Lifespan has increased dramatically in the last 100 years but "healthspan", or the number of years free of chronic medical issues, has stalled. Can we both live long and well? Here are 4 tips from the Kahn Center and Joel Kahn, MD, FACC
I spent at least 50% of my time this week in my preventive cardiology clinic answering one of 2 questions from patients across the USA. The first question was “why have I never been told that I could improve my health by changing my diet?” and the second one was “it’s OK I have added meat and butter back into my diet since my heart attack, right?”.
The lack of nutrition counseling in the current medical system are huge deficiencies that must be addressed by as many practitioners as possible. However there is no need to wait for your health care provider to get a Master’s in Nutrition. Here are 4 simple steps to start today and for the next month to see how your health can be upgraded 100%.
1) Study Recommended Food Plates World Wide
I have written before on the universal agreement about recommended food choices as represented by “food plates” previously. Study the food plates suggested by the USDA, Harvard School of Public Health, government of Canada and others. Since 2011 there is unity that guides rational food selections for optimal health.
2) Watch the documentary Forks Over Knives
Since 2011 the documentary Forks Over Knives has been educating and inspiring the public to connect their food choices and their health and has been a catalyst for change for so many. I have had hundreds of patients walk out of my clinic with a copy of the DVD or a note to watch it on demand. Once you have viewed the movie, visit the website for the amazing collections of inspiring stories of healing, educational pieces, and recipes. There is a meal planner you can use for advanced kitchen success.
3) Master 3 Recipes
You need to eat. And simplicity and flavor will win the day as you make changes. You do not need to attend culinary school to plan for success. Here are 3 recipes you can master today and repeat daily for an instant upgrade.
1) Overnight Oats with Chia (Breakfast)
https://www.forksoverknives.com/recipes/easy-overnight-chia-oatmeal/#
2) Chickpea and Baby Beet Salad (Lunch)
https://www.forksoverknives.com/recipes/chickpea-beet-salad-pickled-red-onions/#gs.q7fl0h
3) 30-Minute Chili (Dinner)
https://www.forksoverknives.com/recipes/30-minute-easy-vegan-chili/#gs.q7fx4f
4) Drink filtered water, teas and black coffee in glass or stainless-steel containers and omit fruit juices and sodas (avoid sugar substitutes)
5) Stay a Student
These 4 steps are all you need for a complete health makeover starting today. However, staying a student from credible sources will keep you focused and provide you an online community to support you. Sign up for emails at www.forksoverknives.com, www.nutritionfacts.org, www.pbnsg.org, www.pcrm.org, and www.bluezones.com. If you have the time, watch You Tubes that I publish and those by Dean Ornish, MD, Neal Barnard, MD, John McDougall, MD, Neal Barnard, MD, and those found on VegNews and Plant Based News.
What to Do Now for Your Plant-Based Diet?
That is all you need to start today on a new path and a 100% health upgrade in the next 30 days. The most important determinant for your health and longevity is the diet you choose, followed by absence of smoking and obtaining regular fitness and walking. My week in the clinic indicates to me that there is a huge need for simple steps. Good luck. Check out my restaurant and one of my books on plant diets.
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