A New Way to Lose
Although it is without question a “Wacky Wednesday,” I have no video for you.
I could have videotaped Gigi waking up at 5 a.m. and not going back to sleep, thus leading to a rather early, very cranky yoga practice. I could have videotaped Pea Kitty puking all over our bed or the then terse phone call to Pea Daddy asking why for peas’ sake he took Pea Kitty’s towel off the bed, thus exposing our duvet to nasty hairball/cat food spew. I could have videotaped the ballet class that Gigi decided to lay down right in the middle of. She’s been seeing Mommy in a lot of Child’s Pose lately.
But no, I was too busy yawning, downward dogging, dry-heaving and husband emasculating to shoot any video.
I do have quite the unique post, though, so I hope you are ready.
Part of my downfall in life will come from the fact that I cannot tell this guy “no.”
So when he came home last week and said “Pea Pal” wanted to hire me as his own personal nutrition consultant, I didn’t tell him no. Sure, I have a book to tie up loose ends on and start to promote. Yes, I have a blog I’d like to keep up, Of course, I have two children that need my constant love and attention. And because someone took the flippin’ towel off the bed, I now have a duvet to wash. But why not?
Pea Pal is in his late fifties and has about 50-60 pounds to lose and a cholesterol level he’d like to lower, at the advice of his physician. He knows I’m not a nutritionist, but he knows that I know a lot about nutrition, how to maintain a healthy weight and how to make nutritious food delicious. We’ve been down this road together before.
When Gigi was a baby and first waking me up at 5 a.m. (and 1 a.m. and 3 a.m.), Pea Pal, and a few other businessmen in town, hired me to do some meal planning, grocery shopping and cooking for them in their attempts to get healthy and lose weight. It was an ideal situation for me because not only did I get a kick of this kind of thing (still do), but it gave me some extra money to buy designer diaper bags off of eBay, uh, I mean pay those school loans I was deferring. I was already cooking “healthy” food for our family, as I was trying to shed my 70+ pounds of baby weight, so it didn’t hurt to slap a few extra servings in a Tupperware or just email our menu plan and grocery list to Pea Pal and company.
I used the Body for Life program and more specifically the Eating for Life cookbook as our guide. We ate six small meals a day, comprised primarily of lean meats, low-fat dairy products, whole grains, fruits and vegetables and nutrition bars and shakes. And it was good, or so I thought.
Pea Pal was very successful in his weight loss, losing 58 pounds in six months. I was the belle of the ball, he gave me all of the credit, and I had a gently used trendy diaper bag to prove it.
But then, as I mentioned earlier, I couldn’t tell Pea Daddy “no.”
Thus, we learned Lulu would be arriving in nine months. Between morning sickness, keeping up with a mini-Gigi and dealing with the ever-increasing disapproval of Pea Kitty, I couldn’t keep up with my “clients.” But at least I had a nice diaper bag for the second go-around.
Needless to say, since then, all of our diets have changed quite drastically. Unfortunately, Pea Pal gained the weight back and we, well, we stopped eating anything that has a mother.
So Pea Pal is coming over for dinner tonight, and while he knows Pea Daddy is a vegetarian, I’m not sure he fully understands what he is in for. I think he has every intention of losing weight using the Body for Life guidelines, which, of course, has me torn.
Not only am I ethically conflicted with suggesting that he eat meat to lose weight, but I also believe that a whole foods, plant-based diet is the healthiest diet for all of us and more specifically for an individual who is looking to lose weight and lower his cholesterol. As you know, I’m passionate about it. Having recently seen Forks Over Knives, the not-yet-released film based on the findings of The China Study’s Dr. Campbell and Dr. Esselstyn’s groundbreaking research on a plant-based diet’s effect on heart disease, has only further fueled this passion.
In the film, we are introduced to Rip Esselstyn, son of Dr. Esselstyn and a Texas firefighter. Rip, as all children should be, was well-versed in his father’s work. He knew Dr. Esselstyn had taken eighteen patients who had suffered forty-nine cardiac events over the previous eight years, patients who the Cleveland Clinic said “had one foot in the grave,” and put them on a plant-based diet. The diet, as Rip says, “stopped heart disease dead in its tracks,” and those who followed it suffered no additional cardiac events for the rest of their lives.
So when Rip learned that a fellow fireman in his engine company had a cholesterol level of 344 (!) he knew he had to do something, and thus The Engine 2 Diet was born. Rip put fifteen firefighters on a plant-based diet for 28 days, and in those 28 days, their average cholesterol dropped 62 points and they lost up to 31 pounds! Dad had to be proud.
I’ve never looked at veganism as a weight-loss tool for my family. We are all at healthy weights. But seeing these “manly men” eat plants, lose weight and feel good doing it, gave me pause, especially as I thought of structuring a meal plan for Pea Pal. And so, last night after dinner, with tired eyes and a handful of dark chocolate chips, I drove to the bookstore. I bought the Engine 2 Diet. I read it cover to cover.
The concepts of the diet are almost identical to how we eat at our house, save for a Cookie Dough Ball here and there. No offense to the recipes in the book, some look quite delicious, but I like mine better.
Last night, I started making a plan…a whole foods, plant-based weight loss plan, with lists of breakfasts, lunches, dinners and snacks. No meat. No dairy. No Body for Life. I’m pretty excited about it.
Pea Pal is coming over for dinner, and I have a proposal. First, I’m making burrito bowls.
After a healthy bowl, topped with a respectable serving of Almost Chipotle Guacamole and Guiltless Gourmet tortilla chips, I’m going to explain how I feel about all the information I’ve gathered over the last few years as a vegan.
All the books and studies I’ve read.
Dr. Esselstyn’s findings.
The Engine 2 firefighters.
My ethical convictions.
Then I’m going to give Pea Pal a choice.
1) I will help him lose weight no matter what, and if he wants me to make him a meal plan and grocery list based on the Body for Life principles and incorporating lean meats (ahem, organically and locally-raised, preferably) and low-fat dairy (ahem, same thing), I will. But he’ll have to pay me a fair rate;
OR (fingers crossed)
2) He can choose to try my plan, a whole foods, plant-based approach to weight loss, and I will do it for him for absolutely nothing.
And of course, if he chooses my plan, I intend to share those meal plans and recipes with you. Have I mentioned that this kind of thing excites me?
In the meantime, I’ve got to make a killer dinner, I’ve got to practice my shpeel before Pea Pal gets here and I’ve got to put the now laundered duvet cover back on the bed.
Don’t get too excited Pea Daddy, it’s been a long day, and tonight “no” means “no.”
That’s an offer that can’t be beat! I would take option 2 any day of the week.
And I woke up to a dog barfing this morning. It’s an epidemic.
But you didn’t have two little girls screaming about it in your ear
This is true. Just a very confused boyfriend as to why I flipped the lights on and was whispering over and over “Oh crap,” but sub crap for its cuss word counterpart.
Ha ha!
I’m really excited to see what he decides! This is a neat project. I would love to plan meals for people (insert evil laugh here)
I know. My inner control freak is spazzing out.
Oooh please pick Mama Pea’s plan Pea Pal! (if that isn’t an alliterative tongue twister I don’t know what is…) Seriously though – he HAS to go for option 2…DUH!!!
It makes sense to us to choose number 2, but this is a man that has been eating meat and potatoes for the last 50-something years. I think eating my dinner first will be a good segue…
Fingers crossed it all goes well! I’m sure after he tastes just one of your meals he’s going to realize he won’t have to give up tasty food. I haven’t eaten meat once in over a week (just lots of tempeh for dinner) and at the moment I don’t miss it a lick.
I would choose #2, however, you are talking about some really OLD habits. Maybe offer him #1 and then help him make the transition to #2 in a couple of weeks. I don’t know, just a thought!!
Ok, I did NOT know that the firefighters had a book! or a website! Off to the bookstore!
And, for all our sakes, I hope Pea Pal chooses option #2.
Amen!!!!
Is there pictures of firemen in there? Or even better a before and after body shots, very important you know!
Just a pic of Rip. Who lives up to his name. Humminah humminah.
I sure hope he picks option #2 because I want the meal plans too!!!
This! Please let him pick option #2.. I’ve been wanting to de-meat our house for awhile and would love to have recipes!
I hope he chooses option 2!, I am interested to see your creative meal ideas!
I hope he says yes to the plant based plan for many reasons, but mainly because I’m selfish enough to admit that I want your recipes and plan to be on the blog!
Me, too! That would be awesome both for him…and for me!!!
I look forward to seeing your recipes and meal plans. I would love to have a more plant based diet and I think one thing that hinders me from doing so is my inability to do a meal plan. Have fun tonight!
Even if he doesn’t choose #2, I’ve already done a lot of the homework, so I’ll likely put a guide up anyway. If you guys can handle me talking that much
Yahhh!! Can’t wait to read the posts and recipes!
I can’t wait!!!! Will be an opportunity for my hubs to “de-meat” too…
Oh this is so exciting! I hope he picks #2! (Also somewhat selfishly because I want to reap the benefits
)
Aggggh! So exciting! This is MY dream. Cannot wait to see.
Kind of cool, right? I just need to convince him…getting nervous…
You’ll do great!!! Nobody knows their stuff and can make it so easy like you.
You go, girl! You MUST check out the “Healthy Happy Long Life Librarian’s” blog – she knows the Esseltyn’s personally, and has tons of great “Esseltyn-approved” recipes to show for it. They are also all approved by my family – I haven’t had a one yet that wasn’t a “keeper”…http://www.happyhealthylonglife.com/ (And I’m super-proud of her as a fellow librarian.)
Thank you for the link, I will for sure check it out. I want the Esselstyns to adopt me
Good luck to him. Something to note though, for some people veganism/vegetarianism is NOT a good mechanism for weight loss. When I became a vegetarian, I gained a LOT of weight. I didn’t make the dietary change for weight loss reasons (I didn’t think it would affect my weight either way), but ultimately it was not a healthy diet for me. I was eating a well-rounded diet too. I’m not at all saying everyone gains weight from giving up animal products, but I am just saying that everybody is different and has different nutritional needs, etc. Either way, I wish him luck and hope he sees results and good for you for doing this for him!
That is totally fair. And if he doesn’t see results (he’ll be under a doctor’s supervision as well), we’ll be tweaking things. Part of the key for us will be the types of carbs he is eating and the amounts and types of fat. Thanks for giving us your input (and being so nice about it)!
Can you be my neighbor and help me like Pea Pal? I swear I’ll find a new love for kale and carrots!
Ha ha! Hopefully you can just follow along here
I hope he decides to do it your way for free!
That’s such a great offer. I really hope he picks the free plan but I love that you are willing to do the other one. I hope it goes well!
It was hard to think about doing the meat-containing plan. But then I thought about the fact that he was going to eat meat anyway and at least I could help him make healthier choices.
SO FUN!!! Can’t wait to hear his reaction. Good luck!!! I would love to do this kind of thing too!
You totally could!!!
A friend and I did some vegan cooking for a client last year for a few months and we used some recipes from the Engine 2 Diet–they were delicious!! I love reading your blog and am looking forward to seeing waht your diet plan for Pea Pal contains.
That is good to hear! I’m so glad!
I’ve made most of the recipes in that book- they’re fab! Just throwing that out there in case you want to try one.
I will definitely be trying them…with a Pea twist!
You’re hilarious!! I adore your blog!
Thanks Sarah!
Crossing MY fingers that he chooses option #2!
I potentially see another book deal in your future.
I LOVE The E2 book! Rip is wonderful. I heard him speak and met him last summer. Even had my picture taken with him. I really like the recipes from the book that I have tried- especially the lemon kale sandwich. I hope PEA Pal chooses the plant based diet. So exciting for you to do this!
Oh, you lucky girl!
Mama Pea, repeat after me: No. No thanks. Maybe later. Thanks, but I’ll have to pass. Actually, I can see myself in the exact same situation (minus the cat). I look forward to reading about the outcome and discussion.
Now go and buy some more greens to juice so you can get the energy to be the superwoman that you are!
Ha, ha!!! Love it. I have said no to a few guest posts in the past few weeks and felt really guilty about it
I didn’t know the Firefighters had a book either!! I just finished Skinny Bitch (wow was that eye-opening). And while I don’t think I am ready to cut all meat out of my diet, I did feel disgusting about the “meat” I was consuming. We have since decided to cut back on our “meat” intake (we had Tofu for the first time tonight!). Regardless, Engine 2 Diet is on my book list. I hope Pea Pal picks choice number 2 so that all of us get to read your meal plans, recipes and grocery lists.
Good luck tonight! I am sure you will do great!
PS: did you hear about Taco Bell Beef is only 30% beef… gross!
Ahh…taco bell. Is it bad that I was glad it was only 30% beef. That 70% that’s not ground up Bessie!
I just found your blog about a month ago and I love it. I had just received a very bad report from my doctor (high cholesterol, diabetes and must lose 70 lbs) and was searching for information on making the switch to a vegan lifestyle. After reading your blog I am more convinced than ever that I can do this and it’s not going to be as hard or complicated as I originally thought.
I’m so excited about your new project and I can’t wait to hear what Pea Pal decides.
Oh Yvette. I guess I don’t have a choice now but to post my plans anyway
I’ll keep your email handy.
It sounds like you have your have a great plan. Good luck proposing your idea!
I’ll be so interested to hear his reaction! Please keep us updated.
Let us know what he chooses and how it goes!
Will do!
I think what you’re doing is awesome. I’m crossing my fingers he chooses a vegan diet!
that is such a great approach to take! I’m so curious to see which options he picks.
Oh I can’t wait to read the sequel to this post! I am rooting for you Mama Pea and hope he chooses option 2
I love you. Thank you for all you do.
Come on Pea Pal…you can’t say no.
Yeah, Pea Pal. Take one for the team!
I really hope he picks Option #2! I’d love to have access to the meal plans and recipes too!
I’d love to hear some of your tips and meal-plan suggestions for weight-loss! Especially the vegan ones. I am so impressed at how much you manage to do on top of raising a family!
I have a feeling I will collapse tonight.
What a fascinating read – seeing you work your way through different options and decide to stay to true to your own beliefs, knowing that the food is so delicious that Pea Pal has got to see the light sooner or later. Who could resist that burrito bowl and your cookie dough balls, anyway?
Sadly, there will be no dough balls served tonight
I love your proposal! I can’t wait to hear how it turns out. I’m also excited to see Forks over Knives! My competitive-athlete fiance has chosen to be vegetarian based on animal rights issues, but really doesnt care about the health reasons. (Hey, I’ll take it). But I think it will be great for him to see that side as well, which is another thing I’m passionate about.
I LOVE planning that kind of thing TOO! So excited for you. I’m thinking of you while I look at flagged cookbooks and magazines and write in my food journal about tweaks i’d like to make
I agree…both health and animal ethics are very good reasons to stop eating animals!
How inspiring! Love that you’re offering to show Pea Daddy a way to be trim and healthy and in balance using whole, plant based foods. I like ENGINE 2 quite a bit, though I find the new no oil fad that’s trickling down via Colin Campbell to be rather bogus.
I digress. I sure hope PD says YES, and I’ll be cheering you both on!
Ah, oops! I misread the post the first time to think Pea Daddy was on a mission to lose, and not Pea Pal (whom I’d originally thought to be offering PD non-vegan advice). Anyway, I hope PP takes your offer!
Understood. There are way too many Peas around here to keep us straight. And I agree…a little oil will be added to my “plan.”
oh i hope he chooses option #2! (fingers are crossed)
Hopefully Pea Pal makes the second choice. I have made it 3 weeks as a no meat athlete!
I am loving it.
‘Atta girl!!! I’m so proud of you!!!
You are amazing Mama Pea! REALLY admire the time you put into this and it further proves your incredible passion and conviction for the benefits a plant-based diet. LOVE it. Hope things are going well with Pea Pal and look forward to reading about it.
I really hope I’m able to speak to him about it without getting too emotional
Exactly! I’m with you and would be emotional too. You go, girl!
I really hope he chooses option #2!!! It seems really interesting and I would love to read these meal plans!
I’m crossing my fingers that PeaPal picks option #2! I absolutely LOVE your blog, I love you and I love your family. What a generous heart you have. It’s always so uplifting to read your blog. I’m so anxious to hear what PeaPal thought of your meal.
It’s all ready and I’m just waiting for him to get here. I’m so nervous!
I have been reading your blog for ages and want to stop eating meat but don’t even know where to start. I want to lower my cholesterol and lose weight too so I would love to follow your plan. Keep on blogging and I look forward to your book.
Thanks Suezee. It looks like I’ll be posting a plan no matter what!
Is it weird that I am super excited by this prospect as well? I think every vegetarian/vegan has a secret dream of “converting” someone or as many people as possible (or I do at least). I hope he chooses 2!
I just hope I don’t get my heart broken.
Wow! That’s a great deal for him either way. Who wouldn’t want you to make meal plans for them?! I know I would. I’d love to see your vegan plan, of course, as a vegetarian who obviously needs some help losing weight.
Duly noted!
I vote for option #2! Let Pea Pal know he won’t be alone in this journey!!!
Dear Pea Pal, please say yes to the plant based approach…we could all benefit from the meal plans and recipes!
.
Just discovered your blog and love your posts…keep up the great work!
Good Luck Mama Pea! So unbelievably generous of you to offer him plan #2 for free considering your busy schedule. You’re a real doll. It’s a opportunity that should not be passed up, and knowing how great all of your recipes are, he will surely be in for a treat! I hope you knocked his socks off tonight!
Thank you!
I came on here to say “pick #2, pick #2″ and tell you how much I love your blog and stories… but well, seems you’ve already got millions of the same compliments already!
If there was a “like” button next to each one of them, I would have pressed them all.
Thank you for sharing your stories… and I look forward to more of your tasty food recipes!
x
Thank you for reading, Lennie. I sincerely appreciate your kind words.
First let me say that you’re a remarkable woman. This post was bringing me to tears, not because it is sad, but because you show such compasion for your family/friends. Thank you for sharing all that you share.
I hope that Pea Pal chooses option #2! I will be anxiously awaiting to see what he does.
You are so sweet. Honestly, I’m not trying to make myself a martyr, just speaking from the heart. I wish I could cook for everyone that is interested in losing weight and better health for one month. I would change people’s minds. I just know it. There are not enough hours in the day to do all I want to do. Can someone get started on changing that?
Oooooo, I want to try your plan! Number 2, number 2, Pea Pal!!!
How can he say no to a bangin’ meatless burrito bowl?
I will tell you that he loved the bowl.
Ahhhh! So exciting! I’m going to be mentally sending ‘Go Veg!’ vibes to Pea Pal!
Oh please let him pick #2. Thanks to reading “The China Study” and “Eat to Live”, your website, as well as a few others (HTP, Meals ‘N Miles, etc.) I have recently decided to try the whole vegetarian thing by eating mostly plant-based foods and limiting my dairy and eggs at first. I’ve already made the switch to almond milk, which I actually prefer to “real” milk, and bought my first package of tofu the other day (although I bought the soft kind and I think that was a mistake!)
Eventually, I’d like to go all the way to vegan, and would LOVE your expertise in coming up with a meal plan.
Congratulations!!! I agree, almond milk tastes FAR better. I should do a tofu post one of these days…there are so many kinds yet only specific kinds should be used for specific purposes!
Would love a tofu post. I know I “should” be eating it to get protein, but really have no idea what kind to buy for which purpose.
I don’t think tofu is by any means “necessary” in a vegan diet, but is a great transition food and pretty darn delicious, if you ask me.
Mama Pea –
If you convince this slightly older, unabashedly carnivorous (your mother fed you WHAT when you were little?!) skeptic of a man to take your plan, then I am unleashing you on my husband!!! Please write down your argument with him VERBATIM and post ASAP! In the mean time, I shall purchase the “Engine Number 2 Diet” for him!
Yes, go buy the book! It was written for guys like your husband
Ooohhh! I hope he chooses the second one! Why would he not? You’re meals and recipes are amazing.
He doesn’t read the blog
He seems like he would be willing to try option 2! He actively sought you out, and he was so successful in following your advice the first time, I would be shocked if he was against the idea.
I hope he goes with the plant-based approach. I really want to look into the books and movies you’ve mentioned in this post. I’m interested! Can’t wait to see what Pea Pal decides.
Come on Pea Pal, we are all rooting for #2! I would be so excited to see your meal plans, I’ve been trying to reduce meat at our house but it is a struggle to rethink all that I have been cooking for my family for years! A meal plan would be a fantastic resource!
I’ll try to give you guys some great ideas here soon. I promise.
I’d hire you to make a plant-based diet for me, no questions asked. Now, the boy is another story
Come back to Oregon….
That is a super interesting deal. I would definitely not have a problem choosing the second option, but I know some of my “manly” friends would.
MP (it’s okay if I call you MP?) — I think I am going to challenge my dad to do this. I’m excited to share it with my mom!
You can call me anything you want. I hope your dad gets on board. I’m chipping away at my family everyday.
The E2 book sounds really interesting! You should have him read it before he chooses. But Hopefully the dinner tonight will be enough to convince him that vegan meals are satisfying. What happens if he’s willing to forgo meat but not dairy? 1/2 off?
We may have to strike a deal… and I’m giving him E2 to read over the weekend.
I am in tears reading this….I don’t know why (um, PMS much??) but I just love that you’re going to help him and are trying to do what you know is best for him, and making it enticing for him. I love it! He better take option #2!!! Keep us posted!
I’m glad I wasn’t the only one sappy about this. I am just so very passionate about it!!!
I’ve had a similar offer to help a friend lose weight–but he would only do it if I cooked every meal for him, which is not feasible. Sadly, he is still overweight and eating lots of bad food. I am anxious to hear if PP is on board!
It was so much work cooking every meal for those guys. It just about killed me. It makes me sad to think that maybe it was all for nothing because they’ve gained it back
I was thinking about that, too. You may want to refer them to a book or even a therapist to talk about why they gained it back, tenets of weight maintenance, emotional eating, a hunger ladder, appropriate eating intervals and meal spacing, etc. I used to work in the psychology department at a large academic medical center. We used the LEARN weight loss curriculum in a group setting with our clients who had a lot of weigh to lose, and it is very thorough (though not vegan, its nutrition section recommends a low-animal-product diet.) I’ve read the book and it would work for an individual as well. I would highly recommend that you buy him a copy (or tell him to buy one–I mean, you’re working for free here, haha.) Even better, see if he can find some form of social support to walk with him through it–a buddy that also has weight to lose. I can’t recommend it enough. http://www.amazon.com/Learn-Program-Weight-Management/dp/1878513419
Thanks so much for your advice. I will definitely check out your link & pass it on!
What an awesome thing to do for a friend! It never hurts to have a little extra cash either
I certainly hope he chooses your way! I am already vegan (coming up on my 3rd anniversary, and was vegetarian for 12 years before that), but still have weight to lose, and would love to follow along!
Hopefully I can give you that too.
Wow, I would definitely pick option #2, but some people are more stuck in their ways. Understandably so, I’m definitely comfortable where I am. But that’s because I’m “lucky” in the sense that I think meat has the absolute worst taste/texture of any food around. All meat. Seriously….ew
This is a generation that was raised on meat and milk too! It’s so hard to undo that programming.
Ooh, I hope he says yes! Good luck!
Hey mama pea! I think that is so great! Good luck! I am sure after tasting your food, he will not even have to think about it. You are amazing and changing lives!
I hope so! Thank you.
Wow this is an amazing post!
I chuckled at this line: “and we, well, we stopped eating anything that has a mother.”–well put!
Scott is 17 yrs older than me. When he met me (and robbed the cradle) he was nearly 50 lbs overweight, a traveling biz man with super high blood pressure, high cholesterol, you name it, he was poster child for early heart attack. And mind you, no man in his family had lived past age 68. Not kidding.
By leading by example (and in no way was i then or now the poster child for ‘perfect’ eating) but eating a mostly plant based diet, doing things like power walking, running, and yoga…and 12 years later…his blood pressure is normal, he dropped those 50 lbs and has never gained them back, and looks younger now than he did then.
So there is big time hope for Pea Pal friend. Can’t wait to watch this unfold! And congrats for being his go-to helper on this all
Good for you, Averie (and good for Scott and Skyler too!)!
Mama Pea, so proud of you for offering to do that! I hope he picks option 2, and we, as your fan club, can reap the benefits!
This is exciting! I will be waiting with bated breath to see which plan Pea Pal picks. I am a vegan myself and it helped me lose A LOT of weight I had gained by eating very unhealthy stuff a few years back. Now my numbers have never been better and the way I eat helps me maintain easily. I hope he picks the plant-based plan!
Good for you! I know which plan he picked now…I’m not sure whether to tell you guys now or wait until tomorrow!
I want to know what he picked!
Let’s just say I wasn’t totally disappointed. It’s a start.
i kinda love the name peapal. And pea kitty needs a time out!
I had no idea the Engine 2 Diet was plant based! Good to know. Have you ever read “Eat to Live” or “Eat for Health”, by Dr. Joel Fuhrman? They’re also about the health benefits of a plant-based diet.
It sounds like you made a good choice in your proposal. I hope Pea Pal chooses option #2! You should have thrown Pea Kitty in as a bonus with option #2 to sweeten the deal a little.
Aw, man, I should have thought of that. “And you can have this rare and beautiful cat!!!”
I haven’t read that book, I’ll have to check it out. You’d love Engine 2!
Gosh, I was so moved by this post.
How generous and passionate can you be!
Even if you take back your offer of posting the meal plans here,
I hope to God he chooses plan 2.
Go, Mama Pea! More power to you!
I won’t take it back. I’m working on it right now.
This is awesome!! I can’t wait to hear what he chooses…
I love this meal planning dorkery, too. So satisfying!
You will do great! I can’t wait to see what he chooses, and now I have a new book to read.
Good luck with your new project, with either path he chooses. And if he does choose the pay option, at least you no longer need to spend the funds on trendy diaper bags, right?
Good luck! Whatever he chooses he’s in great hands. I love that the Rip Est.. ( I can never remember how to spell his name…) book is very ‘guy friendly’. I might ‘accidentally’ buy a copy for my boyfriend and ‘accidentally’ put it under his pillow…
Also the trendy diaper bags made me laugh! Hee.
Looking forward to hearing about this! My dear husband also has a good 50 pounds to lose. He completely respects my food choices, but he still eats meat. Maybe your stories will help me get him to change his mind!
this is SO exciting! I am going to find that Fire Engine 2 book today! My Dad is a retired firefighter with a love of meat and a serious lack for portion control. He’s a diehard firefighter as well though. This is JUST the type of message that he might take to heart.
I love this! I hope he chooses plan two – I would love to see the meal plans and recipes. I am trying to loose some weight so it would be so helpful. I will have to take a look at that book and probably cut back on sampling all your delicious baked goods I’ve been making my boys.
Mama Pea, I think this is wonderful! It was actually reading Engine 2 that led my husband and I to swtich to a plant-based diet this year, but I do agree your food is much better! (Apologies to Rip, and his cannelini dip is great, but it’s no quinoa pizza casserole!) Hubby and I evaluate all food choices/purchases at the grocery store two ways – whether or not it’s E2 (much stricter), and whether or not it is Mama Pea approved. Thanks for the field roast sausages and Daiya cheese, among others!!
Crossing my fingers that he goes for it!! Seriously though, what does he have to lose to give it a try for awhile especially since you are so kindly offering to do it for free?!?!
I definitely want to get my meat loving (but very vegan accepting) boyfriend to read that book! But i might have a better chance of getting him to stop eating meat before he would read a book about why he should stop lol
My dad is definitely a guys’ guy, but has lost a ton of weight and lowered his blood pressure by listening to my advice and eating less meat. He still eats burgers and the like every once in awhile, but he’s cut wayyyyy back, and it’s paid off. Hoping Pea Pal goes for option 2- he doesn’t have to give up all meat completely in order to make a really lasting change on both his health AND the environment!
I agree! And actually, this is kind of the deal we’ve struck for now
I hope he chooses plan 2; I could definitely benefit, I’m still trying to lose some of the baby weight (she’s 8 months old today). And hubby would benefit with his high cholesterol and blood pressure.
I completely understand your passion. So many of my friends and family are overweight, and the ones that aren’t don’t eat healthy either. But giving up all animal products is scary, until you actually DO it and realize how simple life becomes. Like you, I try to lead by example, and hope it makes a difference. I really believe if you could cook for all the skeptics out there for a week, they would all adopt a plant based diet. (But you’d need a bigger kitchen)
oh man, how could you say no to your plan?! especially if he’s already eating a vegan diet!
Mama Pea,
LOVE your website! I’ve tried several of your recipes and my family LOVES them! I also read THE ENGINE 2 DIET last summer and think it makes so much sense. Also really like Rip’s father’s book on preventing and reversing heart disease.
Thanks for a great blog!!!
Oh you are welcome! Thanks for reading!!!
I can’t wait to see your eating plan!! So is it crazy that I was trying my hardest to see everything you had written for breakfast ideas in that pic? I was enlarging the pic on my screen to see if I could read it all.
Ha! I’ll be sharing those notes sometime in the next few days!
I will choose Door #2 and along with giving you full credit for any physical transformations I may undergo (the opposite way–gaining, not losing), I promise to play with Pea Kitty and watch sports with Pea Daddy.
What a great thing you’re doing in helping him! You have a real talent, Mama Pea.
I am so excited to see what happens with your meal plans, I’m just reading the China Study and it has just made me want to tell everyone what I have learnt so far (including my father-in-law who has already suffered a heart attack) The book is amazing and life changing. Good luck x
Very exciting! I think you’re pretty much giving him an offer he can’t refuse! I am excited to see your meals plans.
How lovely of you! Hope he says yes to the vegan energizing plan! The definition of crazy (according to who? I just read that somewhere… I’m not sure it’s a real definition, but whatever, it serves me well in this comment) is to do the same thing over and over and expect different results. If the first diet change didn’t work, Pea Pal should be open to trying something new. ’cause, as L’oréal would say, he’s worth it ;-P Go vegan, go!
Albert Einstein
Oh I hope he loves your dinner. Everything looks delicious. Let us know which one he decides on. Have a great day.
I hope he chooses your plan!!! I wish he could see Forks Over Knives– we saw an advanced viewing of it last week, and I think it would convince anyone that “real men eat plants.”
“we stopped eating anything that has a mother.” …heh. Mother Earth? no?
Your proposal is awesome!! Pea Pal probably isn’t the type who needs to pinch pennies, but fingers are crossed that he chooses your challenge, anyway, with an open mind!
Mother Earth
so smart!
Very exciting! Can’t wait to read all about it.
Ohhhh this is exciting!
Hope he chooses your plan so we readers enjoy the plan too! I know veggies and fruit make me feel much better over processed foods and tons of bread and grain-based carbs. But I like them too.
Hi Mama Pea! You’re recipes – just from wheat I’ve seen on your blog (can’t wait for the book) seem way better than the ones in the E2 diet. I’ve tried some of yours and really enjoyed them, I couldn’t even get myself to make any from the E2 book. I did get to meet Rip, he was here for a talk about his book, his dad was also there. The are both so motivating (and Rip’s pretty easy on the eyes too
. Rip is the perfect spokesMAN for a plant based diet, not only is he a firefighter but he’s also a professional triathele!
I hope Pea Buddy chooses to go plant based, I’d love to get the info you pass along to him, I’m having a hard time convincing my husband. he eats very little meat – and what he does eat is organic, but it’s still meat……
Mina
I don’t want to beat up the E2 recipes too much (though thanks for the compliments). I think they are very man/firefighter friendly! I just am slightly more “refined” in my cooking.
How inspiring to get to hear Rip speak!!!
How exciting! (assuming he is choosing option 2!) I have actually been on a hybrid Weight Watchers/Peas&ThankYou/HealthyTippingPoint/Edible Perspective sort of diet since November and I’m down about 20 lbs. Soooo much easier and more delicious than a conventional “diet” — it is working IMO because I feel like I am adding awesome things to my cooking and eating life (hello, quinoa zucchini lasagna), rather than taking things away.
Good luck! It will be amazing!
Lauren
Your “diet” sounds awesome!
I’m still reading The China Study. I’m very excited for your recipe posts! I’m also curious to see which he’ll choose. I also do meal planning for two of my family members at times throughout the year and I KNOW they wouldn’t follow it if I left out cheese and/or meat. And honestly…I’m not sure I would want to based on my belief that people should discover their own relationship with the food they eat. It’s good that you at least plan on sitting him down and discussing the research. Way to not compromise your own beliefs!
Meal planning and weight loss assisting people based on a plant based diet would be a dream job for me!!
I totally agree about letting others come to their own terms with food. That’s what I did with Pea Daddy!
I will be paying close attention to what you do with Pea Pal because after baby Katie comes along, I’ll have some serious weight loss to attend to. I was prepared to go back on Weight Watchers but adding in your “diet” recipes would be great. Anything with no tofu, quinoa, pine nuts, or cilantro please.
Add chocolate.
She has a name?! Squeeeee!
Here’s hoping he goes the plant-based route. I’ve been seeing lately a lot of former vegetarians switching back, saying that without animal protien, they actually gain weight. I will be interested to see if this is true from a former Body for Lifer, now eating this plant-based diet.
Good point!
Can I come for dinner? That looks amazing!!
“but it gave me some extra money to buy designer diaper bags off of eBay, uh, I mean pay those school loans I was deferring.” – my favorite <3
I think it’s so admirable that you are doing it this way. It shows that you truly believe in not eating anything with a mom, and I think we can all learn a valuable lesson from this! My husband and I had a little girl in July, and miraculously I also stumbled upon your site around then. We’ve been “leaning into” being vegan since then. I’m always using your recipes and tips, so I’d LOVE to see this Pea Pal wise up and use option 2! Thanks for being an inspiration and always holding true to your values (and for being funny).
You are welcome! I hope I can help more
Oh this is so great! I love the Engine 2 book and the principles of the diet (I say ‘principles’ because like you I don’t eat this way to lose weight.)
If you (and everyone) make one recipe from this book, I highly recommend the KALE WALNUT BUTTER!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mmmmm, so good, I love it on top of salads or spread on toast.
Good luck!
I saw that recipe & immediately wanted to try it!
I LOVE your blog! I was a vegetarian back in the day, and then turned meaty. I have since decided to go back to the veggie side after suffering some stomache issues that nobody can seem to diagnose. I’m not sure I was a very healthy vegetarian, this time I am pregnant and want to make sure that I am doing everything to keep us both healthy. I’m not sure I could be vegan, I have a small obsession with cheese, but I have been trying your recipes and getting tons of information at the library. Would love to read your meal plan!
Thanks, Chanile! You are welcome to check out my plans. You also might consider talking to your doctor about his/her thoughts on a veg pregnancy
LOL! I did and she looked at me like I was crazy, but said it would be fine. I live in Nebraska. The land of cows and corn. Need I say more?
Nope. Nuff said.
I think that ROCKS you are doing that for him! (and possibly for us) I know that is my personal biggest struggle. I am about as creative as a rock. I can get adventurous when given a shell & a direction. Your blog has been a true blessing in our house as we move to a plant based diet. We have gone vegetarian, eliminated caffeine & processed foods, and have even started juicing. I believe when we (my family) entered it with the intention of being more kind to our bodies & our planet, than the weight loss was just a byproduct. God gave me this body & this planet & it is my responsibility to honor that blessing. That is what has helped us not just see it as a “diet” or what we can’t eat – it’s a blessing that we are honoring. Sorry if that sounds preachy I REALLY don’t mean it to be – I don’t want to offend anyone. Just wanted to share what worked for us.
THANK YOU!!
Amen! Preach on
. I’m so glad you’ve found a happy, healthy way for your family.
I can’t wait to see what option he chooses!
Please, will you share? I got really excited at the idea of those meal plans (because I love to eat, not to loose weight), and I’m going to be quite upset at your Pea Pal if he chooses the other option. I’ll keep my fingers crossed!
You’ll be happy with my next post
Great idea about the 2 options!
I’m vegan, and I’m a dietetic intern on my way to being an RD (18 weeks to go!). I love love love the China Study, and definitely recommend it to other interns. However, while I do believe a plant-based diet is healthiest, I will recommend lean meat sources and dairy products for my patients. When my patients struggle with high cholesterol, I tell them that cholesterol ONLY comes from animal foods, and give them recommendations for meals and snacks that don’t contain meat/dairy/eggs — telling them to reduce the amount of animal products in their life. In the end, it’s all about what changes my patients are willing to make, and working with them to achieve their goals
I respect your approach…thanks for your input!
Wow, I’m so excited!! Come on Pea Pal, make the right choice so we can see all the goodies!
It sounds like he chose sort of a compromise, but I wanted to echo the 8 billion other people who said they were looking forward to you posting meal plans and ideas!
I’ve been transitioning to eating fewer and fewer animal products for a few months. I grew up with a very meat-and-potatoes-with-a-glass-of-milk childhood, so I struggle with figuring out how to plan satisfying, balanced meals without the animal products (which I don’t really like very much anyway). I’ve found your blog really helpful, and I’d love to see meal plans to help put the pieces together.
I’m listening to all this feedback, I promise
I pray he picks option numero dos!
Heck, even I’m excited! I can’t wait to read PeaPal’s decision and , of course, learn new recipes!
Gosh, how do I post after everyone else has said it all?! You go girl — I’m praying that your fears and anxieties will turn to complete confidence for you tonight. As a fellow mommy
(ops, cut me off).
… athlete, and plant-based vegan who loves to share “the news” of how incredible you can feel when you just change what you put in your mouth.. well, I’m just so happy to see your approach to this!! Whichever way it goes tonight, you’re offering Pea Pal a GIFT that will change his life. You should be so proud!! Good luck, and can’t wait to hear how it goes!
Thanks Kim! I still owe you a smoothie date
LOL-yes, you do. Any time!!
Do I get bonus points for remembering?
Sounds like such a perfect compromise and I can’t wait to hear what he chooses…I think we all secretly know what!
My parents are both doctors and I always talk to them about the benefits of a plant based diet, but they come back at me with tons of studies about how some people, no matter what, cannot lower their cholesterol. I really want them to read The China Study and to see that movie with me so that they understand how great it is and how healthy everyone can be simply by choosing the right foods!
Exciting stuff! Can’t wait to see how it turns out.
What a generous offer! I hope Pea Pal takes you up on it. Of course, I’d love to see the meal plans whether he dose or not!
amazing! i can’t wait to hear how it turns out and hope he picks plant based because we love recipes!!
That is a very cool thing that you’re doing there.
My family is made up of big time carnivores, but now that I live on my own, I’m basically a vegetarian. Still get the occasional meat craving, but because I can’t afford organic/humane animal products, I don’t keep meat in the house.
I’m pumped to see what your plan is!
Okay, first off, I must admit that I have been a reader for far too long without coming out and commenting. But today, I HAD to let you known how greatly I appreciate your wit, your humor, your confidence, and your ability to capture an audience. There are nights where my husband comes home from work and I make him sit down and I read your post to him, while we both giggle over every little thing. Keep up what you are doing!
Thank you so much, Jess. You have made my morning
The China Study sounds so interesting, but intimidating yikes!
I can’t wait to hear what he choses!
I hope he picks your plan! Your recipes are quite tasty.
Good luck!
Now THAT is a good deal!
But if for some reason he doesn’t (not) buy it, I hope he Pea Pal pays promptly by PayPal.
Bahahaha!
Good luck Mama Pea! Hope he picks number 2!
Looking forward to hearing the results!!
I’ve been a vegan for nearly 3 years and yet I still need to lose 25 pounds. I need to find me a friend who’ll make me a meal plan so free! If you feel the need to makeover a reader here I am.
Good luck, I hope he chooses #2!
Thanks, Kristie. Look for an announcement later today/tonight…
Your conviction and dedication are incredibly admirable. I hope you get the chance to show him how it can be done on a healthy, plant based diet. (And I selfishly hope he chooses the plant based diet because it’d be so much fun to read about!!)
That sounds like such a wonderful idea! It will be very interesting to follow his progress! I have been vegetarian for over 10 years, but I still need to lose about 50 pounds. Although I am veg, I am a junk-food veg. I hope this can inspire me, too, to lose some more weight!
Lots of love and luck,
J.
I like how you said “junk-food veg” because there certainly is such a thing! It’s not that hard to clean it up a bit, though
Option 2 all the way!!
OOooh, will you share with us even if he doesn’t take your meal plan? I’d love to see what you suggest for a healthy vegetarian diet.
I hope he picks #2 (he’s be silly not too), since I’d love to launch the same plan onto my fiance. Good luck!
Love this!! I cant wait to hear the details.
Hope it all turns out well for him! I love making my family and friends diet and exercise plans too:)
I am very excited to hear about the choice! I have been kicking the idea around of going vegan, but I worry that it isn’t feasible for someone with multiple food allergies including nuts and soy.
Wow, that would be tough. We don’t do a lot of soy, but I do like my nuts. You may want to check out Natalia Rose’s Detox for Women. I just read it and it is soy and nut-free.
Thanks! I will definitely check it out!
I look forward to hearing his choice…regardless of what he chooses, good luck with this new endeavor! You are going to be one busy Pea!
No kidding. Phew.
He should read your blog for free
Please tell Pea Pal I said “please, please, please, PLEASE with a cookie dough ball on top, pick number 2!!!!”
And 70+ pounds on you???? No way! I don’t believe it.
Believe it, baby.
Funny that you said with a cookie dough ball on top…you’ll see why later…
I see why now and I love it! Can’t wait to try them! =)
And I know this is on the wrong post (should be on the Jan. 29 one), but I LOVE that you are a hands-on mom. I can’t wait to be the same way. =)
So, we are sleeper readers, my hubs & I. I love your humor; I have two girls as well (3yrs & 3mos). Well, last night I decided to check to see if you’d posted yet (usually I read your posts over my *ahem* morning coffee *ahem*) … and dude! … I was so thrilled to see this! In fact, I jumped up & bounded over to The Hub, who was watching X-Men: Wolverine. He was kind enough to mute it while we read your post over together
… he was pumped! He’s been wanting to lose weight for awhile, but it seems to stick to him like mud. Anyhow, we ordered E2 off the bat & it comes tomorrow! He mentioned again this morning that he’s EXCITED to get this book! Coming from a man who forgets conversations rather readily (especially those carried on when he’s mid-movie) this is HUGE!
Plea Pea Pal
Say you shall
Commit to No. 2?
Do the E2!
Ulterior motive here?
Blatant, I fear.
Sigh.
Oh gosh, I’m smiling so hard my cheeks hurt. I’ll have something in store for you guys later tonight…
I hope he chooses option #2, so we could all benefit from the meal plans! No matter what, you are helping him get healthy which is priceless!
Absolutely. And he is a kind, kind man and a grandfather and if I can help him stay around longer, I’ll do it!
This seems like such a no-brainer! I’m on pins and needles here.
Sorry, I’m almost ready to post…just waiting on a few little things
May I suggest the book Eat to Live by Dr. Joel Fuhrman? It’s along the same lines as the others you mentioned, but I think it’s the best one. It’s all scientifically-based and emphasizes the health aspect to eating. Good luck with your pal!
Thanks for the suggestion! I’ll check it out!
I love this whenever I tr and make my delicious vegan food sometimes my mom says very strongly that “she does not only want vegan food”. It pisses me off because I know she will like if I don’t say it is vegan she will eat it. I went to my friends in california over my break and cooked them a delicious italian vegan meal with spaghetti squash they and there parents LOVED IT. When my mom talked to her friend and heard it was delicious and she was suprised it was vegan because it was delicious UGHH. And my dad does not even touch fruit or veggies so he will not eat any of my food haha. Atleast my mom will eat it sometimes. I hope he goes for it I believe like you it is healthier as I am a healthy vegan! It may be hard for him without someone cooking
I am pesco-vegetarian and all of my friends and family look at me like I am some kind of extreme wacko from outer space. They also think my diet is strange haha. Anyway, I will be suprised but super happy and excited if he goes with the vegan plan #2. I’d also love to see Forks over Knives. I wonder when/if it is coming to So Cal.
This is SO interesting! Can’t wait to hear what happens!!
I’ve been wanting to read the Engine 2 Diet, I can’t wait to check it out! And I’m so glad that Pea Daddy is interested in losing weight through (possibly) a plant-based, whole food diet:) Spread the love, Mama Pea!
May I also make another suggestion?
I lost 85 pounds following Dr. Mcdougall. He is another plan based doctor with years of experience. http://www.drmcdougall.com
oh man, if your burrito bowl doesn’t convince him I just don’t know what will! I must have you over to write my grocery list and meal plan.
How exciting! I don’t know how he could say no after that burrito bowl!
Mini anxiety attack at your student loan mention!
My dad eats a lot of vegetarian food for his heart and to keep slim. Sometimes it takes a health scare to put some sense into them. Why wait for that? I hope he chooses #2 and if not still throw some veggie recipes at him.
Hee heee…I am! Muhahahaha!
Your cat uses the same wake up call as mine.
Wow, I hope he chooses #2. So exciting and I can’t wait to hear more!
i loved the engine 2 diet’s sotry…its what fuels my conversations with my patients EVERY day. having cardiac patients is a blessing because it means i get to share my knowledge and the poor bedbound suckers get unlimited education about plant based diets and cholesterol and how that plays a role in their heart disease. oops, tangent! ok, anyway. the engine 2 is simple enough for anyone to follow. its all basic recipes. i also love that the candle cafe founders visited them.
I love that you’ve seen the results first hand!
dear momma pea,
i love your hand writinggggg!
:]
Ha ha, thanks!
Crazy how much your story resonates with me. I too have clients that I give nutrition coaching to and have lately been feeling a bit stressed about my change in attitude when it comes to my own diet. Although my advice has worked in the past, I’m not sure if I should be preaching what I don’t practice anymore. I look forward to reading about your experiences.
Great post. As a big fan of the Esselstyns–each and every one of them–I can say that theire eating style is the way to lose weight and NOT GAIN IT BACK, which is a very rare thing in this world of stupid f&$# up diets that leave you hungry and tired in the end, only to have you gain all of the weight back plus more. I’m going to share this post with Rip, I think he will appreciate it!
This is a great post. I’m excited to keep reading your recipes, but a “meal plan” is pretty cool because it puts it all together in one continuous day.
So, I’m just getting familiar with your blog- have checked out the FAQs, etc., and love your balanced and informed viewpoints. Also all the funny kid stories
I’m sorry if this was addressed (I did not read through all these comments!), but didn’t you do a vegan BFL? Why wouldn’t you design a similar vegetarian BFL for this man? Are you not a fan of BFL anymore? Thanks for the clarification!
Oh, I did do a whole challenge of BFL as a vegan. I am still a fan. I just took down all the pages because the blog was going in a different direction.
Ahh, okay, thanks for the response
I’m so excited to see his meal plans and follow along!
How awesome! Excited to see what recipes and things you come up with
Any chance of you sharing what went into the buritto bowl? It may be 8 a.m., but looking at that made me ready for din din!
It was just lettuce, some black beans, broccoli, onions & carrots that I sauteed with cumin and chili powder, salsa, guac & baked tortilla chips
I really enjoy reading your posts Mama Pea
and this especially lit up my day… “Don’t get too excited Pea Daddy, it’s been a long day, and tonight “no” means “no.”” Love it!
Your posts are so cute and entertaining! I’m excited to hear what this Pea Pal has to say, I feel like you could certainly charm him into it. Anyway, good luck!
My husband and I started a plant based diet last January with a 3 week cleanse that included giving up all animal protein. It’s been 7 months and I’ve lost 15 lbs and my hubby lost 35 lbs. His cholesterol went from 250 to 124 and his triglycerides went from 300 to 80. He’s off all BP/cholesterol/gout meds. Hurray for plant based vegan diets!!!!
Congratulations, Susan, that is so wonderful to hear! Keep up the amazing work!