Enchanté!

Hello, I'm Paola Westbeek, a seasoned culinary and wine journalist with an enduring passion for French cuisine. For over two decades, my words and recipes have graced the pages of national and international media. However, it was in 2022 that my professional journey took a transformative turn as I immersed myself in the world of plant-based gastronomy.

My venture into plant-based living was sparked by a personal challenge – my husband's diagnosis with type 2 diabetes. Fueled by a determination to reverse the condition, I delved into the realms of medical and nutritional research. Guided by influential works like The China Study by T. Colin Campbell and the insights of esteemed physicians such as Michael Greger, Neal Barnard, and Caldwell B. Esselstyn, I discovered the profound impact of plant-based nutrition. Within a mere two months, we witnessed the reversal of diabetes without the need for medication, marking a pivotal moment in both my personal and professional life.

Now, armed with a renewed mission, I aspire to inspire through my words, recipes and roles as a cooking teacher and culinary coach. My goal is to ignite enthusiasm for a plant-based/vegan lifestyle, demonstrating that cooking without animal products is not only health-conscious but also exquisitely elegant and delicious.

My own experiences have not only propelled me toward a more compassionate lifestyle and improved health but have also opened exciting new avenues in my career. As a journalist and advocate for plant-based gastronomy, I am committed to exploring, sharing, and celebrating the richness of this lifestyle. Join me on this flavorful journey, and let's discover the joys of plant-based living together!

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Read My Substack newsletter, The French Life
Buy my mini-cookbook, Plant-Based Eating With Joie de Vivre