Reversing Heart Disease

Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn Jr., author of “Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease” and a former president of staff for the Cleveland Clinic and for more than 20 years, Esselstyn has followed a plant-based diet, which he says is essential to protecting against heart disease.

“If you eat the American diet, you can guarantee obesity and heart disease,” Esselstyn said.

The approach Esselstyn takes differs from the traditional meat-and-potatoes kind of meals associated with this country. In his book, Esselstyn espouses a straight-forward one: Eat nothing with a mother or a face (so, no meat, poultry or fish); eat no oil; and eat no dairy products.

Ann Crile Esselstyn developed 150 recipes, which are contained in her husband’s book. Esselstyn said when his patients realize they are not sacrificing taste they embrace his plan.

“They become absolutely empowered as their weight and heart pain disappear,” Esselstyn said.