A fascinating and scientific look into why we eat what we eat. I am a food addict, and I think it’s the hardest addiction in the world, because we don’t have to take drugs or drink alcohol, but we do have to eat. There is no such thing as being a recovering addict. The best you can hope for is to be a functioning addict—because food is always there. I think the author would disagree with that, and say you can be cured by altering your diet. With respect, I would say that is retraining and reconditioning—not a cure. That cliff is still there, and you are still standing on it—just a couple of stones lighter.

The writing in this book is excellent. It is very intelligent and comes from a place of knowledge.  It looks at every aspect of overeating from a physical, emotional and mental perspective. It puts the facts across in a no-nonsense, clear way that is easy to understand without being patronisingly simple.

I was surprised at the level of science in the book. We go deep into the physiological make-up and biology of the gut and it’s workings. We look at various and often opposing hormones and are shown how they work and directly relate to weight—and more importantly, hunger.

This is one of the best books I’ve read on the subject. We all know ‘Eat less/excerscise more,’ but this author understands  how difficult that is for some of us. He takes a common sense approach to making tiny changes. He doesn’t ask you to step away from the cookie jar. He says ‘Don’t have four cookies, take three.’ There are tips on retraining your body to expect and want—then need, less food. He reminds us how good it is to get out of the office and  go for a walk. We look at the endorphins that are released and why that makes you feel good, and proud, and better than you have all week.

This book made me want to walk. Did I do it. No. But I will, it’s still winter here in bleak old England. We’re waiting for the weather to get warmer and then the dogs will get longer than their ten minute run—if only at the weekend when life is slower.

There are good foodies—and not so good foodies. We, fall-at-the-wayside, foodies should have this book on our nightstand at all times. No, not to stand your slice of cake on.

It is inspiring. It is informative and intelligent and it shows you why you do what you do, and  it gives you the tools you need to fix it. All you have to do is open the tool box and choose a wrench not a litre of ice cream.

I highly recommend this to anybody who wants to make a real difference in their lives. Brilliant book with some sage advice.

Jason Newman’s other book is about alcohol consumption. And I believe there is a new one in the offing regarding mental and physical wellbeing.