The Seven Secrets of Slim People

Rating:
Summary: Good advice, dumbed-down
Review: This book provides good, constructive facts and advice on overcoming overeating without dieting, but it is presented entirely in sound bites. Every page spread has a list of bullet points on the left side and a single, large-font pull quote on the right side. It could very easily be turned into a massive PowerPoint file.

Depending on who you are, this could be just what you need. If you're in a hurry, or don't like to read, or need some quick inspiration, it could be great. If you don't mind reading and thinking, or you like self-help books that persuade rather than preach, or you're looking for "real-life" anecdotes to help inspire you, this might not be your cup of tea. If you're in the latter category, I recommend "Intuitive Eating: A Revolutionary Program That Works" over this book.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent Book - All you have to do is 'just do it'
Review: This is a message to all reviewers who think thin people eat whatever they want whenever they want. Two years ago, I lost about 30 pounds and have kept it off (without regaining) since. Most people would consider me thin. I exercise at least 3 times per week (ususally four) and eat nutritious food that falls within certain calorie ranges at each meal. There is no food I like that I refuse to eat, but I don't eat whatever I want whenever I want. Just last night, I ate a single scoop of ice cream for dessert. It's a new flavor and really good. After I finished, I really wanted to go back in the kitchen and get another scoop. But I didn't. I knew that, over the course of the day, I had met my body's needs and those unneeded extra scoops of pleasure add up (typically on my thighs!) You determine what your body needs. My stomach sure wanted that extra ice cream and my brain could have rationalized it. If I had "listened to my body", eventually my jeans would be too tight.
Part of what I have learned is that your appetite changes to accomodate the amount of food you eat. If you overeat occasionally, your stomach will feel stuffed and your brain will say "Quit already!" If you overeat routinely, your stomach will start to accomodate you and your brain will say "Better have some more bread with that pasta." Been there many times. Point being, you need decide what your body needs and not rely on your stomach and brain to convey accurate information. Your body can be a bit self-serving.
I will rate this book highly because I support books that help people reach their goals.