[(Physical Intelligence; How to Take Charge of Your Weight)] [By (author) Dr. Tom Smith] published on

by Tom Smith

This book analyses the often-complex factors that influence weight gain, from our hormonal make-up to our eating psychology. Full of evidence-based research and real-life case histories, it gives intelligent advice on what to do when confronted with the need to tackle your health, or that of your child. It emphasises that exercise is key and that eating is one of the joys of life, not a medication. Topics Our hunter-gathering past; Exercise intelligence; Why we don't exercise enough; Hydration intelligence; Nutritional intelligence; Fasting intelligence; Antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and other supplements.

Paperback

First published August 15, 2013

Reviews

[Sophie · Rating 3 out of 5]

With a focus on robust research from highly regarded medical journals (see the extensive references section at the back), this book covers a lot of bases in a short space. Written by a GP there is some anecdotal evidence but Dr Tom Smith clearly does spend a lot of time researching his material.

Exercise is clearly stated as the key to weight loss and health, while the message regarding food seemed rather mixed, with formal diet structures being described both positively and negatively in different parts of the book for different reasons. The significant research evidence that restrictive diets don't work was highlighted. Interesting for a book of this type to also cover supplements and surgery too.

There was little that I hadn't heard before (some of the evidence regarding exercise being the exception), but it was an interesting read and I would definitely recommend to others.