At The Table

From Culinary Excellence to Lifestyle Medicine: 

A Journey of Transformation Inspired by Katherine Miller

My husband, Hari Pulapaka, and I once steered the helm of a nationally acclaimed restaurant. The daily grind of kitchen life, the sizzle of pans, and the vibrant chatter among the tables were the soundtrack of our lives. Our restaurant was more than a business; it was a manifestation of our passion for food and the joy of creating unforgettable flavors.

However, an inspiring encounter with Katherine Miller’s work illuminated a new path for me. Her book, which intricately weaves the narrative of food, systemic issues in the American food system, and advocacy, opened my eyes to the profound impact a single person could have beyond the kitchen counter. Miller’s storytelling showcased how chefs across the globe have become influential advocates—inciting change, tackling social issues, and addressing the pressing concerns of our food systems. Her tales of chefs turned advocates, partnering with politicians and shaping policies, were a compelling call to action for chefs and readers alike, encouraging participation in significant movements.

Embracing the lessons of advocacy and the critical intersections of food, health, and policy, I was inspired to shift my focus from the restaurant’s closed ecosystem to the broader sphere of lifestyle medicine in my podiatry practice. The drive to instigate real change in people’s lives through food as medicine took hold of my aspirations, leading me to embrace a transformative approach to healthcare.

In this new role, I get to integrate my culinary expertise with a focus on lifestyle changes to address and prevent chronic illnesses. Gone are the restrictions of a set menu, replaced by the freedom to prescribe flavorful dishes and culinary coaching to my patients. I tailor my recommendations to each patient’s unique needs, employing the same care I once used to craft a cocktail into shaping a health plan.

Katherine Miller’s philosophy, shared in her writings, has been a beacon throughout my career shift. Her belief in the accessibility of advocacy and the power of culinary arts to enact change resonates with my own efforts. She has reinforced that just as a carefully composed dish can delight the palate, a well-crafted health plan can restore and invigorate a patient’s life.

This confluence of food and medicine is a testament to the versatility and power of a chef’s skill set; the lessons of Miller’s book proving invaluable whether one is plating a course or advising a patient. By marrying the art of cooking with the science of health, it feels like I have found the ultimate recipe: one for a healthier community and a more fulfilled professional life.

The transition from running a bustling restaurant to pioneering in lifestyle medicine has been an incredible leap of faith. Stepping into unknown territory would not have been possible without the inspiration drawn from Katherine Miller’s guide to advocacy. For those of us who thrive on purposeful living, her influence has been a guiding light—reminding us that with resilience, preparation, and a pinch of courage, we can indeed taste the sweetness of meaningful change.

Dr. Jenneffer