(RALEIGH) -- Health guru Dr. Neal Barnard is challenging North Carolina residents to get fit. The physician and author, who is often seen on PBS, says most Tar Heels citizens are not in very good physical shape.

"Two thirds of people in [North Carolina] are overweight, and about half of those people are obese."

Barnard says the number of people who developed diabetes has doubled in the past ten years, and excessive weight is a contributing factor. He says people who focus on a diet of plant foods have the least amount of problems with regard to weight.

The noted physician and diet expert has issued a challenge to North Carolina citizens to eliminate animal products out of the diet.

"It's the best way for people to lose weight and get healthy."

Bernard says his "21 Day Weight Loss Kickstart" will take a dieter to the next level with a plant-based approach to eating. He says his research has found that at the end of a three week period of eating on plant-based meals, the dieter will prefer healthier foods and their metabolism will increase.

To learn more about Dr. Neal Barnard's program, "21 Day Weight Loss Kickstart," visit the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine website at: http://pcrm.org/kickstartHome/