FAQ / Contact Us

What is the evidence behind the ability of whole food plant-based nutrition to reverse chronic disease?

Please see the resources page for the references to the peer-reviewed scientific literature, among other sources

What is whole food plant-based nutrition?

It is based on a diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and excludes meat, dairy products, eggs, and processed foods. Some examples of processed foods include oils, white bread, and those with artificial ingredients. For more information see: https://www.forksoverknives.com/what-to-eat/

Does this approach involve buying specialized meals or counting calories?

No, whole plant-based foods can be found in any regular grocery store and at many restaurants. As these foods have a low-calorie density one can eat these foods without having to be concerned with limiting portions or counting calories and still maintain a healthy weight. The resources page includes websites that contain numerous examples of plant-based meals/recipes.

What is the difference between whole food plant-based diet and a vegan diet?

A vegan diet simply means one which excludes all animal products and can include many overly processed foods, such as oils and may or may not be health promoting. The goal of a whole food plant-based diet, which is based on unprocessed foods, is to promote optimal health and reverse chronic disease.

The mission statement mentions health care financing systems, what does that mean?

This is a broad term referring to any method that is used to pay for health care services. In some cases countries have a single payer government system, while in other countries the payer could be partly government and partly a private entity such as an insurance company or employer.  Actuaries for Sustainable Health Care does not take a position on what type of financing system is the best, but believes that by focusing on the underlying cause of chronic conditions the sustainability of whatever financing system is used can be achieved.

Are you suggesting that health care financing systems require their members to adopt plant-based diets?

No, as discussed in our founding principles our position is that those responsible for health care financing should design incentives to encourage health care providers to discuss plant-based nutrition with all their patients on an equal basis with prescription drugs and surgery. Ultimately, it is the patient’s choice on what treatment they choose, but we are suggesting all patients be fully informed of all legitimate treatment options.  In many cases, people (including health care providers) are not aware of the dramatic  benefit that whole-food plant-based diets have on human health.

What are actuaries?

The International Actuarial Association defines a qualified actuary as “a professional trained in evaluating the current financial implications of future contingent events. It is the actuary’s job to assist in the scientific analysis and quantification of risks. Expertise in understanding the underlying business dynamics, backed by training in economics, finance, demographics, statistics, and risk management, helps to ensure that actuaries build models which make best use of the available information. In general, actuaries excel in problem solving.” For further information visit http://beanactuary.org/

What are the benefits of becoming a member of Actuaries for Sustainable Health Care?

Please see the Benefits of Membership page for further details.

Do you have to follow a plant-based diet to be a member of Actuaries for Sustainable Health Care?

No, as indicated in our mission statement, we are dedicated to achieving sustainability of health care financing systems using an evidence based approach and anyone who supports that mission is welcome to join. Many of our members have reinforced their review of the scientific literature by personally adopting a plant-based lifestyle and have experienced directly the increased health, energy, and quality of life this approach brings.

What is the difference between becoming a member of Actuaries for Sustainable Health Care and joining the mailing list?

Membership is open to any actuary who supports the mission and founding principles of Actuaries for Sustainable Health Care.  We invite everyone (you don’t have to be an actuary) to join our mailing list to learn more about how whole food plant-based nutrition can reverse and prevent chronic disease to achieve health care sustainability. For actuaries that do not wish to become a member at this time, but are curious to learn more, the mailing list is a way to receive timely information about whole food plant-based nutrition and what our organization is doing.  

Can you provide a speaker for my actuarial group or company to discuss this topic?

We do have members who have given presentations on this topic. Use the contact form below to request a speaker.

What if my question was not answered here?

Please complete the form below with your question. Your question will be treated as confidential.