Listened as an audiobook and could not put down. I’ve read almost every book I can get my hands on re GLP-1 receptor agonists (probably 6 or 7 at this point), and still learned something new in this book and teared up at a few of the patient stories.
We as a society have wasted so much time judging people for a complex medical condition that is (mostly) out of their control. I took some notes and may come back to edit this review, but I am definitely going to recommend this if/when people ask.
Picked up this book because it listed Oprah as a co-author, but honestly it was more that she added to the topic discussed in some chapters. It was informative but repetitive. If you’ve struggled with weight issues you’ll know what I mean. I gained a better understanding of the scientific side of obesity, GLP-1 medications, and their side effects. It definitely helps with making an informed decision if you are considering medication.
This book, written by Dr. Ania M. Jastreboff, an obesity-medicine specialist and scientist, together with Oprah Winfrey, was eye-opening in ways I didn’t expect.
There were so many parts of this book that felt genuinely life-changing. One line from the preface by Dr. Jastreboff especially stopped me in my tracks: “The truth is that obesity is a disease. It’s not a choice. It’s not about willpower. It’s a disease.” That single statement reframed so much for me. A disease should be treated—not fought with diets and sheer willpower—because you don’t “win” against a disease by blaming yourself. Another powerful aspect of the book is Dr. Jastreboff’s insistence on humanity-first language. She refuses to call people “obese” or “diabetic,” choosing instead to say people with obesity and people with diabetes. The disease does not define the person. People are complex, whole, and multifaceted—never reducible to a diagnosis. That choice of language speaks volumes about her humanity as both a physician and a scientist. The book weaves together rigorous scientific research and clinical experience with Oprah’s deeply personal reflections on her lifelong struggles with weight. More importantly, it introduces a much-needed paradigm shift—approaching obesity as a medical condition rather than a moral failure—offering understanding, healing, and real hope.
By listing Oprah as a co-author I’m sure this is gonna sell a lot of copies, but it’s basically a book by the obesity doctor describing the history of obesity treatments, some anecdotal stories, and the availability of GLP 1s and their limitations. I picked it up because I’m seriously considering low dosing to help control my hunger. I think I would’ve been just as well. Served to do a Google search and read a few articles.
Chock full of endocrine physiology, which I teach so I already knew. I was hoping for more of a discussion about adjusting mentally, but that ball was punted off to a referral. There was also no mention of a troublesome side effect many people I’ve talked to experience - being freezing cold all the time. And no, it’s not from being smaller because it happens almost immediately, well before any substantial weight loss.
Fascinating look at the creation and effectiveness of the newest weight loss medications to treat obesity. Most likely one of the biggest pharmaceutical discoveries in modern medicine. The book explains how and why these drugs provide lifesaving treatment to so many patients. Really helped me to understand the disease of obesity and the crucial need for these highly effective treatments
I really enjoyed this book and it made me feel very seen. As someone who has struggled with their weight for most of their life, it really changed my life. I have always blamed myself, saying I just didn’t have enough will power but it really was my biology working against me. If you are someone who has struggled with their weight and food, this book will really change things for you.
3.5 l didn’t need all the possible weight loss drugs talked about in depth, but I did appreciate the insight that this is not my fault. You body actually works against you as you try dieting. You lose a bit of weight and your body thinks something is wrong and changes your metabolism to your detriment. I’m continually discouraged, and weight loss drugs are not in my budget.
Very informative without getting into the weeds-I felt that the author did a great job of educating the reader without overwhelming. Since this was an audiobook I’m thankful for the follow up pdf.
What intrigued me: My doctor recommended that I start on Wegovy, and my other doctor recommended this book when I sharing my anxiety about the potential side effects.
What I liked: This book is grounded in the science which I found very helpful. I also found Jastreboff's voice very soothing in the audiobook. I came away feeling a lot more comfortable starting this treatment.
What I didn't like: I couldn't get the "Bloody Mary" episode of South Park out of my head every time the term disease was used.
Favorite quote: The book asserts that these new obesity medications treat a physiological issue not just a behavioral one, and there is a great analogy about how you wouldn't treat someone having an asthma by telling them to "breathe normally."