By Leigh O’Connor.
Ask a room full of people to raise their hands if they eat a vegetarian or vegan diet for at least part of the week and some will raise their hands. Ask them if they believe eating a vegetarian or vegan diet will make them healthier, the majority will raise their hands.
It’s happening across the Western world. Most people are turning away from meat-centric diets and incorporating more plant foods. Some are choosing to become vegetarians or vegans, the latter abstaining from all animal products, even honey.
Whatever your reason for adopting a plant-rich diet, it’s clear this is more than just a fad. In his new book, ‘Plant Power: The Key to Healthy Longevity’, Professor Luigi Fontana delivers the essential plant food guide to enrich your health including more than 80 deliciously filling recipes.
The world’s foremost authority on healthy longevity, Professor Fontana MD, PhD, is a highly skilled physician-scientist and was for many years, Professor of Medicine at Washington University, one of the four most highly regarded medical universities in the USA.
Credited with conducting the foundational research that gave rise to the 5:2 diet, Professor Fontana’s revolutionary work is leading the world on longevity and the factors involved in living a long and healthy life.
‘Plant Power’ is a comprehensive guide which explains the science behind plant-based diets and how they are essential for promoting long-term health and preventing age-related diseases.
Drawing on his foundational research, Professor Fontana provides readers with evidence-based strategies for adopting healthier eating habits. The book outlines the profound impact plant-based foods can have on health, longevity and disease prevention, offering practical advice on incorporating plant-rich meals into any diet.
‘Plant Power’ caters to full or part-time vegetarians, vegans and anyone looking to reduce their meat consumption. The book is designed to support everyone, from those who eat vegetarian meals occasionally to those fully committed to a plant-based lifestyle.
Professor Fontana emphasises the potential to prevent chronic diseases with simple dietary changes:
"I want to identify ways to slow the ageing process and prevent age-related chronic diseases.”
We have three recipes to share with AGFG home cooks:
These dosas are made with brown rice and red lentils, flavoured with fenugreek, cumin and turmeric, while the filling includes vitamin-rich kale, cherry tomatoes, eschalots and curry powder for a hit of heat. Top each with a fried egg and fold closed for the ultimate breakfast, brunch or any time snack.
Mushrooms are often used as a vegetarian alternative due to their meaty texture and flavour. The tortillas for these tacos are made with wholemeal flour, topped with the mushrooms and pico de gallo; to serve, set out bowls of guacamole, pico de gallo, carnitas and tortillas and let everyone construct their own tacos at the table. Garnish with a dollop of yoghurt and coriander leaves.
Everyone loves pizza, right? Even vegans and vegetarians! The base for this pizza uses a sourdough starter, or you can add additional yeast to the wholemeal flour, along with honey for sweetness; while roast pumpkin pieces, radicchio and zucchini, along with creamy goats’ cheese and crunchy walnuts, provide a delicious and healthy topping.
‘Plant Power’ is a timely and invaluable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their health and well-being through plant-based nutrition.
