Self Healing Colitis & Crohn's
by David Klein, Ph.D.

With the 100% effective Vegan Diet Healing Plan
Based upon the Natural Hygiene Self-Healing System

The world’s #1 IBD self help book.
Over 25,000 copies sold.

MEDICAL AND ACADEMIC ENDORSEMENTS

“Over years of practice I have observed the pain and suffering of my colitis patients who are on conventional medical therapy. High dosages of immuno-suppressants, such as prednisone and like products, are commonly given, resulting in effects ranging from serious to life-threatening. This only suppresses the symptoms temporarily. Disease typically later manifests again, with even more severe and bothersome symptoms.”

“I was very impressed with David's Natural Hygiene approach to healing ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, outlined in his book Self Healing Colitis & Crohn's. Healthy since 1984 after a severe 8-year bout with ulcerative colitis, he himself is living proof that his program works. I support his approach one hundred percent and believe it is the only way of healing colitis and almost all other health problems, and, therefore, I recommend it to every one of my clients. The results are always good because the diet is our natural biological diet, is nontoxic, nutrition-ally superior, satisfying, and since only the body's own wisdom can heal itself, the Natural Hygiene approach makes perfect sense.”

Zarin Azar, M.D., Gastroenterologist
Los Angeles, California <drzarinazar@yahoo.com>

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“David has exhibited uncommon dedication to helping people become well over the twelve years I have known him. Like David, in my practice I see long-lasting results when a patient embraces a detoxification program and adopts a healthful lifestyle with a vegan diet. David's recovery from severe ulcerative colitis, his studies in nutrition and physiology, and his consistent results have given him unique expertise in self-healing. In Self Healing Colitis & Crohn's we have the blueprint for overcoming IBD.”

Terri Su, M.D.
Santa Rosa, California

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“I know of no physician who is not reluctant to prescribe corticosteroids or advise surgery for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, and yet they are the mainstays of traditional therapy. In Self Healing Colitis & Crohn's is a clear and detailed healing plan that eschews both and offers a program based on the author's personal experience and extensive research. It deserves our grateful attention.”

Robert F. Lally Jr., M.D.
Friday Harbor, Washington

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“Ulcerative colitis is a debilitating disease that has long been regarded as untreatable. For many patients, the illness has therefore meant considerable suffering and the end of a normally functioning life. Thanks to David Klein, this need no longer be true. Self Healing Colitis & Crohn's is an insightful and compassionate book by a leading nutritionist who suffered from this crippling disease, cured himself and has since gone on to become a pioneer in effective nutritional counseling. It is a must read for anyone who wants an active role in restoring himself or herself to health.”

A. William Menzin, M.D., M.Sc., M.P.H.
Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School (retired)
Former Consultant to the World Health Organization (WHO)
Princeton, New Jersey

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“Dr. David Klein's Self Healing Colitis & Crohn's demystifies the secrets of the innate natu-ral health processes, by which the body possesses the power to heal itself. A Hygienic Doctor and former victim of ulcerative colitis, Dr. Klein is the leading modern-day pioneer and authority on the self-healing principles of colitis and Crohn's disease. He is living proof that the body can cure itself and maintain its natural, pristine health when the causes of disease are removed and it is allowed to perform its magical healing-dance of life.”

Paul Fanny, Ph.D., H.D.
President of the University of Natural Health
Hookset, New Hampshire

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“When it comes to self-healing, my dear friend Dave Klein has been there and done that, like very few have ever done. His depth of understanding of the issues involved in the causes and healing of bowel disease is only matched by his compassion for current sufferers. There is no reason for anyone else to write on this topic because Dave has already perfected the healing process. Like the law of gravity, his program works first time, every time. Put it to work for you and suffer no more.”

Douglas N. Graham, D.C.
Author of The 80/10/10 Diet
Key Largo, Florida

FOREWORD

Colitis and Crohn's disease (C&C) are inflammatory bowel illnesses characterized by distressful bowel function. “Itis” means inflammation. The body's intelligence system creates inflammation just as it creates fevers. Inflammation is an escalated healing action in which harmful toxic matter is being broken down and neutralized for elimination at a “feverish pace.” Toxins in the body cause the body to enact inflammation for purification.

The body enacts disease processes, such as C&C, in response to systemic toxicosis, i.e., when the body is overloaded with toxins. A bowel with C&C is overloaded with toxic fecal matter which saturates the tissues and typically impairs elimination. C&C symptoms are “houseclean-ing” processes. The more acutely toxic the body and the more vital the body's nerve energy, the more intense the self-cleansing/healing process. C&C symptoms will diminish as the body detoxifies, which requires that the ingestion of toxic, indigestible foodstuffs be discontinued and a health-promoting diet and lifestyle be adopted.

Medical researchers, doctors and nurses mistakenly believe that the body's inflammation response is an “autoimmune” phenomenon. That is incorrect and illogical. The body only works to heal itself and never creates any physiological process that would harm itself. When the body is inflamed, the body is acting to break down, neutralize and eliminate toxins, not healthy tissue. And some researchers believe that bacteria cause ulcers. This is also incorrect. Bacteria consume wastes and assist in elimination. They are not capable of causing bodily actions. Ulcers are an open outlet for the elimination of toxins from the bloodstream. The body intelligently resorts to creating ulcers when the load of toxins in the bloodstream is too great for the body to neutralize and eliminate, via the immune system and inflammation alone. Both inflammation and ulceration are manifestations of detoxification and healing. They are the body's way of “curing” itself; inflammation and ulceration are self-healing processes in action.

There are two basic forms of inflammatory bowel diseases: 1. Colitis is an inflammation of the colon. Local symptoms may include diarrhea, mucous formation, bleeding, constipation, abdominal cramps, spasms, colon disfigurement, flatulence, abdominal and rectal pain, fevers and stomach distress. Related non-local symptoms can be many, including weight loss, emotional distress, headaches, sleeping difficulties, general weakness and rapid aging. The use of anti-inflammatory, antibiotic and immunosuppressant medications, while sometimes temporarily suppressing symptoms, always have effects which contribute further to the devitalization of the person's health. Drugs are toxic and enervating; the body expends precious energy as it works to get rid of them. Colitis may advance into ulcerative colitis which is characterized by inflammation and ulcera-tion(s) of the colon. Symptoms can include all of those listed above plus painful ulcerations in the colon wall which can both perforate the colon and/or become cancerous. 2. Crohn's disease, or regional enteritis, is an inflammation of any portion of the alimentary canal. It usually affects the lower section of the small intestine-the ileum-giving rise to the name “ileitis.”

Symptoms are typically similar to those for colitis. C&C, if not treated wholistically, typically has a life-ruining effect. Surgical removal of the colon is often considered by the medical establishment to be a standard treatment for chronic cases of colitis and ulcerative colitis. In the past decade, some (but too few) medical doctors have begun to recognize that specific dietary changes can lead to an improvement in C&C. It is prudent for persons with C&C, even in advanced cases, to get opinions from wholistically-trained and experienced health practitioners before submitting to drug therapy and surgery. Most, if not all, colon surgeries are unnecessary.

The way to overcome C&C is to: 1. stop poisoning and enervating the body with drugs, harmful foods and lifestyle stressors, 2. adopt a restful healing program fulfilling our basic health needs, including eating our natural biological diet while allowing the organism to complete the healing process. The body cannot simultaneously accomplish healing while poisons are ingested. Harmful foods include: meat and dairy from any animal source, processed grain products, heated fatty foods including oils, irritants such as spices, salt and onions and all processed “junk foods” and beverages, including coffee.

The Natural Hygiene self-healing plan with the Vegan Healing diet taught in this book work because they are based on the immutable laws governing human biology and physiology. When we discontinue unhealthful practices and provide the requisites of health, eating our natural biological diet, the body will only improve itself, reversing disease, completely healing and creating new health. As long as the dietary and lifestyle factors which cause enervation and toxemia are avoided, wellness will last and C&C will not return.

The body is designed or “programmed” for perfect self-healing. It will regenerate every cell in the organism, break down strictures and scar tissue in the bowel, autolyze polyps and, in most cases, even tumors, and restore health when given the proper care and lifestyle program, as taught herein. The author recommends and the body demands that people with C&C take a restful sabbatical of three months or more in order to give the body and mind the rest needed for effective self-healing. If you are unable to do this, do the best you can and take as much rest and extra sleep as is possible.

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NOTES TO READER

1. Throughout this book ”C&C” is used to refer to colitis and Crohn's disease.

2. Some duly noted sections of this manuscript were taken from various magazine articles and booklets authored and published by the late great Hygienic educators, Dr. T. C. Fry and Dr. Herbert M. Shelton. Their works were uncopyrighted offerings intended for the benefit of humanity; as their work saved my life and many others' lives and their families have permitted me their use, it is my great privilege and duty to pass them on. Some other sections were reprinted with the permission of living authors who are my colleagues. The sections written by authors other than, or with, myself are presented in italics. The sections where the author is not named were written by myself.

3. Many will question and prematurely discount this healing plan as being “unscientific,” i.e., not medically validated. That line of thinking is illogical. The modern medical establishment is not the authority on what is scientific and healthful. Modern medical men and women typically either ignore or “shoot down” natural healing approaches. For the most part, modern medicine is interested in medicating and surgically altering patients. Therefore, this information has not interested medical people. Factual truth stands on its own.

This program is entirely scientific. That which is scientific yields consistently positive results and is authentically good. My 2,500-plus clients who have healed are not aberrations or anomalies-they are real evidence that this approach works, as is my recovery and 27 years of superb health. I have seen this approach work in over 99% of the clients who have properly implemented the plan. I am trained as a scientist and educator. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering and have 10 years of experience in engineering. I also have 27 years of experience in health science and hold a Ph.D. in Natural Health and Healing. I have lived over 27 years in disease-free health, beyond what one gastroen-terologist forecasted was possible. Scientifically speaking, the results speak for themselves and are conclusively positive.

The body is obviously able to consistently and naturally self-heal C&C under the proper conditions. Skepticism is understandable. I was was once there! Skeptics are welcome to contact me to discuss the healing and lifestyle approach presented herein.

4. Many will reject the natural vegan dietary approach espoused herein without studying the facts and contacting me, presuming that:

A. It is nutritionally insufficient, especially in protein, calcium and calories.
B. Animal meat is essential to health.
C. Their blood type or genetics dispose them to require meat.
D. They crave protein and there isn't enough in vegan foods.
E. They cannot tolerate fruit.
F. The diet is too restrictive.
G. Extreme, permanent weight loss and physical weakness will result.
H. They won't feel satisfied and will miss meat and other favorite foods.
I. Others are able to “get away” with eating omnivorous diets with meat, so they should, too.
J. They won't be able to cope socially.
K. They do not believe they can change their habits.

All of those claims are based on misinformation, unfounded assumptions or pessimistic, self-limiting projections. Solid empirical science conclusively demonstrates that there is no lack of any one nutrient in the fruit-based vegan diet espoused herein which is essential to health, while it is animal foods, especially meat, which cause inflammatory bowel disease. Also, the Vegan Diet recommended herein supplies superior nutrition, as consistently confirmed by full-panel blood tests. Furthermore, foods outside of its realm are unnecessary; they cause myriad problems and most lead to C&C; this diet eliminates all of the dietary factors which cause C&C and includes the most healthful diet program for humans.

Fruit is our most naturally healthful food and, when eaten in accordance with the specific guidelines presented herein, is the primary essential food for healing C&C and maintaining good health. When humans correctly eat the original diet for which they were designed, the inevitable result is healing and optimal health. As evidenced by hundreds of thousands people who have actualized superb health on vegan diets similar or identical to the one advised herein, this approach is conclusively valid. We do not experience deprivation or dissatisfaction on this diet because we are eating the foods which we were designed to eat and thrive on, and from which we were naturally designed to derive true pleasure.

The result of following this plan is a surprising sense of satisfaction and wellness as we are more thoroughly nourished than ever before, eating a diet of only nutritious foods. Before dismissing this approach, it is my wish that people try it for three or more months and obtain appropriate counseling in order to make judgments based on personal experience, not on preconceived, self-limiting beliefs which are unfounded.

An inquisitive mind and willingness to question one's beliefs and try an approach which is unconventional are traits which will serve everyone well when the conventional ways of approaching diseases do not work. Those who are able to think “outside the box” and imagine their optimal state of health in relation to the natural order of life are the ones who succeed in overcoming C&C. Solving the C&C problem is a matter of thinking for oneself and aligning with our natural instincts-not technology, medical science, modern conventional dietetics or any healing arts involving remedies. The diet and lifestyle plan presented herein has proven to be the only approach that works because it is based on an accurate understanding of anatomy and the laws of physiology and biology, as borne out by countless successful results.

Personal experience is the only way to prove all this true. With appropriate application, the happy truth will be revealed.

5. If you began this program while you are pregnant, continue it and get as much extra rest as possible-this healthful living program is the best thing for mother and child and the quickest route to health.

6. If you are concerned about beginning this program while you are on medications, it is prudent to proceed with the program while following your physician's recommendations regarding medication dosage. The Vegan Healing Diet will only promote health; there is no reason to postpone its implementation.

7. If you are concerned about the suitability of this diet program for children, it is certainly appropriate and offers complete and superior nutrition. Starches, meat and dairy foods including cow's milk should not be fed to infants and children with C&C. For infants or children under age four, human breast milk is recommended in conjunction with the Vegan Healing Diet.

8. To successfully apply the teachings herein, it is necessary to fully understand the subject matter. It is therefore recommended that this book be read several if not numerous times and professional guidance be obtained.

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1.1 WE POSSESS SELF-HEALING BODIES AND WERE NOT MEANT TO SUFFER!

We were not designed or born into this world to be sick with inflamed bowels. Our genes do not cause us to become sick with inflammatory bowel disease, but, rather, our diets, lifestyles and thoughts are the causes-and they can all be corrected and we can and will heal if we implement the right healing plan.

The body is a perfectly designed self-healing organism. Bowel inflammation is not a runaway problem but a sign that the body has been harmed and is vigorously attempting to heal itself, and it will gratefully do so if the causes of disease are discontinued and the biological requisites of health are provided. The solution to bowel disease is to identify the harmful factors, discontinue them and implement a new healthful lifestyle with health-promoting practices. A few million people have done this, overcoming all kinds of debilitating disease conditions, including inflammatory and irritable bowel diseases-and so can you! Contrary to conventional belief, there is no mystery behind why we become sick and there is no lack of understanding of how to overcome disease, heal and rejuvenate. Those who have applied the Natural Hygiene system of self-healthcare have overcome diseases which include colitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, ileitis, irritable bowel syndrome and every other gastrointesti-nal malady humanity has ever experienced, including some cases of cancer.

Herein is a specialized Hygienic healing plan for those who wish to overcome bowel disease and create disease-free vigorous health. All of this information is not based upon theories or anything that the author invented. Hygienic healing, i.e., cooperating with nature, removing the causes of disease and fulfilling our biological requisites for health, is the way that all creatures have always healed and recovered their health. By deeply delving into these new teachings, letting go of erroneous beliefs, and embracing a new naturally healthful course of action, anyone can dramatically improve his or her condition, and most can go on to master their health and avoid inflammatory bowel problems for the rest of their lives. With proper understanding, help and passionate intention, the goal of disease-free health can be achieved. It takes dedication, work and patience, but it only gets better and better when one immerses oneself in it mind, body and soul. I know-I did it!

In 1984 I began a recovery from the devastating effects of almost nine previous years of ulcerative colitis, which began when I was 17 years old. During my illness, I ate my usual meat and bread-based diet (the “Standard American Diet,” or “SAD”), and was under only medical guidance which consisted of examinations by gastroenterologists, hospitalizations and drug treatment. All of the seven gastroenterologists I saw told me that diet was not a factor in my illness, that there was no known cause of ulcerative colitis, and the only available treatments were drugs, and if they didn't work, then surgical removal of my colon was the best alternative. In the last year of my illness, my colon was ravaged with ulcerations, my health was in ruins, and surgical removal of my colon was recommended.

At that time, I was consulting a nutrition guidance counselor who had a doctorate in Natural Hygiene. He recommended that I follow a natural diet essentially of only fruits and vegetables (a Natural Hygiene program, which has since been popularized by the best-selling book Fit For Life, written by Harvey and Marilyn Diamond). At first I rejected this advice; however, I slowly began to “clean up” my diet. Still, my colon was inflamed and ulcerated. In October of 1984, just after a gastroenterologist recommended a colostomy (surgical removal of my colon), my fortune changed as one night my studies led to a profound understanding of how dietary change could help transform my health. I saw the value of eating the diet which early man originally ate, and which our digestive physiology was designed for: mostly fruits, with some vegetables, seeds and nuts, and no animal products.

The next day I changed from the SAD to a natural diet of mostly uncooked fruits and vegetables. I also ceased using medicines for good (I had been on low dosages at the time). The result was astonishing, but typical: my colon immediately and rapidly began healing up, and totally and permanently healed up within four weeks. From there I went on to rejuvenate my severely depleted body. Since the day I changed my diet, I have immersed myself in the study of natural healing and worked on completely rebuilding my health without the use of any medications or other unnatural intervention. Today I am in excellent health and fitness at age 53, and feel like a teenager. I am very passionate about teaching others with C&C how to regain their health by making sensible dietary and lifestyle changes because I believe that all C&C suffers deserve the same chance to learn about the body's innate ability to heal itself naturally. If you need inspiration to get going and guidance to heal and become well, it is my pleasure to help.

Yours in health,

David Klein, Ph.D.
Sebastopol, California

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1.2 SUMMARY

Colitis and Crohn's diseases (C&C) are primarily caused by dietary and other lifestyle stressors. C&C are endemic to cultures where muscle meats and refined foods are eaten as a major portion of the diet and lifestyles have significant stress levels. Animal meats, as well as cooked oils and refined wheat products, are largely indigestible; they poison the bowel as they decompose, acidifying the entire organism and overwhelming the immune and elimination systems, leading to inflammation and distress. Colon and intestinal inflammation are an indication that the body is attempting to purify itself of accumulated toxic matter and heal itself. Inflammation is always the body's intelligent action/response to purify itself of harmful, toxic, irritating poisons and wastes.

The healing action is impeded and diseased condition is perpetuated or exacerbated if one continues an improper diet and harmful drug therapy. In view of the evidence showing how countless people have resolved their C&C by changing to a whole foods, vegan diet, and by incorporating stress management techniques, it is best to approach C&C in a wholistic context through dietary and lifestyle changes. A wholistic approach to overcoming C&C should include health education and the implementation of a health-promoting program which includes: 1. a whole foods vegan (no animal-derived foods) diet and juicing; 2. extra sleep and complete rest (a sabbatical from work or school); 3. proper exercise; 4. health counseling; 5. peer support; and 6. medical cooperation.

The body is a self-healing organism which will heal when harmful practices are discontinued and healthful practices are implemented. This book details the basic physiological and lifestyle principles which are proven to result not in remission of symptoms but in lasting health. When the causes of disease are removed, health will ensue under the proper care. This is fact, not theory. This book presents no theories and only the happy truth about the magnificent restorative power of the body when it is cared for in a manner which is consonant with our natural biological mandates. By cooperating with nature and changing our injurious lifestyle habits, we'll enjoy a blossoming of health and spirit. This program takes work and discipline, but the better we feel the easier it becomes, on our way to a wonderful life free of suffering and full of happiness and wellness.

1.3 Advisory

I, David Klein, am not a medical doctor. I do not diagnose, treat or advise in medical areas. I am an Hygienic Doctor with a Ph.D. in Natural Health and Healing from the University of Natural Health. I am also a state-certified Nutrition Educator, educated, trained and legally certified in counseling people in matters of nutrition, health and healing by the state licensed Bauman College in Penngrove, California. It is my goal to help people safely and permanently heal and become healthy and happy. I can work in concert with medical doctors.

This book is strictly for educational purposes. This book is not a treatment plan nor a personalized healing plan; healing plans must be personalized via individual consultation because each individual has specific needs. The reader is advised to thoroughly study this book and obtain proper professional nutritional and health counseling before making any changes in his or her diet and/or approach to caring for oneself or others. In order to safely and effectively self-heal inflammatory bowel illness, I suggest proper nutritional and health counseling and guidance plus complete rest in all cases.

Any actions taken by the reader, caretaker of persons with inflammatory bowel illness, and/or recipient, and any consequential results from such actions are the sole responsibility of the reader, caretaker and/or recipient. The author is in no way responsible for the recipient's or his/her caretaker's actions and results. Self-healing is safe and effective when one is correctly educated and when correct actions are properly implemented. I recommend gradual health-supportive changes in one's regime. I wish you and yours good health.

2.1 UNDERSTANDING YOUR SELF-HEALING POWERS

by Dr. T. C. Fry

The Immense Wisdom and Providence of the Body

The human body is possessed of intelligence and powers of an order that is incomprehensible to our intellects. While many humans are vain and will not admit to an inability to know and understand, let's face it: we are all finite in our capacities. We cannot comprehend the concept of infinity, and we are mystified by many simple realities of existence.

From miseducation, ignorance, vanity, authoritarianism, and sheer arrogance amongst our professionals flow incorrect and disastrous actions that brutalize those whom they profess to serve. From intellectual wisdom and understanding flow humility, kindness and other humane virtues. Wisdom recognizes our finite nature and admits to ignorance, an act of humility. Humility does not stifle the innate drive to seek knowledge. Rather, humility is born of a realization that spurs the quest for greater wisdom.

True wisdom motivates us to continual exploration and improvement. This treatise treats an area largely unexplored and uncharted. When we view the vastness of the incredible multitude of faculties possessed by the human body, we must stand in awe of the enormous intelligence displayed in each of the quintillions of processes conducted within the body daily. We must stand in wonderment and awe at the precision we observe. We cannot help but conclude that the body operates on principles that manifest the reign of law and order within the organic realm. We must observe that we are constituted of such an order as to comply in every act with the universal laws of existence. We want to charge you with an overwhelming realization of the enormity of innate intelligence-of inherent body wisdom that exceeds by thousands of times the intellectual powers of which we arrogantly boast. So vast is this innate intelligence that it is positively staggering.

The immensity of inborn intelligence is not an easy subject to present. Very few studies touch upon this subject. However, we can delineate and point out some of the many manifestations of inherent body wisdom. In this treatise you will become aware of an internal providence that should be respected. So great are our body endowments that you should adopt this attitude: never interfere with the vital domain. You cannot possibly help it-you can only harm it. All the knowledge and wisdom of civilization to date do not equal the intelligence exhibited by the operations of a single cell within the body! The best you can do is to order the external environment to make it more favorable for the organism. The only thing you can do for the body is to leave it intelligently alone! It knows what it is doing and how! You don't! Providence is the ability to anticipate needs and provide for them. This providence may be instinctual, as in the case of the bear that stores tremendous amounts of fat in preparation for hibernation, or of the squirrel that stashes nuts, acorns and seeds, or it may be due to acquired wisdom, as in the case of humans who store foods during plenitude in preparation for the season of scarcity.

The body is always provident. All providence exhibits wisdom. The immensity of the wisdom exhibited in all things so overwhelms the human intellect that many often retreat into the comfort of some all-encompassing outlook that tranquilizes them so that they see no mandate to inquire, assess and understand how their actions undermine their well-being. In studying this program, you are undertaking to delve into life's provisions sufficiently to ascertain a valid course for uplifting yourself and fellow-beings to the utmost possibilities. Wisdom is really a difficult word to assess and define. It can be said to be all-knowing and all-understanding within a given sphere.

Wisdom is at once the comprehension of a matter in both depth and breadth. It is an expertise or mastery that enables the possessor to pursue a correct course of action. In pursuing this study, we must not confuse inherent wisdom or intelligence with intellect and acquired wisdom. The ability to cogitate and think is a property of the conscious intellect. It involves wisdom and intelligence of a different order than the wisdom of the body. For example, if you bite into a luscious apple, the whole system is coursed with delight. If you bite into an apple that has been injected with a solution of caustic soda, you'll immediately recognize the danger, begin spitting and sputtering and run for water to dilute and remove the deadly poison that contacted your mouth tissues. Rejection of toxic matters is just as natural as delighting in beneficent materials and influences.

The Body is Self-Healing

This is self-evident. We observe it in many ways. We see a broken bone knit itself. We see cuts and abrasions heal. We see bruises heal. But most of us, willing to accept that which we readily see, do not believe that the body has sufficient power within to overcome ailments not involving injury. The vital innate healing force is operative at all times. It heals all reparable body injuries and maladies. If the body cannot repair itself, it is irreparable. A tremendous amount of abuse must be heaped upon the body to reach such a low state that it cannot heal itself. At this low state, death is inevitable.

The body works at all times to keep itself in a high-functioning state. It continually works to keep itself pure and as free as possible of toxic wastes. It is endowed with equipment for ejecting foreign material from the vital domain. A body fettered by retained toxic matters and polluted with unwelcome substances from without cannot function at a high level.

If the body becomes overburdened, it disables itself through what are called “acute diseases” to hasten the processes of purification and repair. Under the disabled condition, the body marshals its resources to concentrate on internal cleansing and repair of damaged tissue. All this takes place of the body's own volition, and the best we can do is cooperate. We should take a complete rest so that the body may not be hampered in its endeavors. We should cease all activity, even that of eating. Bed rest in a sunny and airy room with only pure water will greatly facilitate the body's work-you cease to expend energies so that your body may have more. Nothing inside or outside of nature can substitute for body wisdom. Nothing inside or outside of nature can assume or substitute for body functions. While an ailing body bespeaks a grossly abused body, it will, nevertheless, restore itself to health if the causes of its illness are removed and conditions instituted that permit body restorative activities.

If you can see the obvious; that is, that the body is in all cases self-healing, you will: 1. never abuse the temple of your being; and 2. if you suffer from past abuses, not in any way interfere with the body but, under a condition of complete rest, give it command of your energies and resources so that it can more efficiently and quickly repair itself. Common colds, skin rashes, acne, vomiting, headaches, sinusitis, inflammations and fevers, so-called influenza and a long list of other disabling and frustrating affections are self-healing processes. It is a mistake to try to “cure” them, for they are themselves just that, “curing” processes. But if we do violate the laws of our being, then we must restore health by giving inner body intelligence and powers the opportunity to do so.

To try to “cure” a “curing process” is wrong and can cause untold miseries. It adds injury to injury. If a man is repairing a fence and you bludgeon him, he must not only stop fence-mending but contend with a new and more life-threatening enemy. If your body is repairing itself and you resort to drugs (so-called medicines) that poison the body and so lower its vital powers that it can no longer conduct the reparative process, then your body will remain filled with the offending internal filth, and function will be that much more impaired. When your body is poisoned, the reduction of its vital activities will become readily evident because the symptoms of the reparative process often disappear-the fence-mending has ceased.

For instance, a heroin addict's body will start trying to repair itself after being reasonably freed of the heroin. The reparative process is debilitating and pain-wracking. The heroin addict chooses to renarcotize his body with more heroin poison rather than suffer the reparative process. Thus, so-called “withdrawal symptoms,” which are really reparative measures, disappear after renewed poisoning. The same process occurs with addicts to the narcotic habits of tobacco and alcohol. Headaches, pains, swellings, etc. are evidences or symptoms of healing processes being conducted by the body. Take a poison (such as aspirin) and you devitalize the body so that it stops the body's mending process, and the symptoms disappear.

If you become ill, do not fight the illness by trying to “remedy” or “cure” it. All such efforts are the same as assaulting the fence repairman. Instead, go to bed in a warm, sunlit room with fresh flowing air. Drink only pure water. Rest! Conduct only the most necessary of physical activities. Abstain from all food if you have no appetite. With the increased energies, your body will devote itself to a thorough house-cleaning and repair measures unlike any you've ever witnessed. Your infirmity is reduced by more than half-healing occurs much faster. At the end, you should feel like new-in fact, you will look greatly rejuvenated because you will be somewhat rejuvenated-recharged for high level function for which we humans are admirably endowed.

All healing power is inherent in the living organism. There is no curative virtue in drugs nor in anything outside the living organism. Nature has not provided remedies for disease. There is no such thing as a “law of cure.” The only condition of recovery is obedience to physiological law. So-called remedial agents do not act on the living system, as is taught, but are acted on by the vital organism.

Disease is not, as is commonly supposed, an enemy at war with the powers of the living organ-ism, but is itself a remedial effort-a process of purification and repair. It is not something to be destroyed, subdued, suppressed, killed or cured, but an intelligent body action to be cooperated with. Nature's Materia Hygienica consists of light, air, water, food, temperature, exercise, rest, sleep, abstinence, cleanliness and passional influences.

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2.3 UNDERSTANDING DISEASE
by Dr. T. C. Fry and Dr. David Klein

Disease, or “dis-ease,” is what we feel when the body is in the process of detoxifying and healing itself. Disease is the body's intelligent response to abnormal or threatening influences. Disease is not something which invades our bodies from outside, nor is it something to be cured or stopped. In a manner of speaking, disease symptoms are a manifestation that the body is “curing” itself.

Disease is instituted by the body itself as an emergency measure to purify and repair itself. Modalities (treatments or therapies that involve drugs, herbs, manipulations or other infringe-ments upon the vital domain) cannot possibly assist the body. On the contrary, they interfere with vital body purification and reparative functions and normal body functions as well. Such interference poses additional problems for the body to cope with, thereby further lowering the body vitality. Body vitality may be lowered so much by the greater danger presented by the drugs or modalities that the original disease effort, which is actually an effort to purify the body, is discontinued in favor of devoting available energies to the more virulent enemy, the drugs within.

That is why medical physicians are called “allopaths.” That is why there is so much “iatrogenic disease,” meaning disease caused by treatments. “Allopath” literally means “opposite disease.” In theory, allopathic doctors strive to displace the original disease by creating a heteropathic or opposite disease. Actually, all physicians succeed in doing is to create additional disease. The original problem remains while the body must redirect its energies partly or wholly to removing the more dangerous drugs, herbs, or so-called medicines. Thus, symptoms of the original disease disappear (or are suppressed and masked) because the necessary energy and vitality to further conduct the disease are now lacking. Yet, the body is in graver danger than before it was treated from both the uneliminated toxic accumula-tions and the added toxicity of drugs or other substances administered.

The best way to help the body in disease is to “intelligently do nothing” and simultaneously establish conditions of health that enable the body to devote all its vitality to the healing crisis. A thoroughgoing rest under tranquil circumstances constitutes a healing environment, for it permits full devotion of body energies to the emergency task.

The body is always acting intelligently and correctly. The body is always acting appropriately based on the conditions with which it must contend. We can interfere with its operations, but we cannot possibly help it other than by furnishing the normal needs of life consonant with existing body conditions. In 1926, in his book Toxemia Explained, John H. Tilden, M. D., wrote:

“All so-called diseases are merely crises of toxemia and evolve from just one cause: toxemia.”

Dr. Tilden further wrote:

“It should be known to all discerning physicians that the earliest stage of organic disease is purely functional, evanescent and never autogenated so far as the affected organ is concerned, but is invariably due to an extraneous irritation (or stimulation, if you please) augmented by toxemia. When the irritation is not continuous and toxin is eliminated as fast as developed to the toleration point, normal functioning is resumed between the intervals of irritation and toxin excess. “For example: a simple coryza (running at the nose-cold in the head), gastritis or colonitis. At first these colds, catarrhs or inflammations are periodic and functional; but as exciting cause or causes (local irritation and toxemia) becomes more intense and continuous, the mucous membranes of these organs take on organic changes which are given various names such as irritation, inflammation, ulceration and cancer. The pathology (organic change) may be studied until doomsday without throwing any light on the cause, for from the first irritation to the extreme ending-cachexia-which may be given the blanket term “tuberculosis,” “syphilis” or “cancer,” the whole pathological panorama is one of continuous evolution of intensifying effects.”

The “seven stages of disease” nominated by Dr. Tilden are: 1. enervation; 2. toxemia, or toxicosis; 3. irritation; 4. inflammation; 5. ulceration; 6. induration; and 7. cancer. It is notable that in some cases even colon cancer has been overcome by making wholistic dietary and lifestyle changes-we obviously want to halt disease at stage one. By stopping disease symptoms with medicines, a person suffers further toxification and enerva-tion.

Disease symptoms may subside with medicines because: 1. the medicine may be so enervating that the body is no longer able to continue with the detoxification process, or 2. the medicine may be so toxic that the body may shift its detoxification efforts to other areas of the body (resulting in new disease symptoms commonly called “side effects”). If a person with inflammatory bowel disease replaces the unhealthful dietary and lifestyle factors which lead to disease with healthful ones, the body will heal itself and ease will be restored.

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2.4 HOW AN UNNATURAL DIET CAUSES DISEASES
by Dr. T. C. Fry

Just as kerosene fouls up an automobile or airplane engine which was not designed for it, so, too, will foods foul up human bodies if they are not adapted to them. If you are not physiologically adapted to a diet, it will be repulsive to you in its raw natural state-you cannot relish the food nor sustain yourself on it in good health. When you eat an unnatural diet by artifice, that is, by denaturing it by cooking and modifying and camouflaging its taste with condiments and so on, you are doing the following:

1. Heat-deranging and destroying the nutrients within the food.

2. Deranging your taste buds through excitation with toxic substances to make the unpalatable food acceptable. All poisonous substances impose burdensome eliminative problems upon the body. Sicknesses, ailments and diseases result.

3. Causing nutrient deficiencies by eating a partially or wholly nutrient deranged “food.”

4. Causing protein malnutrition. Cooking destroys proteins and amino acids. Once they are oxidized and destroyed by cooking, you can no longer derive any benefit from proteinaceous substances other than, perhaps “empty calories,” that is, nutrient-bereft fuel. Once oxidized, proteins are soil (food) for bacteria which putrefy (rot) it. Bacterial putrefactive byproducts are highly toxic and carcinogenic. These byproducts are methane gas (the source for smelly gas emissions when you eat beans, for instance), hydrogen sulfide and mercaptans (which yield the rotten egg smell when carried out by the methane gas), cadaverine, putrescine, ammonias, indoles, skatoles, leukomaines and profusion of other toxic and carcinogenic substances.

5. Laying the groundwork for putrefactive bacterial flora that will vitiate your intestinal tract. Eaters of cooked foods and wrong foods have about two pounds of bacterial flora up and down their digestive tracts. Raw food eaters have only a few ounces.

6. Laying the groundwork for alcohol and vinegar poisoning. Heated sugars and carbohydrates are readily fermented by fungi and bacteria with, first, alcohol as a byproduct and, then, vinegar which is dozens of times more toxic than alcohol.

7. Intoxicating your body with the toxic debris (deranged nutrients) of what once had nutrient value. Instead of materials your body can use, you have toxins that put the body into a frenzy and, if overwhelmed by the toxic load, into a pathological state.

As you can see, cooked foods and condiments (most condiments are toxic plant excitants and stimulants: life-sapping inorganic substances like salt, pathogenic fermentation products like soy sauces, cheeses, etc.) are a curse to our well-being. There are many toxic substances that are commonly eaten. For instance:

1. Ordinary commercial orange juice contains a carcinogen! Because the whole orange is squeezed, the toxic limonene (a volatile and flammable oil) in the skin is in the juice. The same goes for lemon and grapefruit juices. Refer to the Office of Toxicological Sciences of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

2. Ordinary mushrooms contain several toxic substances (mainly hydrazine) that are carcino-genic. This has been reported by researchers at the University of Nebraska Medical School and Dr. Bruce N. Ames of the University of California Biochemistry Department. Refer to the September 23, 1983 issue of Science magazine.

3. Tofu, a highly refined soy bean product, contains several carcinogens, notably indole and nitropyrene. Refer to Diet, Nutrition and Cancer.

4. Alfalfa sprouts contain a carcinogen, canavanine. Refer to the September 23, 1983 issue of Science, and the FDA's Office of Toxicological Sciences.

5. All cooked and heated oils and fats as in fried foods, nuts, seeds, meats, etc. contain deadly carcinogens. Their aerated fumes are worse in the lungs than tobacco smoke! Refer to Diet, Nutrition and Cancer.

The list seems endless! We Americans poison ourselves so much that we have more health problems per capita than any other country on earth. More than 16% of our national wealth goes down the disease rat hole. Needless to say, all discomforts, illnesses and suffering are abnormal, unnatural and unneces-sary.

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2.5 UNDERSTANDING INFLAMMATION

When injured or invaded by toxic matter, gases or microorganisms, or when a buildup of internal toxic debris, fluids and/or microorganisms (commonly called an “infection”) reaches a crucial level, the body enacts a health-restorative purification process called inflammation. In this process, the body is working at a “feverish” pace to heal you! It sends elements of the immune system to the threatened area: phagocytes, including monocyte/macrophages and leukocytes, also known as white blood cells or T cells, which produce antibodies, binding toxins to the kil-ler/neutralizing T cells. In the cases of C&C, toxic fecal matter and acid wastes have poisoned the bowel, causing the body to enact inflammation in order to purify the tissues.

In addition to the T cell action, the body sends antibody-producing B cells, more blood and more lymphatic fluid for removal of toxic debris to the threatened area. Also, the permeability of the small blood vessels is increased to permit the delivery of large molecules from the blood-stream to the damaged area for use in the body's repair work. The extra blood and lymphatic fluid causes the inflamed area to swell, redden, feel hot and, sometimes, painful. These are all normal and positive signs of the body's magnificent self-healing powers in action. Inflammation is vigorous self-healing action intelligently conducted by the body.

The intelligence of bodily healing action is supreme, and we must support the process. No matter what we do, only the body can heal itself, and, in each case, it heals in spite of, not because of, our interfer-ence. Only the body can heal itself, and there is no force in our lives which is more powerful than its self-healing powers. If we have internal inflammation, we must remove the causes of disease-ie., toxic diet, drugs, mental/emotional/lifestyle stress, etc., and supply the body with the conditions of health: clean-digesting nutritious diet, rest, sleep, etc. If the inflammation is external, it is prudent to simply clean the affected area with water, then leave it alone and get plenty of rest and sleep to allow the body to shunt all the self-healing energy it can muster for its restorative job. Inflammation will run its course if we support the self-healing process. Only then will health be restored.

Remember: self-healing energy is only generated when we sleep-it does not come from food or remedies or anything else. There are no exceptions to this physiological process of life. Taking anti-inflammatory medicines and herbs works against the body's restorative action, since all “medicinal” anti-inflammatory agents are toxic and enervating-they have no healing intelligence and do not act on the body; rather, the body works to eliminate them. Thus, their use is counterproductive, decreasing the amount of bodily energy available for self-healing and, in some cases, making us sicker. Overdosing on medicines and herbs can weaken the body so greatly that it has no energy for keeping the inflammation process going, and thus the inflamma-tion stops prematurely, fooling people into believing that the agent “worked.” That does not “cure” us; rather, that stops the self-healing action, keeping us toxic! Icing a wound chills out our life-force, slowing down the healing process. The self-healing life-force needs to rage on, unimpeded, to complete its job! And it will, when we provide the conditions of health. By deeply delving into these simple yet mind-challenging teachings, you will become empowered to heal and live free of fear of disease.

2.7 NATURAL HYGIENE: THE SCIENCE AND FINE ART OF HEALTHFUL LIVING
by Dr. T. C. Fry and Dr. David Klein

Natural Hygiene, or Healthful Living, is the art and science of living healthfully in accord with our natural biological heritage. Natural Hygiene embodies those principles which guide us to correct living practices. It is a health system of cooperating with Nature to allow our self-healing powers to fully express themselves, enabling the body to rejuvenate and establish its highest level of health. “Hygiene” literally means “the science of health.”

Natural Hygiene is about enhancing physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well-being through education and right living. It provides us with a simple, wholistic, living awareness system for regaining and maintaining superb human health and beauty. Hygiene is personally empowering and liberating. It teaches independence and rational action. It banishes fear and ignorance regarding human health and how to keep it. Ultimately, it is about freedom.

Natural Hygiene always refers to nature as its mentor and teacher. When wholistic, comprehensive understanding is required, one must refer back to nature in its pristine majesty as the final authority. Because present-day life seems to be losing touch with those conditions which made life possible, Natural Hygiene brings us “back to the garden,” so to speak. We should strive to meet life's requirements, and to smoothly balance them in all aspects so that we can easily lead a joyous and fulfilling existence.

Natural Hygiene concerns itself with those principles and truths applicable to human life so that we may wisely apply them to our lives. We are of the firm conviction that only by living healthfully can we realize the loftiest joys, peace of mind and blissful connection with all of creation which is our birthright.

Animals in nature are creatures of instinct. Following the guidance of instinct, they are correctly self-directed to meet their needs. They thrive optimally in accord with their environmental and genetic possibilities. Discovering and attuning to our natural instincts is part and parcel of Natural Hygiene. Our inborn guiding instincts always tend toward healthful and constructive living when they are unclouded and given proper attention. It is ignorance of our instincts and the laws of life that creates our sickness and suffering.

In presenting the concept that health is normal and natural, Natural Hygienists emphatically refute the idea that disease is inevitable in our lives. We contend that disease will not occur unless there is sufficient cause. Health maintenance is an unceasing process in every organism. When the organism is overwhelmed by toxic substances beyond its ability to eliminate them in normal course, the body institutes emergency action to effect expulsion of the toxic burden. This crisis is called “sickness” or “disease.” Toxic materials accumulate in the body from two sources: 1. from unexpelled body wastes that are endogenously generated as a normal part of our metabolism, and 2. from exogenous materials ingested and partially or wholly retained due to inability to cope with the eliminative load.

All the needs of normal physiology are present in states of disease and are required to be supplied to the end that organic and functional integrity may be preserved or restored. No piecemeal plan of care can possibly succeed in restoring health. Hygienic care comprehends not only a regulation of the diet, but a synthesis and coordination of all the factor elements of normal living: drinking, breathing, sunning, temperature, clothing, exercise, rest, sleep, emotional factors, etc. Nothing short of a total regulation of the way of life can produce ideal results.

All processes of recovery or healing are but extensions and modifications of the processes that preserve health. The materials and processes employed in caring for the sick must be in consonance with physiology and compatible with all other useful measures. A sane method of caring for the sick will not force the body to utilize substances that are not subject to its metabolic processes.

Our biological nature, i.e., the make-up (structure, function and living essence) of our bodies, determines our needs and how we should meet them. Health is our natural state of being. Disease processes (or illnesses) are perfectly natural responses enacted by the body for the purpose of detoxifying, rebalancing, adapting to harmful influences and healing. The condition of health (or wellness) is only achieved by living healthfully, i.e., satisfying our mental/emotional/physiological/spiritual needs.

The Hygienic health system of self-healing has a 200-year track record, establishing it as the most effective healing system ever known to man. The true Hygienic art consists of applying to the living system whatever materials and conditions it can use under the circumstances, and not in the administration of poisons which it must resist and expel. Drugs are themselves causes of disease and produce disease whenever given. They cure nothing. The drug system endeavors to make the sick well by administering poisons which make well persons sick.

Natural Hygiene, on the contrary, restores the sick to health by the means that preserve health in well persons. Disease is caused by violations of the laws and conditions of life. The Hygienic System stops the violations and supplies healthful conditions. Drug medication adds to the causes of destruction and metamorphoses acutely into chronic disease where it does not kill outright. The attempt to cure disease by adding to its causes is irrational and absurd. Hygienic care involves the proper use of all Hygienic materials and influences of nature but rejects all poisons. There is, therefore, between the Hygienic System and the Drug System an irrepressible conflict. If one is true, the other is false.

We must eliminate the dead weight of false knowledge and ideas that we carry with us each moment. Using treatments, drugs, herbs, or anything else abnormal and unnatural to the body can interfere with healthful body functions but, under no circumstances, can these agencies heal the body. Because these devitalizing agencies depress and suppress symptoms (or evidences) of body healing efforts, and because the body discontinues vital activities to contend with these agencies, which makes the symptoms disappear, the anti-vital effects of drugs and treatments are mistaken for healing effects. Nothing but the body can heal itself.

THE PRIME REQUISITES OF HEALTH

1. Love of Self
2. Healthy Self-image and Esteem
3. Passionate Love of All Life
4. Awareness
5. Intention
6. Inner Focus/Listening
7. Abidance by the Senses and Intuition
8. True Knowledge
9. Graceful, Grateful, Respectful, Generous Attitude
10. Organic, Properly-combined Vegan Diet
11. Pure Water
12. Pure Air
13. Sunshine
14. Warm Climate
15. Fitness and Posture
16. Security and Peace of Mind
17. Rejuvenative Rest and Sleep
18. Heart-centered Self Nurturing
19. Sharing of Love
20. Relaxation
21. Humor
22. Creative Expression
23. Emotional Flow and Release
24. Rhythmic Movement
25. Musical Indulgence
26. Simple Lifestyle
27. Communing With Nature
28. Gardening
29. Service-Living Your Life's Purpose
30. Engagement in Self-improvement Challenges

By living hygienically, or healthfully, we are enabled to rejuvenate and reach our full health potential.

3.1 FUNCTIONS OF THE BOWEL

The bowel, also referred to as the intestines or gut, consists of the small and large intestines (the latter is also known as the colon). Here are the basic functions of each:

Small Intestine

The small intestine is a muscular 21-foot long tube of small diameter (about one inch, hence the name “small” intestine). This is where the digestive process takes place. Macronutrients are reduced to sugars, amino acids and fatty acids, then absorbed, along with some micronutrients, and transported to the liver, then distributed to the cells through the blood and lymph. The pH in a healthy small intestine is alkaline. More specifically, here is what happens during the digestive process.

From the stomach, the small intestine receives a semi-digested mixture of food and acidic enzymes; this mixture is called “chyme.” The small intestine also receives pancreatic enzyme from the pancreas and bile (a fat emulsifier) from the gall bladder. While being transported through the small intestine by segmentation movement, the digested fluid mass is absorbed through the striated border epithelium covering the villi (the intricate, microscopic finger-like folds which number in the millions).

The bacteria which live on living vegetable foods produce digestive enzymes which assist in the body's digestion of vegetable foods. Under various conditions of poor, haphazard eating and incomplete digestion, however, bacterial decomposition of food occurs (fermentation and putrefaction), resulting in toxic byproducts which can be responsible for irritation, then inflamma-tion, of the intestinal wall. These toxins are typically absorbed into the bloodstream, causing fatigue and a host of illness symptoms. When the wall of the small intestine is inflamed, the nerves and absorptive function of this organ become greatly impaired, and the act of eating is usually met with severe gastric distress.

Colon

The colon is a three to five-foot long thick, muscular organ, normally with an inverted u-shape. A typical person's colon is disfigured, with twists and kinks and prolapses which trap fecal material, leading to any and all colon problems, and autointoxication of the body's fluids. Many behavioral problems and epilepsy have been linked to colon toxemia and constipation. The colon is much more than a muscular tube; it has an intricate network of nerves which connect with every other organ and neuromuscular system in the body. (Refer to Figure 1 which shows a perfectly shaped colon.) The colon receives metabolic wastes from the small intestine. The colon also receives indigestible residue, including micronutrients, from the small intestine through the ileocecal valve.

Muscular wavelike motion, peristalsis, moves the material forward as water and micronutrients are absorbed and stools are formed for elimination. A healthy colon has a slightly acid pH, and evacuation (bowel movements) normally occurs easily a short while after each meal. In the absence of fiber or sufficient moisture in the residue, the peristaltic motion may be inefficient to move the material along, and constipation and mucoid matter buildup may result, leading to enervation and dysfunction of the colon.

Fatigue and emotional upset also contribute to colon dysfunction. In times of irritation from a toxic overburden, the body may enact diarrhea, a massive elimination response. If there is not sufficient nerve energy to accomplish diarrhea, then wastes will accumulate, causing the condition of autointoxication, and this may lead to inflamma-tion. Undigested food components passing into the colon, especially proteins from wheat, meat, dairy, legumes and nuts, are typically the major source of irritation because they decompose and their byproducts are toxic to the tissues.

The colon works symbiotically with bacteria (flora). There are two standard classifications of bacteria in the intestinal tract: healthful “friendly” bacteria (including lactobacillus bifidus and coli bacteria) and “unfriendly” coliform bacteria (including E. coli) which are actually misunder-stood. As first demonstrated by biologist Antoine Béchamp in the mid-19th century, “unfriendly” bacteria are actually “friendly” bacteria which have mutated in the presence of toxic matter and serve the “friendly” function of eating (or cleaning up) the toxic matter. “Unfriendly” bacteria are mistakenly blamed as the cause of illness. However, bacteria do NOT cause illness. Bacteria simply function to clean up wastes in the external and internal (bodily) environment. In the healthy colon of a person living on a 100% natural diet of fruits and vegetables, there may be a minimal amount of bacteria in the colon. In a SAD (“standard American diet”) eater's colon, there may be as many as 400 species of bacteria, and sixty% of the wet weight of stools may be made up of bacteria. There are far more bacteria in a SAD eater's colon than the number of cells in our body. Some of the bacteria work symbiotically to maintain our health by manufacturing B vitamins and vitamin K, which is believed to help with blood clotting. Colons of SAD eaters have a huge population of putrefactive bacteria. We can create the condition of health and purity when we maintain a minimal population of only 100% healthful bacteria in the colon, and with that a perfectly healthy and strong colon.

Stools

“Stool” is a term describing the waste matter excreted from the bowel through the rectum, ranging in consistency from formed and hard (constipated) to watery (diarrhea). Stool characteristics are indicative of our diet, the effectiveness of our digestion and our level of health. Healthy people generally evacuate nontoxic stools, and bowel movements are barely noticeable and never unpleasant. Toxic stools are blatantly offensive to our senses, and their evacuation is typically difficult and tiring. Few people have ever eaten and lived healthfully (as taught herein and in other Natural Hygiene literature) and experienced healthy evacuation of nontoxic stools.

Toxic stools emit gases which are odiferously foul and offensive. Foul fecal gases or flatulence indicate that food has not digested completely; rather, it has decomposed (rotted or fermented) in the gut. The odors produced by decomposing nitrogenous proteins are characterized as “putrid.” Odors produced by decomposing carbohydrates are characterized as “fermentive.” The chemical byproducts (liquid and gaseous) of this rotting action include: ammonias, sulfides, histamine, tyramine, cadaverine, putrescine, indoles, skatoles and purines. Hydrogen sulfide, also referred to as “swamp gas,” has the characteristic rotten egg odor which is common in sewer pipes. This gas is so corrosive that it eats through concrete piping, necessitating protective plastic liners. Imagine what it does to human flesh! All of these harsh chemicals irritate the bowel, leading to inflamma-tion and, under chronic extreme conditions, the destruction and genetic alteration of cells, leading to polyps, tumors and cancer. They also circulate in the body causing systemic damage in a process called “autointoxication” which goes hand-in-hand with poor health. When the body's organs of elimination and self-purification mechanisms (known as the “immune system”) are overwhelmed with toxins, we experience body odors and distress, leading to C&C in some people.

Diarrhea is an intelligent response enacted by the body when the contents of the bowels have reached a critically toxic level. The body sends water into the bowel and directs nerve energy to the bowel muscle to trigger peristaltic motion. Rapid evacuation of liquid feces is a sign of vigorous health-restorative detoxification. When the body enacts diarrhea, it is getting rid of threatening toxins. We want the body to get rid of the offending matter; we do not want to suppress diarrhea with medicines-that only adds to our toxic overload while further enervating our organism, extending the time it will take to heal. When we have diarrhea, we must discontinue eating all fatty foods, rest, drink plenty of water and clear, fresh fruit juice, eat only health-supporting foods (if appropriate) and allow the body to complete its housecleaning job. Celery juice is the richest, safest and most natural source of electrolytes. Apple-celery and grape-celery juices are highly beneficial in this case. In cases of prolonged or extreme diarrhea with C&C, special care and guidance are required. This book presents general guidelines; however, each person needs a personalized healing plan to safely resolve his or her illness. In all cases of diarrhea, keeping oneself well-hydrated with water and juices is essential. If diarrhea is severe, your physician and a Hygienic Doctor, such as the author, should be consulted and blood testing should be performed to assess electrolyte levels.

Constipated stools are compact, low in water content and held together by mucous. If they float, they contain entrained gas. Constipation is a sign of incorrect eating and a lack of nerve energy needed for regular evacuation, that is, the bowel muscle is enervated to the point of inability to easily move digesta through the bowel.

Many lifestyle factors can contribute to enervation of the bowel, as discussed later. In general, the top three factors are: 1. diets with foods too low in fiber and water content; 2. overeating cooked starchy and fatty foods; and 3. a deficiency of rest and sleep. Chronically compacted stools lead to irritation and, in some cases, disfigured colons (prolapses, hernias, strictures) and C&C because the fecal material stagnates, decomposes and its movement is difficult, fatiguing the bowel, rather than easily passing within 24 hours.

The diet and healthful lifestyle program taught herein teaches the basic principles which enable the body to correct virtually all bowel problems and resume its normal shape and vitality. As discussed in detail in the following sections of this book, there are several causes of food decomposition in the gut. They mainly fall under the categories of: 1. eating foods which are inherently indigestible; 2. eating foods in incompatible combinations; 3. eating too frequently; 4. eating when tired; 5. incomplete chewing.

When we eat incorrectly, exceeding the limitations of our digestive enzyme secretions and mechanical processing capabilities, food decomposes in the gut, as in a compost heap. That is, bacteria, yeast and, in some cases, parasites consume the nutrients and excrete wastes. This is nature's way of digesting or breaking down wastes, purifying our inner environment and recycling organic matter. The warm, moist, nutrient-rich environment of the bowel is an ideal fermenter of food residues. Weightwise, the bacteria content of the stools of people who eat mostly undigestible food matter is typically greater than the quantity of the solid residue itself. The higher the quantity of indigestible wastes in our bowels, the greater the population of bacteria and waste byproducts (gas, liquid and solid residues). The pH of toxic stool is typically acidic, indicating acid waste overload, as evidenced by rectal burning sensations. All these are undesir-able and totally avoidable conditions.

We need to eat in a way so that everything digests completely. We do not want to eat indiscriminately, creating the conditions for microorganisms to digest our food because that always results in poor health. Ironically and sadly, most of what humans eat passes through the body undigested, poisoning their bodies and the environment. Human excrement is such an environmental pollution burden that humans have resorted to building sewage treatment plants. These costly plants serve to digest food residue which humans have not digested.

In wastewater engineering, the pollution strength of the sewage entering sewage treatment plants is measured as “biochemical oxygen demand” and expressed in units of “BOD.” This quantifies the amount of oxygen required by aerobic microorganisms to decompose the degradable organic matter in a sample of sewage. The influent BOD is always very high. As such, the sewage is a pollution hazard and, if discharged untreated, would defile or even kill all life in a natural body of water. Within this scenario, bacteria and other microorganisma feast on the nutrients, multiply and pull oxygen out of the water, suffocating aquatic life while releasing metabolic wastes (swamp gas, etc.).

Sewage treatment plants employ aeration treatment processes wherein bacteria populations greatly multiply, consume the nutrients in the wastestream and reduce the solids volume. The remaining still-toxic sewage solids (“sludge”) are separated out of the wastewater stream and typically sent to a landfill. The remaining wastewater is clarified, disinfected and discharged with a greatly-reduced BOD to the environment (creeks, rivers, oceans, meadows, agricultural fields, etc.). Septic tanks are sometimes used for individual sewage treatment, employing an anaerobic rather than aerobic bacterial decomposition process, discharging BOD-reduced wastewater into the ground. In perspective, the septic tank and the costly, inefficient and obnoxious sewage treatment systems are only necessary when humans eat foods for which they are not biologically suited. If we ate correctly, we would not need mechanical sewage treatment equipment to do the digestion job we were designed to completely accomplish in good health and with nontoxic results. Completely digested food from a healthy body in turn produces good “humanure” fertilizer for plant life. (Of course, “humanure” recycling is not entirely practical for city populations.)

When we eat correctly of only foods to which we are biologically adapted, as taught herein, the result is complete digestion, effortless evacuation, neutral or no stool or body odors, little or no flatulence and freedom from bowel disease. It is generally healthy to have one bowel movement per meal. For most healthy people, two or three bowel movements per day is normal. Bowel movements occur in seconds with no urgency and barely any sensation. Healthy stools are moist, formed and of fine, uniform consistency; they sink and crumble in toilet water with no signs of undigested pieces of food, mucous or blood; the pH is within the 6.7 to 7.3 range; their color resembles the food which was eaten in the previous meal, only slightly darker; there is no straining, long and difficult waiting, cramping, spasming, discomfort, offensive odor, stickiness, need for air deodorizers, shame or unpleasantness; there is minimal need for toilet paper and little or no gas. From a wholistic viewpoint, the end product of our digestion tells the story of how well we have eaten, digested our food and supported our health.

After you have detoxified, healed and mastered your dietary and lifestyle habits, the bowel will remain healthy and free of C&C and you will have the opportunity to enjoy optimal health and happiness in a clean and sweet-smelling body. You will feel well inside knowing that you've fully met the conditions required for everlasting health. That is our natural state of being and the happy, lasting outcome of healthful living.

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7.1 WHAT TO EXPECT

It's up to those with C&C to do the work to heal and to preserve their health by maintaining the Natural Hygiene healthful living principles taught herein and in many other books and periodicals on the subject. This book gives the keys, teaching how the body's “operating system” was designed to work, that is, how to restore and maintain excellent health.

By setting the intention of continuous self-improvement with the goal of manifesting perfect, vibrant disease-free health, we can achieve our loftiest goals and never experience C&C again. Lifelong vibrant, disease-free health can be maintained by the daily diligent application of healthful living practices. The more we work at it, the easier it becomes. In time, it is no longer work; rather, it is automatic, pleasurable habit and the rewards are joyous. Deep down inside, this is what your bowel and your entire being is calling for! It's all about integrity-giving yourself the loving nurturance you need to be healthy.

Taking care of yourself is always priority number one. When you diligently apply the principles of healthful living, fulfilling the “Prime Requisites of Health” and obeying “The Laws of Life,” you can expect ever-increasing wellness and joy in living. The further you progress with your healthful practices, the easier it becomes. Eventually it all becomes “first nature,” that is, normal, sensible, effortless and enjoyable. Visualize a healthy mind, body and lifestyle. Think healthfully. Act healthfully. Live healthfully. In all ways be healthy. Claim your birthright to glorious health, allow the new healthy you to blossom and don't look back! Health can be regained but it must be earned each and every day. Choose to live and be healthy every day.

I encourage you to totally go for it, to dedicate three to six months to fully implement the self-healing protocol and get the help you need to see it through and keep up the healthful living practices. The reward is vibrant health, freedom and joy. You will love yourself, love life and derive immense pleasure in sharing your experience and high vitality with others. If you experience some pitfalls-we all do, especially during the first few years-learn from your mistakes and keep moving forward. Becoming healthy and maintaining health is a lifelong process-we all have plenty to unlearn and overcome. Practice makes perfect! All successful people, regardless of their goals, work at self-improvement. The rewards of healthful living are all things that are truly good.

A Perfectly Healthy Bowel

Given the right conditions, care and time, if sufficient vitality exists, all inflammatory bowel disorders will heal under this program including colitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, ileitis, irritable bowel syndrome, fistulas and hemorrhoids; strictures will also heal, scar tissue and polyps will slough off, tumors will be autolyzed and eliminated and the bowel will resume its normal shape with all new healthy cells. When the bowel is perfectly healthy we are not aware of it at all! It does not give us any signs of distress and we feel free and strong. We have two or three brief, subtle urges to evacuate each day and the bowel movement is quick, effortless and in no way unpleasant. There is no more urgency, diarrhea, incontinence, constipation, cramping, spasming, aches or pains. As previously discussed, stools are moist, formed, have fine, homogeneous texture, uniform diameter, their color resembles that of recently eaten food, they have no odor or neutral odor, there is no mucous or blood, and they sink and crumble in the water. There is minimal need for toilet paper. We have little or no gas/flatulence and no foul body odors. With a healthy bowel we enjoy a sense that we are giving our precious body the care it needs, and we are rewarded with good feelings and dynamic energy, making life easy and pleasurable.

Special Care Requirements

During the first six to twelve months of rebuilding after the healing phase, the body still requires extra-special care. The bowel is tender and needs several months to totally regenerate the tissues and gain vigorous muscle tone. Eating a high-water-content diet, getting extra rest and sleep (10 or more hours is optimum) and conserving energy, rather than engaging in exhaustive exercise or work, is the prudent way to go during this phase. Conserve your precious vital energy so your body can use it for the rebuilding task-avoid doing anything (including fitness work-outs) that exhausts your energy.

If your illness was long and your vitality was severely vitiated (as in my case), be extra patient-expect the rejuvenation process to take a few years for completion. Although my colon healed quickly and my vitality continually increased every day thereafter, it took approximately five years to realize dynamic vitality and boundless energy after the long, debilitating illness and a lifetime of malnutrition. When I finally became dynamically healthy and fit, some people remarked that I was “the healthiest person they ever saw.” After eight devastating years of disease, physical degeneration, chronic fatigue and misery, that was delightful to hear and it gave me even more reason to express my gratitude toward all of my mentors.

During the first six to twelve months, the nerves and tissues in your gut will be tender and sensitive to 1. excessive bulky fiber; 2. acids in acidic fruits; 3. excessive sulfurous foods; and 4. any putrefaction of high-protein foods. As such, avoid eating: large bulky salads with high-fiber content; whole nuts and seeds (they are best eaten blended with water or acid fruits as a dressing or in homogenized/butter form); large portions of citrus fruits, pineapples, nectarines and tomatoes; and excessive quantities of cruciferous vegetables, nuts, seeds and avocados. Thoroughly chew fibrous foods, select only the sweetest, ripest acid fruits and do not overeat. After your gut has fully rejuvenated, your sensitivity to fiber and acid will decrease; however, you must still eat within your system's handling capacity-you will always have limitations which must be respected.

Weight Loss

Expect and welcome weight loss as you detoxify on this health-building program-there is no avoiding it and the toxins and excess fat only keep you mired in sub-par health until you have totally cleaned out. As you lose weight, your body is working to clean out stores of harmful and useless debris, chemicals and excess fat. In order to totally heal C&C, all of the toxic and useless matter must be eliminated. Your body knows what it is doing and it will not get rid of anything it needs; it only does things perfectly and, under this plan, it will totally “clean house” and replace all cells with stronger and more vibrant ones, and will rebuild every bodily system for functioning in perfect health.

Many people resist the notion of detoxifying if it means losing muscle mass. Since the body needs an extraordinary proportion of its available energy for healing and rebuilding, we must relax into the process, abstain from bodybuilding exercises and accept these facts:

1. some muscle mass will temporarily be lost, but we mostly lose excess fat and water,

2. the body does not need big, well-toned muscles during the healing phase and the first several months of the rejuvenation phase;

3. maintaining excessive muscle mass will only limit the energy supply available for the body's most crucial task which is healing; and

4. when the body has healed and detoxed and the level of vital energy is consistently high, it will be possible to regain as much healthy weight and muscle mass as desired-if you were a body builder, perhaps not as much mass as before, but you will certainly be able to fill out your frame and establish greater definition, strength and endur-ance in a cleaner, more attractive body than before.

Understanding, patience and support are the keys to success-the payoff is the ultimate!

Weight Gain

Expect healthy, gradual weight gain after your body has completed the detox and healing. At this point, the body will automatically and naturally shift from the catabolic (breaking down) stage to the anabolic (building up) stage. Be patient and allow a year or more for the body to rebuild itself.

To gain muscle mass it is necessary to exercise your muscles. Increase your exercise duration and intensity gradually. Do not force the rebuilding process by expending more energy than you can afford-it is better to rest during the first six months to allow your newly-gained energy to be used for regenerating your bowel tissues so that it can function at peak strength. If there is insufficient energy available for your bowel because of excessive exercising, it will not function well. Building muscle mass is not all about protein but, rather, it is about working your muscles, getting sufficient recovery time (rest) and eating a nutritious, low-fat diet with caloric fuel content sufficient for growth.

Calories from whole foods rich in simple carbohydrates are the superior fuel for muscle growth. In that regard, fruits, especially the calorie-dense ones (bananas, papayas, mangos, dates, oranges, etc.) are the perfect “building” foods, and they furnish adequate amino acids for protein synthesis. High-protein foods and supplements do not grow muscles-they only acidify the body, make it toxic and deplete our energy, sabotaging the rebuilding process and causing C&C. People with a history of C&C typically lose weight when eating more high-protein foods or supplements than they can digest.

The diet espoused herein furnishes calories in proportions averaging 80% from carbohydrate, 10% from fat and 10% from protein. This has proven to be most healthful and sufficient for excellent muscle development and physical strength and energy for those with a history of C&C as well as all other humans. There are many world-class vegan athletes and a few fruitarian raw fooder athletes in the world who have proven this to be true; some of their stories have been covered in past issues of Living Nutrition.

By living healthfully, your weight will normalize at a level which is lower than the conventional norm, your waistline will be thin and your overall appearance will be leaner than others who eat a standard diet. You will also have a clean bowel and more energy for getting more out of life. Those of us who arrive at this condition are “normal” in true health terms. As such, it does not serve us to hold on to old images of our heavier selves. Welcome your new, lean, healthy body and cultivate it with the right exercise program for the strength, mass, definition and beauty you desire. When you feel great you will not yearn for the unhealthy bulk you may have been comfortable with.

Health Freedom

Here are more major benefits you can expect as you refine and gain mastery with your healthful living practices, especially your eating habits:

You will no longer experience common maladies such as colds, fevers, gastric distress, candida, infections, headaches, earaches, rashes, PMS, difficult menstruation, bruising, fatigue, impotence, etc.

You will heal from or avoid common major diseases. Your blood pressure and cholesterol levels will normalize.

Your cholesterol level might rise during the initial stage of the detox as excess is dumped into the bloodstream; then it will fall.

Your taste buds will be delighted and never bored by the richness, vibrance, variety and complex flavors of fresh fruits and tender vegetables.

You will sense that fresh, organic feels more nourishing than other foods.

You will experience natural highs when eating tropical fruits.

You will relish and savor raw fatty foods more than fatty animal-derived foods and not miss them.

Calorie-dense fruits will warm and sustain you perfectly when you eat them in sufficient quantities.

Raw fruits and vegetables, eaten correctly, will no longer cause gastric distress and diarrhea.

Vegan foods will not make you tired and sleepy (unless you eat meals of mostly cooked foods).

As you become healthier, you will require less food to maintain your weight and energy level.

You will prefer simple, unprocessed whole fruit and vegetable meals.

You will mostly prefer mono meals of one kind of fruit.

You will require less sleep to wake up feeling refreshed.

Depression, unexplainable sadness, frustrations and moodiness will diminish and, in many cases, vanish for good.

Your ability to master your mind and emotions will become easier.

Your mental abilities including memory will become keener.

Your creative powers will become enhanced.

Your eating mastery and digestion will become easier if you maintain your fitness by exercising regularly.

Your waistline will become and remain slim.

Your skin and eyes will become clear and healthy looking.

Cellulite and cysts will vanish and moles will fade.

Your bones and nails will remineralize and become strong.

Your hair will become thicker and more lustrous, without excessive oiliness, thus requiring no shampoo.

If your hair was falling out, the rate will decrease after you have totally detoxified and, in some cases, new growth will ensue.

Your body will smell sweet or neutral, requiring no deodorants.

All of your senses will vivify.

You will feel richer sensations in your body.

You will experience an expansion of awareness and consciousness.

Your eyesight will improve.

Your ears will become clear and your hearing will improve.

Your sinuses, throat and lungs will become clear and breathing will become freer and deeper.

Your voice will become more resonant.

You will totally overcome allergies.

Your strength and stamina will improve.

Any chronic stiffness, aches and pains will diminish and, in most cases, vanish.

Your recovery and healing time following vigorous exercise and any injuries will be rapid.

Your medical bills and health insurance needs will diminish or become zero.

Your connection to nature, your spirit and your lovingness and lovability will increase.

You will enjoy the freedom of living under your body's own energy without relying on stimu-lants.

Your need for sleep will decrease after you are totally healthy.

You will wake up refreshed, clear-minded and full of inspiration.

Aging will greatly slow down and you will feel youthful.

You will look and feel 10 to 20 years younger than most others in your age group.

You will glow with inner happiness, knowing you have been “reborn.”

You will gain a sense of being able to finally move toward your ultimate potential.

You will enjoy your new life and feel grateful for your new knowledge.

You will feel deeply satisfied knowing you are finally treating your body the way if was designed to be treated.

You will have more and deeper inner peace.

You feel more lovable and become more attractive to others.

When you arrive at the condition of peak health in a clean and fit body, you will feel natural euphoria and understand the true munificence of living in a healthy body.

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8.4 I LIVE IN JOY NOW

I live in joy now and the memories from the past are distant and faded I can only faintly remember:

the pain
the torture
the anguish
the agony
the aggravation
the confusion
the turmoil
the misery
the ugliness
the indignity
the disgust
the depression
the loneliness
the helplessness
the frustration
the despair
the hatred
the suffering
the emptiness
the lovelessness
the desperation
the fear from the life that was a traumatic dying hell

That chapter in my life is long gone I ended it on one glorious day a long time ago I have reclaimed my health and my life

I love
I share
I sing
I live in joy now

8.5 TESTIMONIALS

NOTE: Only some of the most recent testimonials are listed below.

“Since I changed to a natural diet as suggested by David, I am convinced that my body is totally free of colitis. I feel great and have more energy than I know!”

- Paul Nison, Brooklyn, New York (1997)

“Today I am in better health than ever! My healing has led me to become a natural health educator and author. I have referred manypeople to David and have learned that the ones who use this approach heal up every time.”

– Paul Nison, Brooklyn, New York (2000)

* * *

“I stuck to your program and it worked just as I always knew it would. I am not taking any of my old medications such as 6MP or Azulfadine any more!!! I did have a very tough 1-2 months back in September, but I toughed it out and sure enough I was okay. Believe me, I would have never thought that I would ever be off all medications again, had it not been foryour books. I cannot thank you enough. If I ever go out to California again, I would like to meet with you to personally thank you. You have led me back to a health I thought I had lost for good. I am getting the “old me” back.”

– Gregory C., Nanuet, New York (1998)

* * *

“I have Ileitis. I was diagnosed about 4 months ago. I feel like I want to die. I am on prednisone and azulfadine and I am gettingworse. This is ruining my life. I’ve eaten terrible food my entire life and I am willing to try anything to be normal again. I hope this really works.”

– Chad L., Germantown, Maryland (December, 1998)

“All is going well right now. I am back to work and living a normal life. I am not on any medicines. I am not fully keeping up with the diet, but I am changing slowly. I eat fruits and vegetables 500 times more than I ever did. I bought a juicer and I do that as much as I can. But I still eat ‘bad’ things more than I should. I am happy though and feel a lot better.”

– Chad L., Germantown, Maryland (January, 1999)

* * *

“The diet is going well! I’m really starting to feel great! A week ago over Christmas at home I really didn’t feel like doing very much except lying around the house. Can you believe this morning I was out in 25 degree weather riding three miles on my mountain bike! And remember how I missed the ski trip to Aspen because I was feeling pretty poor and low on energy? Well, this weekend we’re headed to Vermont to ski Stratton. I couldn’t be happier—skiing is my TRUE passion! Things are only going to get better.

“I also wanted to let you know that on Monday I went in for a colonoscopy (at my request, not the doctor’s) because I WANTED TO SEE what was going on inside MY body. I was tired of just getting the flexible sigmoidoscope done in the office and then having them explain to me what THEY saw. I needed to know and see for myself! Guess what? My colon is totally NORMAL—NOINFLAMMATION, NO ULCERATIONS AND NO CONSTRICTIONS. My doctor was completelythrilled. Now she said we just have to get my head clear from all the medicines. I’m down to 10 mg. on the prednisone and tomorrow I go to 7.5 mg. It won’t be long until I’m totally off the stuff. I can’t wait!”

– Krist D., Cos Cob, Connecticut (1999)

* * *

“After having a biopsy in April 1999, I was told I had ulcerative colitis. This was no surprise as I’d had minor symptoms (bleeding) for a couple of years and my uncle and 2 cousins also have the illness. I was given suppositories which cleared it up, but over the summer I started feeling very fatigued and lethargic. I was getting almost constant gut pain (especially when I ate) and had no energy to do anything. I’d already got into juicing, which had started to give me more energy. After studying Self Healing Colitis & Crohn’s, I realized that it wasn’t just juicing that would make me better—I basically needed to embrace the whole package. I have gradually done this and can honestly say I feel fantastic for it. I found David’s information on food and eating particularly useful and as soon as I applied the techniques, any gastric distress after meals completely stopped. It’s as simple as that.

“Rather than telling you that you’ve got a terrible illness and trying to show you how to live with it, David’s approach looks at the causes of colitis and Crohn’s, and shows you how to eliminate them. There’s therefore no breeding ground for the disease to occur. I would recommend Self Healing Colitis & Crohn’s to anyone and think the medical profession should be ashamed of itself for not adopting it.”

– Nick Ledger, York, England, <nickledger@ukjuicers.com> (1999)

“Okay Dave, this is something. Today for the first time in nearly three months I’ve started to have formed stools with very little blood—this after only a day and a half on your diet plan! To say I’m encouraged by this is an understatement. To say I’m a little skeptical about the long term results because of the nature of this disease would be an honest observation. But I’m the eternal optimist so I’m going to continue doing as you directed and see what happens, expecting continued improvement in my colon and overall health. Thank you so much for sharing what you have learned.”

– John O., Tulsa, Oklahoma (2000)

“I’m John, from Tulsa, who left a couple of testimonials on your website back in 2000 about the success I experienced after our phone consultation and following your general recommendations for my recently diagnosed, chronic UC condition.

“I’m happy to report I’m still UC symptom-free! In fact, a person just contacted me yesterday asking me questions about how I found success and I pointed them to your website— just as I’ve done before when people ask the same.

“So, I just wanted to say THANK YOU once again and that your advice certainly isn’t a quick-fix treatment or something that doesn’t last. I’m a walking, breathing testimony to that!”

– John O., Tulsa, Oklahoma (2007)

* * *

“The last time we spoke you had called me on the phone and I had just come out of the hospital, back in November. It’s been one heck of a ride since then. I won’t explain every detail here, but I am doing fantastically now. My mental and physical energies are higher than they were before the colitis started, and my emotions have become more stable as I have begun to take an observational attitude towards all three aspects of my personality. Now the great news: I am currently on the verge of attaining super-health. The wisdom and strength that I have gained and received from traversing this path are enormous. The difference between “hearing about,” “reading about,” “intelligently being aware of” and really KNOWING on a cellular level what the Truth is about is awesome. My overall gratitude and appreciation for the loving work that you and others have done only increases.”

– Jason Hebert, Marshfield, Massachusetts (2000)

* * *

“I had to let you know that the information you sent me two weeks ago, Self Healing Colitis & Crohn’s, has been nothing short of lifesaving and inspirational! I’m just presently healing from a severe case of colitis. I’ve been on all the drugs, asacol, prednisone, sulfa, and all they did was cause more problems. This has been the most devastating thing that has ever happened to me, I thought I would certainly die from it. I found the information you sent me to be the most valuable and detailed to date. I re-read the material every day to give me hope and guidance and have incorporated many of your ideas into my diet. So, thanks again for all the wonderful information, positive outlook and support. I know I wouldn’t be this far along without your advice!”

– Gary A., Alta Loma, California (2000)

* * *

“It was very upsetting to be told that our twelve-year old son had an ‘incurable’ disease, but Self Healing Colitis & Crohn’s offered us a ray of hope. Straight after the colonoscopy we started the natural diet. After four days Jacob called us to the loo in great excitement to see formed stools for the first time since his problems began two months ago! After a week of further celebration, no blood! Today the gastroenterologist reduced me to tears. She became really angry when I told her about the diet and said that in her 35 years of experience none of her patients had ever been “cured” by diet and those who had tried had suffered more in the long run. It’s doubly difficult to defy the medical profession as a parent because you are accused of being irresponsible to your child’s detriment. How I hope we can prove them wrong!”

– Deborah D., Caesaria, Israel (2001)

“We would never be able to thank you enough! It is now six months and Jacob has continued to be entirely healthy and symptom-free from Crohn’s. It is amazing how he has turned his diet around completely and found that he really enjoys healthful food and does not crave animal products. Jacob was a sworn avocado hater, but you suggested he mash avocado into potato which he did and liked, and gradually avocado became one of his favorite foods. He has even invented his own pasta sauce with avocado and fresh tomatoes, and it is delicious! I have written to my doctor and hospital telling them of our success. I hope they take notice. Thank you so much; your advice was a lifeline and your telephone consultations helped us so much at the beginning. You saved Jacob, now age 13, from a life of medication and operations and you are brilliant! If you ever decide to visit this country again you must come andvisit us.”

– Deborah D., Caesaria, Israel (2001)

* * *

“We just wanted to drop you a note to thank you for your work. Our daughter Caroline, age 13, is completely off all drugs and has not had a flare-up in six months. Your research and lifetime commitment have allowed our daughter to have a normal adolescence free of drugs. Thank God for people like you who dare to question the medical establishment. Keep up the good work.”

– Tony and Laura F., Lexington, Kentucky (2001)

* * *

“Thank you for returning my call. I must say I was very impressed that you called. I received your book, and what an eye opener it has been for me. I‘ve stopped eating all meat products and I’m amazed that I don’t even have a craving for them. My diet consists primarily of vegetables and fruits. I wanted to let you know that I haven’t had one bout of diarrhea in over a week. All I can say is, “Yippee, Hooray” and all that good stuff! I mean this sincerely, because I have experienced diarrhea almost every day for a year. My husband has noticed that I have more energy, and even my skin tone has improved. All of this in just one week. I also realize that I still have work to do in order to continue the healing process, but in just one week I am feeling much better. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and outstanding knowledge so that others might experience optimum health and happiness. Your book should be on every Best Sellers list.”

– Cindy G., Las Vegas, Nevada (2001)

* * *

“I began the new health program with hopes that this would cure my 3-year Crohn’s illness and fistulas, or at least make my life a lot better. I noticed a major difference on Day 3, when my cramps, mouth ulcers and pimples began disappearing and my stools became smaller and very easy to pass. Having a bowel movement had become pleasurable at last! In just 3 days the blood discharge had reduced from a great amount to a trickle, and most of the pain had subsided. My energy level became good as the program apparently started to work. The bleeding further diminished within a week, then for the next 7 days I had no symptoms at all: no bleeding, cramping and no large stools.”

– Ryan P., Sidney, Australia (2001)

“ I can’t thank you enough Dave for all that you have done for me. You have shown me the simple truth. The world is truly blessed to have you as a teacher of Natural Hygiene. Thanks so much Dave! Take care mate!”

– Ryan P., Sidney, Australia (2007)

* * *

“I contacted you from a hospital in Orange County in October and November, 2000. I was suffering from acute ulcerative colitis. I was down from my ideal weight of 175 pounds to 130 pounds. The doctors werestrongly advising me to have my colon surgically removed. I thought that was a little drastic so I asked my sisters, Cathy and Dian, to check on wholistic approaches to the disease and they put me in touch with you.

“As a result of your advice and a lot of independent reading and study of my own, I went on an all-vegetable juice and fruit smoothie diet for about 2 months. Then I gradually started adding back solid foods starting with soft non-acidic fruits. I also gradually weaned myself from all of the drugs the doctors had me on. You were absolutely right in that I did not really start recovering until I stopped taking all the drugs. By January of 2001 I was feeling much better and I was well on my way to recovery.

“Now, a year later, I am back to my original 175 pounds and I am partaking in all the activities that I love like snow skiing, bicycling, hiking, etc. From your advice and the assistance of my sisters, I survived my stay in the hospital and I am pretty much back to normal now. The only real difference in my life is that I am now a vegetarian, although not a perfectly strict one. I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you and encourage you to keep up the good work. By the way, if anyone ever requests to talk to one of the people you have helped with colitis, I will be glad to do so.”

– David L., Los Angeles, California (2002)

* * *

“I just got my last blood test results and they are nearly back to normal. The specialist still says I am very lucky to be alive as he thought my bowel was about to perforate around last Christmas. I will never forget e-mailing you the day after Christmas absolutely distraught because the bleeding had become severe, pouring out of me. I was in severe pain, not able to sit up, and very weak. I am eternally grateful that I did not take the Prednisone and immediately went on your diet. When feeling fragile and scared it helped me tremendously that you were able to strongly support my decisions. I am now better and eating fruits and vegetables. I know I will have to be very careful about what I do eat. I am grateful for your book and thank you onceagain. I truly believe and know you have saved my life.”

– Shona C., Auckland, New Zealand (2002)

* * *

“I want to say you are a huge inspiration in my life, and your books and web sites have been amazingly helpful. Your magazine Living Nutrition magazine is AMAZING, and I just recently purchased all the back issues. I could continue the praise, but I know you are busy. I am a 26-year-old medical doctor (graduated last year), and I had to quit my family practice residency because of Crohn’s disease. I got no relief from anywhere except your methods. Thank You, you are truly a saint!!”

– Mike Aquilina, M.D., Easton, Maryland, (2002)

* * *

“I went to a nutritionist in Manchester who referred me to David Klein’s web site, www.colitis-crohns.com. I purchased his book Self Healing Colitis & Crohn’s and followed the diet as best I could. Within four days, I was jumping around for joy—I was finally back to normal: no cramps, diarrhea or blood. I felt the life flowing back into me. I just couldn’t believe how good I felt—I wanted to go straight to David Klein’s house and give him a huge hug!

“Since I started the diet in June, I have had absolutely no pains or signs that they would return. I still follow the diet, but haveadded a few things now and again to keep me happy! I am not on any drugs as I feel it is wrong to keep taking drugs for life. It really is a healthy and fulfilling diet and lifestyle, and it’s not hard to follow and well worth it.”

– David Remnant, Manchester, England, (2003)

* * *

“I ordered your book and will be calling you in a week or so. I went to a Colitis and Crohn’s Foundation of America support group this evening and ran into a woman on your diet. She was very happy and I was glad to see living proof that this program works.”

– Verneta G., Los Angeles, California (2005)

* * *

“Your program has been a Godsend for me. I haven’t taken any meds in years after being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. As long as I stay on your program I continue to get better. I encourage anybody suffering with ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s to try your program. It works! Thanks again for all your great work.”

– Dan Halverson, Newton, Massachusetts (2005)

* * *

“Thank you again. One year later I still feel like a million bucks.”

– S.A., Danbury Connecticut (2005)

* * *

“I completely healed myself from colitis on your diet program. Your work on nutrition has saved my life and I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. I have now left behind a terrible life and started to live with laws of nature. Thank you so much!

“I was diagnosed with colitis in March, 2005. I actually was sick from October, 2004, but I did not see a gastroenterologist for a proper diagnosis until my condition became severe. In March, after a colonoscopy and biopsy of a colon tissue, the doctor confirmed moderate ulcerative colitis in rectal and sigmoid area. When he told me that I would have to live on medicine the rest of my life, an image of a handicapped and crippled life loomed over me and I cannot tell in words how depressed I was for many months, especially at my young age (24 years). I was making good progress in my career, but all my dreams came to a sudden halt. I cried at night back then.

“In my continuous search on the Internet for a colitis cure, I found a natural diet program book which gave some direction about improving the diet. However, it included blended peanuts and other nuts and rough fiber which caused even more severe bleeding. In January, 2006 I read your book and went on an all-juice diet for almost 40 days while taking a thorough rest (mostly in bed) and I healed completely.

“But right after my healing, my cravings were tremendous for eating my old favorite foods, so I bought a fancy raw food recipe book. I made so many recipes for the next three months and ate so much that I undermined the healing. Most of the entrées included a large amount of nuts and seeds. Then my friend invited me to her graduation party at an Italian restaurant where I ate lot of bad food. On that day I began to see the colitis symptoms again.

“At that point I stopped eating anything bad and restarted the juice diet and reread your book over and over. I began to understand the power of fruits and the damage that cooked protein will cause. In two months I became completely symptom-free.

“Now, I eat very simply. I have eaten 390 bananas since June. I am going to eat three bananas for lunch for the rest of my life.

“Thank you so much. I’m enjoying a wonderful life now. Colitis troubled me so much, but it taught me a big lesson I needed to learn. I would like to thank you in person some time.”

– Manish Kumar Jain, Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (2006)

* * *

“I send people to your website. I hope they have the discipline and wisdom to follow through. I’m feeling great with no problems at all since 2000 after following your program. Colitis was a godsend to get me into a new way of life. And you were there at the time I needed you and I will always be grateful. The Vegan Healing Diet (along with playing blues guitar) is the best way I know of for feeling great! Here’s a poem I wrote:”

Ode to David

I once had colitis

so the doctor gave me pills

he said: “son, now you take these

for all your pains and ills”

So I took those little red things.

they didn’t do a lot

except make me even sicker

and tied my stomach in a knot!

I said: “Doc you must be kidding—

surely there’s a cure”

he said: “no, son, I’m truly sorry”

then he gave me more!

Then I found this guy named David Klein

I heard what he had to say

and threw away those little red pills

and have been a new man since that day!

– Ralph Acerno, River Edge, New Jersey (2006)

* * *

“I bought Self Healing Colitis & Crohn’s last November and found it to be what I was looking for over the last 12 years. It basically kept me away from a colostomy.

“For the past 12 years, I have gone through very difficult times with ulcerative colitis and was under a lot of pressure from my GI doctor and surgeon to have a colostomy. Thank God I was able to resist.

“After applying the healing plan in the book I am much better and currently leading almost a normal life.

“I appreciate your help Dave—you have shown me how to deal with this monstrous disease.”

– Abu M., Saudi Arabia (2006)

“I just completed four of the eight weeks I needed to make up for lost time at med school. It was pretty demanding, but I remained loyal to the diet and made it through just fine. I have this week off to rejuvenate, before I have to go back for the remaining four weeks. You’ve done no less than give me my life back and I can’t thank you enough for that.

“I’ve come to learn that my story is not much different from that of other IBD sufferers. I was living a happy and healthy life when one day, for no apparent reason, I suddenly began to experience abdominal cramps and loose stools. Over time, this progressed to debilitating abdominal pain and 20-plus bloody and mucoid bowel movements each day.

“As I am training to be a medical doctor, I naturally turned to traditional medicine for answers. Definitive answers were not what I got. Nonetheless, traditional medicine was all I knew. So, despite my obvious gaps in knowledge on this matter, I took a leap of faith and followed the directions given to me. I tried just about every anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, and over-the-counter analgesic available. I went through numerous courses of steroids and even an immunosuppressant. For about a year I let the doctors adjust and readjust medication dosages in the hope that they would eventually find the key and would be able to protect me from having acolectomy.

“During this year, life as I knew it was over. I had to take leave from school, lost about 60 pounds, spent 10 days in the hospital, experienced indescribable abdominal pain, became housebound due to the frequency of bowel movements, took 20 or more pills a day, incurred numerous side effects from these various medications, and spent thousands of dollars on treatments that did not help.

“My observations led me to believe that the treatments I was given were actually worsening my condition. But what could I do? After all, I had to follow the advice of my experienced doctors, right? Wrong. One day, I finally realized that if all these medications weren’t helping, then how could I justify the side effects and expense? The doctors strongly advised me to continue the treatment, but I was slowly and painfully dying at the age of 27, and nothing that they were doing for me was of any help. In the case of IBD, traditional medicine did not have an answer for me and I needed to look elsewhere.

“Everything changed for me when I MIRACULOUSLY found your Self Healing Colitis & Crohn’s book online. I likely would have dismissed your theories as nonsense if I had come across them during the first month of the illness. But I was now in month 11 and was meeting with a surgeon to discuss a colectomy. So, I read your book and for the first time felt like someone else understood my predicament. The things you said were in direct agreement with my own experiences and observations. For the first time in a long time, I was filled with hope and felt as if this illness might be manageable.

“I am now at month 15 and have been free of medications and doctor visits. I’ve spoken to you numerous times over the telephone and through e-mail. You have done nothing less than nurse me back to health andgiven me my life back. How do you repay someone for that?

“Many of the doctors I work with are quite interested in hearing my story. They are astonished that detox and diet have played such a crucial role in my healing. Such a concept remains foreign to allopathic physicians. A few of those doctors tell me that they have heard similar stories from some of their own patients but, in the end, they have no training or understanding of nutrition and natural healing and can do little more than simply listen to my story.”

– S.G., Florida (2007)

* * *

“It will be three years in May since I first contacted you. I was having upsetting digestive problems and had a colonoscopy that showed the beginnings of colitis and Crohn’s disease. I purchased your book, we had a long consultation, and I switched to vegetarianism. Although I have somewhat modified the program over the years, not a day goes by that I don’t have at least eight to ten fresh fruits plus veggies. I have canceled all meat, fish and poultry from my diet.

“I recently had my annual physical examination with my doctor. He wanted me to have a colonoscopy. I hadn’t had one in three years and was curious to see what it would show. Thank G-d, it was excellent! Now I am 58 years old, and no signs of any Crohn’s disease, colitis, diverticulitis or polyps!

“This diet has transformed my whole life. Your wisdom that you share with others makes you a true miracle worker. Thank you so much and G-d bless you for your teachings and the wonderful work you do to help others.”

–Jacqueline K., Los Angeles, California (2007)

* * *

“My son Byron (who in 2006 at age 17 was diagnosed with Crohn’s) recently confided in me that one year ago he wanted to commit suicide. At that time he was confined to bed with painful fissures, anal tears, mouth ulcers, stomach cramps, diarrhea, bowel incontinence, hot and cold sweats and a host of other miserable complaints. He had endured months of illness and hospitalization and, despite drug treatments, he was not improving.

“Then your Self Healing Colitis & Crohn’s book arrived. He began the diet immediately and within three days the fissure pain was gone and he was up and moving around.

“We have since proved every single word of your book to be true. Byron’s recovery went exactly as you described it would. He followed the steps carefully, reducing the drugs.

“We know your work has saved Byron from a life of hell. Today, one year after receiving your book, he is entirely drug-and-symptom-free. His weight has increased from 45 kg to 62 kg. He is an active young man who looks and feels great. I am also very happy to report that he now has a vegan girlfriend.

“Byron lives by the Vegan Post-healing Diet and finds it easy to stick with. We spend far less time on food preparation than we did before, and we now spend absolutely no money on drugs, supplements or medical consultations.

“When the doctor recently labeled Byron’s excellent condition ‘clinical remission,’ we confidently told him this will continue for about another 75 years!

“Byron and I believe you have provided him with the ‘cure.’ Over the six months prior to receiving your book, his medical treatments cost approximately AUS$15,000. Your regimen cost us only the price of the book and one in-person consultation fee when I was fortuitously able to meet with you in California last year.

“We thank you for so much. Please add Byron’s story to your list of testimonials. I am happy to have my e-mail address posted on your website for those who read your “Are You Skeptical” section, and I will be pleased to share our story.”

–Julie Smith, Australia, <jsm58010@bigpond.net.au> (2008)

* * *

“I wanted to let you know how well things are going for me. I had consulted with you a few times this past winter. I’m not sure exactly what has happened within my body over these months, but it’s been miraculous and I credit you and your writing for much of it!

“For months I had struggled to implement the healing diet. I slowly switched to an all-organic diet and made some progress, but I was still eating grains and a lot of poor food combinations. A few weeks after I entirely cut out grains, I noticed, incredibly, that I was no longer craving them—or anything unhealthy—anymore! My cravings virtually disappeared and my colitis symptoms started to subside as well.

“About two months ago when I was still not feeling completely well and was experiencing digestive symptoms, I lost my appetite and simply stopped eating. I fasted for about five days on just water and my energy, vitally and mental clarity absolutely soared! I had fasted many times before but had never experiencedthis effect. What’s even more interesting is that when I did finally decide to eat again, I only wanted one thing: raw fruit!

“Of all the benefits I’ve received, the lack of food cravings astounds me most. I have literally forgotten what it even feels like to want and crave unhealthy food!

“Thank you for all your writings and hard work. You led me from a very dark place into thelight.”

–Adam F., Connecticut (2008)

“Thank you so much for your excellent book. I’m going to call it my Bible! It’s been two months since I last spoke with you and I want to let you know the diet has helped tremendously. I had a colonoscopy last month and I cannot believe the pictures of the lower colon—it healed beautifully!

“I have been recommending your book to lots of people and doctors as well.”

–Clarey G., California (2008)

* * *

“I am writing to thank you and express the joy that your book has brought back into my life. I had suffered from ulcerative colitis since 1996 with several hospital stints and dark periods of illness. When I came across your book on the Internet 18 months ago I implemented the plan partially and noticed a marked improvement in my overall health. Three months ago I decided to fully comply with the plan and now I enjoy full health and happiness.

“I find the subject of raw food nutrition to be so fascinating that I am considering changing my career into that field. Western medicine needs to wake up to these fundamental truths.”

–Allan C., Ireland (2008)

* * *

“I am forever in your debt for helping me to heal after 13 miserable years with severe ulcerative colitis. I would love to meet yousome day to thank you in person or would love to call you and say thanks. Ithought of the words of Winston Churchill in relation to you: “Never was so much owed by so many to so few.” Here is my healing story from my online journal:

“This journal is the result of a promise I made that once I got well and was free of any sign UC or medication for more than three years I would contribute whatever I could in the hope that it might help others. I sincerely hope it sets you on the path to healing and living a healthy, happy and normal life again.

“This as a factual testimony of what happened to me. After 26 years of perfect health, symptoms of ulcerative colitis began. I was diagnosed after a colonoscopy shortly after turning 27. I suffered with severe UC for the next 13 years before being completely cured.

“I had all the familiar symptoms: bleeding, mucous, the sudden, urgent need to run to the bathroom sometimes more than 20 times a day, excruciating pain, the inability to absorb any nutrients. For a three week period just after I turned 33, I was bedridden and seemed close to death. My weight had dropped to 38 kilograms (around 84 pounds). Add to this the sideeffects of the combination of medications I was on: Mesasal, prednisone, Prednisol enemas (when I could retain them) and Rhinocort nasal spray.

“The effects of all these medications were: bloating of the face and ankles, weight gain, mood swings with aggression, headaches, oily skin and hot flashes. The long-term use of the medications led to hair loss. My eyesight became so bad I had to have surgery to remove cataracts from both eyes.

“The stress caused by my illness added to stress at work. My inability to have a normal life without knowing where the nearest bathroom was put me in some pretty dark, depressing places.

“Throughout the entire 13 years of my illness one thought guided me and kept me going. I had been very healthy for 26 years and was not prepared to accept the opinions of the experts saying that my condition was genetic or ‘incurable.’ If I was healthy once, I could surely get healthy again.

“The turning point came when I turned 39. I relocated to a new country to begin work with a new company. Assuming I would not have an understanding new employer like I had at my previous workplace, I knew I had to get better in the next six weeks. Along with preparing for my relocation I spent every available second on Google searching for a clue. Finally I found the proverbial ‘needle in the haystack.’

“I came across Dr. David Klein’s Self Healing Colitis & Crohn’s book and read his entire website. What he wrote made so much sense. The self-healing approach he teaches, known as ‘Natural Hygiene,’ resonated strongly with me. What happened over the next six weeks was miraculous.

“Dr. Klein’s philosophy is underpinned by one core principle: the body, when ill, is always working to return to its natural state of health. What we call “illness” are symptoms, and doctors only treat symptoms while never addressing the causes.

“By supplying the body with appropriate amounts of rest, sunshine, fresh air and, most importantly, natural diet, we can assist it in returning to its natural state of health. Dr. Klein’s book recommends a largely fruit diet. What I did next was pretty hardcore. I’m not suggesting you do it—I’m just stating what I did.

“I stopped taking all medications cold turkey! From what I had read in Self Healing Colitis & Crohn’s and other sources, they were keeping me sick. Taking something to stop the inflammatory process was merely masking the symptoms.

“For six weeks I completely stopped eating the offending foods listed in the book. I ate bananas with every meal of the day for around three weeks. Sometimes I drank banana smoothies. I also drank water. During the first week my symptoms became worse as my body began ejecting 13 years of toxins, but then it started to heal. After four weeks I felt I had regained about 80 percent of my health. I have stuck with my fruit based-diet of mainly bananas. Since April 2006, I have not been to a doctor for anything.

“The most important things I’ve learned from this whole experience are what Dr. Klein says: 1. the body is always trying to return to a state of health, 2. listen to your body and use common sense, 3. believe you will regain your health, 4. it won’t happen instantly, but 5. if you help your body, it will take care of everything and heal.

“It goes without saying that Dr. David Klein is my hero.”

-Andre L., London, England (2009)

* * *

“I have been meaning to write to you for some now to say thank you for your help. We spoke on the phone in the spring when I was very ill and you advised me to read your book. It may have saved my life. I was in bad shape, unable to eat without vomiting and experiencing diarrhea. I followed your eating plan and within 12 weeks I was healed, strong and healthy again. I cannot thank you enough for your wonderful book. I have recommended it to several people who also had digestive problems. And thank you for responding to me when I reached out through the Internet. I was desperate and was truly afraid I might die if I didn’t get help.”

-Dana Raphaelle, Encino, California (2009)

* * *

“It has been almost one year since we first had our consultation regarding my bout with bleeding Crohn’s disease. I now look back at that dark time in amazement. The pain, the dozens of pills, the confusion, the suffering and the darkness of not being able to tell if I would ever feel well without horrible medications or, even worse, surgical procedures were huge and looming over my life. I sometimes wonder how I struggled through it all. I want to tell you that the day my mother ordered your book and the day I metwith you were probably some of the most significant times in my life. Enlightenment sometimes comes at a price; but indeed, it was well worth it.

“Since I met you I gave up all pills and medications. In the first month of going in the healing diet I lost 25 pounds. That was tough, because I was still in law school; detoxifying on the lighter diet made it difficult to focus. I struggled with the new diet, yet eventually came to love it. The freshness and crispness of the fresh, ripe fruits, my increased energy and the absence of any pain were amazing. ‘My natural diet’ works, just as you said it would!

“I saw a specialist in San Francisco in May. He was disturbed when I told him how much better I felt after my adopting the new diet. Looking perturbed, he gave me a lecture, which I had been given many times before, to this effect: “You have a disease. You may be ok now, but you will need medicine sometime later. Diet does nothing.” That was the last time I went to a doctor for any sort of routine advice. They can offer me only twothings: medicine or surgery. But health...that’s an elusive one.

“I got a second colonoscopy in August of this year and the doctor said everything looked ‘good.’ I wanted an extensive report, but no one from his office called me. That’s how much care the medical establishment gives us. They have time to send me a bill but not to give me the results of a biopsy or even five minutes of phone time to tell me what they saw. I get more attention from my car mechanic! By now, I’m pretty sure the doctor doesn’t even remember me. But, it doesn’t matter—I FEEL GREAT!

“I never take it for granted that I can actually feel good after eating, and I owe it all to you, your book and Natural Hygiene. I also thank you for meeting with my parents and allaying their concerns.

“You are a healer, and I hope people know how important it is that you are there to offer a different alternative to the medicine-and-surgery route. I thank God you were there to offer your experience and wisdom.

“You are doing great work—you are spreading the light of wisdom into the world. Your suffering and healing made my wellness possible, and that of many others, and I thank you for that.”

-Andrzej B., Forestville, California (2009)

* * *

“I am now completely healthy and living an utmost blissful life. I am writing this with a huge smile on my face and my love is overflowing. I am right now feeling a sudden outburst of emotions and gratitude for you. Your book is a masterpiece and the most righteous blueprint for achieving bountiful vibrant health. I hope to see you in future and express my thanks to you. Thanks for the wonderful work, Dave!”

-Manish J., Texas (2009)

* * *

“I wanted to let you know how much I appreciate all that you do to help people such as myself regain their health. I had been suffering with symptoms of Crohn’s since 1999 and saw an endless array of medical doctors. They told me early on that they wouldn’t know what I had unless they cut me open. Many MDs I saw said that g.i. problems, whether Crohn’s or something less severe, were not related to diet. However, using common sense and feeling the difference in my body relative to the foods I ate, I knew this could not possibly be true.

“In college I focused on finance and minored in food science and human nutrition. Learning about the body and how different foods affect it led me to take better care of myself. Although I still ate meat and cooked foods at the time, I felt better; I attributed that to overall better fitness and a healthier lifestyle.

“Returning from college I took a high-stress job and continued to eat foods that weren’t optimal. Every day my energy levels decreased. I even began eating processed junk foods that I had given up in college. My energy levels dropped so much that I had to quit working.

“I went back to see a gastroenterologist. Although I was previously told that I didn’t have Crohn’s, it was now obvious that I did. I was devastated when told I would have to take drugs that would not cure me, just potentially alleviate my symptoms, for the rest of my life. It was disturbing to be told that the origin of my medical condition was not known, there was no cure and I should go on numerous highly lethal drugs which have devastatingside effects.

“I briefly took the drugs and did not notice any improvements. Without telling my doctor I stopped taking all drugs and ate a more healthful diet and exercised regularly. When I went back to see the doctor a few months later he said I seemed to be doing better; this he attributed to the drugs he mistakenly assumed I was taking. Afterward, I decided not to return to the doctors and to find another way.

“I began reading books on healing or managing Crohn’s. They all had diets that worked for the author, stating that ‘this diet may not work for you.’ The authors were all pushing products. Being so sick, I reluctantly tried many of those diets and did learn a thing or two. When I finally came across your Self Healing Colitis & Crohn’s book, everything made sense from the start.

“Just five short months ago I was in so much pain I could not walk 20 yards without doubling over with excruciating stomach pains. At Disney World, ‘The happiest place on Earth,’ I felt as if I would die. For close to a year I could not sleep on my right side because it felt like I had a baseball in my lower intestines. Every time I ate I felt and heard the foodscraping through every part of my stomach and intestines. If I would lay down I could literally see my stomach expanding as the food moved through it. One day I would have nonstop diarrhea and the next day I would be so constipated I couldn’t move due to the pain. This went on for close to two hellish years.

“Now, following your program, my stomach is flat, my stools are normal for the first time in eight years, my energy level is soaring and, most importantly, I know I am almost totally healed as the pain is almost nonexistent. Through your work I literally view the world through a new pair of eyes. I truly thank you for your help and generosity.

“Taking a different path in life, I am currently going to paramedic school and am learning a lot. I get hands-on experience with people who suffer all types of really debilitating diseases. It is sad to know that many could greatly improve the quality of their lives by changing small but significant dietary habits. Paramedic students learn a lot about different drugs and most diseases but nothing about a cure or prevention. With the amount of suffering I see, I believe it is well worth it to have an all-around healthy lifestyle, as sooner or later the pain and agony of disease will affect us if we don’t.

“The physical pain that I felt for years with Crohn’s was devastating. Since I have had the good fortune of receiving your counseling not only do I have and vitality every day but I also have a renewed sense of life and happiness that I thought I had lost for good. I will always be thankful and amazed at just how knowledgeable you are, Dr. Klein. Thank you!”

-George G., Florida (2009)

* * *

“I have been living with Crohn’s for over 15 years since my late teens. In February of this year I had my first colonoscopy in over ten years. In March I received the results. My gastroenterologist said he didn’t understand how I looked so healthy. He told me that my small intestine was so severely inflamed and ulcerated that he could not complete the exam. He also said I should be anemic and vomiting every time I ate. I had learned to deal with my pain and discomfort by staying present most of the time and always being aware of the location of the nearest toilet.

“I was booked for a CT scan to get a better picture of the extent of my disease. Then a friend gave me a copy of your book and I started your diet the following day. The symptoms persisted during the first three weeks of adjustment; however, I stuck with it. By the fourth week my symptoms were easing. In the sixth week my bowel movements became normal and have continued this way.

“Four weeks after starting the healing diet I had the CT scan. Reviewing the report, my gastroenterologist said he didn’t understand—my bowel looked really good and the inflammation was almost gone! He was somewhat supportive but worried about my weight loss from the detox. I told him how amazing I feel and how my energy level is great.

“No bleeding! No cramping! No bloating! No pain! No mucus! I am convinced that the disease is gone.

“I can not say thank you enough. You have truly changed my life. My wife thanks you as well.”

-Rodney D., Vancouver, Canada (2009)

* * *

“I’m feeling great today and I was finally able to move my bowels. Everything is wonderful right now. I swear, your book belongs on the Wikipedia page for IBD. Nothing but love and praises for you!”

-Dylan E., Tahoe City, California (2010)

* * *

“I was diagnosed with UC and bought Self Healing Colitis & Crohn’s at end of May, 2010. I had eaten an unhealthy vegetarian diet up until that time. I read your book three times and after strictly applying everything you advise I am nowhealed. Not all of my energy is back yet, but I’m out of bed and preparing the healthy food for both my husband and myself. I threw away the horrible medicine I was handed, lost 20 pounds of morbid fat and feel wonderful. Thank you.”

-Paulette W. Auburn, California (2010)

* * *

“As I reflect on my journey through the past few years, I can finally say that the guiding conduits have led me to a place of both mental and physical health. With a new mindset of health, awareness and motivation I am officially celebrating a new life at the age of 32. As I speak of conduits, I refer most importantly to Dr. David Klein, whose guidance has given me the tools to transform my life though a gradual change to a vegan diet. I am sharing my story not only to speak of my success, but also to offer a voice of hope for all those who yearn for the chance to live a healthy life.

“People commonly view health as a black-and-white state; this cannot account for the dynamics that go with chronic diseases, as I experienced in my battle with colitis. My poor energy, anxiety and chronic dry eye were all presented to healthcare providers who typically prescribed pills to alleviate my symptoms. Each symptom was treated independently of the others with complete disregard for the Occam’s Razor concept of simplicity. Living a healthy life means being in a state of wholeness on every level, resulting in harmony of both body and mind.

“In December 2008, I received a confirmatory diagnosis of chronic colitis. While I was relieved that my problem was not of a more serious nature, a sadness crept into my psyche, since at that time I was was told that colitis is a chronic condition with no known cause or cure. I was put on a treatment regimen that involved a prescription for Mesalamine and was given instructions to avoid spicy food. I was told to call back when I needed a prescriptive refill. With strict adherence to the doctor’s recommendations my colitis symptoms subsided for what I thought would be forever.

“A few weeks later, my symptoms, which included the false bowel movement urges, came back worse than ever before. The intense pain left me paralyzed in fear as I realized that the treatment was no longer working. After hours of searching for anything that could give me hope, I had to face the fact that the next medical intervention to treat my colitis would be systemic corticosteroids. That is when I snapped.

“Unwilling to put any more pharmaceutical products in my system, I went on a desperate search to find anyone who could give me hope. I was willing to try any rational path that would lead me to health. After a long, draining search I came across a colitis web forum where someone had written “try reading Self Healing Colitis and Crohn’s by Dr. David Klein.” Skeptical but desperate, I immediately bought the book. As the proud mother of two daughters I was willing do anything to be healthy so I could take care of them.

“I ordered the book and was very encouraged by the philosophy, but then I realized what Dr. Klein was teaching. Was this guy crazy?—he was asking me to change my life in ways I never expected!

“At that point I remembered the promise I made to myself for my children: ‘Whatever it takes.’ So, taking the chance that all of Dr. Klein’s self-healing teachings were correct, I took the plunge and immediately stopped all prescription drugs, to the dismay of my skeptical friends and family.

“With a few setbacks I followed the Vegan Healing Diet Plan. I had moments of weakness stemming from the pressure of family and friends who were concerned about my drastic dietary changes. I also had my own moments of doubt, thinking maybe this book was wrong or maybe it was right but wouldn’t work for me. Was I really going to heal if I followed a diet of fresh fruit and steamed veggies? The principles all made perfect sense, but would I actually exploit the self-healing powers of my own body? The answer was an emphatic ‘YES!’

“The diet was working just as Dr. Klein had promised. Cutting out all toxic substances, including salt, enabled me to heal and become healthy.

“Although I am now completely healed, I can tell you that symptomatic relief is only the tip of the iceberg. As I previously mentioned, prior to the onset of colitis I had a myriad of other health issues. As in the principle of Occam’s Razor, my change in diet was the simple answer to all my problems. I have more energy than I have had in 13 years and my anxiety and chronic dry eye are both a distant memory. The most important gift I received from reading this book is that of knowledge. The colitis was a blessing in disguise, the means to a greater end in my life. I now have the tools toremain in perpetual good health, and I am now in control!

“Although I could rave on about my glorious new state of health, I will spare you the rest of the details. I am still bemused by thenumber of bad habits that I had to address to resolve my health issues and reach this point of confidently sharing my story.

“It is the best feeling to be able to close the door on my illness. Many new doors have opened, following my healing. It’s a bit ironic that I came close to majoring in nutrition in college. I feel lucky that I came back to it at what was perhaps the most crucial time in my life. If it were not for the support of Dr. Klein, I would not be here writing my story.

“I’m amazed at my luck in stumbling upon this life-changing information. I now know that the vegan diet is the optimum one for true health and the one we were designed to eat.

“Dr. Klein, thank you from the bottom of my heart! I could not have done it without you. Thank you for your book, which has changed thousands of peoples’ lives. You are an inspiration!”

-Tanya Sodini, Las Vegas, Nevada <tanyams@hotmail.com> (2010)

* * *

“It’s amazing Dave, truly amazing. I am putting on weight! The body truly is self-healing! All this time I’ve been doubting and not too sure, but what I have learned and achieved is nothing short of amazing. I still have my green juice in the morning and can’t imagine starting the day with tea or coffee, the idea is so repulsive. I love salads and vegetables and I am not interested in cooked food. It’s strange how after you heal you don’t have cravings, but throughout the healing phase cooked food was all I craved.

“I have enjoyed getting to know you and hope we can stay in touch. Big kisses and big hugs to you!”

-Emma Kaid, London, England <elkaiduk@gmail.com> (2010)

* * *

The following is an article which appeared in Dr. Klein’s 6th issue of Vibrance magazine:

Healing Colitis the Only Way: The Natural Way

by Emma Kaid

I have always been slim and, I thought, a healthy-looking individual. I enjoyed eating well, going to the gym and drinking plenty of water. I thought I was doing all the right things for myhealth. So when I was diagnosed with colitis in 2009 it really shocked me to the core.

It began as diarrhea and loose stools. This went on for about nine months. I was pregnant at the time, so I attributed it to hormones and the pregnancy and assumed all would clear up after the delivery. Five months after the birth I started experiencing some mucus, then there was blood, and then it progressed to four to five bowel movements a day, and sometimeswith blood, mucus and diarrhea. Oddly, I had no pain and otherwise felt quite well.

I was frustrated and scared. I was now a sick person with a medical condition which prevented me from working at my job. I wasn’t used to being sick; I never got colds, tummy ‘bugs’ or anything. But now I was facing a chronic disease and a dependency on medication.

The doctors told me it was “genetic.” “But we have a large family,” I said. “I know everyone, even both sets of grandparents, and I even knew my great grandparents, aunts and uncles—no one has or had colitis. I don’t even know anyone who has died of cancer in my family, so it can’t be genetic.” The doctor said: “You have a chronic disease—you need to take this medication and manage it”.

Armed with my meds I went home confused about the reason for my condition, but relieved I didn’t have cancer! I thought all I needed to do was take this medicine and everything would be back to normal. How wrong I was!

Managing the Illusion of Normalcy

I worked at a high profile job in the city of London, England. I had just had my third child. My husband worked away from home and only returned on weekends. There was a lot of pressure and stress in my life. Looking back I realized I was exhausted—I was constantly on the go and under both physical and mental stress. I was always busy planning, thinking ahead, sorting out this and that. As a result, I was irritable, stressed, a bag ofnervous energy. I had carried on this way for so long that it became my “normal” state.

I didn’t know how to slow down. I considered myself a healthy eater because I rarely ate processed food, never had “fizzy drinks,” didn’t smoke, never ate fast food and always made “good” home-cooked food with a healthy portion of green vegetables or salad. So what was I doing wrong?

I took the medication for several months and, with everything seemingly under control, I resumed my “normal” life. My husband said: “Don’t worry Emma, you can still live your life—you just have to make sure you take the medication.” “Great,” I thought with a heavy sigh. I don’t like taking medicine. Previously, I wouldn’t even take an aspirin for a headache.

After four months on steroid enemas they stopped “working” and the colitis symptoms came back. The doctor then prescribed an immunosuppressant and told me to continue with both medications. In a panic, I picked up the immunosuppressant but I never took it. Something told me it was all wrong; the medicine, the condition—they didn’t make sense. Yet, intuitively I felt there was an answer and I was determined to find it.

Seeking and Finding the Solution

I began reading Web forums for people with colitis. A lot of people were really suffering, and I was one of them. But the information I found was all about medication; there didn’t seem to be any alternatives. I couldn’t accept disease as way of life.

I was in so much pain I couldn’t walk. I was very low in energy and on the toilet five to six times a day with diarrhea, blood and mucus. Going out, doing chores or taking my children to the park—simple things I’d taken for granted—became impossible. I was a prisoner in my home.

One day on a forum I read a message from a man who said he had recovered from colitis via juicing and a raw food diet. There was something special about his post—these key words stood out to me: “fruits,” “vegetables,” “detox.” When I contacted him for more information, he replied: “It’s all in the book.” “What book?” I asked. “Self-Healing Colitis & Crohn’s, he answered.”

Afterward, without an explanation, the forum administrators disabled his account and deleted his posts which detailed his experiences and references to the book. Apparently, he was deemed too radical and dangerous! He posted one last time under an alternate username with thehope of helping more people, not knowing that he had already helped one—me!

I bought the book, authored by Dr. David Klein. The day it arrived I read it from cover to cover. It made perfect sense!

Taking the Self-Healing Plunge

I decided to make the diet transition slowly. At first I went vegetarian and cut out tea, coffee, milk and dairy. Then I replaced breakfast with juice, then slowly replaced a cooked lunch with a banana smoothie containing celery juice and dates. Eventually, dinner became steamed vegetables. But I didn’t see any improvements. In fact, I felt worse. A rash appeared on my legs, I got ulcers in my mouth and a lump on my eye. I was in a very bad way and was still on the medication. So, I decided to consult Dr. Klein.

He reinforced the obvious, saying “the meds aren’t helping you,” and encouraged me to continue detoxing. So I went off of the meds, but the symptoms worsened. I was scared and worried on this unorthodox healing path. There was a lot of blood in the toilet and I was very weak. Just making juice was a drain on my energy.

I ended up staying in bed all day, developed a fever with chills and felt so emotional I couldn’t stop crying. My food cravings were unbearable. A few times I slipped off of the book’s “Vegan Healing Diet Plan.” Yet, Dr. Klein was confident as he explained: “Your body is detoxing and the toxins must come out—keep going and let’s modify your dietary routine a bit to help relieve your symptoms.” I was beginning to feel a bit skeptical and wondered when my symptoms would finally cease, but I decided to continue.

I began the day with a few glasses of water followed by a “green juice” of apples, romaine lettuce and celery. I waited a while and followed that with a melon smoothie. Lunch was always a banana smoothie with celery juice and dates. Sometimes I had carrot juice in the afternoon with some barley grass powder. Dinner was usually steamed potatoes and zucchini. Sometimes Imade soups of sweet potatoes and carrots or sweet potatoes and squash.

After being on this diet for a while I decided to get some blood tests. To my amazement, my iron levels had risen and everything was normal! I also checked my vitamin D level and this was extremely low. It was winter in England—how was I going to get sunshine? I started using a sun bed for six minutes, twice a week.

I was extremely scared, as my weight had dropped from 126 to 84 pounds. I am 5-foot 5-inches tall and I looked awful. The doctor who took the blood test samples thought I had anorexia. When I tried to explain, she became convinced I was trying to cover up an eating disorder.

My Diligence Pays Off: Healing!

After 12 difficult weeks the diarrhea finally stopped; my stools were now formed. There was still blood, but I was encouraged that it was decreasing. I saw other improvements; I was experiencing interesting and welcome changes: liver spots on my face disappeared, I was sleeping better and I felt less irritable, more loving and calm.

I asked Dr. Klein to put me in contact with a few other clients who were going through or had gone through nearly the same experiences. Their support was amazing! The strength I gained from being able to communicate and share with these people was so important. Their encouragement was essential.

As Dr. Klein says in his book, diet isn’t everything; it is just one important factor. So I saw an osteopathic doctor to work on straightening my back. I didn’t think it was particularly twisted—I seemed to stand quite erect. I had a few kinks straightened out, took up yoga and learned to stretch and breathe properly. Up until then I never thought I needed to see a therapist; however, I felt emotional and vulnerable. Therapy helped.

A New Life Of Health

Everything seemed to gradually fall into place. All colitis symptoms diminished and were resolving. I was now having two to three bowel movements per day and at least two of those contained no blood. Eventually, that reduced to just two bowel movements per day with no blood. I felt better, my energy came back, I looked good and eventually I exclaimed to myself: “Wow, I’m healed!”

I couldn’t wait to eat a salad after all that juicing. In two weeks my weight went from 84 to to 92 pounds. Over the next three months my weight went up to my current 112 pounds, which feels just right.

My energy is amazing now and my skin looks beautiful. My vitamin D level rose to normal and I stopped the sun bed treatments. Because of the detoxification my hair had become very thin; however, its thickness is coming back. I continue to enjoy yoga twice a week and it’s been incredibly beneficial. Just breathing correctly feels so good!

I eventually returned to work, eight months after my healing. I was taken aback by my co-workers’ unhealthy and overweight appearances when I first walked into the office again. During meetings everyone has their bottle of cola or a large cup of coffee, and some help themselves to a large packet of biscuits sitting on the table. My colleagues say: “Don’t bother offering any to Emma—she’s too healthy.” I just smile. In fact I smile a lot these days!

* * *

“I just ordered another paperback for my Mom back in the States and will probably order another one for my Dad soon. Neither have colitis, but your book is so invaluable for anyone suffering from living and eating improperly.

“I’m your original e-book purchaser from years ago. Living in Mexico I was suffering with colitis. Unable to easily receive postal mail, I was so appreciative that you agreed to sell me a PDF copy of Self Healing Colitis & Crohn’s, which you said you had not done before. It’s good to see that you now offer the e-book as an option.

“Your book is invaluable. It changed my life tremendously. I’m actually thankful that I was stuck in Mexico with no money or health insurance while in my 40s and suffering from colitis pain. If I had health insurance I might never have been forced to find an alternative method of healing. After three weeks on your healing program I was free from pain and after four weeks had lost 30 unhealthy pounds.

“Thanks, again, for helping me out and for writing the second most important book in the world.”

-John D, Mexico (2010)

* * *

“I am writing again to publicly thank Dr. David Klein again for all the work he has done in helping people such as myself regain their health. I began to follow Dr. Klein’s advice after stumbling upon his Self Healing Colitis and Crohn’s book around June, 2009. I was suffering with Crohn’s disease at the time, had read many books on managing the disease and was losing hope because I wanted to have good health and not just manage symptoms. Thank God for the Internet and a little hard work on my part.

“I hope that anyone who is suffering with any digestive difficulties may find this diamond. As soon as I read Self Healing Colitis and Crohn’s I was not at all skeptical that it would work. This book is the most detailed, truthful health book one can ever read.

“Dr. Klein’s book delves into how humans are meant to eat and how health declines when we eat a diet that to which we are not biologically adapted. Dr. Klein does a great job of describing the perfect diet for human beings based not upon popular opinion but backed by hard science,physiology and comparative anatomy. When it comes to health and nutrition there is so much misinformation out there it’s no wonder why many people are sick and suffering.

“I was skeptical about Dr. Klein’s statement that after a while of eating the natural vegan foods we are designed to eat our bodieswould naturally relish only those foods. After a lifetime of eating the Standard American Diet (SAD) I really thought I would miss hot dogs, soda, ribs and other junk food way too much and that I would not enjoy eating a more natural diet. However, the eating and healing plan he outlines in Self Healing Colitis and Crohn’s really made sense on all levels.

“It has now been eight months since I began following this correct way of eating and living. My path has not been 100% linear, meaning that at times I have taken two steps forward and one step backward, yet I continue to move in the right direction and feel better each day.

“As I detoxed and healed my weight dropped from 185 to 140 pounds. I was somewhat scared but I felt much better and my disease symptoms vanished. Dr. Klein assured me that once the detox process was complete my weight would stabilize and I would be able to regain any lost muscle and achieve a healthy weight level. His counseling sessions always assured me that my body was always acting wisely and doing its best to build excellent health, and it would do so if I gave it what it needs without hindering the process with drugs and other stressors.

“I no longer suffer with symptoms from Crohn’s disease. My bowel is working perfectly as he stated it would. I have much more energy then I ever had and am much happier, too. My weight has climbed back up to a healthy 155 pounds. Although I was weakened during the detox phase, I am now just as strong as I was before I became sick. I feel a lot healthier and lighter, both physically and mentally.

“With my continuing study of human health and personal observation I have a much better understanding of when I am truly hungry and am always pleased when I eat a simple meal. I eat less than previously. I attribute that to the purer internal condition of my body, which now only calls for nutritious food, and my dramatically improved digestion. Most importantly, I have realized that good nutrition and health are matters of eating health-promoting foods in a manner whereby optimum digestion and assimilation can occur.

“One last major concern was ‘fitting in’ socially with my new eating and living habits. I’ve been pleasantly surprised to discover that this is not a problem. I’ve been drawn to a new world of like-minded people who are striving for better health. I am meeting more and more friendly folks who are mentally sharp and enjoy sharing healthful ideas. Those in my new group of friends have been very supportive. This has truly been a blessing.

“Dr. Klein is unique in that he is truly ‘there’ to help his clients. He has demonstrated immense knowledge and compassion toward helping those who need healing. Eight short months ago I felt my life slipping away. I am now in the process of building something I never really experienced: ‘true health.’ I thank Dr. Klein for his continuing help and support.

-George G., Florida (2010)

* * *

“I can not say enough good things about Self Healing Colitis & Crohn’s. I literally want to shout about it from my roof top! It changed my and my family’s lives forever! I was diagnosed with UC in August of 2000 and took the standard medical route of steroids and Asacol. I got ‘better’ in time and spent the next nine years in ‘remission.’ But that did not last.

“After the birth of my second child in May of 2009 I had a major flare-up that did not respond to the medication. I was running to the bathroom eight to ten times a day with cramps so bad that I felt like I would pass out. I lost 40 pounds in a little over a week. My family had to come stay with me to take care of me and my children. My doctor started suggesting surgery and wanted to put me on Remicade, neither of which I saw as options. I was in a self-imposed hell, angry and drowning in self-pity.

“By the grace of God I made the decision to buy Self Healing Colitis & Crohn’s. The vegan diet aspect totally turned me off at first; however, being on such a limited diet anyway, it wasn’t far to go to be ‘vegan.’ Upon reading this book and following the guidelines of self-healing my life started to change. When I say ‘guidelines of self-healing’ I don’t mean simply diet. I mean changing my attitude toward my situation and myself. There is more to this book than becoming a vegan of following a strict diet—the importance of the other aspects of health cannot be underestimated.

“Within the first week of applying the self healing principles I went from not having the strength to walk to my mailbox to taking mile-long walks around my neighborhood! The symptoms of cramping, gas, mucous and constipation started improving within that same week. Within four weeks I was symptom free!

I followed the diet to a “t” for five weeks then slowly started trying new foods. I found I could tolerate many things—which I was ecstatic about—but I soon realized that I didn’t want my SAD (Standard American Diet) diet back. The foods I used to eat, especially meat, tasted terrible. My body and palate had completely changed! Of course this didn’t happen overnight and the process was miserable at first. I obsessed over the foods I wasn’t ‘allowed.’ But now I don’t even think about them. I have occasional treats, but find it very easy and wonderfully simple to continue the healthy diet.

“It is also remarkable to compare the vast difference in how I felt during the nine years of ‘remission’ and how great I feel now. I thought I was totally normal, but now I realize I wasn’t. Even though I felt fine, my digestion wasn’t up to par—I just accepted it, like so many people do.

“Dr. Klein does a superb job of explaining the simply beautiful self-healing process that will take place if we allow it. I have suggested this book to friends and family who don’t have digestive problems, but suffer with other health problems. I know that the guidance and advice in this book will have profoundly positive effects on anyone suffering from minor to major health problems. I am forever thankful for this book and for Dr. Klein writing it.”

-Allison S., Oregon (2010)

* * *

“Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart for your book. After struggling with ulcerative colitis for ten years, I implemented the vegan healing diet suggested in your book. After two weeks, the bleeding stopped without any medications. Today, my stools are formed.

“I can’t thank you enough. I now understand why everything else I tried before did not work and am confident that I can get my vibrant health back...it is only a matter of time. May God bless you and your family. Thank you.”

-Neelam G., California (2011)

* * *

“These testimonials are exactly what people like myself (eight years with UC) need to inspire us, giving us a ‘kick in the ass!’ They are the motivational, truthful, driving force behind the necessary drastic lifestyle changes that we must make in order to heal ravaging diseases.

“As a client, I can confidently tell you that the best way to help yourself and others is to buy Dr. Klein’s books. In my opinion, Dr. Klein is the ‘Grand Master of Digestive Healing.’ Please use the info he has so diligently put together over the years from to his own experience healing UC and many clients’ IBD healing experiences as well.

“There is no secret to healing—it just takes hard work with a commitment to living better than you ever have! Listen to Dr. Klein and to those who have been healed or are on their way to becoming healthier than ever. I can say with extreme confidence that my mentor, Dr. Klein, has saved my colon and possibly my life. I definitely have a much better quality of lifesince studying his works and am happy to shout out the good news at every opportunity. Never give up—we can be cured!”

-Charlie VanKirk, Las Vegas, Nevada (2011)

8.6 CONCLUSION

C&C are degenerative illnesses which are caused by chronic stress from any of the following sources: diet, lifestyle, the mind, emotions, society, culture and environment. The stressors result in physiological enervation and toxification of the human organism, leading to the heightened, distressful elimination and inflammation responses which are properly referred to as “detoxifica-tion dis-ease.”

In virtually every case, health is restorable and the diseases will not return if the healthful living practices taught herein are correctly practiced. In order to restore health, persons with C&C should be cared for wholistically-the causes of disease must be discontinued, healthful practices must be implemented and the detoxification process must be allowed to proceed to completion. The body will be guided by its innate intelligence and naturally heal itself when all the factors of health are in place. In order for complete healing, there must be an accurate understanding of the disease process, our biological needs and the overall health picture. Wholistic health guidance should be enlisted and self-education taken up.

All of the principles and assertions espoused herein are based on physiological fact and empirical experience-not on theories. The Natural Hygiene self-healing plan with the Vegan Healing Diet work because they are based on the immutable laws governing human biology and physiology. When we discontinue unhealthful practices and provide the requisites of health, eating our natural biological diet, the body will only improve itself, reversing disease and creating new health.

Natural self-healing has been around for a long time, dating back to biblical times. The Natural Hygiene movement began in the early 1800s and has continued to this day. Natural healing is actually nature's way. The body is programmed to self-heal. Many people who have followed the natural healing route for every known disease condition and have gone on to higher levels of health than ever before. To prove this true, each person must do the work and experience it for himself or herself. Healing and excellent health will come to fruition if one uses his or her higher intelligence and passionately embraces healthful living as a way of life.

The elements of an effective plan for overcoming C&C will vary from case to case. Generally speaking, the basics are: 1. Natural Hygiene education; 2. a natural, whole foods vegan diet (preferably organic) with juicing; 3. extra sleep and complete rest (sabbatical from work or school); 4. proper exercise; 5. health counseling; 6. peer support; and 7. medical cooperation. And each person must focus on giving him-herself nurturing love, living in harmony with nature and seeking out others who will support that goal wholeheartedly.

I wrote these words almost 27 years after I began my healing-my lasting healing-with guidance from my coaches and saviors Drs. Laurence Galant and T. C. Fry. Dr. Fry has passed on, yet I often give silent thanks to this lionhearted man for putting out and supporting me with the Natural Hygiene program information I direly needed. Dr. Galant is still my dear friend; we regularly speak on the phone and I occasionally visit him and express my gratitude and share my joy.

You too can have 27 years of health freedom and happiness-simply dedicate yourself to healthful living and get the help you need. Healthful abundance awaits you. It's up to you-it only gets easier and easier and more and more joyful-naturally! Imagine it, visualize it, believe in your magnificent self-healing power, your God-given right to be healthy and your natural place in this world, and say: “I can do it!” You can! Celebrate your uniqueness, your sensitivity, your wisdom, your determination, love your self-healing body and keep on the healthful living path for life!

Note: If you are considering making any changes in your dietary and healing regime, please re-read Section 1.3, Advisory and the entire contents of this book many times and do not proceed unless you have a solid understanding of the safe and proper protocol to follow. Improper, hurried, misguided implementation of the healing diet plan espoused herein can be harmful. Dr. Klein and his qualified associates are available to properly assist clients.

APPENDIX G. ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. David Klein has been Director of the Colitis & Crohn's Health Recovery Center, currently located in Maui, Hawaii, since 1993. Dr. Klein is a Hygienic Doctor with a Ph.D. in Natural Health and Healing and a certified Nutrition Educator. Dr. Klein's approach is wholistic and is based upon Natural Hygiene, the world's most successful health science program over the last 200 years. Since 1992, Dr. Klein has counseled over 2,500 clients back to health via the principles of Natural Hygiene and he has taught nutrition classes and given health and nutrition lectures.

Dr. Klein's own unique healing journey, his studies of many disciplines of health science, and his extensive professional experience have given him uncommon insight into the requisites of healing and health by which he is able to consistently guide people from disease to rejuvenation. Dr. Klein is also Editor of Living Nutrition and Vibrance Magazines, the world's most-read raw food lifestyle magazines. Dr. Klein is also a Professor with the new University of Natural Health. Dr. Klein's book Your Natural Diet: Alive Raw Foods is the text for the course “Humans' Natural Biological Diet.” Dr. Klein is on the Board of Directors as a nutritional and healing advisor for St. John's Colonic Center in Bowie, Maryland (colonics are not recommended for inflammatory bowel disease). His book Self Healing Colitis & Crohn's is used as the teaching model for a course taught at the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition. He has led Raw Passion seminars over the last 10 years and co-produced Rawstock health festivals in northern California.

Dr. Klein has thrived on a 100% vegan diet of mostly raw foods since 1984. Originally from New Jersey, he also holds a B.S. in civil engineering and worked 10 years in the field of environmental engineering before starting his health education businesses and practice. Leading people to health independence is Dr. Klein's passion.

Dr. David Klein's Web Sites

www.colitis-crohns.com
www.colitiscurebook.com
www.selfhealingempowerment.com
www.vibrancemagazine.com
www.vibranthealthandwealth.com
www.fruitnet.org

Self-published Works By Dr. David Klein

Living Nutrition and Vibrance Magazine
Raw 'n Delish Vibrant Recipes
Self Healing Colitis & Crohn's
Digestion Perfection
Self Healing Power! by Dr. T. C. Fry, Dr. Herbert Shelton and David Klein
The Art of Rejuvenation
Raw Revelation by Dr. T. C. Fry & David Klein

Dr. David Klein's Abbreviated Biography

My journey into the health education field began in 1975, when at age 17 my robust health began to gradually decline. A heavy eater of meat and junk food, my physical and mental energies deteriorated over a period of six months, then I experienced incessant diarrhea. After a few weeks of medical treatment, I showed little improvement, so a colon examination was done. The diagnosis was ulcerative colitis, and I spent my 18th birthday in a hospital, taking prednisone and azulfadine drug treatments.

The symptoms subsided, temporarily, but the drugs further ruined my health and had a devastating effect on my mental abilities. Within a few months, feeling sickly and very weak, I experienced a recurrence of the diarrhea and additional symptoms, including cramping and bleeding, and this led to further physical deteriora-tion.

What ensued were eight tortuous years of colitis flare-ups and off-and-on drug therapy. At age 26, after eight years of ulcerative colitis while attending engineering school followed by working in the environmental engineering field, I was reduced to a weak, sickly shadow of my former self. I was having gastric eruptions every time I ate and up to 10 painful bowel movements a day with mucous and blood. My gut always hurt, my nervous system became shattered and I experienced hellish nightmares as I was toxic, debilitated by the medicines, severely demineral-ized and over-stressed by my diet and medicines. I was no longer able to work or leave my house.

Although my life had become a dying hell, I never gave in to the medical doctors' advice to accept my illness and just be patient until their impossible “miracle drug cure” came along; I desperately wanted my health back and doubted that the doctors knew what they were doing.

In 1984, I had the great fortune to find a nutritionist and Doctor of Natural Hygiene, Dr. Laurence Galant in Staten Island. He introduced me to the concepts of self-healing and eating a fruit-based diet and he gave me Natural Hygiene literature to study. At first I thought the idea of eating mostly fruit while having nonstop diarrhea was crazy. Yet, I studied Natural Hygiene literature and slowly cleaned up my diet. I was attached to eating chicken and other favorite cooked foods, however, and was still having colitis flare-ups and relying on medicines.

In the fall of 1984 I had a colonoscopy exam which confirmed that I had advanced ulcerations throughout my sick colon. Surmising that I had been chronically sick and was not getting better and would eventually face cancer, the gastroenterologist recommended that I either try his experimental drug, which knocks out the immune system, or have my colon surgically removed. Upon hearing this, a heavy decisive thought entered my mind: “I have had it with this medical madness-I'll be dead soon if I don't find the answer myself!” I recognized that my life was a gradual descent into hell and I had to climb out now because it was almost too late.

Over the next few days I started thinking like never before about how to overcome my illness. I realized that I had to figure out what the MD's could not, and my thinking led me to consider more closely the information on self-healing and switching to a vegan diet. The information seemed so incredible, but I saw that it was really working for Dr. Galant, and I had read many amazing healing testimonials.

Then one amazing night while studying Dr. T. C. Fry's Life Science/Natural Hygiene course, I beheld a healing vision and it all made sense; the picture of my new health was revealed via the Natural Hygiene healthful living system. I understood that humans are biologically fruit eaters and that fruit was the best food for my sick colon and entire body. I was ecstatic knowing I had solved the diet mystery, conquered the myths about humans' natural diet and the care of disease and set myself free!

The next day I threw away the medicines, divorced myself from all medical intervention for good, gave up all meat and dairy forever and started a three-day fresh-made juice diet. By the second day I was coming back to life. On the third day I was feeling better and better and my enthusiasm and joy drove my family crazy! My gut was feeling soothed, I was rejuvenating and the nightmarish illness was over. On the fourth day, upon adding solid fruits including bananas to my diet, I had solid stools and greatly diminished symptoms. I had set myself free of illness, doctors and medicines for good, and my bowels were working better and better with no signs of toxicity!

I adopted a fruit-based, vegan diet-that harmonized best with my mind/body/spirit. And with that my energies continuously increased as I detoxified and began rebuilding. Within about four to six weeks I felt that my colon was completely healed. I was able to enjoy eating and living again. With my bowels functioning better than ever, I began a new active healthful lifestyle.

Over the next few years I diligently worked at rebuilding my depleted body, incorporating daily running and yoga, all the while studying the life sciences and all of the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual factors which determine our health. It took several years of total dedication to build robust health.

In 1993, after a year of study and training at the Institute for Educational Therapy in Cotati, California (now known as Bauman College in Penngrove, California), I became certified as a Nutrition Educator and began providing nutrition and healing consultations. In 2006 I received a Ph.D./Hygienic Doctor degree in Natural Health and Healing from the University of Natural Health. Self Healing Colitis and Crohn's served as my thesis.

Today, at age 53, I enjoy excellent dynamic health and vitality. Healing is easy if we understand and apply the principle that it is the body that does the healing. When we remove the unhealthful aspects of our diet and lifestyle and step out of the way, the body will do the healing work automatically and naturally. Living healthfully is the easiest and most joyful way to be, and I am glad to help health seekers get there and feel that for themselves. Each of us deserves glorious health!

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