As a fireman Rip Esselstyn has helped people and saved lives, but with his ENGINE 2 DIET plan he will help save lives on a much larger scale. A world-class professional triathlete-turned-fireman, as well as the son, grandson and great-grandson of renowned physicians, Rip Esselstyn knows how to live a healthy lifestyle. So, when he learned that one of his fellow Engine 2 firefighter's cholesterol level was dangerously high, he immediately went into action. First, he created THE ENGINE 2 DIET, a 28-day health and weight loss program. Next, he enlisted not only his at-risk friend, but the entire firehouse to follow the plan. Everyone lost weight (some more than 20 pounds!), lowered their cholesterol and improved their overall health. Encouraged, Rip went on to further prove the effectiveness of his plan through a citywide study--and the results were even more amazing! In this easy-to-follow, 28-day program, readers are given a choice of two plans; the Fire Cadet Plan begins with a "flexitarian" approach to eating that includes a nutrient-rich, mostly plant-based diet featuring fresh fruit, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, some fish and chicken, and the other, the Firefighter Plan, is all plant-based. To ensure every reader's success, THE ENGINE 2 DIET also includes recipes, meal plans, grocery lists, cooking tips, and a firefighter-inspired exercise program to boost metabolism, build strength and endurance.