Foreword by Dr James Muecke AM MBBS (Hons) FRANZCO

Australian of the Year 2020

Ophthalmologist

Chairman Sight For All

  A healthy diet is something that's very important to me. In my 30-year career as anophthalmologist, I've seen firsthand the damage wrought by type 2 diabetes. The disease is the leading cause of blindness in working-age adult Australians. Diabetic retinopathy, a diabetes complication that affects the eyes, has no symptoms in the early stages and, if it's not treated in time, can cause complete and irreversible blindness. 

Type 2 diabetes is almost entirely preventable and yet the disease now affects close to one in ten Australians. Obesity is a major risk factor for the disease and one of the main ways it can be prevented, and even reversed, is through diet. 

  As a nation, our consumption of sugar, refined carbs and junk food is way too high. We need to cut down on sweet ultra-processed foods and get back to buying fresh, unprocessed ingredients and cooking our own food. Any initiatives that encourage the eating of real food, such as this book, should be promoted and celebrated. 

  As Dr Samantha Pillay points out, cooking your own food means you know exactly what's gone into it - there are no hidden sugars or other nasty surprises. You have total control. 

In my medical career, I've seen so many people who simply lack the tools they need to lead a healthy lifestyle. This book will give you some of these tools.

  If you don't know how to cook or just want to limit the amount of unhealthy takeaway food you eat, The No Recipe Cookbook could be the help you need to change your life. Dr Pillay's simple, straightforward method is easy to follow and will have you eager to get into the kitchen and start experimenting. Most of her meal ideas really are faster than ordering a takeaway and they're definitely healthier. 

  If this book can help even a handful of people to start cooking for themselves, it will be a step in the right direction. Let's all get into the kitchen and start taking back control over what we eat. 

  Your health is in your hands. 

"As a restaurant owner and cookbook author, I understand the importance of cooking and eating well. Basic cooking skills and the perceptions of individuals around their own cooking ability are major barriers to most people living a healthy lifestyle. The No Recipe Cookbook is built on the same understanding. Unlike many cookbooks, it doesn't just tell you what to do, but it explains why and how. This is fundamental to a sustainable healthy lifestyle. Healthy eating, sound nutrition knowledge, and a positive food culture are key to a healthy population and have the ability to significantly reduce the burden on our healthcare system. This book gives individuals and families the skills and knowledge they need to live a healthy life without strict rules and in a non-pretentious, relatable tone."

Themis Chryssidis, Managing Director, Sprout Food Group 

M Nutr & Diet, B Psych, Cert IV PT

Accredited Practicing Dietitian