Dean Ornish created a diet that consists of low fat food. According to the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Ornish discovered that eating a diet low in fat and making other lifestyle changes can actually help to reverse coronary artery damage. This will reduce your risk for heart disease. Please consult your physician before beginning any diet or fitness program.
Background
Dr. Ornish is well known in the medical community for his experience and expertise in correcting blockages of the heart without the use of surgery or drugs. He created this program to improve health based on eating a diet in that his high in fiber, low in fat and primarily vegetarian. Eat plenty of small meals throughout the day.
Diet Basics
On the Ornish diet, fruits and vegetables are permitted in an unlimited amount. Most of your meals should consist of plenty of fruits and vegetables. This will provide your body with plenty of fiber, vitamins and minerals. You can also consume plenty of beans and legumes. Be sure to use fat free dressings on your salads. You can also eat plenty of whole grains, such as whole wheat flour, brown rice and whole wheat pasta.You may consume fruit juices, skim milk, coffee and tea. Be sure to use only skim milk in your coffee.
Foods to Enjoy in Moderation
You may have some dairy products such as fat free yogurt, milk and cheese. Whole eggs are not permitted, but you can eat egg whites on this diet. Cook eggs in fat free cooking spray in strict moderation. You may also have alcoholic beverages in moderation.
Banned Foods
Fats in general are not allowed on this diet. Avoid all butters and oils. This includes nut and nut butters. You should avoid all nuts, seeds and avocados, as they are very high in fat. Avoid all white flour and refined carbohydrates, such as breads, cakes and cookies.
No sugar is permitted on this diet, so be sure to avoid sodas and other sugary drinks on the Ornish diet. Meats, poultry and fish are not generally recommended on the Ornish diet. In fact, the Ornish diet is primarily vegetarian. If you decide to eat meat anyway, choose a very lean cut of beef or chicken. Also, do not fry or saute your meat. Broil, grill or roast your meats to keep the fat content low.
Benefits of Diet
This diet can help you lose weight and improve the health of your heart. Dr. Ornish recommends exercising with this plan in order to maximize health benefits.
Member Comments