So, what is the plan anyway? Well, the basic idea behind it is that you should eat plenty of healthful, nutrient packed foods, and avoid foods that are high in calories but empty in nutrients. Makes sense, huh? But without a plan, I’m pretty sure I’ll be making brownies by the middle of the second day on the plan. High in chocolate, sugar, simple carbs, and fat, but low in good vital nutrients. Calories aren’t the bad guys, it’s just that we want them to be packed with totally awesome radical nutrients for our bodies–it’s like getting the premium fuel at the gas station for your really expensive fancy car, only it’s your body.

No more bacon grease:

The memory of the sizzling hot bacon-wrapped-scallops lingers still...

We’re approaching the six week plan with total COMMITMENT, and also a healthy dose of skepticism. We want to really put this to the test, conduct it like a true experiment. We’re even having our blood tested beforehand as well as a general physical before and after. I’m pretty sure our doctor will be somewhat supportive, but also skeptical. Don’t you think doctors must get tired of patients coming in with these wacky diet ideas?

Check it out:

Our Six Week Plan:
1 lb of raw veggies per day (and more!)
1 lb of cooked veggies per day (and more!)
Whole wholly-moley, super-duper whole grains
Plenty of fresh fruits
Nuts and Omega 3 supplements
Beans and Rice, also good for a more complete protein
No added fat (cooking oils, butter)
No added sodium
No added sugar
Vegan Fare (no animal products, including dairy)

Exercise:
Walking 20-30 minutes per day.
Adding weight training after 2 weeks, with the goal of running a 5K by Thanksgiving.
I’m looking into different programs, maybe the “Couch to 5K”.
Suggestions?

What comes after the six week plan? A gradual shift incorporating more healthy, whole foods (lean meats) while still maintaining the basic healthy principles of this plan.

Skeptical? Concerned? Have doubts? Both books Eat To Live and The China Study can be found with many pages of text online at http://books.google.com

Check them out for yourself.

Eat to Live, by Dr. Joel Fuhrman, M.D.

The China Study, by T. Colin Campbell

Worried about protiens and essential amino acids? You should be. I’m still gathering information. One good source I’ve found (2004) is The Dietitian’s Guide to Vegetarian Diets: Issues and Applications; specifically pages 77-80. We will take extra care that our children get the nutrients they need. (Rest easy Grandma’s and Grandpa’s!)

I would love some feedback! Encouragement, pep talks, tips/hints/suggestions are all welcome and looked forward to! Thanks!