After Layne Lieberman, a former Nassau Herald columnist and registered dietician, discovered that Italy, France and Switzerland had the world’s lowest rates of heart disease, obesity and diabetes, yet some of the most indulgent foods, she jetted off to learn their health secrets.
“I quickly realized that these countries would be excellent role models for us all, including our children and grandchildren, thanks to their superior diets and lifestyles,” Lieberman said.
On Nov. 15, Lieberman’s first book, “Beyond the Mediterranean Diet: European Secrets of the Super-Healthy,” will be released. “If you love to eat and like to drink and still want to be slender and live a long, healthy life, than you will want to read this book,” Lieberman said.
From 1986 to 1991, the Lawrence High School alum operated Nutrition Learnings Center in Cedarhurst, a health food store that offered cooking classes and diet and nutrition programs, while also writing the “You Are What You Eat” column from 1988 to 1990 in the Nassau Herald. Lieberman then joined King Kullen Grocery Co. in 1991 to develop and oversee nutrition awareness programs.
Combating the worldwide obesity epidemic is Lieberman’s priority as her book features tips and nutritious recipes. “I have always loved food; food was my life,” Lieberman said. “But my world came crashing down around me when I was diagnosed with dangerously high cholesterol at the age of nine. I learned that it could be controlled through changes in my diet, so I had to say goodbye to my favorite breakfasts of overstuffed omelets, pancakes with bacon and cream cheese-slathered bagels. As I found answers to my own diet questions, I felt a powerful calling to help others struggling with their personal food dilemmas.”