Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn was a surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic for a number of years, but he has since left his practice to spread the word on what he believes to be the best way to reduce or eliminate coronary artery disease. This disease occurs when plaque builds up inside the arteries that deliver blood to your heart, increasing your risk for heart attack and stroke. Dr. Esselstyn advises that dietary changes can reverse and prevent the disease.
Plant-Based Diet
In his book, "Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease," Dr. Esselstyn states that following a plant-based diet could effectively reverse narrowing of the arteries caused by plaque build up. The basis of this type of diet is to avoid any food that comes from an animal. This includes meat, eggs, cheese and dairy. These animal-based foods contain fats, which, Dr. Esselstyn notes, contribute to coronary artery disease.
Oils and Fats
Along with cutting out animal-based foods, this diet recommends eliminating all oils, including olive oil and canola oil. You also need to avoid nuts and avocados since these plant sources contain high amounts of fat. Dr. Esselstyn explains that these oils and fat sources may contribute to high cholesterol levels, which in turn, may increase your cholesterol levels. You do require some amount of fat in your diet, and the diet recommends having 1 tbsp. of flaxseed each day. This provides heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, offering the amount of fat your body needs to function properly.
Allowances
Although Dr. Esselstyn's diet for coronary artery health is restrictive, it also allows you to eat freely from a variety of foods. You can eat as many vegetables as you like throughout the day, with avocados as the only exception. You can also have three fruits per day, a limit set due to the sugar content in fruit. You can also select from a variety of legumes and whole grains such as whole wheat pasta and brown rice. You may have low-fat soy, almond or rice milk, and alcohol in moderation. Coffee and tea are also permitted on the diet.
Considerations
Before starting a plant-based diet, such as Dr. Esselstyn's, talk with your doctor. She can help you evaluate the benefits of the diet, as well as the potential risks. Your doctor may recommend that you take a daily supplement to ensure that you have the appropriate intake of nutrients each day. Following a restricted diet takes commitment, and you may have some difficulty following the plan initially. However, you may find that you enjoy experimenting with vegetables and other foods or flavors you haven't previously tried.
