stress management techniques, and social support.

Publications

Ornish has authored several books, including "Dr. Dean Ornish's Program for Reversing Heart Disease" and "The Spectrum." These works outline his approach to lifestyle medicine and provide guidance on implementing his program.

Ornish Diet

The Ornish Diet is a low-fat, plant-based diet that emphasizes the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. It restricts the intake of animal products, refined carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats. The diet is part of a broader lifestyle program that includes exercise, stress management, and social support.

Impact and Recognition

Ornish's work has been recognized by various health organizations and has influenced public health policy. His program is one of the few that has been scientifically proven to reverse heart disease without drugs or surgery.

Related Pages

• Lifestyle medicine
• Plant-based diet
• Heart disease
• Preventive Medicine Research Institute