FengFit Foods represents a unique intersection of culinary innovation and holistic health, born from the vision of Dr. Lu-Jean Feng. Rooted in the belief that food is medicine, FengFit Foods offers a range of plant-based options designed to nourish the body, reduce inflammation, and promote overall well-being. This article explores the origins, offerings, and philosophy behind FengFit Foods, highlighting its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients and its role within the broader context of The Feng Clinic's wellness programs.
The Genesis of FengFit Foods: A Doctor's Vision
Dr. Lu-Jean Feng, a microvascular plastic and reconstructive surgeon and founder of FengClinic in Pepper Pike, Ohio, recognized the profound connection between nutrition and healing. Inspired by Hippocrates' ancient wisdom, "Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food," Dr. Feng observed that patients who consumed nutrient-dense foods experienced better healing outcomes after surgery. This realization fueled her desire to revolutionize the American food system and address the prevalence of chronic diseases linked to poor dietary choices.
Driven by a desire to "feed the community with healthy food," Dr. Feng introduced FengFit Foods, a collection of plant-based soups, salads, dressings, entrees, smoothies, and snacks crafted with nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory ingredients. Initially available only to patients and staff at the clinic, FengFit Foods has expanded its reach to the broader public, offering accessible options for individuals seeking to prioritize their health through mindful eating.
A Menu Designed for Wellness
FengFit Foods offers a diverse menu of plant-based options, carefully crafted to exclude animal products, refined sugars, white flours, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and dairy products. The emphasis is on fresh, whole ingredients, with a commitment to sourcing approximately 90% of ingredients locally and organically.
Signature Salads
Salads account for a significant portion of FengFit Foods' sales, with Dr. Feng's Signature Salad being the most popular choice. This one-pound, single-serving salad features hydroponically grown, local red and green lettuces, carrots, chickpeas, edamame, cucumbers, red and yellow peppers, apples, dates, and almonds. It is accompanied by Apple Blossom Dressing, a soy-free vegan mayo-based dressing made with apple cider, apple cider vinegar, and light brown sugar. Other salad options include arugula and roasted tofu salad and Asian crunch salad, with dressing choices such as Asian sesame, champagne vinaigrette, vegan ranch, and poppyseed. The salad was fresh, delicious and generous. One reviewer described getting a salad that served 4 with apple blossom dressing & a dessert bar to go, and noted it was one of the best salads they’d ever had.
Read also: High-Fiber Diet for Better Health
Entrees and Snacks
The entree selection includes options such as veggie burgers, roasted cauliflower steak, and vegetable stir-fry. The veggie burger is a mushy style, but delicious and topped with crunchy, delicious onions and beets. The tofu entree was filling and tasty. The most popular snack is the rainbow chia seed parfait, and the superfood cranberry crunch bar has been updated with better ingredients.
Accessibility and Availability
FengFit Foods are available through various channels, making it easier for individuals to access healthy, plant-based meals:
- FengClinic: Packaged items can be purchased from a vending machine in the lobby at the back of FengClinic in Pepper Pike.
- Heinen's Stores: FengFit Foods are also available at select Heinen's stores in Pepper Pike, Chagrin Falls, and Bainbridge.
- Takeout: In addition to a small cafe and outdoor seating, a well -run takeout option exists. The food was fresh, delicious, and carefully packaged; even the bun for the veggie burger was separately packaged to prevent it from getting mushy. The veggie burger and tofu steak came with large kale salads packed with veggies.
The Feng Clinic: A Holistic Approach to Health and Well-being
FengFit Foods is an integral part of The Feng Clinic's comprehensive approach to health and well-being. The clinic emphasizes that being healthy is not simply the absence of illness but a holistic state encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
The Lifestyle Program
The Feng Clinic offers a customized 3-month Lifestyle Program developed by Dr. Lu-Jean Feng. This program is designed to help individuals achieve their health goals, whether it's weight loss, weight gain, stress reduction, or simply adopting a healthier lifestyle. Dr. Feng's expertise as a physician, surgeon, plant-based nutrition expert, and Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement advocate informs her role as a Wellness Coach for patients. The unique 3-month Lifestyle Program includes comprehensive lab work to provide an internal blueprint of your overall health. These results provide Dr.
Additional Services
In addition to FengFit and the Lifestyle Program, The Feng Clinic offers a range of services aimed at promoting overall wellness:
Read also: Supporting Detoxification
- Infrared Sauna: One reviewer had an AMAZING Infrared Sauna.
- Ionic Foot Detox: One reviewer had an informative Ionic Foot Detox.
- Fitness Training: Feng Fitness offers a unique, upscale workout environment for fitness enthusiasts. Various group classes will be available throughout the week to meet the needs of those seeking a more challenging cardiovascular workout or an intense stretching session. Classes are designed for all fitness levels and instructors are certified and capable providing the necessary guidance and instruction. Classes will change from time to time to accommodate demand. Prior to any fitness training we will conduct a complete medical fitness assessment to determine your level of fitness. This critical information will provide us with knowledge of your physical capabilities and any limitations you might have. Available in one-on-one private sessions or in small groups of two to four people. All of our trainers are experienced and certified by a nationally recognized athletic board.
The Importance of Nutrition After Surgery
Dr. Feng emphasizes the crucial role of nutrition in the healing process, particularly after surgery. She advises patients to consume nutrient-dense foods, such as vegetables and clean protein sources, while avoiding saturated fats. She suggests that people who eat nutrient-dense food, not fatty meats and other unhealthy foods, heal better. For beef that might be low-fat filet mignon, or better yet, wild-caught seafood.
Dr. Feng also cautions against consuming wine and CBD before surgery, as they can increase bleeding.
Expansion and Future Growth
As FengFit Foods gains popularity, the company is expanding its production capacity. A 9,000-square-foot kitchen is opening in Solon to meet the growing demand for its plant-based offerings.
Customer Experiences and Reviews
Customer reviews of FengFit Foods and The Feng Clinic are mixed, with some praising the quality of the food and the professionalism of the staff, while others express concerns about the ambiance and accessibility.
One reviewer, while acknowledging the freshness and quality of the food, described the atmosphere as "weird" and expressed uncertainty about returning. Another reviewer initially felt like they were "trespassing" upon arrival but was ultimately impressed by the welcoming staff and the overall experience. However, they wished Fengfit was open longer.
Read also: The Definitive Guide to Flourless, Sugar-Free Dieting
Another reviewer noted that this full service restaurant with outdoor heated dining and take out service available is a hidden gem on the East side. Located in the Feng clinic building, you wouldn’t know from the street this restaurant exists and that it is completely open to the public.