i just started the eat to live program by dr.joel Furhman. Is this a healthy plan

Ok, I'm going to be honest. I've heard of the diet and I just checked it out on Dr. Fuhrman's website. I don't know alot about how it works but I can give you some general advice. He has alot of hype on his site about other diets not being nutritionally sound. He mentions a few of the diets by name including the Atkins Diet. My problem here is that the Atkins Diet was developed by a Doctor. Yes, it's a no carb diet and to some health gurus that is a no no. With those things being said, I will give you some general advice.

First, every person is different. The Atkins diet may work for one person and not for another. The Warrior diet which pushes protein and one big meal a day, once again may work for one person and not another. If you have read the guidelines of the Eat to Live diet and feel that it will work for you, by all means try it. Consult your physician first, so that he knows what you are doing. He can give you advice on how to handle any issues that may arise.

Secondly, read the labels on any foods that you buy that are connected with the diet. Do they contain artificial sweeteners, preservatives other ingredients you've never heard of. Many diets try and sell you something that they claim is NEW or improved. Stick to the thought concept that if you can't pronounce it, spell it or understand it your probably don't want to be eating it.

 One of the things the website talks about is "toxic cravings" and food addictions. Those are psychological issues that need to be addressed with your physician. Eating disorders are serious business and should not be remedied by reading a book off the best seller list.

I have always tried to follow a few simple guidelines. Eat fresh as much as possible. Stay balanced by eating a specific ratios of fats (10%), carbs (30%) and protein (60%). Exercise slowly at first and take it up to 3 or 4 days a week. Exercising, stretching, pilates or weigh training, it's all about you. What YOU are comfortable with. Drink plenty of water to rid your body of toxins and to keep you hydrated during workouts. Read labels and consult your physician to make sure you are getting the right amounts of all the nutrients your body needs to stay healthy. If you're not getting what you need from your diet, try supplementing. And lastly, get plenty of rest. During sleep is when the muscles and other tissues repair themselves. Not allowing your body to rest, sets you up for injury and the risk of illness.

Be safe, read and research everything you try and keep your physician informed!