Diet Books

A Review of the Best Selling Diet Books

Nutrition experts recommend a lifelong eating plan composed of:

• 50 to 60% carbohydrates,
• 20 to 30 % fat, and
• 10% protein.

The Mediterranean Food pyramid proportions are:

• 45% carbs,
• 40% fat (primarily monounsaturated), and
• 15% protein.

If you are a serious bodybuilder, you need more protein.

Keeping these percentages in mind will help you to compare the recommendations of the various authors of these diet books to determine how big of an adjustment you will need to make when you have reached your goal weight and switch to maintenance for the rest of your life.

The Volumetrics Eating Plan: Techniques and Recipes for Feeling Full on Fewer Calories
By: Barbara Rolls, Ph.D, and Robert A. Barnett

Theory: Eat low calorie dense foods to lose weight without feeling starved. Read low calorie dense foods to learn more.
Approximate Carb/Fat/Protein: 60/20/20

Dieting with the Duchess: Secrets and Sensible Advice for a Great Body
By: Sarah, Duchess of York and Weight Watchers

Theory: Using a point system to monitor food intake simplifies the process. Points are based on a food's calorie, fat and fiber content.
Approximate Carb/Fat/Protein: 55/20/25

A Week in the Zone
By: Barry Sears, Ph.D.

Theory: A ratio of 40/30/30 carb/fat/protein promotes health and weight loss by keeping insulin levels in "The Zone". Read more about low glycemic foods and insulin damage from excess sugar.
Approximate Carb/Fat/Protein: 40/30/30

The Pritikin Principle: The Calorie Density Solution
By: Robert Pritikin

Theory: Eat low calorie dense foods to lose weight without feeling starved. Learn more about low calorie dense foods.
Approximate Carb/Fat/Protein: 70/10/20

Eat More, Weigh Less: Dr. Dean Ornish's Life Choice Program for Losing Weight Safely While Eating Abundantly
By: Dean Ornish, M.D

Theory: Eat low fat healthy foods.
Approximate Carb/Fat/Protein: 80/5/15

The Ultimate Weight Solution: The 7 Keys to Weight Loss Freedom
By: Dr. Phil McGraw

Theory: Lifestyle change is the only way to long term and sustainable weight loss
Approximate Carb/Fat/Protein: 60/20/20

Other Popular Diet Books

Dr. Atkins' New Diet Revolution
By: Robert Atkins, M.D

Theory: Restrict carbs because only carbs make you fat
Approximate Carb/Fat/Protein: 15/55/30

The Protein Power Lifeplan
By: Michael R. Eades, M.D. and Mary Dan Eades, M.D

Theory: Insulin causes obesity. Limiting carbs lowers insulin.
Approximate Carb/Fat/Protein: 15/60/25

The New Sugar Busters
By: H. L. Steward, M. C. Bethea, S. S. Andrews, and L. A. Balart

Theory: Refined cards raise blood sugar causing obesity<
Approximate Carb/Fat/Protein: 35/40/25

This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be taken as medical advice.