No Revelations Here I know everyone else is raving about this book, but I just don't see the big deal. In that it's one of the "complete idiot's" series, I was expecting something a little less "gimicky." However, these authors' diet recommendations remind me so much of The Zone, i.e., protein/carb/fat combo meals where the carbs are in the form of fruits & veggies. They note that our ancient ancestors didn't eat grains and suggest that we limit our consumption. I agree on the limits and like the new food pyramid where the grains are not the foundation; however, I do think eating whole grains shouldn't be discouraged to the extent that the authors discourage it. After all, barring those ancient ancestors, our more recent ancestors (i.e., those in the last few hundred years) have been eating grains, and America's obesity problem is just getting out of hand in the past 30 years, so we can't blame it on grains. The authors do have some common sense advice in the part of the plan that advises readers only to eat when hungry and to eat only until satisfied, not full (e.g., a portion about the size of your fist). The authors say that this is the way thin people eat, and we should emulate that if we want to be thin. I agree with that part. However, I was annoyed at the contradictions in the book. The authors continually suggest that we act and think "thin," but then they make suggestions for eating in a way that I've never seen any of my thin friends do. For example, the authors say that you can eat those cheeseburgers and that pizza, but when you do, eat the burger without the bun and the pizza without the crust. I've never seen a thin person do that unless for some odd reason that person didn't like bread (I don't know anyone who doesn't like bread). I think that suggestions like these perpetuate the dieting mentality. I would have prefered them to suggest eating a smaller burger or just one piece of pizza.
All in all, I don't think the book is harmful, but it didn't measure up to my expectations of books in the "complete idiot's" series. For those who like the concept of eating only when hungry (a concept I highly recommend), I suggest Seven Secrets of Slim People. This book advocates that type of eating, but doesn't suggest any food restrictions. The only aspect of the COMPLETE IDIOT'S guide that I prefer to Seven Secrets is their recommendation to eat breakfast even if you're not hungry. I believe this is necessary to get your metabolism moving in the morning.
lost 35 pounds After adopting the ideas in the book, Complete Idiot's Guide to Weight Loss, I proceeded to lose 35 pounds in 2.5 months. I'm 5'10 and now weight 170 pounds. Hurrah!
Practical, effective, and informative Hooray! Finally a smart weight-loss approach that you can rely upon for the rest of your life. I love it! And it works. Never preachy, this book is helping me approach eating, food, my body, and getting to my ideal size without guilt or silly approaches to food.
This is the lobster of weight loss books!! I have learned more from half this book than I've learned half my life. This book has taught me all the things I've done wrong in trying to lose weight and how to fix them. Why all my efforts have failed, or if I did loose some weight why I did not keep it off. This is not a diet book it is a living book. This book is exellent "food for fat"
Fabulous non-diet book I am thrilled to have this book. You need this book if you want to lose weight. I am now eating based on my hunger and the info in this book and it is working. I have lost a dress size already -- in just 2 weeks. Lucy's formula worked for her to lose 50 pounds and keep it off for 20 years and thank goodness, she is now sharing it with all of us. She is a true inspiration. Plus, I am learning how to be thin in not just my body, but also in the way I think and live. My life and attitudes are changing in wonderful ways -- and I still can eat and enjoy my chocolate! The book is a delight to read - and it feels as if Lucy knows exactly how I feel and think. Yes, this is a warm and cuddly weight loss book. It is extraordinary and it works!
Anything Goes Trivia
Megaton Man
Trevor
