The side-effect of Ahimsa: How I Became Disease-Free

As an interventional gastroenterologist, I lead a cutting-edge Third-Space Endoscopy Program at a premier U.S. healthcare institution. There, I treat complex and advanced gastrointestinal diseases—including cancers and precancerous lesions—using the latest endoscopic techniques. Alongside these high-acuity procedures, lifestyle medicine has become integral to my practice.

My journey toward this holistic approach began with personal health struggles: chronic sinusitis, allergies, and recurrent ear infections that required three ear surgeries. Raised on a traditional Jain diet rooted in non-violence, I avoided meat, eggs, and root vegetables, but relied heavily on dairy—believing it acceptable and healthy. Despite my medical expertise, persistent health issues kept me dependent on medications until I learned about the inherent violence in dairy production and its conflict with Jainism’s core principle of compassion. Eliminating dairy and adopting a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle transformed my health, reducing allergies by over 95% and eliminating the need for medications.

Motivated by this transformation, I pursued board certification in lifestyle medicine to bridge gaps often left by conventional medical training. Today, I integrate evidence-based diet and lifestyle interventions alongside advanced endoscopy to successfully treat both malignant and benign gastrointestinal illnesses. Many of my patients experience additional remarkable benefits: reversal of type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure; sustained weight loss; greater energy; and improved mental clarity.

Beyond clinical care, I have authored and presented research at national and international conferences, including two articles examining the role of diet and lifestyle in reducing the risk of gastric and pancreatic cancers. I also share these insights with Jain communities at JAINA and YJA conventions and various Jain centers, guiding them toward dietary choices more closely aligned with the principle of non-violence. Additionally, I mentor young physicians to see the power of combining modern innovation with mindful living.

My path—from disease-focused physician to advocate for plant-based living—has shown me that true healing extends beyond procedures. It embraces prevention, compassion, and transformative diet and lifestyle change.


This story is part of the Ahimsa Awakenings library, celebrating journeys of compassion and conscious living within the Jain community and beyond.

Click here to read more awakening journeys .

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