In many medical systems, such as Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurvedic Medicine, or Native American, food has always been an important way to treat illness and maintain health. Little by little more ‘traditional’ medical institutions and environments are recognizing the legitimacy and importance of these approaches.
An increasing number of studies provide evidence for the preventive or curative properties of certain foods, as well as the effects of utilizing food and diet as part of a comprehensive approach to health. For example: