"I made a fundamental decision to change everything about the way I approached cooking and eating"

My mother is Australian and my father is Chinese. They separated when I was very young and my mother worked full-time to support my sister and me. From the age of 11, as the eldest child, I often cooked our evening meal. Something that started out as a daunting chore became a passion. The mix of cultures in my heritage, and growing up in Melbourne in a family of artists on my mother’s side, gave me a natural flair for taste, texture and creativity. With my husband’s Italian background, through his family and our travels, Italy also became a rich source of discovery. I loved learning about the flavours and traditions of his homeland and blending them into my own recipes and understanding of food. With this backdrop, cooking became second nature to me and a way to express myself. Our kitchen quickly became part artist’s studio, part food laboratory and part playroom.

Sixteen years ago, at the age of 40, I was diagnosed with a glucose intolerance and six years ago with type two diabetes. Both findings were a shock. I was a practising fitness instructor and had always been extremely health conscious. I exercised regularly and felt I was leading a healthy lifestyle. Intuitively, I knew the only major lifestyle improvement I could make was to my diet. I researched everything I could about ingredients, cooking methods and how our bodies process food. I spent countless hours sourcing alternatives for white sugar, flour and rice, and replacing artificial ingredients with fresh produce. I learned more about organic suppliers and local producers. I slowly discovered where I needed to ‘play it safe’ and where I could have huge scope for fun…and about the core truth that healthy food can be delicious, simple and beautiful to all our senses.

I have been researching and experimenting for 16 years and it is a passion that continues today. Although I have never used diabetes medication, I continue to have regular tests and believe everyone needs to balance their diet with sound medical advice. However, what I love doing is helping others discover the power of nutrition. When we take responsibility for our wellbeing, we can see dramatic and positive changes. This is a lifestyle choice that requires focus and commitment; it’s not a 12-week program but a new way of life.

This book, and the philosophy behind it, is about falling in love with making and eating great food, all over again. Welcome to my family’s dinner table.