(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

What a huge statement from Kaiser Permanente, as they published an article in its medical science journal recommending that physicians consider a plant-based diet for ALL patients.  The article states, “Healthy eating may be best achieved with a plant-based diet, which we define as a regimen that encourages eating whole, plant-based foods and discourages meats, dairy products and eggs as well as refined and processed foods.” The article goes on to say that, “physicians looking for cost-effective interventions to improve health outcomes are becoming more involved in helping their patients adopt healthier lifestyles. Research shows that plant-based diets are cost effective, low risk interventions that may lower body mass index, blood pressure, HbA1C, and cholesterol levels.  They may also reduce the number of medications needed to treat chronic diseases and lower ischemic heart disease mortality rates.  Physicians should consider recommending a plant-based diet to all their patients, especially those with high blood pressure, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or obesity.”

If you would like to read the article in its entirety visit www.ForksOverKnives.com  This site is chock-full of great articles, videos and recipes, and they will be happy to send you their newsletter.  This week there is also a Q&A with Rip Esselstyn about his new book, “My Beef with Meat.”  What a great title!!!!!  There are also a couple of recipes including caramel apples!

Before I sign off, I thought vegan Thursday was as good a day as any to share a picture of one of the pineapples growing in our yard.  With berries on the bushes, mangoes and lemons in the trees and pineapples growing in the front yard, it’s a great season to be a plant-based eater!

Who knew when we moved to Florida 30 years ago, that someday we’d become pineapple growers!  They are so easy to grow here.  You simply twist off the top of a pineapple and stick it in the ground and wait.  It will take a couple of years, but one day you will notice a little acorn like thing growing out of the center and again, all you do is watch and wait.  You will know when it’s ready to come off the base when it starts to turn sideways.  Again, Mother Nature really knows her stuff.

Hoping YOU will consider a plant-based meal or two on this day…and every day.  It’s as good for your health as the health of your planet and the animals that share it with us!  As always, I am greatly appreciative for the time you took to visit and read….Make it a great day!