Tony Gonzalez advocates all-natural supplements for all

Gonzalez, a vegan, was looking for ways to add protein to his diet.

"The people are really liking that niche, that all-natural niche," Gonzalez said. "It's something that people are recognizing, that you have to put good stuff in your body because it affects what you get out of your body."

With Gonzalez being dedicated to doing things the all-natural way, he could only shake his head when he heard the explanations from Houston linebacker Brian Cushing after his four-game suspension was announced for violating the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing substances.

"You're heard it all before," Gonzalez said. "That's the only thing. The NFL does a good job of [publicizing] where you can send all of your stuff and see if it's correct."

Gonzalez said some guys violate the league policy when they take weight-loss supplements.

"[Some] are not trying to cheat or gain extra muscle," Gonzalez said. "It's unfortunate, but the NFL gives you ample opportunity to go out there and get it tested. There is really no excuse when it comes down to it."

For now, Gonzalez's products are available online, and he promotes them through his

account, TonyGonzalez88, which has more than 8,000 followers.

"The plan is to go into all of the stores like Whole Foods," Gonzalez said. "I'd like to be in Costco. I want to take it as far as it can go because it's something that's needed."

Gonzalez frowns upon the companies who put artificial flavors and synthetics in their supplements.

"That's stuff that you don't need," Gonzalez said. "You can do it the natural way, and I'm living proof of that."

He also admonishes NFL players for being unaware about what's in their supplements.

"You have to do it the natural way, otherwise you're going to get busted," Gonzalez said.

One misconception about the book is that the All-Pro Diet was for athletes trying to reach all-pro status. But Gonzalez said it's for the average person or the weekend warrior. He's doesn't view it as much as a diet, but more of a lifestyle change.

"It's not something you do to lose five pounds or something like that or to get ready for muscle beach down in Miami or something," Gonzalez said. "This is something that you do for your life, not just for your weight, but for your life and longevity."

There are some interesting recipes in the book. Including the banana-coconut smoothie, cilantro-grilled salmon and lemon-honey mahi-mahi.

"I always mix it up, as far as my smoothies go," Gonzalez said. "This morning I put coconut water instead of rice milk."

He mixed it with the spinach, raspberries and a banana and blended it up.

"It's a great way to start the day," Gonzalez said. "You get all of your good vitamins with your fruits, vegetables and some good high-quality protein. That with a bowl of oatmeal is a great way to start the day."

He also recommends the white-bean chili recipe.