Good for your health is good for the planet too
Health scare inspired Irish psychiatrist to write book
AN Irish psychiatrist has urged people to save the planet by boosting their health with lifestyle changes.
Dr Charles Byrne, who lives in Roscommon, issued his plea yesterday, years after he suffered a major heart scare while playing tennis.
He said: “What is good for your heart and health is also good for the planet.”
Health experts estimate that one-in-four children and 65% of adults in parts of Ireland are overweight or obese.
It is feared that tens of thousands of people are living with diabetes across the country, with the majority at risk Type 2 diabetes, which can be prevented by healthier diets.
Dr Byrne, who is promoting new book Save
Your Heart, Lose Weight and Help Save the Planet, believes simple measures can reduce the death toll.
In this enlightening publication, the author and medical professional intertwines his expertise with a personal journey, starting with a significant health scare.
The book, coming at a time when health experts have revealed alarming statistics about obesity, presents a unique approach to heart health, weight management, and environmental sustainability.
Dr Byrne said: “My book is not an alternative to conventional medical treatment but complementary to it. It contributes to the fields of cardiology, weight loss nutrition, and environmental science.
“It is informed by my own experience and extensive research.”
The psychiatrist suffered a health scare during a tennis game in 2018 due to extreme breathlessness, which led to a diagnosis of cardiac ischemia.
A cardiologist told him to address his weight and cholesterol issues.
After a severe reaction to statins, which were prescribed to tackle the condition, Dr
Byrne researched diets and lifestyles to aid heart health and weight loss.
He said: “My book is for people who are seeking well-being and living a lifestyle that not just benefits our own bodies, but the world around us by reducing climate change and helping to protect our endangered wildlife.”
The psychiatrist, who was raised in London and trained in Canada, references groundbreaking work of doctors whose plantbased programmes have helped patients like former US president Bill Clinton to reverse heart risks. A spokesperson for the book said: “The book hones in on the benefits of plantbased diets, particularly vegetarianism and veganism, and also reduced-meat diets.
“Dr Byrne discovered these not only significantly reduce the risk of heart disease but also contribute to combating climate change by addressing the environmental impact of animal agriculture.”
He added: “The book delves into the intersection of vegetarianism with historical roots, climate change, and the detrimental effects of animal agriculture on the planet and how reducing meat consumption also benefits the planet.
“It also includes practical advice on exercise, and recipes for healthy meals, and addresses the psychological aspects of heart health and weight loss.”
Dr Byrne will appear at a Body Talk Live conference in Crowne Plaza Belfast on Friday, April 19.
My book is who are seeking a lifestyle that benefits the world
DR CHARLES BYRNE GIVES ADVICE IN HIS BOOK