Weight Loss Book Review

Here's the first book (told you I was a fast reader). It is Super Nutrition for Women by Ann Louise Gittleman.

I found overall that the book has many good points. The chapter "Controlling Those Crazy Carbohydrates" isn't as much about staying away from them, but controlling your cravings for them. There are carbs that can get you down like sugar, processed wheat and pasta. And carbs that can pick you up like fresh veggies and whole grain and seed breads.

The suprising part for many will be to stay away from things even like whole wheat pasta and breads, because of their gluten content. Also fruit juice, unless unsweetened (a hard thing to find in a grocery store -- if you don't believe me, try checking labels next time you're there) is a no-no. Even fresh fruits should be eaten in moderation because of all the sugar they contain.

Fat is not to be avoided at all costs. True, you should not go hog-wild and fry up all your dinners, but a reasonable amount of fats per day is actually necessary for good health. How much? Around 2 tablespoons a day.

If there is a part I take some exception to, it's the bit about artificial sweetners. Along with refined sugar, they are to be avoided at all costs. I agree that one shouldn't overload themselves on either one, but a little (maybe equivalent to 2 of those little packs you see in restaurants) -- is that so bad? Apparently so. Stevia is the sweetner of choice. I've tried it and am not crazy about it. Besides the fact that it is quite expensive. Guess I'll have to just cut way back on sweetners of all kinds -- that part makes sense.

I think it's a good overall book. Dr. Gittleman (PhD, not MD) is also a certified nutritionist, so I have to belive the vast majority of the information is very valid. Also included is a section on nutritional supplements, and how to get more of the trace minerals so that you don't have to take supplements.

So, two thumbs up for Super Nutrition for Women.