How Hard Can It Be

Most doctors seem to agree that the western diet is much too high in fat. They also know that the 30% calories from fat is much too high to make a significant impact on our health. Doctors do not recommend the 10% calories from fat to Americans because they do not believe that we would be willing to make the sacrifices needed to get there. Dr. Esselstyn believes that if the choice is more surgery or death, people are willing to do what is necessary. But it is still not easy.

Dr. Esselstyn's study lasted 12 years, and he still takes patients to help them halt and reverse their coronary artery disease. Making this lifestyle change is hard enough that he meets every two weeks with his patients for the first 3 months. In addition, there are phone consultations in between appointments. During the appointments blood is drawn for a total cholesterol check. The blood work is so that they can see that the hard work is paying off. It also helps to make sure that some source of fat is not being overlooked.

If you read my first post you might be saying to yourself that  since I am already a vegetarian, it has to be easier than for the average person. I say that just because I am a vegetarian does not mean that I make healthy choices. Most of my food choices are based on convenience. I have a busy day and try to keep food preparation to a minimum. That means lots of processed foods that are full of fats, and snacks that are not at all good for me. Giving up cheese and finding something that is quick and tasty is going to be a challenge. But, I am up for it.