You’ve probably heard about, or even know someone who follows a vegan diet. But how much about this lifestyle do you really know?

For instance, did you know that this whole food, low-fat, plant-based diet can prevent and even reverse heart disease? It is an amazing fact – especially since Americans today spend more than a billion dollars each year to treat coronary heart disease - the most common heart problem in our country. And, often these standard treatments often just act as “Band-Aids,” simply slowing disease progression.

Over the years, a number of physicians and researchers have discovered an easy way to prevent and even reverse heart disease - and it’s a simple lifestyle change - a plant-based diet.

Aultman Cardiologist Dr. Terry Tegtmeier, along with Adene Keller, RN formed “The Canton Project” back in 2009 with the mission to initiate, educate and support heart patients - and others - who were considering or had adopted a whole food, low-fat, plant-based diet. The successful vegan diet support group continues today and consists of two meetings each month.

For newcomers, there is an introductory lecture on the evidence supporting the vegan lifestyle. This monthly 2-hour presentation helps participants gain an understanding on what they can do to improve their health. It also includes practical instructions on how to begin the lifestyle change. The next lecture will be held on Monday, May 8 at 5 p.m. in the Aultman Cardiac Rehab Education Room.

The support group meeting for “The Canton Project” is also held monthly – on the third Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. The group is free to the public and approximately 25-40 members attend each month. Reservation is required. For more information or to register, call Cardiac Rehab at 330-363-5403 or contact Adene Keller at adene.keller@aultman.com.

In addition to educational presentations, DVDs and question & answer sessions, the group shares stories, friendships and recipes – like the one below! If you are interested in learning more about “The Canton Project,” please contact Adene Keller or call 330-363-5403.

Slow Cooker Apple-Spice Oats

• 1 cup steel-cut oats
• 4 cups water
• Pinch salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1-2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/4 cup golden raisins
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated
• Pinch ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 2 large organic apples, chopped

Instructions: Put all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cover and cook on low overnight, or for 8 hours. Before serving, add a chopped apple and one tablespoon of ground flax seed. Serve with almond, soy or oat milk.