Whether you're six or sixty, if you go on a diet and lifestyle program and feel constrained, you're likely to go off it sooner or later. Offering a spectrum of choices is much more effective; then, you feel free and empowered.

In this quote, Dean Ornish emphasizes the importance of flexibility and personal empowerment when it comes to a diet and lifestyle program. He argues that whether you're six or sixty, if a diet feels too restrictive or constraining, it's likely that you’ll abandon it eventually. Ornish suggests that providing a spectrum of choices—rather than rigid, one-size-fits-all rules—makes it easier for people to stick to healthy habits over the long term. When people feel free to make their own decisions within a healthy framework, they are more likely to stay committed to their goals.

Ornish’s statement highlights a key element of his philosophy: that true health and wellness come from empowerment and the ability to make choices that fit one's individual lifestyle. Instead of following strict, unsustainable diets, Ornish advocates for a more flexible approach where people can choose from a variety of healthy options. This way, they don’t feel deprived or limited, which can often lead to frustration and abandonment of their health goals.

The origin of this quote comes from Dean Ornish, a physician known for his research on lifestyle medicine and heart disease prevention. Ornish has long championed the idea that lasting health is best achieved through sustainable lifestyle changes rather than quick-fix diets. His approach involves integrating diet, exercise, and emotional support in a way that allows individuals to feel empowered and in control of their health.

Ultimately, Ornish’s message is about creating a balanced approach to health, where people are not bound by strict limitations but instead have the freedom to make choices that work for them. By offering a range of healthy options, individuals are more likely to feel motivated and engaged in their health journey, making long-term success more achievable.