I spotted an interesting interview on CNN with Michelle Pfeiffer about how she looks so good both inside and out at…….54!

Unfortunately the answer is veganism. I say ‘unfortunately’ because being a vegan requires thought, commitment and knowledge. The mistake many people make is to just cut out all animal products and believe that it is enough.

Michelle explains that she was inspired by Bill Clinton’s story. He radically changed his diet to combat heart disease. He acknowledged that significant change was required to rebuild his health and ensure his future . His daughter is a vegan and this encouraged him to look into a completely different way of eating. His current diet is “near vegan” and apart from healthy weight loss; his heart is in much better shape.

Michelle was interviewed on the Piers Morgan show (in the States) by a stand in who is also a doctor, Sanjay Gupta. I’ve got say she does look amazing, particularly as an ex-smoker. Michelle is very inspirational; a true testament to the power of a well thought out, nutritionally dense and balanced diet.

Before the naysayers leap out of the shadows to criticise, please note I say “a well thought out nutritionally dense and balanced diet”.

In the current environment of searching for a quick fix to look fabulous at every age, the diet is a great place to start. However I cannot stress enough the importance of ensuring it is a healthy diet. That means enough of the right kind of protein, good fats and complex carbohydrates. To embrace this approach we all need good information.

Whilst your medical practitioner may be a good resource for this, during the Pfeiffer interview a book was mentioned that Clinton used to make those radical changes. Being an Amazon junkie I immediately ordered it. ‘Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease’ by Caldwell B. Esselstyn, JR., M.D., a researcher and clinician at the Cleveland Clinic for more than thirty-five years, looks sensible and doable.

It’s interesting isn’t it? Both Bill and Michelle are two people who are very wealthy and have access to as much of anything they want in life. Yet they have chosen a lifestyle that is for most of us challenging. The message is obvious; health is the ultimate prize.

So my first step with the book in hand, is to investigate. If I think it is sustainable for my lifestyle, I’ll give it go. However do I want to become a vegan? Hmm, I’m not sure? Do I want to look as good as Michelle Pfeiffer? Do I want to get maximise my heart health?

You bet your can of lentils I do!