The Mount Athos Diet: The Mediterranean Plan to Lose Weight, Look Younger and Live Longer

This charming diet guide from writer/photographer Richard Storey, nutritionist Todd, and food writer Lottie Storey outlines a plan inspired by the lifestyle and culinary choices of the Mount Athos monks, whom Richard visited on a trip to northern Greece (tradition bars women from the idyllic peninsula). He discovered the monks to be among the healthiest and fittest men on the planet, commonly living into their 80s and 90s. Following a fascinating history of the “Holy Mountain,” settled by Christian hermits in the seventh century C.E., the authors present the plan, which involves three Fast Days (following a vegan diet), three Moderation Days (dairy, fish, and chicken allowed), and a weekly Feast Day. Although certain rules are followed (e.g., no red meat, except on feast days) the plan’s beauty, the authors claim, is in its flexibility; readers are encouraged to choose their own schedule for the various days, and to be creative with recipes. “Monks don’t count calories,” the authors note, but they do practice moderation, limit alcohol (red wine on Moderation and Feast Days with meals), and avoid snacking. This unusual and inspiring diet book contains a selection of uncomplicated, healthful recipes, as well as suggestions for meditation, positive affirmations, and exercise. (Aug.)