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Rating: 
Summary: A Good Introduction
Review: As the other reviewers have commented, it is a good introduction and has some very enticing recipes (which I haven't had an opportunity to try yet, but I will). And, in general, I agree with all of the things that they say. However, the book is far from flawless. First of all, anytime that the book refers to sodium or cholesterol, they mean milligrams, not grams. This is a potentially fatal difference if you are not aware of what is going on. Secondly, unlike they did with fat, the authors did not point out the absolutely crucial nature of cholesterol. Being an animal fat, it isn't present in vegetables, but it is an important dietary supplement in very small amounts for the manufacture and maintenance of cell membranes. Thirdly, they make a true statement that excess protein in your diet can hamper calcium absorption, and can even promote calcium loss, but they fail to mention that you would have to eat such high amounts of protein that you would know that something was wrong. Amongst other disorders you would experience are gout and proteinuria, a shedding of excess proteins in the urine. At least the latter and most likely the former would occur before you would have to worry about osteoporosis as a result of excess protein. So, take what they say about protein with a grain of salt; follow USDA guidelines and you should be fit and healthy. Also, consult a doctor or dietician to determine your ideal amount of protein as well. Other than that, an excellent book both for those considering the path and those who have recently begun to travel it. I shall pass it on.
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Rating:
Summary: A Good Introduction
Review: As the other reviewers have commented, it is a good introduction and has some very enticing recipes (which I haven't had an opportunity to try yet, but I will). And, in general, I agree with all of the things that they say. However, the book is far from flawless. First of all, anytime that the book refers to sodium or cholesterol, they mean milligrams, not grams. This is a potentially fatal difference if you are not aware of what is going on. Secondly, unlike they did with fat, the authors did not point out the absolutely crucial nature of cholesterol. Being an animal fat, it isn't present in vegetables, but it is an important dietary supplement in very small amounts for the manufacture and maintenance of cell membranes. Thirdly, they make a true statement that excess protein in your diet can hamper calcium absorption, and can even promote calcium loss, but they fail to mention that you would have to eat such high amounts of protein that you would know that something was wrong. Amongst other disorders you would experience are gout and proteinuria, a shedding of excess proteins in the urine. At least the latter and most likely the former would occur before you would have to worry about osteoporosis as a result of excess protein. So, take what they say about protein with a grain of salt; follow USDA guidelines and you should be fit and healthy. Also, consult a doctor or dietician to determine your ideal amount of protein as well. Other than that, an excellent book both for those considering the path and those who have recently begun to travel it. I shall pass it on.
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Rating:
Summary: Very Helpful and Easy to Read
Review: Filled with tons of practical information, it covers all the bases that almost anyone beginning or interested in beginning a vegetarian/vegan diet wants to know. It does so in a simple, friendly, and informal manner. The "tips" and "callouts" are especially valuable. Easy & enjoyable reading, and highly recommended.
Rating:
Summary: Definitely worth the money
Review: Just purchased this book a few days ago and am very pleased. It is a quick and easy read, packed with a multitude of information. This book manages to hit all major areas of vegetarian concerns, outlining the basics and giving suggestions for further reading. This book is a great springboard for getting you started in your new diet and includes a wonderful, not too complicated menu section.
Rating:
Summary: Definitely worth the money
Review: Just purchased this book a few days ago and am very pleased. It is a quick and easy read, packed with a multitude of information. This book manages to hit all major areas of vegetarian concerns, outlining the basics and giving suggestions for further reading. This book is a great springboard for getting you started in your new diet and includes a wonderful, not too complicated menu section.
Rating: 
Summary: Great Intro to Vegetarianism
Review: This is a great book to introduce you to vegetarianism. It starts off by giving you some reasons to go vegetarianism without being preachy or judgmental. It then debunks some of the myths and worries you may have about vegetarianism as well as educates you on what you'll need to know to eat healthy on a vegetarian diet. The comic drawings throughout are great, too. There's a section on stocking your pantry, followed by a section full of enticing recipes. The book ends with some other related issues that may or may not have factored into your decision to become a vegetarian (such as animal rights or animal welfare and environmental protection). Again, the authors don't preach or push. They leave it up to you to decide how far you want to go with things and what your underlying motivations are. There is also a section on vegetarianism if you're not the "average American" (i.e. you're pregnant, a teenager, a child, etc.). This is a wonderful book that manages to give a lot of information and help for beginning vegetarians without being overwhelming or confusing.
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