Response to "Alternative medicine heals, strengthens immune system"

Ms. Reyes makes an excellent and seldom heard point in advocating for preventative, natural medicine as a basis for our personal health care. At birth we are introduced to the U.S. health care system, which, in general, is oriented toward treating diseases when they occur and alleviating symptoms. From within the phosphorescent antiseptic halls of the hospital, it is hard to imagine that there is only one medical methodology. Preventative medicine is another option often forgotten.

What Ms. Reyes doesn't do is give us examples of what kinds of preventative medicines are available. By far the most profoundly positive choice you can make for your personal -- and preventative -- health is to go vegan (animals and the environment dig it too). Countless studies show that a diet free of animal products including meat, dairy, etc. lead to a healthier, longer life. It's easy to get sidetracked by personal food "preference" and the politics of food when considering switching to a vegan diet, but the fact is that humans are at their optimum performance when they are eating primary producers such as vegetables, fruits, legumes, and grains. Give it a try!

-Michaël Veremans
Comparative World Literature, MA