BOOK REVIEW FROM CLEVELAND.COM

Cleveland.com
The Plain Dealer
FROM THE SELF-HELP SHELF

Healthful Diet is Both Sound and Fun
Wednesday, May 17, 2006

The California Wine Country Diet
(Quill Driver Books/Word Dancer Press Inc., $25)
by Haven Logan and Sharon Stewart.

Psychotherapist Logan and dietitian Stewart urge readers to abandon the notion that they need to deny themselves the pleasures of appetizing foods and wines in order to attain a healthful weight and lifestyle. By practicing the "art of conscious indulgence," readers can balance responsibility—paying attention to nutrition, portions and physical activity—with the satisfaction that comes from savoring the foods they love.

Much more than a diet, this book helps readers deal with the complex emotional issues that often sabotage weight loss. The first six chapters address nutrition, physical activity, practicality, pleasure, relationships and variety. The remaining chapters provide opportunities to increase self-awareness and reflection by creating goals, action plans and tracking progress.

The meals feature whole grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy and lean meats, fish and poultry. Fifteen percent of the total calories come from pleasure foods; these are not necessary nutritionally but provide culinary satisfaction. They help one say goodbye to willpower and hello to conscious indulgence.

Rarely have I found a plan so sound yet so simple. It mimics what many weight- and health-conscious dietitians do to enjoy life and live healthfully. Innovative recipes from California's wine-country restaurants complete this extraordinary book.

—Cindy Moore Special to The Plain Dealer