Food Matters by Mark Bittman

Book CoverFood Matters, Mark Bittman (Simon & Schuster, 2009)

Here’s what author, Mark Bittman, has to say about Food Matters:

Food Matters is, I hope, as important a book in helping people think about food as How to Cook Everything is in helping people cook it. This—my latest—explores the links among global warming and other environmental challenges, obesity and the so-called lifestyle diseases, and the overproduction and over consumption of meat, simple carbohydrates, and junk food.

And it’s more than that: Food Matters presents a series of easily adaptable strategies—along with meal plans and recipes—for eating sanely, judiciously, and consciously. Eating this way will not only cut back on greenhouse gas production but will help become generally more healthy and probably lose weight.

That’s been my experience; when I started eating like Food Matters, about two years ago, I quickly lost about 35 pounds, saw my cholesterol and blood sugar levels drop, and cleared up a few other health problems. Maybe more importantly, I developed and became accustomed to a style of eating that is less reliant on animal products and nutritionally worthless food, along with the knowledge that my personal impact on the environment went from approximately the size of an SUV to a Prius.

If I told you that the same simple adjustments could help you lose weight, reduce your chances of many long-term diseases, and help stop global warming, I imagine you’d be intrigued. If I also told you that these actions, while not effortless, are lifestyle changes that are easier and more pleasant than any diet you’ve ever tried, and take less time and effort than your exercise routine, I would think you’d want to read more.

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