By Liz Vaccariello and D. Milton Stokes, MPH, RD

Rodale Inc. (2010)

Reviewed by Jim White, RD

Claims

This books claims that you can lose up to 27 pounds in 32 days and target belly fat by eating a diet rich in monounsaturated fatty acids.

Synopsis of the Diet Plan

The major theme is that monounsaturated fats are essential for maintaining health and keeping excess weight off your body. The book goes into great detail about the differences between "good" and "bad" fats, as well as sources of "good" fats. The eating plan starts with a four-day "kickstart," and then proceeds with a four-week diet plan. It includes meals that are quick and easy to prepare and has a recipe section for those who like to cook and have more time to prepare meals. There are caloric values for each meal or snack and many of the meals include a basic nutrient breakdown. Again, the monounsaturated fat in each meal or snack is emphasized most throughout the plan. There is an exercise plan that seems basic and easy to follow and includes both cardio and strength building routines. At the end, there is a food and exercise log for tracking your progress.

Nutritional Pros and Cons

Healthy eating and balanced meals are encouraged and appealing meal options are featured. The book includes easy-to-follow recipes and a food and exercise diary to help keep track of your progress. The diet plan seems fairly easy for readers to personalize for themselves. I find fault in that, while the book emphasizes the importance of fat in the diet, it does not discuss the importance of protein or carbohydrates in nearly as much detail. This may cause the reader to believe the amount of fat they eat is most important in becoming fit and healthy.

Bottom Line

The average reader would have success in achieving his goals following this plan and I would recommend it to men who want to lose some weight.