Former Austin firefighter Rip Esselstyn says he can change your
life.

"In 28 days your cholesterol will go from the attic to the
basement. If you're male you'll lose around 14 pounds, female 8
pounds," Esselstyn said.

He is the author of the Engine 2 Diet. It is a plant based diet inspired by an unlikely source.

"One of my fellow firefighting brothers got his cholesterol back
and it was 344," Esselstyn said. A preferred cholesterol level is under 200.

"Almost in an act of solidarity we dropped the wings, and the
burgers, and the fajitas and the blue bell ice cream," Esselstyn said. "We started doing the cheeseless pizzas and plant strong burgers."

Changing the poor eating habits of his fire buddies was not enough for Esselstyn. He wanted to change everyone's eating habits.

"I knew as long as I was wearing my firefighter gear and my
firefighter boots I could only help so many people," Esselstyn said.

He did some research, wrote the Engine 2 Diet, and is now watching it spread like fire. It's a national best seller that's gain the attention of media nationwide. The diet is based
on ditching some foods and replacing them with others.

"We are going to kick to the curb the meat, the dairy, and the
processed and refined foods," Esselstyn said. "Instead we eat more fruits more vegetables, more whole grains and more beans."

Exercise is also an important factor in the diet.

"Number one is nutrition and number 2 is exercise," Esselstyn.

Taco Deli Owner Roberto Espinosa took on the 28 day challenge and it worked.

"I lost 40lbs," Espinosa said. "I have so much more energy."

Espinosa is now working on creating Engine 2 approved items on his menu. Whole Foods is jumping on the Engine 2 bandwagon as well, working with Esselstyn to promote the diet.

Esselstyn knows not everyone will buy into his plan. He hopes to at least get people talking about living a healthier lifestyle.

"I think one of the most important conversations we can have
around the dinner table right now is our health," Esselstyn said.

For more information visit TheEngine2Diet.com.