A Journey to Holistic Health: Insights from Dr. Seema Afsari

Dr. Seema Afsari interview - Journey 2 A Better Health

When it comes to health, there are two essential aspects: medical intervention and proactive self-care. Both play a crucial role in maintaining our well-being. At Journey to a Better Health, we believe in merging these approaches to guide individuals on their path to a healthier life. In our latest interview, I had the honor of speaking with Dr. Seema Afsari, a board-certified family physician with a passion for integrative and holistic medicine. Her insights into health, nutrition, and disease prevention resonated deeply with me, as someone who has personally navigated the complexities of both traditional and alternative healthcare approaches.

The Dual Approach to Health

During our conversation, Dr. Afsari emphasized the importance of both traditional medical diagnostics and holistic, lifestyle-driven treatments. She believes in a "dual approach" to health, where patients not only see a doctor for regular checkups and necessary medical interventions but also take proactive steps to improve their health through lifestyle changes. According to Dr. Afsari, our diet, how we manage stress, and how well we sleep and balance our hormones all have significant impacts on preventing diseases and improving overall well-being.

This is something that resonated with me deeply. In 2018, when I was diagnosed with a rare bladder cancer and given only three months to live, my wife and I made the difficult decision to forgo traditional treatments at the time. We instead focused on a holistic approach to healing, incorporating specific dietary changes, supplementation, and practices that promote cell rejuvenation. While we respect and value the expertise of medical doctors, we also believed in the body’s ability to heal itself when given the right tools.

The Power of Epigenetics and Individualized Care

One of the most fascinating parts of our discussion was Dr. Afsari's explanation of epigenetics—the idea that our environment and lifestyle choices can influence the way our genes are expressed. She noted that even if we are genetically predisposed to certain conditions, like cancer or autoimmune diseases, addressing underlying imbalances in the body can help “turn off” the genes responsible for those conditions.

Dr. Afsari emphasized that each individual is unique. What works for one person may not necessarily work for another, which is why integrative medicine is so powerful. It allows her to tailor treatment plans to the specific needs of her patients, combining both traditional and natural therapies.

This mindset has been crucial in my own journey to better health. After getting my diagnosis, I knew I needed to understand what was going on inside my body. I went through extensive metabolic blood testing to assess my condition fully. With that information in hand, I was able to make informed decisions about which natural interventions would best support my healing process. Dr. Afsari confirmed that, in her practice, she often recommends similar testing so that patients can take control of their health in a more informed and strategic way.

Food as Medicine

One of Dr. Afsari’s core beliefs is that food is medicine. She advocates for a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods and often counsels her patients on how their food choices can either support their health or contribute to disease. In our discussion, she emphasized how vital it is to train our palates early in life to enjoy nutritious foods. She encourages families to introduce healthier eating habits to children, believing that what we eat plays a direct role in preventing disease and maintaining health.

For those of us who have already faced health challenges, like cancer, understanding the relationship between nutrition and health is especially important. After my diagnosis, my wife and I shifted our focus to eating foods that would nourish my body and support its natural healing processes. This approach, which involved eliminating processed foods and introducing nutrient-dense options, helped me feel empowered in my fight for life. As Dr. Afsari put it, even small changes in diet can make a big difference in preventing illness and promoting recovery.

Mental Health: The Hidden Link

Another critical area of focus for Dr. Afsari is mental health, which she sees as intricately linked to physical health. She explained how factors such as nutrition, hormone balance, and gut health play a significant role in mental well-being. As a primary care physician, Dr. Afsari frequently works with patients—both adults and children—struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. She believes that addressing these imbalances through natural methods can significantly improve mental health outcomes.

I couldn’t agree more. Throughout my cancer journey, I realized that taking care of my mental health was just as important as addressing the physical aspects of my illness. Stress and emotional well-being directly impact our body's ability to heal. Dr. Afsari's holistic approach to treating mental health, which includes evaluating how the body processes nutrients and hormones, is something everyone can benefit from—whether they are dealing with a chronic illness or not.

Empowering Your Health Journey

Our conversation left me feeling more committed than ever to sharing the message of proactive, holistic health care. Dr. Afsari is an example of the kind of physician we need more of—doctors who listen, respect patient choices, and guide them towards taking control of their own health. At Journey to a Better Health, we believe that true wellness comes from understanding our bodies, addressing imbalances, and making informed choices about how we treat ourselves.

Whether you're dealing with a serious illness or simply want to live a healthier life, remember that you are your greatest advocate. Listen to your body, consult with medical professionals who respect your holistic goals, and most importantly, take the steps you can today to nourish your health and well-being.

Stay tuned for more insightful conversations and health tips from experts like Dr. Seema Afsari, as we continue on this journey to better health together.