In celebration of the 100th episode of the Health Science Podcast, we welcome the host, Dr. Frank Sabatino to share his story.

Dr. Frank Sabatino stands as a pillar of the plant-based health movement, a wealth of knowledge and transformation. With over 54 years committed to veganism and plant-based eating and more than four decades of experience in health education, fasting, and natural healing, he has become a revered figure in holistic health. A longtime member and Director of Health Education at the National Health Association (NHA), Dr. Sabatino has dedicated his life to promoting the benefits of a whole-food, plant-exclusive diet and the natural healing power of the human body. His journey, shaped by personal health challenges, scientific exploration, and compassionate living, makes him a luminary in the plant-based movement.

From Conventional Roots to Revolutionary Health

Born in New York City in the 1950s, Dr. Sabatino grew up in a conventional Italian household where meals were rich in meat, dairy, and processed foods—reflective of the common dietary habits of the time. Like many children of that era, his health issues, particularly irritable bowel syndrome, were often met with conventional medical treatments. Despite seeking advice from leading gastroenterologists in New York City, no one linked his chronic digestive issues to his diet.

In his late teens, Dr. Sabatino’s life took a pivotal turn when he was introduced to the philosophy of natural hygiene through a mentor who was an insurance salesman from the Bronx. This mentor had amassed a significant library of anti-medical and pro-lifestyle books, including the works of Dr. Herbert Shelton, one of the leading proponents of natural hygiene. Shelton advocated that the body has an innate ability to heal itself if given the right conditions—namely, proper nutrition, rest, hydration, and sunshine. This discovery ignited Dr. Sabatino’s passion for plant-based living, and the once incurable digestive problems he suffered from were eliminated through a natural, plant-based approach.

A Trailblazer in Fasting and Natural Healing

Dr. Sabatino’s early interest in natural healing led him to pursue a chiropractic education, where he became involved in fasting and natural hygiene practices. At Palmer College of Chiropractic, he started a natural hygiene club, where he brought in pioneers of the movement to lecture on the benefits of fasting and plant-based nutrition. His growing expertise led him to work with some of the leading practitioners of fasting in the 1970s, where he supervised thousands of water fasts at renowned natural hygiene institutes like the Shangri La Natural Hygiene Institute in Florida.

Dr. Sabatino quickly became a leader in the field, overseeing more than 5,000 water fasts, during his first job, for people suffering from a range of illnesses—from obesity and chronic disease to life-threatening conditions. His work demonstrated the remarkable ability of the human body to heal itself when given the right conditions, with water fasting serving as a tool to reset the body and allow natural processes to take over.

The Researcher’s Path: From Fasting to Neuroendocrinology

Never satisfied with anecdotal evidence alone, Dr. Sabatino pursued a deeper scientific understanding of the body’s natural healing mechanisms. He went on to earn a PhD in Neuroendocrinology and Cell Biology from Emory University. His research on calorie restriction and its effect on aging at the University of Texas positioned him as a leading voice in the emerging field of longevity science. During his time at the world’s premier aging research center, Dr. Sabatino contributed to foundational research on the benefits of calorie restriction, some of which later informed popular practices like intermittent fasting.

Dr. Sabatino’s blend of clinical experience and scientific research has solidified his reputation as an expert in natural healing, making him a sought-after voice in the plant-based health and fasting community.

A Legacy of Leadership at the National Health Association

Dr. Sabatino’s journey with the National Health Association (NHA) is an enduring chapter in his career. Founded in 1948, the NHA is the world’s oldest organization championing a whole-food, plant-exclusive diet, water-only fasting, and healthful living. Originally rooted in the philosophy of natural hygiene, the NHA has been promoting evidence-based science for over 76 years, and Dr. Sabatino has played a pivotal role in furthering its mission.

As Director of Health Education, Dr. Sabatino is responsible for curating content, educating members, and advancing the organization’s holistic approach to health. He hosts the NHA Health Science Podcast, where he interviews leading experts in plant-based nutrition, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability. Through the podcast, Dr. Sabatino has brought a wide range of voices to the forefront, from medical doctors to psychologists and environmentalists, further enriching the NHA’s educational platform.

His leadership is also felt at the annual NHA conferences, which bring together hundreds of individuals committed to plant-based living and holistic health. These conferences provide a unique community experience where attendees learn from top experts while sharing meals and engaging in discussions that reinforce the power of healthful living.

The NHA: Pioneers of Plant-Based and Compassionate Living

The NHA, with its rich history, remains at the forefront of promoting plant-based health and compassionate living. From its inception, the organization has advocated for a lifestyle based on the principles of natural hygiene, emphasizing that health is a direct result of healthy living. What sets the NHA apart, as Dr. Sabatino often emphasizes, is its focus on empowering individuals to take control of their health without selling products or promoting a commercial agenda.

The organization’s quarterly magazine, Health Science, serves as a repository of cutting-edge research, success stories, and practical advice for those embracing plant-exclusive nutrition and a healthful lifestyle. The NHA also organizes plant-exclusive cruises and international retreats, where participants can enjoy healthy meals while traveling the world—reinforcing the idea that plant-based living can be integrated into all aspects of life.

Weightless: Compassionate Weight Loss for Life

One of Dr. Sabatino’s most recent contributions to the field of plant-based health is his book, Weightless: Compassionate Weight Loss for Life. The book addresses what he considers the most pressing health crisis of our time—the obesity epidemic. With 40% of the world’s population either overweight or obese, and that number projected to reach 50% within a decade, Dr. Sabatino believes that traditional weight-loss methods have failed society.

In Weightless, Dr. Sabatino debunks common myths around weight loss, particularly the idea that animal-based diets and dangerous pharmaceuticals are necessary for achieving health. He introduces the concept of “plant-powered breakthroughs,” advocating for a sustainable approach to weight loss that is not only effective but compassionate. His message is clear: weight loss does not need to come at the expense of animals, the environment, or long-term health.

By addressing the root causes of obesity—from hormonal imbalances and sleep deficiencies to environmental toxins—Dr. Sabatino offers a comprehensive, evidence-based solution that goes far beyond calorie counting or fad diets. His compassionate approach to weight loss is rooted in the philosophy of doing no harm, extending the principles of empathy and kindness to both ourselves and the world around us.

The Power of Personal Choice

A central theme in Dr. Sabatino’s teachings is the power of personal choice. Whether it’s choosing to eat a plant-based diet, engaging in regular physical activity, or practicing mindfulness, each choice we make has a direct impact on our health and the world. As Dr. Sabatino often says, “You are free to make choices, but you are not free to choose the consequences.” His life’s work revolves around helping people make informed, compassionate choices that lead to vibrant health and a more sustainable planet.

Dr. Sabatino’s legacy, both with the NHA and beyond, is one of empowerment. Through his decades of research, clinical practice, and education, he has inspired thousands to take control of their health, embrace plant-based living, and contribute to a more compassionate world.

Conclusion: A Luminary of Plant-Based Health

Dr. Frank Sabatino’s contributions to the plant-based movement are immeasurable. From his early years struggling with health challenges to becoming a leader in fasting, nutrition, and holistic health, Dr. Sabatino embodies the philosophy of healthy living. His work with the NHA has not only advanced the organization’s mission but has helped countless individuals achieve optimal health through plant-exclusive nutrition, water fasting, and compassionate choices.

As the host of the NHA Health Science Podcast and a respected figure in the world of natural hygiene, Dr. Sabatino continues to educate, inspire, and lead the way toward a healthier, more compassionate future for all. His life’s work is a testament to the power of plant-based living and the profound impact it can have on individuals, animals, and the planet.

More on Dr. Sabatino: https://www.drfranksabatino.com/

Episode Highlights

[00:00]             Introduction

[01:45]             A milestone episode.

[04:00]             Not a healthy start in Dr. Sabatino’s youth.

[08:00]             An insurance salesman from the Bronx changed everything.

[12:30]             Securing his first job at Shangri La Natural Hygiene Institute.

[17:00]             History of the National Health Association (NHA).

[21:00]             The pillars of Lifestyle Medicine.

[30:30]             The pandemic of excess weight and body fat.

[33:15]             No animal has to be harmed or killed for our food.

[36:00]             The house is burning… big changes needed.

[40:00]             How to promote veganism in a positive light.

[42:00]             Moving forward.

About Dr. Frank Sabatino

As a recognized authority on the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle, Dr. Frank Sabatino has cared for and inspired thousands of people for over 40 years. Dr. Sabatino has a PhD in cell biology and neuroendocrinology and has done extensive landmark research on calorie restriction, stress, and aging. He currently is on staff at the TrueNorth Health Foundation in Santa Rosa, CA, and serves as the Director of Health Education at the NHA.

Dr. Sabatino’s passion and life’s work include raising awareness about the benefits of whole-food, plant-exclusive nutrition (without added salt, oil, or sugar), health rejuvenation and stress management.

Dr. Sabatino is the author of Weightless: Compassionate Weight Loss for Life, a groundbreaking guide to sustainable weight loss through a compassionate, plant-based lifestyle. Drawing on extensive clinical and personal experience, Dr. Sabatino offers practical strategies to overcome food addiction and avoid fad diets, risky drugs, and surgeries. The book provides meal plans, recipes, and lifestyle tips, emphasizing whole, plant-based foods and addressing the role of stress, sleep, and environmental toxins in weight management. “Weightless” empowers readers to achieve their weight goals healthily and sustainably, benefiting both people and the planet. https://www.drfranksabatino.com/

About NHA

The National Health Association (NHA), founded in 1948, is a nonprofit organization that promotes the benefits of a plant-based diet. The Association provides educational materials, educational events, and services to thousands of people around the world.

The mission of the National Health Association is to educate and empower individuals to understand that health results from healthful living. The NHA recognizes the integration of all aspects of health: personal, environmental, and social.

The NHA also provides travel experiences around the globe through the NHA Plant-Based Travel and cruise division.

More information: https://www.healthscience.org/

Scholarships

A unique benefit of the NHA Conference is the selection of two medical students who receive a full scholarship to the conference.

Contact Wanda Huberman for more information on how to apply for the scholarship.  [email protected]

NHA membership

For a very nominal investment, you can enjoy incredible benefits of the NHA membership.

Members of the NHA enjoy a subscription to the award-winning quarterly health journal, Health Science, access to the “Members Only” section of the NHA Website (which contains all 43 years of back issues of the magazine),  the ability to download for free many classic out of print eBooks on the history of the Natural Hygiene Movement, including Fasting Can Save Your Life and The Greatest Health Discovery, discounts on books, and early notice of the NHA events.

Only $35 a year for basic membership within the United States.  https://www.healthscience.org/join-renew/