You - On a Diet: The Owner's Manual for Waist Management Review

 

A mega-besteller thanks to catching Oprah's eye, "You - On a Diet: The Owner's Manual for Waist Management" was co-authored by physicians Dr. Mehmet Oz and Dr. Michael Roizen. This book is different from most weight loss books in that the Drs.' focus here is specifically on the width of our waists, not our body weight. Their belief is that the amount of fat around the midsection is a far better indicator than the number on the scale to assess overall health and predict the onset of chronic disease.

The authors say that, "the average American is 34 pounds overweight and has a waistline 6 inches larger than it should be". Their science-based plan aims to reduce fat around the waistline, shaving two inches from the waist in two weeks. There are 4 steps which must be accomplished to kickstart the process:

1.) Measure your waistline to get a baseline of where you are.

2.) Walk 30 minutes a day minimum, preferably with a companion so you'll stick with the program. Make exercise a priority.

3.) Clean out your refrigerator. You know what should go.

4.) Automating two meals per day.

The first two weeks of You - On a Diet are a re-booting program of your diet and exercise habits. Eating plans are outlined, and its all healthy foods, all the time to break the cycle of craving the carbs, sugars, etc. Your cleaned out refrigerator should now contain fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Be warned: the dietary guidelines are pretty limited, as the authors believe that having too many tasty options leads one to overeat. You will be walking and stretching regularly, and strength training three days a week. The book provides exercise plans and illustrations of stretching and strength exercises which can be done at home.

The authors are doctors - as such they offer comprehensive, yet easy to understand, scientific information on how the body works. There is valuable and interesting insight on weight control, fat storage, fat burning, genetics and the importance of physical activity

This is a solid book, borne from real science and clinical experience, that sets realistic, attainable goals. One thing to note: the primary focus of You - On a Diet is belly fat. If the mid-section is not where you carry your excess weight then you'd probably be better off with a program more specific to your personal needs.