In a world where health concerns and environmental issues are more pressing than ever, our daily choices—especially what we eat—have a profound impact. Dr. Colin Zhu, a board-certified Family Practice and Lifestyle Medicine physician, certified health coach, and trained chef, is on a mission to revolutionize the way we think about food. His new book, Empowered Kitchen, is more than just a cookbook; it's a guide to mindful eating, sustainability, and overall well-being.
Through a 4-part Q&A series, we explore the inspiration behind the book, the connection between food and sustainability, the diverse experts who contributed, and how readers can take action in their kitchens.
In this first Q&A, Dr. Zhu shares the personal and professional experiences that inspired him to write this book and how his unique background influences its content.
- What personal experiences led you to write Empowered Kitchen, and what do you hope readers will take away from it?
After attending culinary school and deepening my understanding of the powerful intersection between food, nutrition, and health, I realized something fundamental: every bite we take either enhances our health or fuels disease.
Through my travels and experiences as a certified scuba diver, I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact of human activity on our planet—climate change, environmental footprints, and the way our food choices contribute to these global challenges. Empowered Kitchen is my way of connecting the dots, showing that mindful eating not only transforms personal health but also plays a role in protecting our environment. My hope is that readers walk away with a renewed awareness of their food choices and the power they hold to create change—both in their own bodies and in the world around them.
- How has your background as a physician, health coach, and chef shaped the philosophy of this book?
Food is medicine. It can be used as a tool for healing, prevention, and nourishment. What we eat plays a direct role in our well-being—more than half of the top causes of death are linked to diet and lifestyle choices.
As a physician, I’ve seen the impact of chronic diseases firsthand. As a chef, I understand the emotional, cultural, and sensory experience of food. And as a health coach, I bridge the gap between knowledge and action. Empowered Kitchen reflects this holistic perspective, blending the science of nutrition with the art of cooking and the psychology of behavior change. My goal is to help people develop culinary skills as a survival skill, making healthy eating accessible, enjoyable, and sustainable.
- What are some of the biggest misconceptions people have about plant-forward eating, and how does Empowered Kitchen address them?
One of the biggest misconceptions is that plant-forward eating lacks nutrition—especially protein—and isn’t sustainable for long-term health. Some believe it’s only for certain lifestyles or that it doesn’t provide enough fuel for strength, endurance, and longevity.
But the truth is, science overwhelmingly supports the benefits of a plant-predominant diet. Research shows that plant-forward eating can prevent, treat, and even reverse many chronic diseases while supporting weight management, athletic performance, and overall vitality. In Empowered Kitchen, my co-authors—experts in their respective fields—bring evidence-based insights to dismantle these myths. We provide practical strategies, backed by science, to help people embrace plant-forward eating in a way that feels nourishing, fulfilling, and sustainable.
At its core, Empowered Kitchen is about transforming the way we see food—not as a restrictive diet but as a powerful tool for health, longevity, and environmental impact.
