Body love : live in balance, weigh what you want, and free yourself from food drama forever

by Kelly LeVeque

Celebrity favorite health and wellness consultant Kelly LeVeque shares her secrets for losing weight, attuning ourselves to our bodies’ needs, and freeing ourselves from food drama in this essential wellness guide, which includes 88 delectable recipes!

In this inspirational yet practical book, the nutritional consultant and holistic healthcare expert who has helped celebrities such as Jessica Alba, Molly Sims, Chelsea Handler, and Emmy Rossum improve their health and achieve their goals shows you how to get beyond the food drama of cyclical fad diets and feel and look great by eating well.

Kelly’s Food Freedom program helps you set yourself up for success, eliminating cravings, mood swings, and other symptoms caused by food drama. Start your day with her Fab Four Smoothies, including a Strawberry Shortcake Smoothie and a Mango Kale Madness Smoothie, which pack protein, fat, fiber, and carbs to balance your blood sugar and keep you full and happy. After breakfast, you’ll thrive with her Fab Four recipes, including Turkey-Stuffed Delicata Squash, Spicy Salmon Nori Burritos, and Anti-Inflammatory Detox Salad, which include the Fab Four food groups—protein, fat, fiber, and greens—that play a role in day-long satiety. Kelly also teaches you how to elongate your blood sugar curve to stay full and happy, and make yourself insulin aware.

Kelly has studied the science behind familiar diets to understand how they trigger the body to lose pounds—and why they aren’t sustainable. Instead, she offers a better choice: her four-step Food Freedom program that helps you find your wellness balance between eating enough and deciding how you feel. Once you find your balance, you will lose weight, lose fat, increase lean muscle mass, and drop at least one size. You’ll also enjoy thicker, shinier hair; clear, glowing skin; a remarkable improvement in your overall appearance; reduced joint pain and other inflammations; increased energy; and better sleep.

Filled with tips and resources on supplements and cleansing, dozens of delicious, healthy recipes and advice on how to adjust your eating when traveling and on vacation, Body Love is your one-stop resource to living clean and happy!

Genres: Health, Nonfiction, Self Help, Cookbooks, Nutrition, Food, Audiobook

288 pages, Hardcover

Published June 27, 2017

Reviews

[Christy · Rating 2 out of 5]

non-fiction challenge

A bit meh and not quite what I expected. I could go on about my issues with this but I'll just say it wasn't for me and move along :D

[Yodamom · Rating 2 out of 5]

Nothing new, too restrictive, outdated scientific data and conflicting statements. I've read so many diet/life style/heath programs all promise amazing results, but you must... almost stop eating fruit ? No way. I eat a lot of fruit, 8-10 servings a day and am not overweight, my blood sugar, and blood pressure is fine. I lost my excess weight by eating more fruit. So her you must not eat more that a 1/4 of fruit just gave me eye roll exercises. She started out saying she doesn't like diets then the book went into her diet and weight loss program ? I thought this was going to be a book about loving your body not another diet book. Geesh, there are hundreds of those, many written by doctors and nutritionists. Ugg, she wants me to drink my breakfast, a protein smoothie everyday. Wasn't that the trending thing back in the nineties ? I don't see how this could be a life time program, it's unrealistic. Sorry this is just recycled information, slightly twisted in a pretty cover.

[Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm going to admit it: I first heard about Body Love because of some female celebrities who are Kelly LeVeque's clients and shouted about her program and book from rooftops (Instagram). Sometimes that can sway me towards reading or watching something. /sadface

Body Love by Kelly LeVeque provides information on nutrition based on scientific research (some of it seems a bit outdated considering the sources at the end of the book by years of publication) and it was certainly educational for me, especially all her explanations on blood sugar and how blood sugar levels throughout the day influence how, when and what we eat. There's parts of it that I'm going to try to incorporate into my own diet to feel satiated for a longer amount of time.

While she says that her own approach is not at all restrictive I do feel that it places restrictions on you. According to LeVeque you're not supposed to eat several plant oils, not more than 1/4 or 1/2 cup of fruit every day (and that best in the morning or as a dessert after lunch) and so forth. I don't doubt that the scientific reasoning behind it is sound, it's not something that works for me. I limit my fruit intake to two portions per day and no more but lowering it to just 1/4 cup is not doable. It may work for others however.

The biggest disappointment for me about Body Love (apart from heavily focusing on losing weight, even though the book is supposed to be about feeling well, loving yourself and your body no matter how much you weigh) is that it centered around her Fab Four Smoothies. The Fab Four itself makes sense, because getting your four macronutrients is the basis for proper nutrition. Look, I tried smoothies when they were hip and trendy and they weren't bad but it's not something I find sustainable. It may fill some people up and be a quick way to breakfast but I want to chew my food and not just chug it down. Not to forget that you're cutting up fiber by blending it in a smoothie and therefore leaving your body less to do, when working on fiber is one of the things it needs to do.

If you want LeVeque's Fab Four smoothie recipes and meal recipes, I suggest simply going to her website and getting the information there. It's a bit disappointing to include over fifty pages of recipes (give or take) when they're all freely available on her website. They could've at least been new recipes that weren't available beforehand and I would've appreciated a picture for each recipe.

If you're new to nutrition, maybe already know that you have problems with blood sugar and enjoy drinking smoothies, Body Love may be a good first read for you. Otherwise I'd suggest reading a different book on nutrition.

I'm always open to suggestions for books on nutrition! If you have any please send them my way.

[Sher❤ The Fabulous BookLover · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Love your Body Stars

If i could sum up this book it would be this: If you take care of your body, your body will take care of you.

The audiobook was fantastic! I love healthy, clean eating books...not diet books. This book is all about how to be in control of your body. Knowing what foods make you gain weight, knowing what foods triggers blood sugars spikes and just having the overall awareness that your body is tough and amazing.

Weight gain is simply just a signal that our bodies cannot handle the excess glucose in our system. So what happens is it goes straight to our fat cells. Even though we know this in theory it's sometimes hard to actually do it in practice.

This book will help you with that. And you won't feel like you have to be on yet another horrible, debilitating diet to be at your optimal shape.

I highly recommend this for those who are sick of dieting, for those who have dieted and nothing changes and for those who simply love discovering new information about their bodies.

[Maureen Tully · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nothing short of life changing! Great information, backed up by scientific research, all clearly explained to the non-experts. Her program and advice makes sense and is completely doable.

[Ireland · Rating 1 out of 5]

Do not buy this book, unless you are a rich health nut with nothing buy time and money on your hands, and you are already skinny.
Thank goodness, I checked it out from the library, all I lost was precious time.
Ms. LeVeque starts out with alot of science, trying to convince you she has found the secret to a healthy body. She has not, she is just regurgitating what others have been saying for years. She can't eat gluten or dairy so she wants the rest of the world to suffer with her and not eat them either. She also holds out hope that this is not restrictive. It's so restrictive that it's harder than Whole 30. You can only have fruit on an extremely limited basis, like one apple or banana a month. You're also supposed to shop every 3 days, who has time for that? Your meat is supposed to be raised in a castle with the animals sleeping on king size beds and hand fed by slaves, or close to that. The biggest promise is losing one size of jeans. Anyone taking the time and money to get this book has a whole lot more than one jean size to lose. That is not an effective carrot to dangle ( carrots are probably allowed for special occasions). I did not try the eating plan because I don't have a $1000/ month grocery budget, nor the time to make recipes that look inedible.
Maybe it works, go for it if you're a Kardashian.

[Shelsy · Rating 2 out of 5]

It sounded really simple, just make sure each meal has foods from the following categories: fat, protein, fiber, and greens. But it didn't really go into what foods those categories actually include. After reading the book I'm still not completely sure what counts as a fiber. The whole book boiled down to just eat clean, avoid carbs, and limit fruit. It honestly didn't give me any real useful information. I am going to try the smoothies for breakfast, just to see what will happen, but otherwise I didn't find it useful.

[besslovesbooks · Rating 2 out of 5]

By page 100 I was still reading a sales pitch. Giving a couple of stars because I did have a few enlightening bits of science to take away and the smoothies I’ve tried have been good. However, I would’ve preferred a focus on the food, science, and how to apply it versus an entire book selling another diet.

[Katherine · Rating 2 out of 5]

Regard this book for what it is: a poorly written essay that supports yet another method for eating, losing weight, and maintaining self-care for women who are affluent and have all the time in the world to take care of themselves. It does not consider that the majority of the population would be unable to partake in its formulas given that the most of the ingredients would be nearly impossible to access outside of urban areas. Nor does it address the financial cost to maintain the eating habits it suggests. That said, the root of its contents seem to be supported by studies that suggest an outcome of a reduction in the risk of developing diabetes and obesity. However, it could have been condensed to a few paragraphs along with the couple dozen recipes it includes. But I believe the purpose of the book is only to grow the author's wellness business.

[Taryn · Rating 1 out of 5]

Ugg. Filled with low-key shame. Aren’t we done with that. One of her lines, “You’re not a toddler, you don’t need a snack.” Girl, maybe I want one! We’re all aware of healthy fats, there have been avocado memes about this for.a.while. Having too much protein in your diet can be an issue *speaking from someone also working in Oncology* and also an issue for people who exercise regularly. I would never deep dive into a nutritionist influencer if they aren’t also providing information about physical activity. Literally changes everything about diet. Not being psychically active is so detrimental, no matter how many smoothies you be makin. Hard pass.

[Andrea · Rating 2 out of 5]

Nothing I Didn't Already Know

It's not that I doubt the information in this book, but it didn't connect with me and isn't that practical for my life. There are a lot of specific foods and products the author recommends, and it gets expensive. I felt like there were a lot of contradictions, such as "Don't do cleanses, they don't work", then the author recommends several different types of cleanses a few pages later.

Anyway, there was some good information, but not a lot I didn't already know.

[Brandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

My copy was given to me by a friend. I saw it on her book pile and asked if I could read it... It's not exactly what I thought it was; but it is highly informative. Kelly LeVeque has read a lot of research and knows a lot about the topics discussed. *Note - This is first and foremost a weight-loss book. I was hoping for more exercise-related advice.

[Kathy Heare Watts · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won a copy of this book during a Goodreads giveaway. I am under no obligation to leave a review or rating and do so voluntarily. So that others may also enjoy this book, I am paying it forward by donating it to my local library.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kelly’s approach may not be for everyone but I feel like I have learned a ton!! I love that her information is backed by since and tons of research, making me feel empowered to love my body and make good choices :) thank you Kelly.

[Priya · Rating 2 out of 5]

She kept saying this is not a diet book, but the fact that this program restricts carbs and fruits clearly means it is a diet. This program mainly focus on eating four food groups proteins, fats, fiber and greens and eating 3 times a day no snacks.

[Nadeen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super interesting and loved Kelly's attitude but very few vegetarian recipes :(

[Julie Dubay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book deserves 10⭐️s. I’ve counted calories on and off for the better part of two decades and after following the guidelines in this book, I’m finally free from that nonsense forever. I can’t believe how well the Fab 4 meal system works. Love it.

[Shuang · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like the science and knowledge delivered in this book, however, I do have a few negative things to say about it.

1. LeVeque said in the beginning to ditch the diet forever. As a person who’s anti-diet, I’m hooked. Then, she starts talking about what food groups to avoid, when to limit food intake (i.e. dinner), etc. This, to me, is still diet mentality.
2. The screenshots of the text messages from her clients were not that necessarily to be included in the book, in my opinion. If a program work, it works. Personally I don’t like seeing too much self-prompting content in a book.
3. One section of the book focused on a “sample” week of her diet, exercise, and lifestyle. I found it very restricting – low carb, very “clean” eating. That to me is not sustainable and I just don’t feel I’d be full or satisfied eating those food she showed. That being said, I did appreciate that she mentioned at some point in the book that eat non-compliant food sparingly to discourage addition and food obsession.
4. LeVeque is big on smoothies. I understand that smoothies can be a good option for on-the-go occasions. But I prefer to chew my food when I have time. It’s easier to be mindful when you sit down and can focus on the taste, aroma, texture of the food. Personally I don’t think drinking smoothies instead of eating meals encourages mindful eating behaviors.

[Jeremy LaLonde · Rating 3 out of 5]

There are some good ideas I got out of this - I liked the general concept of the Fab 4 (hello lawsuit! ;-)) with making sure your meals are balanced in those - but I find that Kelly's book falls apart whenever she mentions food and has no problem recommending daily intake of animal proteins and oil and tells you to limit your fruit consumption to 1/4 cup a day.
For someone who says that their nutrition is science based I'm not sure when she stopped reading scientific literature because it's way out of date - especially considering that her book is only a few years old. If you're looking for a TRUE science based nutrition assessment look to nutritionfacts.org and the writings of Dr. Michael Greger - and all his writing is free online.
Some good take-aways, but I don't agree that following her guide entirely is good for longevity. It's CLOSE - but she misses the mark when it comes to animal protein.

[Shelby Helene · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a game changer for me. It really motivated me to make changes in what I ate. It was recommended to me by a nutritionist that was leading a Restart program I was part of. I wouldn't have succeeded in that Restart without Kelly's smoothies - and understanding how the components of her smoothies really help my body! I was better able to recognize the effects of sugar on my body, mood, and energy levels! I listened to her reading the book on Audible. I also purchased the hardcover copy to keep for reference. So glad that I did!

[Maggie Hauser · Rating 4 out of 5]

The title "Body Love" is honestly a little misleading. This isn't so much a self-help book as it is filled with science and biology, broken down for everyone to easily digest. Excellent read if you're struggling to understand why what/how you're eating isn't feeling right or helping you with your goals. This is especially key for women: understanding blood sugar balance. Her "Fab Four" method - protein, fat, fiber, and greens - is what I base my nutrition choices and that of my health coaching clients on.

[Rebekah Gray · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was SO disappointed with this book. The title is extremely misleading. This is not a book about loving your body- this is a diet book! More specifically a low-carb diet book (although she says multiple times in the book that it isn’t either of those things).
If you are looking for a diet book, this might be for you. If you are looking for a great, inspiring book about loving your body, don’t get this one.

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great information! I love the smoothie recipes, and have already tried several. I relate to her idea of "loose structure", where you have a basic formula to follow, but don't beat yourself up for slip ups or cheats.

[Natalie Aguirre]

One of the few wellness books that actually had a lasting impact on me.

[Isha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I heard about Kelly LeVeque while watching Hoda and Jenna on The Today Show and was really intrigued! The way she talked about food in her segment really resonated with me.

When I first picked up this book, I couldn't get into it as much as I liked. The first 25% or so of the book is heavily focused on the science of how your body absorbs food and how Kelly's "Fab Four" Method works. I'm not someone who has a science background but I have looked into some of the topics she talks about in this section, so I was kind of familiar with it. That being said, Kelly goes really deep into the science in a way that almost went over my head. Since the book started off this way, it was hard to stay invested.

The rest of the book does provide insight that is in more easily understandable. I love that there were example of meals and recipes that aligned with the Fab Four Method. Kelly's approach is one that I agree a lot with. It focuses on making sure you are eating balanced meals that hit all the macronutrients. I liked that she talked about Blood Sugar Levels. It's something I struggle with - sudden dips throughout the day.

I'll definitely be using some of the Fab Four Method in my life!

[Kris · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don't know why I keep reading these kinds of books. This is not about body love, and Kelly LeVeque either doesn't know the definition of the word "diet" or doesn't understand it. This is absolutely a diet book. I am all for treating your body well, eating good food, moving it around, and doing all sorts of things to stay healthy. But this is restrictive and requires WAY too much thought about food. I don't know about everyone else, but the more I think about food, the more I obsess over it, and that sure ain't "drama-free".

My biggest gripe with this book is the emphasis on "clean" eating. STAHP. Just because you say "clean eating", that doesn't mean not a diet. And there is no real definition for that. This DIET includes very little fruit. Many other "clean eating" plans do. This includes animal protein. Other plans consider that a bad choice. Just stop. If you want to do that, whatevs, but don't do it and claim that you are "anti-diet" and all about body love. You're not. you're about loving your body if it is thin enough.

[Cindy Heaton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the book. Kelly's explanations for why the body and nutrients work they way the do is easy to follow and convincing. Diet is very Paleo style so if you don't know how to eat like that, she doesn't include a ton of recipes.

I bought it for the different shake ideas. I have a shake that I make, but wanted some other ideas for variety. I was on the right track as my shake has everything in it she recommends. This type of recipe keeps you full and gives you energy. I use them for lunch (she says to have them for breakfast, but only because that's where people lack the most time).

Based on the science of her food programs I will be following and incorporating a few more things into the way I eat. I also appreciated her beauty chapter that talks about nutrition for your skin and gut and will make some changes there as well.

[Kristina Gorsch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Body Love changed the way I view health & nutrition. Kelly really explains the science behind how different foods affect our bodies. Her background in science/research makes her a credible source. This is not a diet book. It is not a one-size fits all program. It is a life style guide that can be catered to fit anybody. Kelly writes in a way that makes you feel like girlfriends chatting over coffee. I could not relate to everything about her lifestyle or the lifestyles of celebs she coaches but I could still use her framework to see what works for me. The book includes tons of yummy smoothie recipes and regular recipes based on her Fab Four formula. You don’t have to drink smoothies if that’s not your thing, they are just one tool to use. I feel like this book empowered me to make better nutrition choices for myself. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to improve their overall health & nutrition. I’m looking forward to her new book “Body Love Everyday”.

[Marilyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the book and the fact that there is lots of research and science involved. As with many lifestyle related books about diet they are not a one size fits all. Kelly offers some very sound advice of which I will try. Having studied nutrition for years I like the facts and how they relate to me. There is a good mix of recipes to support and aid in trying her method. I would recommend reading her book.

[Alicia Bonk · Rating 4 out of 5]

It wasn’t the easiest read because of the scientific evidence she packed into it, but worth reading all the way through for all the great tips and fun facts about the amazing foods out there for us! Loving the Fab Four shakes to start the day - currently trying to get my carb craved 3 year old to like as well. 😜