New York Times bestselling author Dr. Natasha Turner, ND, returns with a simple and effective wellness plan that harnesses the power of the six hormones linked to weight loss, strength and energy.
When it comes to metabolism, energy, immunity, memory, mood and strength, who doesn't need a boost now and then? The Hormone Boost represents a breakthrough by offering, for the first time, a weight loss and wellness solution that focuses on a combination of six specific hormones. Although it is widely accepted that the thyroid hormones influence energy levels and weight loss efforts, The Hormone Boost reveals how the impact of five other hormones--testosterone and DHEAs, adiponectin, growth hormone, adrenalin, and glucagon--are equally important when trying to lose weight and optimize health. Unlike the methods shared in Dr. Turner's previous books, which focused on identifying and solving hormonal imbalances, this groundbreaking and proven plan suits everyone --not just those experiencing symptoms of hormone disruption--by optimizing what's right rather than correcting what's wrong. With over 60 recipes and a simple Pick-4 guide that allows you to create hormone-optimizing meals, smoothies and salads, Dr. Turner's program ensures the right balance of carbs, fat and protein at each meal. The Hormone Boost also features: simple steps to prep your home and body for a hormone boost, daily tracking aids, a weekly workout plan emphasizing strength training, supplement advice, and inspiring success stories from people who have experienced the benefits of this unique program.
So irritated. While the base science behind why we need certain hormones is sound, where Turner goes with that info is fairly ridiculous. If you took her advice, you'd be taking upwards of 40 supplements daily (10+ of them formulated by her. Shocker). She makes enormous leaps in logic and leaves out information when making arguments that support her ideas. I'm a little disgusted by her lack of responsibility, particularly when it comes to drug interactions. Even more distressingly, this was written by a woman who has PCOS; some of her suggestions are contraindicated for the condition, and yet she never addresses modifications in the event of hormone imbalances such as high testosterone, hyperthyroidism, etc.
In the end, the "diet" she is suggesting is no different than the food guidelines found in the Insulin Resistance Diet. Go check that out instead, get a little exercise, and skip Turner's hard sell.
I usually do not read books like this, because I get worried that the author is trying to sell me a miracle solution/diet/fitness program that somehow only she knows about. I should follow my intuition more because, although there were some very informative sections, particularly in the beginning about the importance of hormonal balance, the author is primarily trying to sell you her "boost" diet plan. It was just too much of that to see past.
Not a lot of info I didn't already know -- I did a lot of skipping and skimming. For someone totally new to the concept of how to lose weight and balance hormones, though, it probably would be very helpful. There were a few new nuggets in there, though, especially with respect to the hormone adiponectin (and also how acetylcholine pertains to weight, that was interesting.)
I was a bit surprised to see how many negative reviews there were on this book. I really enjoyed it! I think the negative reviews mainly fall in one or two camps. First off, people seem to be annoyed that she advertises her supplements. And she does. A lot. However, she also says what is in those supplements and has the formulations online so you can literally go and see what the formula is and buy a cheaper alternative if you would like. She is not making anyone buy hers! She states the benefits of certain vitamins, minerals and herbs and mentions hers since she has conveniently combined them.
I also saw complaints about the number of supplements she covers. She is not saying to take every supplement she discusses! Even if the reader has every issue, it is much more likely that only one or a combo with multiple, would be taken in a specific area. She because six different vitamins help, doesn't mean you have to take that many. Not every vitamin works for each person. For instance, a pregnant or breastfeeding mother is sorely limited on what they can take. So perhaps six are listed, but they can only take one of them. By listing multiple though, there is an increased odd of finding one that may work, based on individual circumstances. Also, there are many supplements that combine a bunch of these vitamins together. Both her formulations, and other brands as well. So again, she is not recommending the reader take every supplement that she lists. Instead, she is giving recommendations to help a certain issue. Additionally, supplements is only part of what she lists. She also includes lifestyle changes for each topic she discusses, complete with meal planning guidelines, some recipes, and a simplified workout program. I was delighted by all of the holistic non-medication options that she has, such as eating a certain macronutrient breakdown in the morning and sleeping a certain amount of hours each night, naturally increases the thyroid hormone. She is thorough, and includes lots of helpful tips. I thought it was a fantastic book and has been better than any other holistic hormone/thyroid healing book I have came across. Yes, it is a lot of healthy lifestyle changes and gentle prodding by various supplements rather than just medicating, but it also comes with a lot less side effects. Of course, the reader should always do their due diligence and research any supplements before they begin to take them, but she gives a great introductory overview of them. I also love how she explains why the reader should make certain lifestyle changes, like how it affects the body and is vital for our hormones, which makes it easier to stick with, in my experience.
I checked this out from my library and took lots of pertinent notes, but I have a feeling I forgot things that I will want to come back to and need to check it out again! I'm excited to check out her other books as well!
I may not agree with all the information in this book, however, I do feel it has a lot of great support and education with supporting a body, not in balance.