Eat More, Live Well Book Summary - Eat More, Live Well Book explained in key points
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Eat More, Live Well summary

Megan Rossi

Enjoy Your Favourite Food and Boost Your Gut Health with The Diversity Diet

4.4 (249 ratings)
18 mins

Brief summary

Eat More, Live Well by Megan Rossi is a comprehensive guide to improving gut health through diet. It explains the importance of a diverse and balanced diet and provides practical tips for incorporating more gut-friendly foods into our daily lives.

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    Eat More, Live Well
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    Plant-based eating isn’t what you think

    The popularity of vegetarian and vegan diets in recent decades has led to a host of plant-based options for anyone wanting to eat less meat. But it has also narrowed the popular view of what plant-based eating really is. For many, it means swapping that burger or chicken nugget for a soy alternative, but from both a personal and ecological perspective, this isn’t a significantly better choice.

    That’s because both the fast-food burger and soy alternative are highly processed, industrial foods. While they might contain macronutrients, like protein or fats, the heavy processing of ingredients between the farm   the table has stripped away much of the additional nutritional value of the food. These foods are tasty, with added sugars and salts to heighten the flavor. But the human digestive system hasn’t evolved to handle the overload of simple carbohydrates, saturated fats, and sodium they deliver.

    Over time, our taste buds become accustomed to all that sugar and salt, too, and stop sensing the more subtle flavors present in whole foods. We want to consume more and more for the big chemical hit brought on by the sugar and fat content – and the cycle strengthens.

    All along, our gut microbiomes are reacting. The organisms that favor sugar and salt thrive, while others that help regulate mood or hormones or reduce blood sugar, languish without adequate nutrition. The result is poor health, weight gain, and a loss of energy and vitality. The effect of processed foods limiting the diversity and health of the gut microbiome is well-established, but what has been less clear, until now, is how to reverse this cycle.

    That’s why this plant-based plan is quite different. It focuses simply on increasing the quantity and diversity of whole, plant-based foods you consume. This includes everything from whole grains like oats, wheat, and barley to herbs and spices like basil and oregano. It includes those power-packed protein sources like chickpeas, lentils, beans, and yes, even soy – but in fresh or fermented forms instead of industrially-produced meat substitutes.

    Of course, fruits and vegetables are also on the menu, and this plant-based plan encourages you to try them all. But believe it or not, that ugly apple from the farmers market or humble backyard tomato likely packs a bigger nutritional punch for you and your gut microbiome than the plastic-wrapped ones from the supermarket. That’s because local, organic produce has had more time to absorb nutrients from the soil and still carries the microbes from the healthy soil for your health.

    Similarly, locally-produced nuts, seeds, herbs, and legumes are also rich sources of both macro- and micronutrients and offer a diversity of microorganisms that can transform your gut health. That’s why the only actual rule of plant-based eating is that diversity matters, with the added caveat that minimally-processed plant foods pack more than just nutritional benefits, but can actually be the source of gut-healthy microbes that transform the way you feel.

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    What is Eat More, Live Well about?

    Eat More, Live Well (2021) offers a fresh take on the diet and health connection, building on the importance of a diverse and thriving gut microbiome for health, well-being, and longevity.

    Eat More, Live Well Review

    Eat More, Live Well (2021) by Megan Rossi is a book that explores the connection between our diet and our overall wellbeing. Here are three reasons why this book is definitely worth reading:

    • With its evidence-based approach, the book provides readers with practical tips and advice to improve their eating habits and optimize their health.
    • By analyzing the latest scientific research and sharing real-life stories and case studies, it gives readers a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between nutrition and wellness.
    • By debunking common myths and emphasizing the importance of a balanced and varied diet, the book challenges conventional wisdom and encourages readers to think critically about their food choices.

    Who should read Eat More, Live Well?

    • Frustrated calorie counters looking for a tastier way to health
    • Scientific minds curious about the relationship between gut microbes and well-being
    • Anyone looking for a more sustainable way to lose weight, increase energy, and live with more abundant health

    About the Author

    Dr. Megan Rossi is a research fellow at King’s College London as well as an internationally renowned author, dietician, and nutrition expert. She founded and directs the Gut Health Clinic in London. Her books Eat More, Live Well and Eat Yourself Healthy are both Sunday Times best sellers.

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    Eat More, Live Well FAQs 

    What is the main message of Eat More, Live Well?

    The main message of Eat More, Live Well is to prioritize a healthy and balanced diet for overall well-being.

    How long does it take to read Eat More, Live Well?

    The reading time for Eat More, Live Well varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.

    Is Eat More, Live Well a good book? Is it worth reading?

    Eat More, Live Well is a worthwile read for those looking to improve their nutrition and health. It provides practical insights and tips to achieve a balanced lifestyle.

    Who is the author of Eat More, Live Well?

    Megan Rossi is the author of Eat More, Live Well.

    What to read after Eat More, Live Well?

    If you're wondering what to read next after Eat More, Live Well, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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