The Dean Ornish Diet

The Philosophy

"Eating fat makes you fat". For a healthier and longer life, avoid all fats and animal products including meats, poultry and seafood. Eat natural, wholesome foods like fruits, vegetables and grains. Diet principles are based on the book "Eat more, weigh less''.

Our View

Does it meet the basic food groups? Not quite. Dairy products are minimal. Dietary fats are greatly restricted to less than 10% of todtal energy (calorie) intake and this limits essential fatty acid intake. Saturated fats are eliminated therefore all animal products (meats, poultry, fish, egg yolk, and cheese) are eliminated except for some nonfat dairy products. Vegetable protein sources, dietary fiber and complex carbohydrates such as grains, beans, vegetables, and fruits are recommended with no restrictions on quantities.

What about balance and variety? According to the principles of Canada's food guide, balance and variety is difficult to achieve in these meal plans because of the numerous restrictions in dietary fats, meats and alternates and dairy products; and also because of the unlimited quantities of grain products and fruits and vegetables.

Risks? Dietary fat restrictions and excluding meats and alternates may cause inadequate intake of protein, calcium, essential fatty acids, iron, zinc and complex B vitamins. Excessive dietary fiber intake could impair calcium and iron absorption and cause intestinal discomfort like: flatulence, constipation or diarrhea.

Our Comments

• Following this method requires radical lifestyle changes. A healthy body weight and improved lifestyle can be achieved by easier means.
• Although this diet approach promotes the importance of complex carbohydrates; it ignores the basic principles of balance and implies that one can eat unlimited quantities so long as all foods containing fats and concentrated sugars are eliminated.