Dr. John McDougall, a renowned physician, visionary advocate of plant-based nutrition, and beloved family man, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 22nd, 2024, at the age of 77.
His death was announced on Tuesday, June 25th, with a heartfelt message stating, “With a heavy heart, we share the news of Dr. John McDougall’s passing.
His impact on the medical community and the lives of so many will never be forgotten.”
Born on May 17, 1947, in Detroit, Michigan, John McDougall dedicated his life to revolutionizing the way people approached health and nutrition.
He graduated with honors from Michigan State University's College of Human Medicine and completed his residency at the University of Hawaii.
It was during his residency that he developed a keen interest in the role of diet in preventing and treating disease.
Dr. McDougall was a trailblazer in advocating for a whole-food, plant-based diet as a means to achieve optimal health.
He founded the McDougall Program in 1986, a renowned residential program where thousands of patients learned how to heal themselves through dietary changes.
His approach emphasized the power of plant foods in preventing and reversing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
A prolific author, Dr. McDougall wrote numerous bestselling books, including "The McDougall Program: 12 Days to Dynamic Health" and "The Starch Solution," which became authoritative texts in the field of plant-based nutrition.
He was a sought-after speaker at medical conferences worldwide and appeared frequently in the media to promote his message of health and wellness through diet.
Dr. McDougall's impact extended beyond his medical practice and writings. He was known for his compassionate and down-to-earth personality, always willing to listen and help those seeking guidance on their journey to better health.
His patients and followers revered him not only for his medical expertise but also for his genuine care and concern for their well-being.
John McDougall is survived by his loving wife, Mary McDougall, and their three children, James, Jennifer, and Jessica.
He will be deeply missed by his family, colleagues in the medical community, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched with his pioneering work and compassionate spirit.
A memorial service to celebrate Dr. McDougall's life and contributions will be held at the University of Hawaii's John A. Burns School of Medicine, followed by a reception in his honor.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the McDougall Research & Education Foundation to continue Dr. McDougall's legacy of promoting plant-based nutrition.