These days, many people turn to a vegetarian diet for moral reasons. However, it can also be a healthier way to live, reducing the risk of a number of diseases. The Ornish Diet advocates the benefits of a vegetarian diet keeping you on a path to healthier living. Read on to find out more about what it entails.

What is the Ornish Diet?

The Ornish Diet was created by Dean Ornish, president and founder of the Preventive Medicine Research Institute in Sausalito, CA in the early 90’s. It is based around a vegetarian diet which, Ornish believes can reduce the risk of heart disease, reduce stress and help people lose weight.

The diet works by offering a sample menu of breakfast, lunch and dinner meals for dieters to follow. Meals mainly consist of fresh fruit, vegetables and food that is low in fat. It also recommends eating smaller meals more often to combat hunger and kicking unhealthy habits like smoking and drinking excessively.

Ornish has written books that contain recipes, advice on staying healthy and meal plans that you can enjoy with your family.

Exercise on the Ornish Diet

The Diet recommends at least 30 minutes of exercise five times a week or 60 minutes three times a week. It also recommends yoga for relaxation.

Nutrition on the Ornish Diet

The Ornish Diet is a healthy way to eat with low fat meals that are designed to maintain weight and keep you healthy. The diet recommends you eat all the beans, legumes, fruits, grain and vegetables you require to feel full. Low fat and nonfat dairy products like milk, cheese and yogurt are also recommended. Meats, oils and products containing oils should be avoided.

Reviews of the Ornish Diet

The Ornish Diet has gotten many favorable reviews throughout the years. It was even recommended by President Bill Clinton. Here is what some other people are saying about it:

“Great book. This book was very informative. It has many recipes that are actually easy to make. I thought it would be impossible to make them or they would contain weird ingredients. However, that’s not the case. Too many good things to rate. It’s also easy to read. Just wish is had pictures but it doesn’t.”

“I enjoyed the format (spring, summer, autumn, etc.). Every recipe I tried was delicious. Tips were given with many recipes. No strange ingredients that you can’t find in a regular grocery store. I especially like that the serving size, fat, cholesterol, etc. are listed for each recipe. Anybody who cooks would like this book.”

“The closest to perfecting your heart! A++!! Awesome!

Advantages to the Ornish Diet

• You get the USDA’s recommended daily amount of fruits and vegetables while on the diet.
• Meals are low in sodium.
• Amount of sugar, carbohydrates and alcohol you consume is reduced.
• Diet can reduce the risk of osteoporosis and improve bone health.
• Regular exercise helps you manage weight and improve health.

Disadvantages of the Ornish Diet

• Diet can be difficult to follow long term due to dishes that are low in fat and don’t keep you full for long.
• If the diet is not carefully planned, you might not get the vitamins and minerals you need. It also eliminates nuts and seeds with are rich in omega-3s.

Conclusion

The Ornish Diet can help you lose weight and it is heart healthy. However, it can be difficult to stick to and you can risk missing out on valuable vitamins and minerals due to its highly restrictive diet. Dieters may want to follow guidelines loosely to get the best of both worlds.