Healthy Eating & Plant Based Diet by Dr. Robert DeMaria

Brief Introduction/Tell Us About yourself (where you are from, etc) 

I have been a practicing chiropractor in the Cleveland, OH region for over forty years, and have included nutrition healing for nearly as long. About four years ago, I opened a seasonal practice in Naples, Florida because my time shoveling snow has come to an end. Throughout the past twenty years, I’ve been able to put pen to paper from my nutritional observations and have been fortunate to write eleven books that have helped people from all over the world. 

Why did you decide to pursue a career in nutrition?

It all comes down to one day back in the 1970’s, I was in my Guidance Counselor’s office and there was a pamphlet on chiropractic college, and I was sold! 

How did you become passionate about healthy eating? 

I became passionate because I have been working with bodies for over forty years, and individuals still have a hard time believing that what they eat, they become. The precise moment was when we were on vacation as a family many years ago and I read the book, “The Answer to Cancer.” 

What kind of training did you undergo/certification you received? 

I have a BS in Human Biology, a Doctor of Chiropractic Degree from National University of Health Sciences, and specialties in spinal engineering and natural orthopedic treatments, and lastly, a Natural Health Doctor Degree. 

What do people look for in a nutritionist or dietician?

I believe people want results, which we pride ourselves in at our practice. I believe the general public wants the truth and personalized attention, which we also provide to our community. 

If you could persuade people to change three things about their diet, what would they be?

I would say to drink more water is the top priority. Next, eat meat and produce that is organic, and lastly, make sure to be in bed by 10p. 

What would you make as a quick and healthy dinner option, if you have 30 minutes of preparation time?

I would start by putting a sweet potato on low in a crock pot before I would leave the house, and when I would get home, take it out. In the meantime, I would stir fry some ground chicken and then create a “bowl” with whatever vegetables and hummus you would want to add. 

What is your favorite snack? 

Between two rice cakes, spread coconut butter and almond butter, then freeze. When you eat it the next day, it’s like a Snicker’s bar. I bet you can’t eat just one! 

What nutrition trends are you paying attention to in 2020?

I am interested to see there will be more personalized nutrition plans: “Adrenal Nutrition Plan” “Thyroid Nutrition Plan” “Mental Health Nutrition Plan.” 

Plant based living is becoming more and more popular. When eating a mostly plant based / vegetarian diet, are there certain foods to focus on to make sure we’re getting enough nutrients and protein?

I tell individuals who favor this lifestyle to focus on green, non-starchy vegetables like kale, bok choy, collard greens, and chard. Additionally, healthy fats like avocado, walnuts, and almonds are also key. 

Speaking of plant based, what are some of the benefits of drinking chlorophyll water / benefits of liquid chlorophyll? 

Chlorophyll has been called the "blood" of the plant world, and has the same structure as the heme of blood (except that where the heme carries an iron mineral in the center, the chlorophyll carries magnesium). Thus it may be beneficial in supporting blood quality, and it is a good source of magnesium.

What’s one of your favorite organic/natural supplements or vitamins you recommended? 

I believe that we have an iodine deficiency worldwide. Through lab testing that we do in our practice, we are able to help our patients determine exactly how much iodine their bodies need. 

Any favorite health / nutrition podcasts or books you recommend to our readers?

I have always recommended the books, “Why Am I Always So Tired?” by Ann Louise Gittleman is essential reading, as is, “Eat Right 4 Your Type” by Dr. D’Adamo.

Where can our readers find you? (Instagram, Facebook, etc) 

I can be found on Instagram and Twitter, @DruglessDoctor, as well as my YouTube page, @DruglessDoctor. See you online!