In 'Why We Get Fat', Gary Taubes challenges the conventional wisdom surrounding diet and obesity, arguing that the true culprit is not calories, but carbohydrates. He delves into the science of how insulin and other hormones affect our bodies, leading to weight gain in ways most of us are unaware of. Taubes provides a compelling critique of the dietary guidelines that have shaped our eating habits for decades. With a mix of history, biology, and personal anecdotes, he invites readers to rethink their understanding of food. Can redefining our approach to eating unlock the secrets to lasting weight loss?
By Gary Taubes
Published: 2011
"The simple truth is that we are not fat because we overeat; we overeat because we are fat. To address the raging obesity epidemic, we must understand the hormonal and metabolic factors that drive our bodies to store fat, rather than merely counting calories or restricting portions."
NATIONAL BESTSELLER • “Taubes stands the received wisdom about diet and exercise on its head.” —The New York Times What’s making us fat? And how can we change? Building upon his critical work in Good Calories, Bad Calories and presenting fresh evidence for his claim, bestselling author Gary Taubes revisits these urgent questions. Featuring a new afterword with answers to frequently asked questions. Taubes reveals the bad nutritional science of the last century—none more damaging or misguided than the “calories-in, calories-out” model of why we get fat—and the good science that has been ignored. He also answers the most persistent questions: Why are some people thin and others fat? What roles do exercise and genetics play in our weight? What foods should we eat, and what foods should we avoid? Persuasive, straightforward, and practical, Why We Get Fat is an essential guide to nutrition and weight management. Complete with an easy-to-follow diet. Featuring a new afterword with answers to frequently asked questions.
Showing 8 of 29 similar books
Jordan Hughes is a celebrated author known for their compelling narratives and richly developed characters. Their debut novel, "Echoes of Tomorrow," won the prestigious Man Booker Prize, marking a significant milestone in contemporary fiction. Hughes's work often explores themes of identity, resilience, and the human condition, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated readership. In addition to their novels, Hughes has contributed thought-provoking essays to major literary journals, further solidifying their influence in the literary world. Their innovative storytelling continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
Samin Nosrat is an acclaimed chef, food writer, and author known for her bestselling book "Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: Mastering the Elements of Good Cooking," which has been praised for its accessible and insightful approach to cooking. Her work earned her the prestigious James Beard Award for Best General Cookbook in 2018. Nosrat's influence extends beyond print; she also stars in a Netflix series based on her book, further popularizing her culinary philosophy. Heralded for her ability to demystify complex cooking techniques, she has contributed to major publications like The New York Times and Bon Appétit. Samin Nosrat continues to inspire both novice and seasoned cooks with her emphasis on fundamental cooking principles and joyful exploration of food.
Nassim Nicholas Taleb is a Lebanese-American author, scholar, and risk analyst, best known for his work on uncertainty, probability, and risk. His books, including The Black Swan and Antifragile, explore how rare and unpredictable events shape the world and how individuals and systems can become more resilient to shocks. Taleb’s insights on risk management have influenced fields ranging from finance to medicine, and he is known for his outspoken criticism of conventional wisdom. His ideas about randomness, decision-making, and the limitations of human knowledge have made him a leading thinker in modern economics and philosophy.
David Blaine is an American illusionist, endurance artist, and magician, known for his daring and extreme stunts, such as being buried alive, encased in ice, and holding his breath underwater for a record-breaking amount of time. Blaine gained fame for his street magic performances, but his endurance feats have pushed the boundaries of what the human body can achieve. He has been widely recognized for his contributions to magic and illusion, combining elements of mysticism with physical and mental challenges. Blaine’s work has captivated audiences worldwide and has set new standards in the world of magic and performance art.
Brian Cox is a Scottish actor and director, best known for his roles in films like Braveheart and Adaptation, as well as for his portrayal of media mogul Logan Roy in the hit HBO series Succession. Cox is renowned for his commanding screen presence and his ability to convey complex, often morally ambiguous characters. He has had a distinguished career in both film and theater, earning numerous awards, including a Golden Globe for his performance in Succession. In addition to his acting work, Cox is a vocal advocate for arts education and has been involved in various charitable initiatives. His longevity and versatility have made him a respected and influential figure in the entertainment industry.
Mark Hart is a prominent hedge fund manager and investor, known for his successful bets against the U.S. housing market during the 2008 financial crisis. Hart is the founder of Corriente Advisors, a firm that focuses on macroeconomic trends and global market strategies. He gained widespread attention for his accurate predictions of market downturns, including his insights into the European sovereign debt crisis. Hart’s investment style is characterized by deep macroeconomic research and a contrarian approach. His work in the finance world has made him a respected figure, particularly for his ability to anticipate large-scale economic shifts.
Anthony Bourdain was an acclaimed chef, author, and television personality known for his deep exploration of global cuisine and culture. He gained widespread recognition with his 2000 bestseller "Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly," which offered an unvarnished look behind the scenes of the restaurant industry. Bourdain's literary talents extended to several other books, including "A Cook's Tour" and "Medium Raw," further cementing his status as a compelling storyteller. His groundbreaking TV shows such as "No Reservations" and "Parts Unknown" took viewers on culinary adventures around the world, earning him numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards. Bourdain's legacy endures as a pioneer who celebrated the richness of diverse cultures through food.
Earthling Ed, whose real name is Ed Winters, is a prominent British animal rights activist, author, and public speaker. Known for his compelling advocacy, he co-founded Surge, a non-profit organization dedicated to ending animal exploitation. Ed's literary contributions include his influential book "This is Vegan Propaganda: (And Other Lies the Meat Industry Tells You)," which challenges the ethics of animal agriculture and promotes veganism. He is also known for his educational outreach, engaging in debates and discussions to raise awareness about animal rights. Through his work, Earthling Ed has become a leading voice in the global vegan movement.
Showing 8 of 17 related collections
“The simple truth is that we are not fat because we overeat; we overeat because we are fat. To address the raging obesity epidemic, we must understand the hormonal and metabolic factors that drive our bodies to store fat, rather than merely counting calories or restricting portions.”
Why We Get Fat
By Gary Taubes
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Gary Taubes is an acclaimed American science and health writer, best known for his critical examination of dietary science and public health. He is the author of several notable works including 'Good Calories, Bad Calories', 'Why We Get Fat', and 'The Case Against Sugar'. Taubes advocates for a low-carbohydrate high-fat diet and challenges conventional nutritional guidelines through his investigative journalism and rigorous analysis. His writing style is characterized by a clear, persuasive narrative that blends scientific research with real-world implications, aiming to illuminate complex topics in a comprehensible manner.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "The Plant Paradox," Dr. Steven Gundry challenges conventional notions about healthy eating, revealing surprising truths about the concealed dangers of many plant-based foods. He introduces the concept of "leaky gut" and how certain proteins found in plants, called lectins, can sabotage our health and weight loss efforts. Through compelling science and personal anecdotes, Gundry unveils a revolutionary diet that encourages a radical rethinking of our relationship with food. With a blend of culinary wisdom and health hacks, he empowers readers to embrace a new way of nourishing themselves. Prepare to question everything you thought you knew about plants and discover a path to vibrant health!
In *Wheat Belly*, Dr. William Davis unveils the hidden dangers of wheat in today's diet, challenging popular beliefs about healthy grains. He reveals how modern wheat has evolved into a high-gluten, addictive substance that wreaks havoc on our health, contributing to obesity, diabetes, and a host of other ailments. With a compelling mix of science and personal anecdotes, Davis empowers readers to reclaim their health by eliminating wheat and exploring a low-carb lifestyle. The book offers practical strategies and appetizing recipes to help you break free from wheat dependency. Curious about what life could taste like without grains? Dive in to discover a new path to vitality!
In 'Hot for Food Vegan Comfort Classics,' Lauren Toyota transforms traditional comfort food into mouthwatering vegan delights. From creamy mac and cheese to luscious desserts, every recipe is crafted to satisfy cravings without sacrificing taste. Toyota's engaging storytelling and culinary wisdom bring joy to the kitchen, inviting both seasoned vegans and curious newcomers to explore plant-based eating. With vibrant photography and easy-to-follow instructions, this book promises to make you fall in love with vegan cooking. Discover how comfort food can be both indulgent and guilt-free!
In 'Nursery Crimes' by Ayelet Waldman, the seemingly idyllic lives of parents are shattered when a series of mysterious and comical events unfold in a local daycare. As mom and former public defender turned sleuth, Amanda, delves into the chaos, she uncovers dark secrets lurking beneath the surface of quaint playgrounds. With a mix of humor and suspense, Amanda navigates the complexities of parenthood while unraveling a conspiracy that could shake their community to its core. As each clue reveals unexpected twists, readers are drawn into a whirlwind where nothing is quite what it seems. Can Amanda solve the mystery before it’s too late, or will the truth remain hidden among the nursery rhymes?
Explore the extraordinary life of Andy Grove, the visionary leader who transformed the semiconductor industry and propelled Intel to greatness. Richard S. Tedlow delves into Grove's immigrant background and relentless pursuit of excellence, offering insights into his innovative management style. Discover how his resilience and strategic thinking shaped the tech landscape, making him a pivotal figure in modern business history. This captivating biography reveals the personal and professional challenges that Grove overcame on his journey to becoming a Silicon Valley icon. Will his lessons in leadership and foresight inspire the next generation of innovators?
In 'Naked Statistics', Charles Wheelan demystifies the world of statistics and reveals its crucial role in everyday decision-making. Through engaging anecdotes and humorous insights, he illustrates how statistical concepts can be both intriguing and practical. Wheelan empowers readers to interpret data with confidence, highlighting common pitfalls in reasoning. This accessible guide transforms what many see as a dry subject into a captivating exploration of the power of numbers. Dive into the world of statistics and discover how it can illuminate your understanding of the world!
In 'Eat Fat, Get Thin', Dr. Mark Hyman challenges conventional dieting wisdom and argues that healthy fats can be the key to effective weight loss and improved metabolic health. He presents a groundbreaking approach that promises to shed excess pounds while enhancing overall vitality. With practical recipes and meal plans, this guide empowers readers to embrace fat as a friend rather than a foe. As you journey through the pages, you'll discover the science behind this revolutionary method and learn how it's transforming lives. Are you ready to redefine your relationship with food and uncover the secrets to a healthier you?
In 'Good Calories, Bad Calories,' Gary Taubes challenges conventional dietary wisdom, asserting that not all calories are created equal. He delves into the history of nutrition science, revealing how misplaced beliefs about fat and carbohydrates have misled society for decades. Through meticulous research, Taubes exposes the flaws in popular diet regimes and argues for a reevaluation of our approach to food. This compelling read raises questions about the true causes of obesity and chronic diseases. Prepare to rethink everything you thought you knew about nutrition!