The Engine 2 Diet: The Texas Firefighter's 28-Day Save-Your-Life Plan that Lowers Cholesterol and Burns Away the Pounds

Rip Esselstyn

Quick Take

Lose weight, lower cholesterol, significantly reduce the risk of disease, and become physically fit--in just 4 weeks.Professional athlete-turned-firefighter Rip Esselstyn is used to responding to emergencies. So, when he learned that some of his fellow Engine 2 firefighters in Austin, TX, were in dire physical condition-several had dangerously high cholesterol levels (the highest was 344!)-he sprang into action and created a life-saving plan for the firehouse. By following Rip's program, everyone lost weight (some more than 20 lbs.), lowered their cholesterol (Mr. 344's dropped to 196), and improved their overall health. Now, Rip outlines his proven plan in this book. With Rip as your expert coach and motivator, you'll transform your body and lifestyle in a month. His plant-powered eating plan is based on a diet of whole foods, including whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds. This invaluable guide **Dozens of easy, mouthwatering recipes-from pancakes to pizza, Tex-Mex favorites to knockout chocolate desserts-that will keep you looking forward to every bite **Pantry-stocking tips will take the panic out of inevitable cravings and on-the-fly meals **Guidelines on menu choices that will allow you to eat out, wherever and whenever you want **Rip's simple, firefighter-inspired exercise program that will boost your metabolism and melt your fat away.Medically approved, easy-to-follow, and amazingly effective , this diet is designed for anyone who wants to make heroic strides in his or her health, weight, and well-being-all without heroic effort."I've known Rip for more than 20 years. In that time, he's been a great motivator for so many people. This terrific book will inspire all who read it to change their lives and optimize their health." - Lance Armstrong, cancer survivor, seven-time Tour de France champion"Want to be as strong as a Texas firefighter? Or as healthy as a professional triathlete? Then follow the wonderful advice of Rip Esselstyn, who is both. His book can save your life--whether you're a man or a woman. Highly recommended!" -Dean Ornish, M.D., Founder and President, Preventive Medicine Research Institute, Clinical Professor of Medicine, U of California SF, author, Dr. Dean Ornish's Program for Reversing Heart Disease

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: The Engine 2 Diet

Introduction

"The Engine 2 Diet: The Texas Firefighter's 28-Day Save-Your-Life Plan that Lowers Cholesterol and Burns Away the Pounds" by Rip Esselstyn is a book that has garnered significant attention from readers. It promises to help individuals lose weight, lower cholesterol, and improve their overall health in just 28 days. Esselstyn, a former professional athlete and firefighter, shares his experience of transforming the health of his fellow firefighters at the Austin Fire Department by introducing them to a plant-based diet. In this article, we will delve into the book's content, analyze the views of readers, and explore the reasons for recommending and not recommending it.

About Rip Esselstyn

Rip Esselstyn is the author of "The Engine 2 Diet." He was born in upstate New York and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. Esselstyn graduated from the University of Texas at Austin, where he was a three-time All-American swimmer. After his athletic career, he became a firefighter and introduced his passion for a whole-food, plant-based diet to Austin's Engine 2 Firehouse. Esselstyn has been a motivator for many people and has made significant contributions to promoting healthy eating habits.

Analysis of Views

Health Benefits: Readers praise the book for providing valuable information on the health benefits of following a plant-based diet. They appreciate the author's emphasis on the connection between a plant-strong diet and good health, as well as the scientific evidence supporting these claims.
Easy-to-Follow Plan: Many readers find the 28-day plan presented in the book to be easy to follow. The meal plan, recipes, and pantry-stocking tips make it simple for individuals to incorporate healthy eating habits into their daily routine.
Variety of Recipes: The book offers a range of delicious and easy-to-prepare recipes that cater to different tastes. Readers appreciate the inclusion of Tex-Mex favorites, as well as other mouthwatering options that keep them excited about each meal.
Guidelines for Eating Out: Esselstyn provides practical guidelines on how to eat out while following the Engine 2 Diet. This feature is particularly helpful for individuals who enjoy dining at restaurants or attending social events where plant-based options may be limited.
Effective Exercise Program: The book includes an exercise program designed by Esselstyn, which focuses on boosting metabolism and melting fat away. Readers appreciate the simplicity and effectiveness of this workout plan, which complements the dietary recommendations.

Reasons for Recommendation

Medically Approved: The Engine 2 Diet is medically approved and backed by scientific research. Readers feel confident in following the plan as it has been endorsed by medical professionals and supported by evidence-based findings.
Inspiring and Motivational: Rip Esselstyn's story and his ability to inspire change in his fellow firefighters resonate with readers. The book serves as a motivational tool that encourages individuals to take control of their health and make positive changes in their lives.
Easy-to-Implement Lifestyle: The plant-based diet recommended in the book is seen as an easy-to-implement lifestyle change. Readers appreciate that it doesn't require drastic changes or strict restrictions but rather offers practical and sustainable recommendations for improving overall health.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Limited Flexibility: Some readers find the elimination of oils, nuts, and avocados restrictive and challenging to follow consistently. They believe that these foods can be part of a healthy diet and may prefer alternative approaches that allow for more flexibility.
Potential Negative Impact on Nutrient Intake: Some readers express concerns about the elimination of certain food groups, such as oils and nuts, which they believe could negatively impact their nutrient intake. They argue that these foods provide essential nutrients that should not be entirely eliminated from the diet.

Conclusion

"The Engine 2 Diet: The Texas Firefighter's 28-Day Save-Your-Life Plan that Lowers Cholesterol and Burns Away the Pounds" by Rip Esselstyn has received positive reviews from readers who appreciate its focus on health benefits, easy-to-follow plan, variety of recipes, practical guidelines for eating out, and effective exercise program. While some readers may have concerns about the restrictiveness of certain dietary recommendations, the book remains a valuable resource for those seeking to improve their health through a plant-based diet. Overall, it is recommended as a motivational tool and a practical guide for individuals looking to make positive changes in their lives.