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The Secrets to Ultimate Weight Loss: A revolutionary approach to conquer cravings, overcome food addiction, and lose weight without going hungry
Chef AJ’s larger than life personality will smooth the path to the diet you must follow to enjoy the health and happiness you deserve. Her personal and professional experiences have earned her the right to be considered the world expert on “Making the Change.”—John McDougall, MD, cofounder of the McDougall Program In her new book, plant-based diet expert Chef AJ provides you with not only tips and techniques to begin your weight-loss journey but also the secrets to tasty homemade dishes that will fill you up without adding on the pounds. Chef AJ is here to prove to you that eating healthy doesn’t have to be hard. With The Secrets to Ultimate Weight Loss,she the ways her own weight-loss journey inspired her professional career, the most important steps to get started on your own goals, the seven c’s to weight-loss success, the invaluable concept of calorie density, the keys to overcoming the most common and frustrating challenges, and the dozens of delicious recipes that help you lose weight and still love what you eat. From oven-roasted ratatouille to the best no-bean burgers around, Chef AJ shows you how satisfying and slimming a plant-based weight-loss plan can be.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 29, 2018
628 people are currently reading
290 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
November 29, 2020
Premise: Follow a whole food, plant-based diet free of oil, salt, sugar, flour, alcohol, caffeine, and processed foods -- and then you'll lose weight.
Thoughts: I support plant-based diets (I generally follow one), and I believe that a plant-based diet is the most healthful diet to follow. Chef AJ has good tips in here for anyone struggling with adopting a plant-based diet, and some good information regarding calorie density. Her book is easy to read and easy to follow. I liked her "ten commandments" near the end.
However, I generally would not recommend this book to people because it is so extreme. The program by its terms is already extreme. The author then goes out of her way to say that only 100% compliance will work, and anything less than that constitutes a relapse. She uses the unnecessary example of eating bread/cheese in France/Italy — to say that even those experiences aren’t a good reason to go off-plan. As for going to restaurants with friends, she generally says to avoid it, eat at home before going out, or bring your own food. She recommends not using too many spices on food, because food should be "boring."
I'm all for a plant-based diet, but it bothers me when authors recommend extreme plans with no acknowledgment that their programs are wildly antisocial. These authors also don't seem to understand that there is a healthy way to find joy in eating. If I tried to follow this book to the letter, I would be riddled with anxiety about dealing with social situations. In my opinion, this approach doesn't set people up for success, and I don't even think that such a rigid, restrictive, and controlling mindset is healthy or helpful in the long run. That being said, I'm not overweight and I've never worked with overweight people in any sort of professional capacity, so maybe I'm not the target audience for this book. It's just too extreme for my preference.
The book is also repetitive and could have been quite a bit shorter.
Thoughts: I support plant-based diets (I generally follow one), and I believe that a plant-based diet is the most healthful diet to follow. Chef AJ has good tips in here for anyone struggling with adopting a plant-based diet, and some good information regarding calorie density. Her book is easy to read and easy to follow. I liked her "ten commandments" near the end.
However, I generally would not recommend this book to people because it is so extreme. The program by its terms is already extreme. The author then goes out of her way to say that only 100% compliance will work, and anything less than that constitutes a relapse. She uses the unnecessary example of eating bread/cheese in France/Italy — to say that even those experiences aren’t a good reason to go off-plan. As for going to restaurants with friends, she generally says to avoid it, eat at home before going out, or bring your own food. She recommends not using too many spices on food, because food should be "boring."
I'm all for a plant-based diet, but it bothers me when authors recommend extreme plans with no acknowledgment that their programs are wildly antisocial. These authors also don't seem to understand that there is a healthy way to find joy in eating. If I tried to follow this book to the letter, I would be riddled with anxiety about dealing with social situations. In my opinion, this approach doesn't set people up for success, and I don't even think that such a rigid, restrictive, and controlling mindset is healthy or helpful in the long run. That being said, I'm not overweight and I've never worked with overweight people in any sort of professional capacity, so maybe I'm not the target audience for this book. It's just too extreme for my preference.
The book is also repetitive and could have been quite a bit shorter.
March 22, 2023
Poured through this book. Had been waiting for the Kindle version for several months. Found Chef AJ via Rich Roll's podcast. And her online stuff has led me to many other great people like Michael Greger, MD, Dr. Neil Barnard, etc. They are all part of this community of vegans that are helping me stay on track(deepen my walk) by giving me recipes, science, case studies etc. I'm loving the vegan lifestyle and hope that I can one day be in the company of these folks. Chef AJ recently responded to a question I posted on her FB page for heavens sake. Very cool! She has a weekly Youtube live streaming show where she makes something from this very book. She interviews folks. She has a FB page where you can ask questions. She travels around the world speaking about losing weight and being a vegan. An amazing resource and just cool lady she is. Some of the things in this book I had just started doing which was cool confirmation. She though takes it to the next level, which is what I want to do. Cut out SOFAS. Salt, Oil, Flour, Alcohol and Sugar, (and coffee) as well as any trigger food that tempts you to binge. I'm gonna implement this into my current vegan style. I've been wanting to actually. PLUS, I LOVE THE IDEA OF VFB. Vegetables for Breakfast. Totally suits me. Great book. One I'll use daily despite finishing it.
Read it again in January of 2019. It’s gonna be my yearly January read I think. It’s also gonna be one I review daily or weekly at least. Wanna try more than half of the recipes in the back. Hope I can meet Chef AJ someday.
True to my word. I've read it again this year (2020). This is my third time through. I'm proud to say that a lot of what she talks about has come true for me. Liking to eat at home more than out. Planning ahead when having to eat out. Never compromising just to be polite. Craving veggies and good food. Meat holds zero temptation for me. Made it through a carnivorous Thanksgiving with no problems. Made vegan side dishes! The recipes at the back don't seem so daunting now that I've been cooking for a year. One thing I am going to do is make at least one recipe from the back of this book a month.
Wow. Year 4. 4th read through. I still find new things to highlight mostly because I've grown a lot in my eating style and a lot of it is inspired by Chef AJ among others. Most importantly, no sugar and no alcohol. My eating style is a mashup of many beliefs and books, like Michael Greger, John McDougall and a few others so I don't follow Chef AJ's system to a tee but a lot of it I do incorporate and have seen positive results. I think I am going too start doing VFB now. I've seen the light on what I can make for myself for breakfast.
Best quote: Every meal is a choice: you're either eating for your recovery or for your addiction.
Oct. 2022
Once again and this time taking it more serious. The information has always been good. Admittedly I haven't followed it 100% for the 21 days she asks for. Here here! I'm about to! Let the results begin! (I hope!) I can't buy salt free canned beans in Taiwan so that'll be the only difference but I'll rinse and drain them.
Read it again in January of 2019. It’s gonna be my yearly January read I think. It’s also gonna be one I review daily or weekly at least. Wanna try more than half of the recipes in the back. Hope I can meet Chef AJ someday.
True to my word. I've read it again this year (2020). This is my third time through. I'm proud to say that a lot of what she talks about has come true for me. Liking to eat at home more than out. Planning ahead when having to eat out. Never compromising just to be polite. Craving veggies and good food. Meat holds zero temptation for me. Made it through a carnivorous Thanksgiving with no problems. Made vegan side dishes! The recipes at the back don't seem so daunting now that I've been cooking for a year. One thing I am going to do is make at least one recipe from the back of this book a month.
Wow. Year 4. 4th read through. I still find new things to highlight mostly because I've grown a lot in my eating style and a lot of it is inspired by Chef AJ among others. Most importantly, no sugar and no alcohol. My eating style is a mashup of many beliefs and books, like Michael Greger, John McDougall and a few others so I don't follow Chef AJ's system to a tee but a lot of it I do incorporate and have seen positive results. I think I am going too start doing VFB now. I've seen the light on what I can make for myself for breakfast.
Best quote: Every meal is a choice: you're either eating for your recovery or for your addiction.
Oct. 2022
Once again and this time taking it more serious. The information has always been good. Admittedly I haven't followed it 100% for the 21 days she asks for. Here here! I'm about to! Let the results begin! (I hope!) I can't buy salt free canned beans in Taiwan so that'll be the only difference but I'll rinse and drain them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2019
If you follow Chef AJ YouTube channel there is nothing new in the book, nevertheless I love Chef AJ and everything she writes ( or says ) is inspiration for me
After I successfully read the Volumetrics book as a part of a challenge this book came next in line to read as a second challenge and I loved it so much although I already know everything in this book beforehand
So, if you have any health issue and looking for inspiration to keep going this book is for you
Thanks Chef AJ
After I successfully read the Volumetrics book as a part of a challenge this book came next in line to read as a second challenge and I loved it so much although I already know everything in this book beforehand
So, if you have any health issue and looking for inspiration to keep going this book is for you
Thanks Chef AJ
May 14, 2018
I have followed Chef AJ for a while now and have been anxiously awaiting the release of this book. I was not disappointed. I have finished the book and am now reading a second time! Chef AJ tells how to successfully lose weight and keep it off. In this book she tells you what people learn in her weight loss program Ultimate Weight Loss.
June 22, 2018
This book is meant for people who are food addicts, but I think it has some really great tips and guidelines for those people who want to lose weight and eat healthier. Many of the recipes looks really good and easy to prepare, also.
May 18, 2022
When I read this book I was ready for a change. I followed her advice and saw results right away. After reading McDougall's Starch Solution, I relaxed the way I ate, and still found results in my health.
Quotes:
The idea of calorie density is a breakthrough. Eat the most calorie dilute foods.
The power plate was created by Dr Neil Barnard of PCRM Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, as a response to the USDA absurd food pyramid.
World Cancer Research Fund established that by keeping caloric density of under 600 calories per pound, you will maintain a healthy body at the right weight for you, without dieting deprivation.
Americans get 92% of their calories processed foods ,including oil, and animal products. 75% of Americans are overweight, and both of those are obese.
The number one predictor of self-esteem and a female is her weight.
Quotes:
The idea of calorie density is a breakthrough. Eat the most calorie dilute foods.
The power plate was created by Dr Neil Barnard of PCRM Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, as a response to the USDA absurd food pyramid.
World Cancer Research Fund established that by keeping caloric density of under 600 calories per pound, you will maintain a healthy body at the right weight for you, without dieting deprivation.
Americans get 92% of their calories processed foods ,including oil, and animal products. 75% of Americans are overweight, and both of those are obese.
The number one predictor of self-esteem and a female is her weight.
August 17, 2024
À la cuisine!
June 26, 2021
I am disappointed with the intentional lack of photos. While I appreciate the sensitivity to the food addict, people eat first with their eyes. If a dish looks appetizing, we are more likely to try it.
I’m also disappointed in the absence of alternative cooking methods. I don’t own an instant pot, nor do I intend to purchase one. I’m left to figuring out the conversion on my own. It feels like Chef AJ is requiring the reader to work (in the kitchen) only one way.
I value the recipes and the life experience, but I doubt I will buy any other books like this one.
I’m also disappointed in the absence of alternative cooking methods. I don’t own an instant pot, nor do I intend to purchase one. I’m left to figuring out the conversion on my own. It feels like Chef AJ is requiring the reader to work (in the kitchen) only one way.
I value the recipes and the life experience, but I doubt I will buy any other books like this one.
September 5, 2018
"This is Chef AJ's 2nd book. It teaches about calorie density while she shares her life long battle and success with weight loss. She also tells her life story and is relatable for anyone who has struggled with their weight." --patron
June 26, 2020
Great advice, healthy eating, but a bit wordy
Excellent advice and recipes. The reason I didn’t give it a higher rating is the first part of the book was overly redundant. It could have contained the pertinent information with about 1/3 the words.
Excellent advice and recipes. The reason I didn’t give it a higher rating is the first part of the book was overly redundant. It could have contained the pertinent information with about 1/3 the words.
July 5, 2022
This book is soooo ugly! I requested it from another library branch because I was trying to read at least one book from each of the major WFPB scholars/doctors/chefs. When it came in, I was frankly embarrassed by the cover and kept it hidden under another book (the title is bad enough!). If you get it, you get it.
It is also self-published. Someone (an editor?) decided that all brand names needed to be in italics, so, we have Muir Glen Salt-Free Fire-Roasted Tomatoes and such. Cringe.
However, I don't want to totally pan this book just because I don't like the way it looks. There is a lot of really, really good info here, and I would recommend it to people who want to live the WFPB lifestyle who want to lose weight or who suffer from food addiction. Most of the book is salt/oil/sugar-free recipes, which is awesome.
It is also self-published. Someone (an editor?) decided that all brand names needed to be in italics, so, we have Muir Glen Salt-Free Fire-Roasted Tomatoes and such. Cringe.
However, I don't want to totally pan this book just because I don't like the way it looks. There is a lot of really, really good info here, and I would recommend it to people who want to live the WFPB lifestyle who want to lose weight or who suffer from food addiction. Most of the book is salt/oil/sugar-free recipes, which is awesome.
October 3, 2018
While there is nothing startlingly new about Chef AJ's recommendations, the way she has structured a day of eating and her recipes make for a low-stress way of accomplishing whole food, plant-based eating. This is important to me right now. I want to lose weight and get healthier. I want to eat more whole plants. But I don't want to think about it too hard. I have other things I want to think about. By structuring eating as "eat only foods that appear on the left of the red line" and eat those in order it makes it a conceptually easy approach. Veggies for breakfast is also a good way to get the veggies before life distracts me. So far, I can stick to this without paying too much attention. Her recipes are similarly fast, easy and tasty.
September 7, 2020
Such an insightful read even for someone who is not overweight. Chef AJ explains what triggers food addictions, and helped me see sand better understand what triggers me to eat emotionally or overindulge. Great information for anyone embarking on a WFPB diet free from SOFAS. I've been WFPB for nearly 4 years but according the SOFAS is relatively new to me, so I found her book really helpful. Plus, half the book is all recipes! I'm looking forward to trying all of those.
August 7, 2021
Best book so far I’ve read about getting healthy!
Chef AJ is so honest and open about her relationship with food and how ours should be too. She really tries to reach your heart and the reason you are not succeeding in your weight loss efforts. I’ve really not heard it put so candidly before. If you are serious about weight loss you NEED this book. I wanted to take off the last 10-15 pounds and this is helping me do it. Just do what she says and it will happen.
Chef AJ is so honest and open about her relationship with food and how ours should be too. She really tries to reach your heart and the reason you are not succeeding in your weight loss efforts. I’ve really not heard it put so candidly before. If you are serious about weight loss you NEED this book. I wanted to take off the last 10-15 pounds and this is helping me do it. Just do what she says and it will happen.
June 19, 2018
It seems to be working. I couldn't figure out how to eliminate bread, but she has recipes for fulfilling my bread needs with other things--potatoes, for example. I also have been using dates in a salad dressing, but I see that she substitutes pears, and I think that will work.... All in all, this book seems to provide solutions.
August 21, 2018
Amazing, love Chef AJ first of all and the recipes are wonderful! She is down to earth and tells you the truth. It is nice to hear about food addiction from somebody who has lived it and conquered it first hand!!! I own both of her books and keep them close to me at all times for reference and guidance
August 29, 2019
If you are willing to become radically committed to stop using food as entertainment, and refuse to allow food bullies to influence what you eat, this book will teach you how to regain glowing heath and vitality. You will choose to eat the foods you were created to thrive on, and lose your cravings for the food-like substances that have made you sick and overweight.
June 14, 2020
I think chef AJ is a very charming Utube host and delightful in her spunky personality, I am finding her recipes a bit un- exciting. I bought the book but I can’t find very many recipes that I feel like repeating. She has good things to say about the subject of healthy approach to eating, I just find that it is not working well for me personally.
July 14, 2021
A book written by Chef AJ. The beginning of the book describes Chef AJ’s life long struggles with food addiction and the resulting weight gain. She has developed from personal experience a way to overcome your food addition and develop a healthy relationship with food. And as a result loss the extra weight.
April 22, 2024
Read this right after her other book, Unprocessed. Very good, and I have to say that while we were in Mexico on vacation we did eat vegetables for every breakfast, and it was amazing how great I felt, with no cravings. That's a lot easier to do with a full buffet provided for me daily, though. ;)
March 7, 2019
I was looking for a way to cook more variety as a Vegan, and happily stumbled across Chef AJ on Youtube.
This book is amazing- the VFB method is a lifesaver. I also loved her 'potato test' to see if you were hungry. I have only tried a few recipes so far, but they have all been great.
This book is amazing- the VFB method is a lifesaver. I also loved her 'potato test' to see if you were hungry. I have only tried a few recipes so far, but they have all been great.
May 6, 2020
I'd rather die early
Wow, I think food in prison would be tastier. If I had to follow this diet for more than a day - no, more than an hour - I'd prefer to starve to death. Takes all pleasure and taste away from eating. No thank you.
Wow, I think food in prison would be tastier. If I had to follow this diet for more than a day - no, more than an hour - I'd prefer to starve to death. Takes all pleasure and taste away from eating. No thank you.
July 26, 2020
A long introduction to a cookbook. The introduction is worth it! Understanding food addictions, and how to eat healthier is more than recipes. A great reference. I have many more recipes to explore. I think this is wonderful cookbook and book on eating philosophy.
April 23, 2021
Life changing!
Extremely helpful if you want to lose weight and get healthy! This plan allows you to eat LOTS of food...to your heart’s content, while improving every aspect of your health.
Extremely helpful if you want to lose weight and get healthy! This plan allows you to eat LOTS of food...to your heart’s content, while improving every aspect of your health.
January 11, 2023
I found the title of the book a bit gimmicky and almost didn't read it, but I am glad I did. I found it interesting and informative. That said I do find some of it a bit extreme, but while it may not work for everyone there are certainly plenty of people out there who it could work for.
May 6, 2019
Quick and easy to read. Great recipes.
June 19, 2019
Such a great book! Chef AJ’s YouTube channel has helped me so much with losing weight.
April 25, 2020
excellent book if seeking plant-based lifestyle. Informative, very clearly written.
May 12, 2020
It read like a manual for food addiction some tips seem extreme. I have 4 stars for the recipes. I will implement VFB.( 1 pound )Vegetables for Breakfast and the other pound of Veggies at dinner.
July 9, 2020
Recipes are good & rest is based off Dr.Mcdougall's books..dont buy this if u already have the aforementioned doc's books..waste of money..
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews