The Gorgeously Green Diet: Save Money, Save the Planet, Simple Recipes

by Sophie Uliano

From the New York Times bestselling author, a 30-day plan to a leaner body

In the follow-up book to her bestselling Gorgeously Green , Sophie Uliano reveals the secrets to getting slim while being good to the planet . It turns out that eating local, organic, foods doesn't have to be expensive, and a healthy meal can be made in 30 minutes or less, all while shedding pounds.

In her relatable, girlfriend-to-girlfriend tone, Uliano pledges that anyone can go green and lean, no matter where they live or what resources they have. Uliano recognizes that dieting and going green are big lifestyle changes and makes it easy for readers to commit to both by allowing them to personalize their plans according to their needs. The book has three diet plans-light green, bright green and deep green- that depend on how much time, travel, and money readers want to commit to going green. The three plans promise the same amount of weight loss, but the darker green the plan is, the greater the commitment the reader makes to reducing waste, going organic and staying carbon neutral.

Each diet plan emphasizes natural, seasonal, whole foods that are not only better for the planet, but better for the body. Uliano explains how over-processed, over-produced foods contain fewer nutrients, are harder to digest and are more likely to be stored as fat. With 4-week eating plans for each shade of green, she shows readers how to wean themselves off of processed, manufactured foods and onto fresh vegetables and meat. The book recommends products, brands and websites and has over 100 recipes-every tool readers need to get lean while going green.

Genres: Nonfiction, Food, Health, Green, Cookbooks, Self Help, Cooking

384 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2009

About the author

Environmental guru Sophie Uliano presents GORGEOUSLY GREEN, the modern girl's guide to living in sustainable style."

Reviews

[Denae · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved this after first reading it--I was inspired, and better yet, motivated, to change my life for the better and I felt newly made in my understanding of "good food." It wasn't until I started following Sophie's blogging and status updates that I started to hesitate...it's still a well put-together book with great recipes and a very helpful understanding that people will be approaching the reinvention of their eating habits from varying levels of commitment, but I do question some of the research presented as hard fact in the book. As is the case with any book making claims about food and nutrition, what we know is changing constantly and for many of the items discussed there is a good deal of debate left to be had before science gives us anything solid. Sometimes Sophie links to very questionable articles on her website and Facebook, opinionated claims that are posted on low-quality websites, and it makes me wonder about the things she says in this book. I will still use it often in my kitchen, I just plan to continue my education on nutrition elsewhere.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this book recommendation from a blog... now that I look back at the recommendation - the review is not that convincing so that is odd that I decided to add it to my library queue but I'm glad I did!

The cover of this book totally put me off and I didn't even realize it was a "diet" book - but don't let that turn you off. The reason I gave it 4 stars is that I think it compiles a lot of the information I've read in books like Skinny Bitch, Michael Pollen's books (that i've started but never finished ... see rest of this review), etc. but in a really easy way to understand and read and one which is more conversational and friendly [those of you who have read Skinny Bitch will understand why this can be important!:] I think I read this book (which appears rather huge) in less than a week. Super Easy Read. I felt like it had a lot of practical tips but didn't overwhelm to the point that some other books have ... which just led me to either fret way too much or decide to become completely ignorant! I think she gives you just enough information to be curious about gardening, cooking, eating right, etc. and I found it quite motivating! I've been focusing on eating more meat free meals and pondering what I'm going to grow this year and thinking about what I can do to "vote" with my almighty dollar too. I think that was the most important thing I got out of this book: that every little person CAN make a change and by buying organic meat sourced in a humane manner & organic produce, you are showing your support and making a difference with your dollar.

I agree with some other reviews of this book in that it's not really a diet book AT ALL but more of a practical guide to eating & living. enjoy!

[Trinidad Acosta-Christon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned a lot reading this book!

[Mary Ellen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed the read, but I wish it wasn't marketed as a "diet." It's more of a green lifestyle.

[Karina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book. Probably my favorite of all the health books I've been reading lately. Sophie in many ways seems to be more moderate in her health ideas. The other books I've read talk about cutting out different food groups because of health risks and some other more extreme ideas, but Sophie talks about eating from every food group, just in moderation and trying to get certain things organically, things that have the most chemicals and pestisides. She also give 3 different plans for 3 different levels, so if you are just beginning, there are some very moderate plans. Or if you want to go all out, there are plans for that too, and in between. She also gives many ideas on conserving energy, and recycling. Her book basically has some great info about healthy food, helping the earth, exercise, and beauty. She also gives lots of great webistes with tons of info. We'll see how things go with all this "going green" stuff, but I just might have to buy this book!

[Courtney · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book is a few years old so it's not surprising that some of the information may be "outdated". I think it's not a bad reference for someone who is fairly new to the green movement. It actually has some great tips on how you can lessen your impact, and I liked the level concept (light green, bright green, deep green). That being said, I hate books that give you set menus to follow. They always seem incredibly repetitive and often I can't eat nearly as often/as much as they say to. This book was no different in that aspect. Also the week one shopping list for the deep green (which is how I try to eat anyway) was probably in the neighborhood of $300 considering you're buying a mostly organic and natural products. That's probably more than I spend on food in a month, so word to the wise...make sure you're committed to following through. Otherwise you're throwing a good chunk of money in the trash, or preferably, your compost pile.

[Yoonmee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unless you've been living under a rock for the past few years, you probably know most of the basics in this book: organic food has less chemicals/toxins/pesticides, eat "clean," eat less meat, eat more veggies and whole grains, cut way back or completely on the processed foods. Still, it's nice to have things laid out in an easy-to-digest form (pun intended hehe) coming from a non-judgmental voice. I skimmed through most of the book, but I guess I'm already Bright Green or Deep Green, so I guess the book isn't really for me. If you're new to the idea of eating "clean" and/or are interested in starting to eat more organic, healthier foods, then this book is probably a good place to start. I mentioned it previously, but it's nice to read a book about this kind of stuff that's not too preachy, non-judgmental, and doesn't bog the reader down with too many facts and statistics.

[Terri · Rating 2 out of 5]

I should have been suspicious when I saw this in a discount bin.

A lot of the advice is a retread that anyone who's taken a cursory look at "green" diets would be familiar with. I should buy organic veggies, huh? The author cites a lot of research without giving any details on it or distinguishing between the strengths of different studies. I know for sure that a lot of what she presents as established fact is actually very preliminary.

And I really hate it when a book about food lays out a specific meal plan for a diet -- it shows a lack of imagination or true understanding of how foods work together, and it's not the way people really eat. And finally, the recipes were boring. I gave up on this one halfway through.

[Maggie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was expecting to find some new healthy and eco-friendly ways to eat from this book. I was really disappointed, basically I have to give up soy, buy only organic, drink raw milk and kefir. The author continuously makes the reader feel bad for not wanting to use her suggestion.
If you don't want to eat steel cut oatmeal in the morning then I guess you can take instant oatmeal with you to work. However it really isn't healthy for you so eat at your own risk. That is not a direct quote but it is pretty close.
I made an attempt at this book but I am giving up and moving on.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great easy read. Has a plethora of easy to apply tips for greening all aspects of your life. Many things I knew and was happy to reinforce, and some tips were new to me! I enjoyed this book and its many simple but wonderful recipes: new favourite granola recipe within!
Would recommend to anyone who wants to take a step or two or three towards greening their life, no matter what stage you are at.

[Summer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing, amazing, amazing! I found this book for $6.99 and couldn't resist. Essential for anyone interested in beginning (or maintaining) a healthy, eco-friendly diet. Wonderful information that kept me enthralled and absolutely inspired me! Full of information on the foods we eat, as well as tips, exercises, and a plethora of recipes.

[Kayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would recommend buying this book; it has many lists, recipes and tips that need re-read and referenced.

I LOVED this book. Every girl should own this book. Really. No excuses.

So, the bad part is this book is really convincing. I really really really want to go organic now. But the cost! THE COST! She makes such a good argument...

[Julia · Rating 4 out of 5]

A helpful go-to source for those interested in eating and living in a greener manner without sneering attitude I anticipated. Meets the reader at his level and is a fantastic resource. Glad I stumbled over this one in particular from among all the rhetoric in the bookstore.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really good book addressing differing levels of interest and involvement in going green - with food, household issues, etc. She makes recommendations and suggestions one three different levels, without negative judgement for any level. Even I found some new information in it.

[Ratforce]

One of the biggest new health trends involves green, local, and organic foods. Sophie Uliano has developed a reputation for providing reliable tips and advice that will not only improve your health, but also protect the environment.

[Heather O'toole · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the book that really got me thinking green. Lots of useful information.

[Y · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't say enough about Uliano's books. They are brimming with invaluable information for all readers who are interested in "greening" their lives. This is a must-read!

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some very good advice. Some that doesn't make sense (lemon juice is alkaline?).

[Marlo Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this book and continue to use it as a refernce.

[Heatherherwig · Rating 3 out of 5]

A bit of advertising. Some ideas, some grocery list, meal plans, and recipes all in one. Its motivated me to live well, eat well, be well.

[Renae · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is really great. She provides baby steps to changing eating habits.

[Vita · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book! It was filled with useful information. I was not keen on the recipes, but loved everything else.

[Alexandra_Aimee_ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Recipys in this book are yummy, but I feel like the word "diet" shouldn't be in there, because it's a bit misleading. It's a book about healthy eating habbits.

[Amy Ellis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Awesome recipes and a modifiable diet! I love how she says to start each day with lemon water before eating. This is an excellent recipe/lifestyle book if you are interested in natural living.

[Dayini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable and non-judgemental read. Much more than just a diet book, more of a lifestyle book. I borrowed this from the library but am planning to purchase this and other books by Sophie ASAP!

[Annice22 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Don't let the title fool you. It's not a typical diet book but a way to live a more greener life. There are plenty of recipes and everyday tips for the beginner to the advanced.

[Emma Kalmbach · Rating 2 out of 5]

Skimmed it but didn't get in depth.

[Devon · Rating 2 out of 5]

More of the same. I'm currently reading other food books, and this one just didn't grab my attention.

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

Don't believe everything you read (there's a good reason milk is pasteurized). However, if you can digest it with a grain of salt, this is a great book.

[Sonia Crites · Rating 3 out of 5]

Most of the information was fairly elementary but it was good to refresh on some of it.