A couple of months ago the film Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead inspired me to do a three day juice cleanse. I also regularly replace meals with a nutrient packed smoothie. Another film has had an even bigger impact on my diet.
Two different people recommended I see Forks Over Knives within a two week period. Then I saw Bill Clinton on David Letterman. He looked great and attributed to a vegan diet. Hearing the famous former president had replaced his cheeseburgers with vegetables was intriguing and he attributed it to one of the film’s medical experts, Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn.
About Forks Over Knives
The filmmakers travel with Drs. Colin Campbell and Esselstyn on their separate but similar paths, from their childhood farms where they both produced “nature’s perfect food”; to China and Cleveland, where they pursued research that challenged then standard medicine and even changed their beliefs.
The idea of food as medicine is put to the test. Throughout the film, cameras follow “reality patients” who have chronic conditions from heart disease to diabetes. Doctors teach these patients how to adopt a whole-foods plant-based diet as the primary approach to treat their ailments.
Amazon Prime members can watch the film for FREE with instant video. It’s also available on iTunes or you can attend a local screening.
Why I want to Adopt a Plant-Based Diet
My doctor prescribed a statin medication for me early last year due to high cholesterol and triglycerides. It did it’s job but there are side effects and who knows what it does long term.
I decided after this film to stop taking the statin and start following a plant-based diet. The immediate results have been great and I can’t wait to see what happens over time. My rate of weight loss increased and I have energy throughout the day.
I’m scheduled for blood work in June and then I’ll really see the effects of following this food plan. My goal is not to have to start taking the medication again. I also hope that with continued weight loss and exercise I can quit taking my hypertension medication.
My Experience So Far
The hardest part of changing my diet is figuring out what to eat instead of meats, dairy and eggs. I’ve tried new foods, learned new cooking techniques (roasting vegetables) and made new recipes.
I’m taking a 30 day vegan challenge online that helps demystify the diet. But I know how much more there is to learn when trying to figure out what to eat when traveling and dining out.
I highly encourage everyone to watch this film and think about the information presented. It might just change your life.
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