Dr. Dean Ornish's Program for Reversing Heart Disease: The Only System Scientifically Proven to Reverse Heart Disease Without Drugs or Surgery Reviews

• Scientific proof for reversing heart disease

  
  By A65XS93ZY55H7 on 2001-03-02
  While we appreciate that Mr. Bayan took the time to comment on our work, we are concerned that inaccurate statements he has made may discourage some people from making changes in diet and lifestyle that we have proven to be lifesaving.

  For the past 24 years, the non-profit Preventive Medicine Research Institute and the University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine have conducted research scientifically proving, for the first time, that the progression of even severe coronary heart disease can begin to reverse by making comprehensive changes in diet and lifestyle, without drugs or surgery. These studies have been published in leading peer-reviewed journals such as the Journal of the AMA, The Lancet, the American Journal of Cardiology, New England Journal of Medicine, Circulation, and others.

  Mr. Bayan alleges that the diet we have proven to be so beneficial is "dangerous" for some patients because both HDL and LDL may decrease and triglycerides may increase. HDL and triglycerides are only potential risk factors for heart disease, they are not diseases. When we measured the actual severity of heart disease using state-of-the-art measures such as computer-analyzed coronary arteriography and cardiac PET scans, patients showed continued improvement over time, even in patients like Mr. Bayan whose HDL decreased or triglycerides increased. Also, cardiac events were 2.5 times lower in the group who followed the program compared to the control group who made more moderate changes in diet (30% fat, 200 mg cholesterol). [reference: JAMA. 1998;280:2001-2007.] Clearly, lowering HDL by changing diet did not harm these patients. LDL cholesterol decreased by an average of almost 40% during the first year, and none of the patients who adhered to the diet showed an increase in LDL.

  As Dr. Connor wrote in the New England Journal of Medicine, "There are no data showing that the physiologic reduction of HDL cholesterol levels with a low-fat diet is detrimental. Diet-induced lowering of HDL cholesterol does not confer the same risk of atherosclerosis as do low HDL cholesterol levels in Americans consuming a high-fat diet." [ref: N Engl J Med. 1997;337(8).]

  It is true that one can eat an unhealthful low-fat diet if it is high in simple carbohydrates such as sugar, white flour, alcohol, and many popular fat-free desserts. Such a diet may cause a shift to the more harmful pattern B LDL subclass that Mr. Bayan mentions.

  But this is not the diet we recommend for reversing heart disease. Other studies have shown that a diet high in fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, and other complex carbohydrates (which is the diet we recommend) actually cause a shift AWAY from the pattern B LDL subclass to more beneficial patterns [ref: Kenney JJ, et al. Very-low-fat diets do not necessarily promote small, dense LDL particles. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 1999;70(3):423-5.]

  Patients whose triglycerides increase are counseled to be even more mindful in reducing their intake of simple carbohydrates and increasing their exercise. Also, for many years we have recommended that patients take 3 grams/day of fish oil, which also helps to lower triglycerides. In the Multicenter Lifestyle Demonstration Project, we found that triglyceride levels, which initially increased slightly but not significantly, then fell significantly in years two and three. [ref: American Journal of Cardiology. 1998;82:72T-76T.] Almost 80% of people who were eligible for bypass surgery or angioplasty were able to safely avoid it by making these diet and lifestyle changes instead.

  We respect the work of Dr. Robert Superko and often refer patients to his lipid laboratory for testing. Again, we have found that patients with small dense LDL also show reversal of heart disease on the program recommend.

  The program that we recommend includes a reversal diet for those with heart disease and the prevention diet for others. The prevention diet may be higher in fat and cholesterol than the reversal diet and is tailored to the needs of the individual rather than offering one diet for everyone. The prevention diet may include some oils, fish and other animal products for some people.

  Switching from saturated fats to monosaturated fats is better, but for reversing heart disease or lowering cholesterol it is better to avoid all oils other than fish oils. Olive oil is 100% total fat and 14% saturated fat. The more olive oil you consume, the more saturated fat you consume, the higher your plasma cholesterol. The studies showing that olive oil lowers cholesterol are only when substituted in equal amounts for butter or oils that are higher in saturated fat. Also, olive oil has almost none of the beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.

  The bottom line is this: patients in our studies with severe heart disease reported a 91% reduction in angina (chest pain) within one month, and most became pain-free. They not only felt better, they were better. We measured improved blood flow within one month as measured by thallium scans and radionuclide ventriculograms, reversal of coronary artery blockages (atherosclerosis) within one year, even more reversal after five years, and 2.5 times fewer cardiac events (e.g., heart attacks). It works.
  
  

• I like the program but I'm concerned and confused.

  
  By A3J5LMV5W0YDA7 on 2001-03-29
  My husband, who is a physician, and has a family history of heart disease, and I, an RN, began diligently following the reversal diet of the Ornish program in January, incorporating the recommended supplements, exercise and meditation. Since then, in a period of two months, he has lost 30 pounds, his cholesterol, and LDL have significantly improved, his HDL has not, and his already high Triglycerides have risen significantly by 30%. The previous post by the Ornish group states: "HDL and Triglycerides are only potential risk factors for heart disease, they are not diseases" If they are potential risk factors..then my concern is that my husband may still be high risk since he still has the potential risk factors. The Ornish group also states in it's post, "It is true that one can eat an unhealthful low-fat diet if it is high in simple carbohydrates.... Such a diet may cause a shift to the more harmful pattern B LDL subclass that Mr. Bayan mentions" We have been following the Ornish reversal diet/program diligently and have seen " a shift to the more harmful pattern B LDL subclass that Mr. Bayan mentions" They also state that "Patients whose triglycerides increase are counseled to be even more mindful in reducing their intake of simple carbohydrates and increasing their exercise." We have not been eating simple carbohydrates, "such as sugar, white flour, alcohol, and many popular fat-free desserts", and my husband has been exercising almost every day. They also state: "Also, for many years we have recommended that patients take 3 grams/day of fish oil, which also helps to lower triglycerides" We have been taking 3 grams/day of fish oil, along with the other recommended supplements, and his triglycerides rose 30%.

  I must confess I am confused, and while I do believe the Ornish program may work for some people, I am concerned about the safety of this program for my husband specifically. We are going to pursue the cholesterol subclass testing mentioned by Mr. Bayan. I have also posted several questions to the Ornish website about my concerns...but have not received any feedback n this phenomenon as of yet, or reassurance that these test results are not something to be concerned about. We plan to work with our cardiologist on exploring what we can do to lower his triglycerides and raise his HDL, since poor levels of both are still considered "potential risk factors" I do not wish to "discourage some people from making changes in diet and lifestyle that we have proven to be lifesaving", because I do believe for some folks the Ornish program may be just the ticket. My question, until I do more reading and have more information, is whether it could be risky for some who may not respond the same way. Until I have more information and answers to my questions, I cannot whole-heartedly know if it's for everyone. And I would certainly advise folks who are interested in trying this program, to do so with medical supervision, as is advised by the Ornish group. Just as a side note..I have really enjoyed eating the Ornish reversal diet. We have both very much enjoyed the recipes, the meditation, yoga and exercise. I like the total comprehensive approach dealing with the whole person. I've also lost 25 pounds on this program..and for that reason alone, would very much like to continue with it, as I have more to lose. I have not yet had my cholesterol re-tested but plan to soon. Still..we have some home-work to do to figure out why my husbands triglycerides and HDL are not responding, what we can do about it, and to figure out whether it's even a problem that they're not. As we have both been otherwise delighted with this program, we are both very disappointed to get caught on this snag.
  
  

• Some Good Advice, but Lots of Dietary Errors

  
  By A1JGPMGA82RLXC on 2002-06-20
  Dr. Ornish's book claims to be based on "the only scientifically-proven plan for reversing heart disease." While several of his suggestions are sound and probably account for the improvements in some of his patients, the dietary advice in the book is abysmal and should not be followed.

  The first section of the book concerns itself with several case histories and is quite interesting--everyone loves a story.

  The second section deals with the lifestyle changes Ornish believes will prevent and reverse heart disease. Chapters 7, 8, and 9 concern themselves with getting in touch with your emotions, your interpersonal relationships, and your relationship to a Higher Power. Chapters 11 and 12 deal with quitting smoking and exercising more. All of these things are certainly helpful in regaining and maintaining one's health.

  It is in chapter 10 where the advice goes bad. This chapter concerns itself with diet. There are so many errors in it that it is difficult to know where to begin but a brief synopsis will be attempted.

  Dr. Ornish says that there are two diets presented in the chapter: the Reversal Diet and the Prevention Diet. The Reversal Diet is for treating and reversing heart disease, while the Prevention Diet is for, well, prevention of heart disease. Ornish says that, "Both diets will substantially reduce your risk of developing other degenerative diseases, including obesity, high blood pressure, stroke, osteoporosis, diabetes, gallstones, and cancers of the colon, breast, and prostate." (P. 254) Ornish also claims that the diets will help you "to enjoy life more."

  Of course, the diet he recommends is an ultra-low-fat regime that is almost 100% vegan. On page 256, he says that the Reversal Diet is "very low in fat and cholesterol," containing less than 10% calories from fat. The diet also excludes foods high in saturated fats such as "avocados, nuts, and seeds." Egg whites and nonfat dairy products are allowed. The bulk of the diet is made up of complex carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables.

  Dr. Ornish's advice shows his lack of knowledge about lipids (fats and oils) and research has not borne out his claims about low-fat diets being good for heart disease. In the first place, avocados, nuts, and seeds are not "high in saturated fats" as he claims. Their fat content is mostly from oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid, and linoleic acid, a polyunsaturated fatty acid. Very little of the fat content of nuts, seeds, and avocados comes from saturated fatty acids (see MG Enig "Know Your Fats," Bethesda Press, 2001, 291-2). Additionally, a comprehensive review of the available trials has shown the ineffectiveness of low-fat/cholesterol diets in both treating and preventing heart disease (L Corr and M Oliver. Eur Heart J, 1997, 18:18-22; (b) G Taubes. Science 2001 Mar 30 291:5513 2536-45). In fact, such diets actually INCREASE risk factors for heart disease (DM Dreon and others. Amer J Clin Nutr, 1999, 69:411-8; F. Jeppesen and others. Am Jnl Clin Nutr, 1997; 65:1027-1033).

  Furthermore, vegetarian diets do not protect against heart disease. A study of vegans showed that vegan females had higher rates of heart disease than non-vegan females (Ellis, Path, Montegriffo. Amer J Clin Nutr, 1970, 32:249-255). Vegetarians in India suffer from high rates of coronary artery disease--higher than meat-eating Indians (EA Enas. J Indian Med Assoc 2000 Nov;98(11):694-5, 697-702; SL Malhotra. Brit Hrt J, 29:895-905, 1967). Some studies have also shown that vegetarians have higher homocysteine levels than non-vegetarians and homocysteine is a known cause of heart disease ((a) Herrmann, Schorr, Purschwitz, Rassoul, Richter. Clin Chem, 2001, 47(6):1094-10; (b) D Mazzano and others. Thromb Res 2000 Nov 100:153-60).

  The high carbohydrate diet Ornish recommends will drive insulin levels up and keep them elevated. Hyperinsulinemia is also another probable cause of heart disease (I. Zavaroni and others. New Eng J Med, 1989, Mar 16, 320:11:702-6).

  Ornish makes a lot of other bizarre claims in this chapter--all without any supporting documentation. For example, he mistakenly says that, "Sugar is not very strongly linked with coronary heart disease; the real culprits are saturated fats and cholesterol." (P. 257). This statement directly contradicts meticulous research on sugar and heart disease (J Yudkin. Lancet 1:296-297, 1971). Additionally, careful reviews have shown that saturated fats and cholesterol do NOT cause heart disease (U Ravnskov. The Cholesterol Myths. New Trends Publishing, 2001).

  Ornish claims that excess dietary protein causes osteoporosis when actually such notions have been shown to be false--when protein is consumed as real meat as opposed to isolated amino acids ((a) H Spencer and L Kramer. J Nutr, 1986, 116:316-319; (b) Amer J Clin Nutr, 1983, 924-929; (c) J Nutr, 1988, 118(6):657-60).

  On page 267, Ornish says that, "Many anthropologists believe that our ancestor's were primarily vegetarian." No supporting references to the "many anthropologists" are given. This statement also flies in the face of accepted nutritional anthropological data which clearly shows that humans evolved as omnivores and that meat and animal foods made up a significant part of our forebears' diet (HL Abrams. J Appl Nutr, 1979, 31:1,2:43-59).

  On page 268, Ornish claims that "as early as 1900 two thrids of the protein in the typical American diet came from plant foods." Again, no supporting references are made for this untrue statement. Did he look at any cookbooks from that time? If he did, he'd see lots of recipes for meat, fish, shellfish, and wild game. Recipes invariably included butter, cream, or lard as well--at a time when heart disease was rare!

  And on and on it goes. If you'd like to read what dietary factors figure into heart disease, you should look into my book "Diet & Heart Disease: Its NOT What You Think," Kilmer McCully's "The Heart Revolution," and Christian Allan's "Life Without Bread." For a thorough debunking of Dr. Ornish's dubious claims, see Uffe Ravnskov's "The Cholesterol Myths." All of these book are available off of amazon.com and would be better investments of your money.
  
  

• The hysteria over dietary fat gone too far!

  
  By A2W8JTGNPGTK0 on 2002-02-18
  Ever consider the pitfalls of self treatment? I wish I had.
  WARNING: Pregnant or nursing women, infants, children or the elderly, and those with insulin dependent diabetes should not use this diet.

  For many of us baby boomers our first experience in fat reduction was in high school. We never worried about heart disease. We woke up every morning only too find we had another big pimple on our face. Back then one of the recommendations to clear up acne was the avoidance of high fat foods such as French fries, hamburgers and milk shakes, the staples of the teenage diet. But the home medical guides at the time (and our parents and doctors) cautioned not to completely eliminate or severely reduce fat intake. Back then, when common sense prevailed; fat was recognized as an essential nutrient, needed for the assimilation of fat-soluble vitamins. But now the nearly complete elimination of fat is the latest health fad. But is this fad safe?

  If you have diagnosed heart disease or unusually high cholesterol you may want to try this program, but only with the approval and close supervision of your physician. To be safe and effective you must follow the program exactly as outlined including exercise.
  If you only have some weight to lose, have slightly elevated cholesterol or slightly elevated blood pressure this program may actually not be safe for you, especially if you put off the exercise. When you give up fat and a major portion of protein you have a heavily carbohydrate-laden diet. If you are overweight and carry most of your fat in your belly - typically called beer belly - have high blood pressure and high triglycerides, you may have a condition called Metabolic Syndrome, sometimes referred to as Syndrome-X. Often times a high carbohydrate diet makes this condition worse. It has been shown to increase triglycerides as much as 70 percent.
  As Rebecca Donaldson points out in her review, she is still concerned about her husband. This diet can cause a significant lowering of HDL good cholesterol along with a significant rise in triglycerides. Although the LDL is also lowered, in some people the LDL shifts to a smaller more dangerous pattern B LDL. (If you are in an HMO you will probably never have cholesterol sub class testing).
  High triglycerides are an important risk factor for heart disease. They are just as significant as high cholesterol. The Ornish group points out low HDL and high triglycerides are only potential risk factors for heart disease, they are not diseases. But that is true of high cholesterol. Why is one risk factor important if their program lowers it but not important if their program raises it? What do others have to say? Why does the American Heart Association specifically caution against very low fat diets? According to a study reported in 1997 in the journal Circulation, triglyceride levels alone could predict the risk of heart attack as well as more commonly used LDL and HDL cholesterol levels. Those with high triglycerides alone had a 3-fold increase in risk for heart attack. People with the highest ratio of Triglycerides / HDL had a 16 times the risk of heart attack as those with the lowest ratio. The report by the Harvard lead author showed the HDL/Triglycerides ratio was a more accurate predictor of heart attack risk than standard HDL/LDL cholesterol tests. (If your triglycerides are more than twice your HDL cholestererol or a ratio of 2.0 you are at increased risk for heart attack irregardless of your total cholesterol level). Another report in the March 1998 issue of Circulation showed that high triglycerides alone were a strong risk factor for heart attack among middle-aged and elderly men, independent of other factors such as total cholesterol levels. Another report in the December 11, 2001 issue of Circulation shows that high triglycerides, above 200 mg/dl, increased the risk for stroke by 30%.
  The Ornish group says: "for many years we have recommended that patients take 3 grams a day of fish oil, which also helps to lower triglycerides." (I thought they weren't concerned about triglycerides). An entire book on the diligent avoidance of all fat, but then the suggestion to take 3 grams of fish oil a day. What would you rather have the fish oil capsules or a nice salmon dinner?

  What about the dangers of cholesterol too low? We have been led to believe that the lower the cholesterol the better. But other studies have shown men with low cholesterol are much more prone to depression, suicide and death by all other causes including accidents. The truth is that low fat diets have never been shown to lower the over all rate of death. You may lower your risk of heart disease but at the same time increase your risk of death from other causes at the same or higher rate. Despite the claims of the link between high fat intake and cancer, very low fat diets have been shown to significantly increase the risk of breast cancer in women.

  Most experts who have reviewed the studies published by Ornish, point out the study was not double blind, used a very small sampling of individuals hand picked by Ornish, and addressed multiple risk factors, including fat and cholesterol intake, exercise, weight reduction, stress reduction, meditation and cessation of smoking. Which one of these factors actually produced the results? The severe reduction in total fat intake also severely reduces intake of saturated fat, trans fat, and polyunsaturated vegetable oils. But there is growing evidence that trans fat and too much polyunsaturated fat causes heart disease and may even be worse than saturated fat.

  To avoid heart disease, exercise, lose weight and eat sensibly. Use a moderate amount of fat such as olive oil. Include fish; nuts, especially walnuts and almonds and avocados in your diet every week. Don't be too afraid of a little butter occasionally. Don't fry at high heat. Don't fry using polyunsaturated vegetable oils such as corn oil or safflower oil. If you are over 40 you will remember these oils were highly promoted 25 years ago, about as much or more than olive oil is now. But now the current recommendation is to keep these oils at less than 10% of calories. I would avoid them completely. The only links between fat and cancer has been frying with these highly polyunsaturated vegetable oils. Olive oil has been used for 5,000 years. Corn oil is a recent invention. Avoid trans fatty acids (anything were the label says partially hydrogenated); avoid deep fried foods, and limit sugar and simple carbohydrates. Too many people think that a low fat muffin is healthy. But too much sugar is also bad for your heart. There is little difference between muffins and cake except if it is for breakfast you call it a muffin.

  I don't have any of those fancy abbreviations at the end of my name. I am a victim of low fat diets, which caused high triglycerides and high fasting glucose. I suspect it was the high fasting glucose combined with the inability to assimilate and use vitamin A that caused near blindness from cataracts in both eyes by age 46 which had to be surgically repaired. (Cataracts before age 70 are extremely rare). I also developed severe acid reflux during this time even though low fat diets are claimed as a treatment for acid reflux. Since giving up on this approach I have lowered my blood pressure, lowered my risk factors for heart disease, lowered my weight without hunger, lowered my triglycerides to 63, raised my HDL to over 40 for the first time in years. Although my total cholesterol has increased the ratio has improved to what is considered a very low risk ratio. When my total cholesterol was below 160 my ratio was in the high-risk range. And most important I am in a much better mood now. I might actually keep my job.
  
  

• It worked for me!!!

  
  By A1FURTK1NMITW4 on 2002-02-27
  When my doctor suggested cholesterol lowering drugs last year, I decided that 34years old was too soon to start taking drugs. My cholesterol was 266 (& that's after cutting out most red meat and pork fat -and no hamburgers). I was motivated to try to improve the health of my arteries and heart. I want to be around for my ten year old's retirement party!

  I followed Dr Ornish's diet program for 6 month's then had my cholesterol levels tested again. Everything improved: cholesterol down to 210, triglycerides went from 389 to 217 and my ratio improved 24%. I never skipped a meal. I never went hungry. Secondary benefit: I lost 14 pounds and two inches around my waist without trying. I did not exercise enough so I am trying to increase my exercise now. I probably exercised an average of once a week.

  By the way, Dr Ornish included a chart that demanded that you eat at least a certain amount of fat in your daily diet. I liked that the book is filled with studies by major US universities. This is not 600 pages of rambling prose but a how to book to reverse heart disease. If you want someone to hold your hand, call your Mom. If you want a "How to Reverse Your Heart Disease" manual, buy this book. ... Stop reading reviews and buy, read and try it.
  
  

• We're using this program to REVERSE OTHER DISEASES !
  By AX449AJFGEYT0 on 2000-02-06
  We're using this book in our clinic as a text book for reversing many illnesses. Based on the premise "you are what you eat", we've witnessed our patients not only lose weight but also put many diseases such as diabetes, MS, diabetes, fibromyalgia, CFS, EDS, diverticulitis, arthritis, and some forms of chronic pain into remission. Many of our patients are following Ornish's plan and losing a "person". They like the new person they're discovering! One of our current patients started on the program Sept. 1999 (3.5 months ago) and weighed in last week 57 pounds less! With the help of this "text" people are learning to eat better and take control of their lives. Their weight and disorders are disapearing naturally. Thank you Dean Ornish from Cary, NC!
  
  
• There are better books out there these days
  By A28GV4UDX7JF0W on 2006-06-30
  After my older brother suddenly died of coronary artery disease at age 40 due to genetically high cholesterol, I needed to learn everything possible on the subject so that I could avoid suffering the same fate. I read all the books on the shelf, among them Dr. Ornish's. I disliked this book because it is rather narcissistic and is focused more on Dr. Ornish himself than on educating us about how to avoid heart disease. Take a look at chapter 1 and you'll see what I mean: "I was trained to treat hypertension..."; "I first became interested in conducting research on heart disease in 1975..."; "I began to wonder..."; "I went to the medical library and began reading extensively"; "It seemed like an exciting opportunity, so in 1977 I decided to take a year off..."; "I hadn't had enough clinical experience to be jaded..."; "I was unwittingly giving many of them hope for the first time since their illness had been diagnosed"; "I went back to medical school and graduated in 1980"; "From 1981 to 1984, I completed my internship and medical residency in Boston."; "In July 1984, I moved to San Francisco..." This is just the tedious first six pages. Trust me, it goes on and on like this. Do you want to learn about how the heart works? You'll finally get a few sentences on that subject when you get to page 42, squeezed in between more "I did this and I did that." You'll get a little info on LDL and HDL when you get to page 51. Sure, there is useful information within the 672 pages of this book, but you'll be forced to become an expert on Dr. Ornish and his life story to find it. And remember, this book is more than 15 years old. Perhaps back in 1990 he needed to devote 300 pages to convincing people that he was correct in believing that diet, exercise, and stress affect your risk of heart disease, but that that is common knowledge and not controversial now. The research is far more advanced in today's world. If you are interested in Dr. Ornish personally and the history of the study of heart disease in the 1970s and 1980s, you'll probably enjoy this book. But if you are serious about educating yourself on heart disease and how best to avoid it, I would recommend Dr. Robert Superko's "Before the Heart Attacks : A Revolutionary Approach to Detecting, Preventing, and Even Reversing Heart Disease" (2003) or Dr. Harlan M. Krumholz's "The Expert Guide to Beating Heart Disease: What You Absolutely Must Know" (2005). These books are more up to date and provide far more useful information.
  
  
• Excellent
  By A2KW3O9TMOT4TC on 2002-09-27
  Before starting this program, I had Stage 1 hypertension, cholesterol of 288, and was 50 pounds overweight. I also had a cardiac scan and got a calcium score of 27. Since I am only 38 years old, and have a strong family history of early heart disease, I was a bit overwhelmed with the direction of my health. The Cardiologist suggested the Ornish program. Within 6 months, I lost 54 pounds, my cholesterol is down to 119, my BP averages 109/70, and my cholesterol/HDL ratio is now 3.7. I look better, and feel better too. The "diet" does take some adjustment, but not as much as I thought. I also thought I'd never be able to eat out, but that didn't happen either. I still eat out 3X/week, but just feel better that I am making smart choices. While no "diet" is 100%, and while some things others have said in their reviews tend to concern me, no other program has ever helped me get my BP, cholesterol and weight under control as well as Ornish. They can say what they want, but I know I am healthier and will be less likely to "go" from a heart attack at 42 like my father.
  
  
• Almost magic for lowering cholesterol!
  By A38M7PZ5DEOOCC on 2001-07-06
  I'm 25, male, very physically fit, and ate a better than average diet. I was therefore shocked to find out that my cholesterol levels were at very unhealthy levels. I only had my levels checked due to family history. My doctor told me that I would definitely need to go on medication to control my cholesterol. I refused to start medication-for-life at age 25, so she suggested trying Ornish's diet plan for one month, but warned that she didn't think I'd drop far enough, and that medication would likely be inevitable. So, I bought this book and set out to try the my new diet. At first, I must admit it was hard... I had to give up things I liked. But, within days I had this new source of energy I'd never had before. My workouts lasted longer, I ran farther and biked harder. I lost 12 pounds in one month, even though I was eating almost non-stop. I was already amazed and convinced I'd stay on the diet regardless of it's effects on cholesterol. Today, I went for my results after the first month. My total cholesterol had dropped from 339 to 228, my LDL had dropped from 266 to 163 and my triglyceride count had dropped from 129 to 99. My good cholesterol only dropped 2 points, from 47 to 45, keeping it perfectly within the healthy range. While I still need to come down a little - it's only been one month so far, and I've gone from "needs medication immediately" to "doesn't even need to consider medication." If your doctor wants to put you on cholesterol lowering medication - do yourself a favour and try this out first!
  
  
• Confused by too many heart disease reversing plans.
  By A2J88RZWAQ09N6 on 2005-03-16
  I started to read this book due to my elevated cholesterol found in annual check-up. This book promotes vegetarian style eating habits such as eating more carbohydrate than animal products and is backed up by many scientific research data and seems very promising. It limits your calorie intake from fat up to 10% daily.
  
  After reading Dr. Dean's book, I found Dr. Whitaker's book "Reversing heart disease", which has a similar diet plan and increases calorie intake from fat to 20%. Dr. Dean recommends Canola oil in that it contains Omega-6 and -3 and contains less saturated fat than oliver oil, while Dr. Whitaker is in favour of Oliver oil as Canola oil might contain processed components.
  
  After searching the google and yahoo again, I found Dr. Atkins diet plan that cut down your carbohydrate significantly and requires more eating on proteins and other animal products. It also claims it has the same effect on cholesterol and again backed up by many scientific evidence. Obviously, Dr. Atkins plan is completely different from the previous two.
  
  After more yahooing and goolging, I have found more diet plans and each of them claims they are good on cholesterol and heart disease. To make matters worse, the more I read, the more worries that I have. As some symptoms described on medical sites are exactly what I am experiencing, after reading a whole week of these information, I have identified myself to possibly have liver failure, diabetic (although my glucose reading is within the normal range), blockage in my arteries and possibly kidney failure. So if I continue to read, I guess I might not die of heart attack due to elevated cholesterol rather I might be over-concerned and stressed to death.
  
  If you are just a normal people like me without any real problems yet, I would say calm down and read no books at all as these books have contradicting arguments and methods. One book tells you to use Oliver oil and yet another recommends Canola oil. One book tells you no egg yolk, only egg white since egg yolk contains high cholesterol, and yet another book recommends taking 7 eggs a week as egg yolk contains many nutrients required by your brain. One book says no meat, lots of carbs and yet another book says lots of meat, no bread. Moreover, their arguments are all backed up by seemingly solid scientific studies. You, as a layman as I am, stand in between, leave you only one reasonable choice that satisfies all criteria: eat nothing and go starvation. Only by doing this, you will not overeat meat as well as carbs. Clearly, this is not an option. So all in all, I would say continue your own life, eat less saturated fat as most doctors suggested; More fish, no trans fat, more beans and vegetables; Exercise regularly. And most importantly, forget about all these books and have fun in your own life.
  
  
• Another diet book that tells you what you want to hear
  By on 1999-12-07
  Four years ago, at the weight of 275 lbs, I started on a low-fat, high-carb diet fashioned after the advice of Ornish and McDougal. I now weigh 330 lbs, after losing to about 240 lbs, then gaining to 310 before I gave up on low-fat. When I quit trying to diet, my weight stabilized at 330, where it has been for the last year, not even varying when I started aerobics and strength training.
  
  Obesity is a disease caused by dieting; normal people do not have to consciously restrict their diet in order to maintain their proper weight.
  
  I expect that the reaction of the low-fat fad apologists will be that I didn't do it right. I don't buy that. A critical review of the research on obesity has convinced me that there has been no meaningful research on the subject. As a consequence, I conclude that those who claim to understand the problem are lying. The abuse hurled between the low-fat faddists and the low-carb faddists is a lot like a smoky fire; no light, only heat.
  
  Addendum: July 2004. I am now at 238 lbs, where I've been for about a year now, and I can bench press about 275. I lost that weight doing exactly the opposite of Ornish's recommendation -- a high-fat, low-carb diet. In the process, I also lost my arthritis, which went away suddenly and completely about 3 days after I eliminated all grains from my diet. I have also lost my high blood pressure and my high cholesterol. I have proven that Ornish is wrong.
  
  
• Great Book
  By on 2000-04-02
  Very well written. His enthusiasm for his work is obvious and he makes me a believer. Easy to understand book that makes sense. His suggested diets (the Reversal Diet and the Prevention Diet)are practical although I would rather alter my familiar recipes than try the ones in the book. A relative of mine followed the Reversal Diet to reduce his cholesterol and get off the medication that was giving him side effects and it worked. His cholesterol lowered considerably after only a few months. He is now on a diet that is a combination of the Reversal and the Prevention Diet. thanks Dean for great books, I'm reading them all
  
  
• You can eat as much as you want... as long as it is healthy.
  By AHOR8O2RPC8SQ on 1999-12-02
  His book deserves to be read by all. It is easy to comprehend yet so compelling. As an emergency medicine physician I regularly recommend it to patients who are presenting in the ER with chest pain and have fear of having coronary heart disease. But his low-fat diet recommendation is just the beginning of his recommended lifestyle change. His recommendation of reducing stress is just as fascinating.
  
  
• Needs Updating but Excellent Program for Many
  By A2UJR1FJQAFO3S on 2005-07-17
  I have just finished reading the reviews on this book and am quite concerned at some of the negative descriptives used. I can certainly understand that for some people, the program may not be effective and might even possibly be life threatening. However, to go as far as "warning" people to stay away from a program all together that may ultimately prove life altering and life saving to them is irresponsible and irrational.
  
  I am assuming from the negative reviews that those persons may have expected the Ornish program to be a "fix all" for anyone and everyone that comes across it, yet all over his book he is quite specific about the kinds of people who the program was tailored for. Still, everyone is different and his suggestions throughtout that it may be helpful to many more also are logical. All person's genes and chemical make-up are not the same. That is why BEFORE going on any specific program, one should ALWAYS consult with their personal doctor and after deciding on a program, continually be monitored afterward.
  
  This is still NO guarentee that any specific program will work or wont work.
  
  So what if the people in the studies were "hand picked" by Ornish? Please point out even one medical study where participants WERENT handpicked by their respective researchers?
  
  So what if much of what is published in this book might be teachings handed down from Ornish's "spiritual" guide? Ornish writes about his own personal experiences which is a responsible thing to do since the book is about HIS program and HIS studies about it. Nowhere does it state in the book that you cant fit your own in.
  
  After reading this book and following the program I can state that for myself it has been very helpful to me. Being a person who has suffered from reduced circulation in my legs due to smoking and having been overweight as well as pre-diabetic, the benefits of this program have been substantial in a relatively short period of time. However, I can also see where any change in diet, quitting smoking and raised activity level might benefit me. I just happened to chose to follow this one and it has worked for me.
  
  I especially enjoyed that I didnt have to buy other program items or pay for weekly meetings although the option does exist online since the publication of the book.
  
  On the negative side, the book has not been updated since 1996 and there are important updates that I feel a new printing could/should address (see below). I would have also liked to have seen "negatives" discussed such as the increase in flatulence and increase in bowel movements. These practical negatives arent really "negatives". However, finding out all of a sudden that the new way you are eating has "side-effects" and you are standing in front of 10 members of the board when you figure it out is very embarassing. I would love to have seen more discussion on these types of things.
  
  As for updates;
  
  Some people cannot have soy and certain vegetables in their diets and the issue was never brought up in the book that I can remember (please correct me if I am mistaken). I am not one of these people however my sister and father cannot ingest soy at all. Many people that take certain heart/blood medications CANNOT have soy and/or must avoid certain fruits and vegetables (cranberries and blood thinners dont mix). This is a critical update I think should be addressed.
  
  I would also like to see discussion on weaning/coming off of meats and refined carbs. During my first week, I would become "lightheaded" during this adjustment. Having some apples and peanut butter around during the first week or two just in case is highly beneficial and could be life-saving, especially if you are in a safety sensitive occupation such as I am (truck driver). When this "withdrawal" period is over, the peanut butter can go. I think that this also is a critical update that needs to be addressed.
  
  Despite the very few negatives I experienced, I cannot say that this program/book is "bad" and to be avoided. On the contrary, it is a choice that you must make and to not consider it might be cheating yourself out of something that could possibly save your life. You must do the research and take into consideration that you might know yourself best (unless you have lived in ignorance and denial of yourself). No doctor, book author, researcher and/or any kind of medical professional could ever replace the knowledge you have of yourself.
  
  Be responsible, use your head and think objectively. Everything is not for everyone.
  
  
• This program really works! Read this testimonial!
  By A1KRQEL91GNX9V on 2002-11-03
  First of all, one thing I have noticed is that some people seem to hate this book and base their judgment on the fact that this promotes a vegetarian diet; like that's a bad thing! Please, check the latest literature about vegetarian diets before [deciding] I have friends who believe in high protein diets and since I have known them, they believe it is working, but they are not losing weight. At any rate, this book contains a much more complex program than just diet. It is simple to read and even more simple to follow. This time I will follow through with it despite my busy schedule. A busy schedule is no excuse for not eating healthy and exercising.
  
  
• Could save your life...read it, a revelation
  By on 2000-12-22
  This book has saved many lives. It covers everything from stress to diet and exercise. My only concern is that it doesn't include all of the freightening research about the dangers of dairy products, for that topic read Robert Cohen's "Milk the Deadly Poison". Otherwise, a well-documented book. For those trying to maintain their present weight, a slightly higher fat intake may be desirable. After this book was published, a lot of very impressive research came out on nuts...I also disagree with his view of olive oil, which has been shown to prevent many diseases...unfortunately many people use olive oil for cooking and damage the fats and phytochemicals...In any case, even if Ornish's fat recommendation turns out to be too low for some, the general direction of the book is definitely on the right track. Buy this book before you get a heart attack, don't wait until you develop heart disease. Prevent heart disease and cancer before they start. If you have any concerns about nutrients, a multivitamin is an easy solution.
  
  
• A great accomplishment and resource
  By A3VIOCJZ22JZXT on 2005-03-04
  Dr. Ornish builds a strong case for his diet and stress reduction plan, both in his review of the research that preceeded his study and in regard to the results of his clinical trial. I think the reason his work is often misunderstood is that he calls for major dietary and life style changes in order to REVERSE cardiovascular disease, something that had not been demonstrated prior to his research.
  
  I am cooking a soup inspired by one of his recipes right now in my kitchen: chick peas, leeks, and tomato juice soup seasoned with sage and thyme.
  
  As I read some of the negative reviews of his book I began to realize that many readers may have confused the mediators for cardiovascular disease with the actual disease process. Thus his diet does cause weight loss, does reduce cholesterol, does reduce high blood pressure but these are all mediators for cardiovascular disease. A person might try other diets for weight loss or to lower blood pressure, but reversing cardiovascular disease requires more effort. The amazing accomplishment was that he actually demonstrated a reduction in cardiovascular disease in his patients with this approach.
  
  I can not immagine a single heart attack victim in this country not going on this diet immediately. I was convinced by his data and the logical consistency of his approach.
  
  
• it definately is a book which positively changed my life
  By A8HI1ACYD0ZB1 on 1999-08-11
  I had an infact about 5 years back,the next step would have been a bypass .My brother sent me a copy of the book,that brought about an quantam improvement in my understanding the problem .The book has helped me arrest my problem and hopefully reverse it . have had np repeat scans or angiography but i do feel as if i have managed to arrest the disease . There have been a few books which changed my life and way of thinking and this book is definately one of the five such books . My only comment is that the book is written from the north american prespective,which is fair but heart disease is hitting the developing world very strongly perhaps you need to "internationalize" the book .
  
  
• You Really can Reverse Heart Disease
  By A2AKOD46X40MAW on 2001-09-23
  I think this book is a very valuable tool for people with heart disease. I personally was helped tremendously. I've had two open-heart surgeries. I was impressed by the way people FELT on the progam, and that motivated me to try it. After 3 weeks, I noticed a big change in the way I felt. The shock was that the program improved my labs in a way I couldn't do myself in years.This book is written in a way that is highly motivating and encouraging.
  
  
• IT IS ALL ABOUT CHANGE
  By A3SN9EF7GTNEU2 on 2002-02-26
  We all know that heart disease is one of our top life-threatening medical conditions in today's society. With people living under more stress, fast-food outlets in ever-increasing abundance, and many individuals packing on the pounds and having less time and energy to exercise, it is no wonder our hearts our strained to the limit.

  This book is highly recommended for anyone who wishes to minimize risks of heart disease or who is living with a heart problem. The book is not simply about a short-term change of diet, it is about changing one's lifestyle on a permanent basis. When we think of diet, we often think of one of those trendy, short-term fad diets that allow us to take off the pounds only to put them back on later. Diet, in this book, refers to a long-term change; we are what we eat. The author suggests increasing intake of fruits, vegetables, fibre and fish oil and avoiding saturated fats like olive oil. Readers will find some healthy recipes in the book (terrific recipes, in fact) and some very beneficial facts about heart disease and how to prevent it.
  
  

• Fraud, plain and simple
  By AL718FQY4IJUT on 2005-11-25
  Dr. Dean Ornish is a quack, plain and simple. He is on the advisory board of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, which is just a front for PETA. Do an exact phrase google of "The Dietary Delusions of Dean Ornish" to get the skinny on this fool. If you want to save your life don't waste your time on this book.
  
  
• You Can Be What You Eat
  By on 1999-04-17
  This book is good news for everyone who believes that bad habits doom your health. Instead, the book says that you can change your eating and exercise habits now, and have much better health regardless of the past. I recently read an update on the research described in this book, which says that the long-term results are even better than before. This book reminds me of The 2,000 Percent Solution, which talks about how false beliefs cause us to miss big opportunities. I wonder how many times we miss the best things in life with bad thinking habits? Be sure to read and follow the lessons of REVERSING HEART DISEASE so you'll have a long happy life to find better opportunities!
  
  
• worth careful consideration
  By on 2004-01-21
  I have not read this book, however I have read most of these reviews. I am an RN and would just like to point out that each individual is bound to have his or her own unique experience with this diet. To any who adamantly state this should never be tried, for whatever your reasons (selling your own book, or solely considering your own health concerns) shame on you. To attempt to black list this book for people it MAY help is well, despicable. I am personally buying this book both for family members and myself who are having atherosclerotic problems. The key is, if there are potential problems, to insist on getting those things checked regularly with your doctor, which we will do and post more in the future with our personal results.
  
  
• This certainly is a purist's view, but that doesn't make it bad
  By A3JY9A40GIF46B on 2006-09-17
  Looking at other reviews, I see a lot of critics of the Ornish diet; however, it certainly seems as if Dr. Ornish presents a lot of data to document the results and support the promotion of the Ornish diet. However, it's not just about diet, it's about life-style. That said, I would suggest reading Dr. Dean Ornish's book and also would strongly suggest reading Dr. Julian Whitaker's book on reversing heart disease. I think that the Whitaker book provides a much more practical view and also displays what may be a good diet (and life-style, etc) for (1) a healthy person that wants to prevent possibility of heart disease, referred to in the book as a "preventative" approach, and (2) a person who has heart disease and needs a "reversal" approach. Distinguishing between preventative and reversal is important because if reversal is the goal, Dr. Ornish's book is an eye-opener and brings focus on the level of discipline and the focus required for a "reversal" diet and life-style.
  
  
• Where There's Hope There's Life!
  By A25N154I3FXIFZ on 2001-08-23
  Real hope of reversing heart desease for those who have had invasive surgery but have found their cardiac problems returning. The reversal plan is based upon diet, exercise, stress management, and the support of loving relationships - with fellow humankind and also with what are described as 'higher forces'. The Christian reader will likely view the latter as being exclusively Divinity, as revealed in God's Word, etc, rather than simply including Divinity. Such a reader will also want to substitute other stress management techniques for those in the book that are based upon yoga and the like. However, this should prove to be an improvement to Dr.Ornish's plan rather than a weakening of it.

  What a relief that medical practioners such as Dr.Ornish have had the courage an inquisitiveness to look beyond (but, in appropriate circumstances, not discount) conventional medical wisdom on the treatment of heart desease despite the skepticism with which the remedies outlined in this book were initially (and, to an extent, still may be) greeted. Thank you Dr.Ornish!
  
  

• Saved my father's health!!
  By A1AU5I89GJEACJ on 2007-03-13
  I purchased this book in Spring of 2004 for my father who had just suffered from a moderate heart attack and he started following the diet almost immediately; within a year his arteries were completely free of any signs of buildup. His cardiologist who had never even mentioned a modification to his diet was impressed and told him that most people aren't willing to change their eating habits that much. He is currently healthier than ever and no longer takes any prescription medications, only daily vitamin E to keep his blood thin as well as "regular" vitamin and mineral supplementation. I would suggest this book to anyone who wants to reverse their heart disease in a non-traditional way!
  
  
• I have followed this program and it works
  By on 1996-12-20
  I have followed the program described in this book for five years . It has helped stop the progression of my heart desease. Five years ago surgery was recommended. This book helped me avoid the surgery and improve my health.
  
  
• Great Book
  By A3MHN9QRK54QKD on 2006-04-14
  When I follow the diet and work on the other aspects of the program I feel better, lose weight, am happier and have better test results. The book is easy to read and understand. The program is not for the die hard meat lover. It takes commitment to follow. From the reviews I have read and comments from coworkers and friends, it also takes an open mind and balanced attention. I am currently purchasing this book for my adult son. It all depends on what a reader is looking for. Dr. Ornish does not give a quick fix. I am a believer.
  
  
• A change in the way of thinking about things
  By A2OIEJ69NNKLS5 on 2004-01-21
  Dean Ornish's (1995) clinical medical research, for example, shows that heart disease, the biggest cause of death presently in the United States and in many developed countries, and potentially many other conditions - e.g. he's doing clinical trials presently on prostate cancer with positive results so far - are reversible through lifestyle changes, especially a nutritionally-sound, low-fat, grain-, vegetable-, bean- (including soy bean products) and fruit-centered diet; exercise, e.g. 30 minutes of walking per day; relaxation; and community.

  His work originates from a yoga perspective.

  People in the U.S. consume 30% of their calories in the form of fat, which contributes to putting a significant part of the population at risk for heart disease. By contrast, a heart disease-reversing diet involves consuming about 10% of one's daily calories in the form of fat, - aim for very, very little fat intake using the very useful Food and Drug Administration labels on all U.S. food (labels in the UK are not nearly as informative), get exercise and have fun with friends. In general, try to eat less than 3 grams of fat per serving.

  
  
  

• Great book
  By A1ZFF7JRZJYXJW on 2000-01-14
  One of the few books I have that I keep going back to. I am reading it for the second time thru and plan to follow the program, as I have MVP. Great information on diet, excercise and healthy living in general.
  
  

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• Everyday Cooking with Dr. Dean Ornish: 150 Easy, Low-Fat, High-Flavor Recipes
• The Spectrum: A Scientifically Proven Program to Feel Better, Live Longer, Lose Weight, and Gain Health
• Stress Diet and Your Heart: A Lifetime Program for Healing Your Heart Without Drugs or Surgery
• Eat More, Weigh Less: Dr. Dean Ornish's Life Choice Program for Losing Weight Safely While Eating Abundantly
• Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease: The Revolutionary, Scientifically Proven, Nutrition-Based Cure