Michael Greger

Absolute must-read for anyone who has suffered a chronic disease, or know somebody who has (I'd wager most of us do). A friend referred this book to me when my boyfriend and I started leaning more toward a plant-based lifestyle, and even though it took me a long time to get through it (wanted to soak up all the information in here), it was completely worth the read. Even my reading-averse boyfriend has been working on this book, as well. Both of us are healthcare providers, and we've both found the information immensely helpful.

Plenty of evidence-based information on the progression of chronic diseases (cancer, diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, depression...just to name a few), what causes them, and how so much of it is based on diet. Most people don't think about food as a reason why these problems are so common here in the USA, and don't realize that doctors aren't given nearly enough training in nutrition. We're trained to think that pills and medication solve everything, never giving diet and lifestyle a second thought. In Part 2 of the book, he also talks about different food groups and his recommendations, plus a few recipes here and there.

I personally have adopted more of a plant-based diet to try and help my allergies and constant skin breakouts from eczema. I was a heavy meat and dairy eater for most of my life, and it didn't do my health any favors. Of course, I have to cook a lot more now, but I fell in love with it, and now enjoy creating vegan and plant-based dishes of anything, and everything. Granted, I am not 100% plant based, and still eat meat once or twice a week (mostly when I don't really have a choice). But overall I feel lighter, my skin has cleared, and now, in my 30s, I look and feel better than I did in my 20s. Now, working on slowly cutting oil out of my diet.

I have yet to download the Daily Dozen app, but will be doing that in the future. Also, his guidelines on red, green, and yellow light foods help to make good, conscious dietary choices. The way the book is written isn't boring, and almost reads like a novel. He injects a lot of his personal experiences into each chapter.

I will be referring my patients to this book, as well as Dr. Greger's website, NutritionFacts.org, or at least, those in more natural management of their conditions. Again, highly recommend this book for well, anyone and everyone, even if just to learn how to eat properly and the way that we're supposed to. You just might see a change in your health and overall well-being!… (mere)