Food as Medicine Health Conference: Integrating Nutrition Into the Heart of Healing

About This Learning Event

Plant-based nutrition is revolutionizing how we approach healthcare — offering powerful, evidence-based solutions to prevent, manage, and even reverse chronic disease. To advance 1440 Multiversity’s charitable purpose and Live Well learning pillar, this immersive one-day educational conference organized by fellow nonprofit Eat for the Earth brings together a multidisciplinary team of nationally recognized voices in the “food as medicine” movement.

Designed for healthcare professionals and open to passionate members of the public, the Food as Medicine Health Conference explores the clinical and practical impact of plant-based nutrition through a full day of science-backed lectures, culinary demonstrations, and peer connection. Participants will engage in sessions that examine current research, real-world applications in patient care, and the broader implications of nutrition for public health and health equity. A resource fair and networking opportunities will offer additional space for learning and collaboration among clinicians, educators, and advocates.

Set against the inspiring backdrop of 1440 Multiversity’s private redwood campus, this continuing education event provides a nourishing environment to reflect, recharge, and reimagine what’s possible when we align food, science, and care. AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™ and CPEU hours are available for eligible participants.

During this immersive educational program, you will:

• Deepen your understanding of the latest research on plant-based nutrition and its role in preventing and managing chronic disease
• Learn from nationally recognized healthcare leaders through engaging lectures, clinical insights, and real-world case examples
• Discover practical strategies for integrating nutrition-based approaches into medical care and wellness settings
• Gain inspiration and confidence to support behavior change and promote health equity in your practice or community
• Experience culinary medicine in action with a live food demonstration that connects science to the plate
• Nourish yourself with a delicious, fully plant-based breakfast and lunch
• Build meaningful professional connections with peers, faculty, and organizations committed to advancing food as medicine
• Leave re-energized and equipped with tools, insights, and resources you can apply immediately in both personal and professional contexts

This program and educational workshop is ideal for:

• Healthcare professionals (physicians, nurses, dietitians, physician assistants) earning accredited CEs/CPEUs
• Integrative clinicians, lifestyle medicine providers, and medical educators
• Medical students, residents, and allied health professionals ready to deepen their understanding of nutrition science
• Wellness advocates and passionate individuals eager to apply plant-based food principles in personal or patient care settings

Conference Speakers/1440 Adjunct Faculty Members include:

• Milton Mills, MD: Practicing critical care in the Washington DC area, Dr. Milton Mills is a renowned board certified clinician and educator with over four decades of clinical and presentation experience. 
• Vesanto Melina, MS, RD: Vesanto Melina, MS, Registered Dietitian is co-author of books that have won awards internationally and received star rating by the American Library Association as “the go-to books” on plant-based nutrition.
• Douglas Lisle, PhD: Douglas J. Lisle is a clinical psychologist specializing in health and wellness, the co-author of The Pleasure Trap: Mastering the Hidden Force that Undermines Health and Happiness, and author of Sherlock Holmes and the Secret of Life.
• And many more: Click here to view the full list of faculty

Learn More About the 1440 Multiversity Campus:

• Browse a Sample Program Schedule
• Experience 1440 Signature Classes online
• Watch 1440's Food As Medicine video to learn about our culinary offerings
• Explore our guestrooms and view a virtual tour

Click here to book online now! Please email info@foodasmedicinesantacruz.org with any questions you may have.