Diet Books

If you thought there was a lot of information about diets on the Internet, then there appears to just as many diet books on the market.

Where Do I Begin to Find Good Diet Books?

For every fad diet that you can think of, there are probably several books on the topic.  If you are looking for books based on sound research, reputable sources, good nutrition and good results, then there are several places to start.

  1. Look at what nutritionists are happy to recommend.  They are often quoted on health websites, well-produced television health shows and on radio shows with a health emphasis. 
  2. Check out your local health food store.  They will often stock reputable and safe books on dieting.
  3. Check library catalogues for ideas using the keywords: diet, nutrition, weight loss, reducing diets, health, and metabolism.  Libraries have chosen items according to the above criteria.
  4. Check if an author of a book you are interested in has written other books on health, giving them some credibility in the subject area.
  5. Check government health websites, who may issue warnings about fad diets, and may give advice on good sources of diet books.
  6. Check medical/health websites maintained by real health professionals for suggestions

What Should I Look For in a Good Diet Book?

A healthy diet, an achievable exercise plan and simple instructions are the hallmark of good diet books.  Books that don't make outlandish claims about huge amounts of weight you will lose in short amounts of time are to be favoured.  Think about it.  How long did the weight take to go on?  Should you realistically expect it to come off in two weeks?

Will you have to cut out whole food groups?  Will the diet be too restrictive?  Does it contain a balance of proteins, carbohydrates and good fats?  Will you get enough vitamins and minerals?  Will you get bored following the diet?  Is it too complicated?  Does it inspire and motivate you.  Do you think you will be able to achieve the same results as the true-life success stories included?

Examples of Good Diet Books and Authors

These authors all have some authority and expertise in the field of nutrition, dieting, exercise and weight loss :

  • Myths. Lies & Exercise - by Geoff Jowett and Dr Vicky Hillier
  • Strong Women Stay Slim - by Dr Miriam E. Nelson
  • Body for Life - by Bill Phillips and Michael D'Orso
  • CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet - by Dr Manny Noakes and Dr Peter Clifton
  • The G.I. Diet: The Easy, Healthy Way to Permanent Weight Loss - by Rick Gallop