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131 Method: Your Personalized Nutrition Solution to Boost Metabolism, Restore Gut Health, and Lose Weight

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Chalene Johnson, New York Times best-selling author and award-winning entrepreneur who's built and sold several multimillion-dollar lifestyle companies, offers a revolutionary fitness program with proven success based on her successful online program of the same name.

Diets are dumb. You aren't.

Your personalized plan for gut health, wellness, and weight loss

You're smart. You're sick of gimmicks and trendy diets that leave you with frustration and a slower metabolism. The 131 Method gets to the root of the problem--gut health--and delivers a personalized solution to wellness, hormone balance, and permanent weight loss based on the Nobel Prize-winning science of autophagy and diet phasing. Finally, a science-based solution that's actually doable!

Following her own health scare, health and wellness expert Chalene Johnson set out to understand the science and individuality of metabolism. Working with renowned researchers, doctors, and registered dietitians, she developed a simplified 3-phase plan for health promoting weight loss. This proven methodology was tested with more than 25,000 individuals. Now she distills the essentials of her hugely successful online program into the 131 Method book.

1 Objective (set by you!), 3 Weeks of Diet Phasing, and 1 Week to Fast and Refuel. 131 Method guides you through Chalene's three-phase, 12-week solution, helping you personalize every step of the way. You'll:

* Lose weight without slowing your metabolism

* Improve gut health and boost immunity

* Fix cravings and reset hormones

* Discover 100 delicious, easy recipes

The 131 Method isn't a one size fits all diet, it's how to eat a diet that works! You'll get everything you need to change your thinking, transform your body, and improve your life . . . for good!

400 pages, Hardcover

First published April 16, 2019

414 people are currently reading
405 people want to read

About the author

Chalene Johnson

14 books271 followers
Chalene Johnson is a world-renowned motivational speaker with more than 30 years as a health expert. She is a New York Times best-selling author, health and lifestyle expert, and top health podcaster with over 20 million downloads of her show. Tens of millions of people around the globe have transformed their bodies and their lives with her help, and her fitness programs have been featured in gyms and on TV for more than 12 years. She and Bret, her husband of over twenty years, are the founders of the SmartLife movement. Together, they have built and sold several multimillion-dollar lifestyle companies and helped countless people to do the same.

Chalene and her husband have trained tens of thousands of fitness professionals and consulted with the world’s largest health club chains. She has sold millions of fitness videos and holds The Guiness Book of World Record for having starred in the most fitness videos. Chalene has designed several number-one ranked fitness and diet programs for industry giants, including Beachbody, the creators of p90x, Insanity, Turbo Jam, Piyo and more.

Chalene and Bret have also created a variety of personal and business development programs like Courageous Confidence Club, Smart Success Academy and Marketing Impact Academy. These programs help students improve their lives and businesses by building confidence, creating an organized and balanced life, and creating systems for passive income in their businesses. By applying the principles in their programs, many of Bret and Chalene’s students have gone from broke to six and seven figure incomes and businesses.

Several years ago, Chalene began to suffer a steady decline in her health that included debilitating brain fog, mood swings, and chronic pain and injuries. This led her to question the diet and fitness industries’ definition of health, and subsequently transitioned her focus from business to health and wellness. She taught herself to read scientific studies, as well as how to search for, find, question, and evaluate research.

Her role as a fitness expert gave her unparalleled access to leading researchers, doctors, scientists, and world-renowned experts in health, fitness, diet, nutrition, metabolism, leaky gut, hormone balance, and disease. What she discovered changed the course of her life and set her on a mission to help others to uncover truth the truth about weight loss, health, longevity and the secret to living a happier, fuller, healthier life with the 131 Method: a revolutionary “anti-diet.”

The 131 Method offers a 12-week program, with a special focus on helping the participant personalize the steps for their unique needs. In her carefully timed process, you will use macronutrient ratios to help your body shift into fat-burning mode and kickstart your metabolism, learn about intuitive eating, increase your metabolic flexibility with “macrophasing,” get rid of your food fears, learn about intermittent fasting, and discover what foods cause inflammation. You’ll receive 100+ delicious and easy recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, broken down into each phase of the program. Be inspired by testimonials and shocking before-and-after photos of clients who have done the 131 Method.

The 131 Method is all about changing your health, your mind, your habits, your mindset, and all of the things that have kept you stuck—with Chalene Johnson as your guide.

In addition to her passion for business and health, Chalene is a serial podcaster. Hosting two top ranked podcasts, The Chalene Show and Build Your Tribe, Huffington Post recognized Chalene as one of the “Top 50 Female Entrepreneurs to Watch in 2017.” When listening to her shows, you’ll feel as if you’re sitting down with your best friend – someone who truly cares and wants the best for you. Her shows provide a combination of straight talk and humor while bringing light to important matters of health, business and happiness.

Today, with her husband, Chalene ru

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 296 reviews
Profile Image for Amanda.
269 reviews5 followers
February 8, 2019
I know what you are thinking, you are thinking this is a diet book, right? Nope. 131 Method is more of a health book explaining the science of YOU. I've been on a journey this year with my health and hormones. I've been put on several hormone therapies just in the last few months. I'm not satisfied with how I feel inside at only 39! Tired, anxious, headaches, dry skin, thinning hair, I could go on... I started researching the root of things and leaky gut came up OVER and OVER. When I heard Chalene on her podcast discussing leaky gut, I knew I needed the read this book. I was so excited to get an advanced reader copy that I read it in under 24 hours. I love her honesty in tearing down the very things she used to promote. That kind of humility is hard to come by. She explains health....not just weight loss....HEALTH. I love that. I can't wait to start phasing my diet and healing my body.
Profile Image for Julie Exendine.
19 reviews
February 10, 2019
I was lucky enough to be a part of the test group for this “diet” as Chalene was developing it. This book is not just for people who want to lose weight. This book is for anyone that wants optimal health, anyone that just wants to feel their best, and anyone that loves learning about nutrition. This book is full of information that will change the way you think about eating! For me the game changer is the diet phasing. This book will walk you through the science and give you all the information you need to live your healthiest life!
Profile Image for E.W..
1 review
February 4, 2019
After reading the advanced copy, I realized this was the first "diet" book I knew wouldn't leave me feeling like a failure. I love books about nutrition because I like knowing how the body works (I don't like being told what to do without any explanation), and this book delivers on that note in spades. The knowledge behind the "why" is what kept me engaged, and got me inspired to make lasting changes. To borrow a quote, "When you know better, you do better." And I know SO MUCH more now! I think people can adopt really simple changes (like eliminating inflammatory foods) right away and feel better, which would then make them want to try the three phases in the book (which are very different from anything I've read about!).
Written with some great "get it girl" advice, it feels easy to digest, even though several of the topics are scientific. I'd say the balance of science, reality of what you can actually do as busy human, and permission to "not be perfect" makes this book very different than others on shelves within the same category. I think it can appeal to people suffering from a particular health problem, such as IBS, leaky gut or hormone dysfunction, as well as for general "I'm not what I used to be, " symptoms like difficulty sleeping, bloating and brain fog.
The recipes look beautiful and not difficult to make (thank goodness), and the program itself sounds amazing. I think having the book is a great companion to their online program of the same name. Very impressed with the content, program, writing style and imagery within this truly gorgeous book.
1 review1 follower
April 2, 2019
I pre-ordered my book and had the chance to read the advanced copy, the introduction spoke so much to me. I thought this might end up being a do this diet. But instead it was a wake up call. Chalene cuts through the bs diet fads and actually makes you realize that you are NOT a failure and it's not you but the cookie cutter diet that's the problem. She makes you realize that one size fits all isn't real because what works for one doesn't for others. You end up finding out what works for you and only you. You get to take control of your life instead of going from one diet to another. I appreciate her for being honest about all the diets and plans. She took control of her health and it makes me realize that I can too.

Update: One of the biggest things I learned that even healthy food can be bad for me. Eliminating certain foods/drinks has actually started to help me. I love that she makes it so simple. You get to write your story (diet) and you get to make it work for you! What is actually working for me isn't working for a friend of mine that's doing this with me. So it is a huge eye opener realizing that there's no such thing as a one size fit all diet or way of eating. I have decided to focus on eliminating more items as I know I still have some issues. I want to thank Chalene for opening my eyes and making me realize that I can heal myself.
1 review1 follower
February 11, 2019
This books provides you with knowledge on how to best find a nutritional solution for YOU! Chalene writes in a way that is relatable and excites you to learn the science behind why, or why not, certain nutrition works for you. Optimal health is a choice, no fad diet will result in long term success unless you put yourself in control of learning what works, and what doesn't work, for you. This book shows you how to be in control of your own health through phasing your diet to produce long-lasting healthy results that you'll sustain.

If you're ready to take the nutritional challenge of boosting metabolism, healing your gut health, learning how your body responds to what you eat, and the science behind it all, this book is the foundation for your personal health and lifestyle journey.
Profile Image for Tami Romani.
10 reviews5 followers
April 16, 2019
Chalene’s story of her journey to health is every woman’s story – even if we don’t know it yet. This book is finally the answer I have searched for about why every diet fails me. I have lost and gained back the same 20 pounds for decades. Finally, answers - and the knowledge that I can do something about it. The science behind the 131 Method is so solid, there’s no disputing it. What works for me will most likely not work for you – and that is the key. The 131 Method book will empower you with the information you need to step into your own health journey with confidence. Creating my OWN “diet” that works for me resulted in a 12 pound weight loss the first month. Now I enjoy phasing my nutrition to keep my metabolism guessing. Simply put - you will never diet again if you adopt the 131 Method lifestyle.
1 review
February 6, 2019
Upon reading an advanced copy I realized that I have have found a "diet" book that speaks to me. Chalene writes in an effortless way that feels like you are talking to your best girlfriend, and not reading another diet book. She is motivational and passionate about what she does. I have been a fan/user of her fitness DVDs for years and always found her to be relatable and inspiring, and I felt the same reading this book. I look forward to implementing what I have learned and becoming a healthier version of myself.
Profile Image for Colleen Hammond.
Author 3 books44 followers
April 2, 2019
These days when I go to the doctor, I need to be my own health advocate. So I Google my symptoms (do you?) and study to keep up-to-date on the latest research because I don't want to see the doc only to be sent away with a prescription (or two) and/or a condescending comment about 'getting older'.

And heck, docs don't ever ask me what I'm eating!

In 131 Method , Chalene Johnson has done all of that research for me!

After her own health scare and subsequent years of research, Chalene Johnson figured out why 70% of Americans are overweight and a third are obese — even with all those diet and fitness programs out there to choose from.

We have been misinformed!

Since I've been through the online version of the 131 Method and had quickly (and healthily!) lost 45-pounds, I was eager to get my hands on the book.

Understand that this is a get healthy and a lifestyle book — not another diet book!

♥ I learned more about my metabolism and how the body heals than I did as a pre-med student in college.

♥ I learned about the importance of gut health and how it impacts hormones, brain health, weight, and overall immunity.

And I learned why plain 'ol black coffee was keeping me fat! (Yeah. Go figure.)


The first portion of the book teaches in plain language all the science in a way that's fun and accessible, and also gets into reframing your mindset. Don't skip it! Knowing the why behind something is empowering!

The second portion is the eating plan that you'll customize to work specifically for you.

And the third portion is 100 simple and yummy recipes (that are different from those in the online program).

You owe it to yourself (not to mention your loved ones) to invest the price of a (gluten-free) pizza in a book that will change your life, improve your health — and your mood.

Simple? Yes, it's all laid out.

Easy? Nope.

The 131 Method requires a bit of effort. But doesn't everything worthwhile come with a bit of effort?

For a bit of the flavor of the author, here's how she closes out the Intro:

The fact that you probably bypassed 10 popular diet books before landing on this gem, coupled with the fact you're actually taking the time to read and absorb 131 Method, mean you're not just smart, you're badass. You're a truth seeker. You don't mind rolling up your sleeves to do the work. I ask you to make a vow not to give up, not to see this an all-or-nothing kind of thing, but a process, a journey we'll take together. We are better together. Everything is easier when you have the support of others, which is why I want to encourage you to be a part of our 131 Community.

You are the smartest and the coolest! I'm already in love with your determination. I wrote this book for you, and I'll be with you all the way.

Let's do this...


131 Method: Your Personalized Nutrition Solution to Boost Metabolism, Restore Gut Health, and Lose Weight
1 review
February 9, 2019
This book is LIFE CHANGING!!! I have lost 10 pounds eating according to the plan and not exercising! My energy levels have improved and my mental focus and clarity has also improved! The traditional “diet” doesn’t work for everyone and is usually not sustainable. This program teaches you how to listen to your body and develop YOUR OWN nutrition plan that works with your body! Absolutely amazing! A must have for everyone looking to balance hormones, maintain a healthy weight and feel amazing from the inside out!!
1 review1 follower
February 7, 2019
I am super excited and can’t wait to receive my pre-ordered copy. When the 131 method first came out I was not in a great place, I had recently been diagnosed with PCOS, we were newly weds and everyone’s dream is to get married and have kids welp that wasn’t my story and still isn’t today but I can say that the 131 has changed my life and can’t wait to see how much more it will do for me and my family. Super excited and thanks to Chalene and her wonderful team for doing something that actual helps and isn’t just something temporarily. It’s all about lifestyle and the 131 method is just that can’t wait.
Profile Image for Tricia Heightman Beaman.
2 reviews1 follower
April 17, 2019
The information in this book has changed my life. I learned how to heal my body and exactly which foods where unpleasant to my digestive system. It’s the first time I’ve understood fully what, when and why I needed to eat to feel and look my best.
I wasn’t looking to lose weight, I was more interested in balancing my hormones as I approach peri menopause. My monthly symptoms have completely gone away, I have more energy than I have in years and as an added bonus I’ve lost 1 pant size and about to start shopping one smaller.
Knowledge is power. This book is chocked full of knowledge. I can’t get enough.
1 review
February 14, 2019
I was thrilled to be part of the people chosen to pre-read the book before it was released. I was familiar with the concepts Chalene writes about, but feel that someone who is not will still gain a ton of knowledge about the 131 method. I appreciate Chalene’s easy to read writing, honesty about her journey and her admission that there is no one-size-fits-all diet. Health is not about fitting into a size 2 pair of jeans but in learning what is foods are good for fueling YOUR body.
1 review
February 21, 2019
I can NOT say enough wonderful things about this book. I had the privilage of reading an advanced copy and have also followed the method of eating outlined in this book. Several things are different about this than a "traditional" diet or health book.

1. This 131 Method puts YOU in control. It doesn't tell you what you should or shouldn't eat. The book covers an extensive array of science backed information of how to test for what foods work best for your body. There is no one size fits all for food. Everyone reacts differently to the same food so what may be good for one person may not be good for you. It teaches diet phasing so you aren't constantly eating the same things over and over. This keeps your body in metabolic flexibility.

2. This isn't a diet. This is a very easy, and doable lifestyle. There are changes every 3 to 4 weeks so you never get tired of the same way of eating. It becomes a habit, a way of life. And when you learn what foods make you feel good vs what foods make you feel bad, it makes it easier to listen to your body.

3. It's about health. This is not some get skinny quick scheme. This is so much more. It is about your health, your mental attitude, and the freedom to learn how to enjoy food and be healthy, without food controlling you.

Chalene is real, open, honest, and transparent. The 131 Method has truly changed my life. I've lost 12 pounds, 5 inches overall, and most importantly, feel better than ever. My hip pain is gone. My mental clarity is better. The bloating and "soft" feeling all over my body is gone. I have a whole new outlook on food. And this is after I thought I was eating clean and healthy!!! Throw away everything the diet industry has taught you and make the changes that will have a lasting impact on you and your health.
1 review2 followers
February 11, 2019
This book is amazing if you want to learn a healthy way of eating that works for YOU. ITs NOT a FAD DIET but a tool that teaches you about your body and helps you be aware of the things that you're putting into it that is harming you. It is tailor-made for the person wanting to finally learn what works for them without losing weight and gaining all back because what they tried in the past just wasn't useful. It's not about losing weight but about learning the healthy way of eating. Losing weight is just a bonus.
1 review
February 12, 2019
If you want to have more energy. If you want to get rid of that dreaded mid day fog and fatigue, get rid of the aches and pains in your joints, and overall live a better and healthier life then this book is for you!! This book is not a quick fix diet. You will learn how to take control of your health once and for all, the added bonus you will lose weight and feel better then you’ve ever felt!! I Am getting an early glimpse of the book and I promise, you want to preorder yours ASAP!
1 review
February 12, 2019
This book is going to change your life. Not only in the way you eat but the way you think as well. I am so impressed with Chalene’s honesty throughout this book. Not only wiill you learn about the right way to eat but you will learn the science behind all of it. You will also learn that this is not a diet. This book will teach you how to change the way you think or change what you have been taught. Grab your copy of this book.
1 review4 followers
February 12, 2019
Gah-this book is for you!!! For anyone, anyone wanting to understand and take back their health!!! This book will make you feel something! It’s not your average “diet book” in fact it’s not a diet at all-it’s all about YOU! Finding out what you need, finding out what works for you! Caution-this book is going to have you take control of your life and FREL FABULOUS ABOUT DOING IT! No questions asked
Profile Image for Darci Belschner.
1 review1 follower
February 11, 2019
This book speaks to me on so many levels.

I've done probably every "diet" out there and I've failed every time. However this is a lifestyle change I can stick with! Phasing every few weeks is something that can help me as it's not sticking to the same old same old...and in the process help me lose weight and rid myself of some of the ailments that I "just live with." So excited to have this resource!
1 review1 follower
February 11, 2019
No dieting? Feeling more alert and energized? Improving gut health and overall health? Yes, yes, and yes!!!

As a single working mom, I need to be healthy for my kids. This book is giving me the tools to be able to optimize my health and FINALLY feel in control of my life and health. I'm so excited to be on this journey! Chalene is an amazing inspiration, and I cannot wait to reap all the benefits of this program!
1 review7 followers
February 11, 2019
In the process of reading the advanced digital copy and I'm reinspired! To not only get control of my own health but create a lasting healthy lifestyle for my family as well. Teaching my son how to navigate food & make healthy choices for everyone. Chalene is so incredibly smart & has laid everything out in the book so ANYone can follow along and understand the true science behind her reasoning. I'm thrilled to be a part of the MOVEMENT.
3 reviews
February 10, 2019
This book and the practices that it teaches are truly life changing!!! We shouldn’t spend our lives worried about restricting foods, being a certain weight, or looking a certain way. We should be focused on being HEALTHY! This book will guide you through the practices of healing your gut, kickstarting metabolism, fixing your hormones and so much more. It won’t just tell you what to do, but instead teaches you how to listen to your body. It also utilizes the latest research and science to back up every single teaching point! Must read and must follow approach to life!
Profile Image for Andrea Abbott.
5 reviews
February 11, 2019
All good can say is, BUY THIS BOOK!!! The information it has in it's pages is invaluable.
If you are tired if the same old circles you have been going around in...STOP! The only book you need about diet is this anti-diet. Chalene helps you understand why you feel like crap!! And it's all common sense. All you need to ask yourself is, are you tired of feeling like crap? Then get this book!!! You will be happy you did.
Profile Image for Yvette.
34 reviews
February 11, 2019
I have been working on the 131 Method for a while now and am really excited about the book. The book gives even more information to add to the information that Chalene provides in the course of the 131 Method series of videos.

This is a must read and 131 is a go to for managing your nutrition. This is not a diet! This is a way of life!
Profile Image for Emily.
Author 14 books2 followers
February 10, 2019
This book is a must read for anyone looking to get in control of their health, fight disease, and just live a energized life. It is packed with info on how our body responds to various foods but explained in a real down to earth manner. I could totally hear Charlene’s voice as I read it.

This book provides knowledge based on the best science and research out there to help you eat in the way that is best for your body even if that’s different from your spouse’s body.

I truly recommend it! I can’t wait to try the recipes!!
1 review
February 9, 2019
It doesn’t get any more simple than this to figure out how to live a healthy lifestyle. Chalene has created this book not to make money, not to just say she did it, but to help as many people as she possibly could to reach their peak health. She wants to leave an amazing legacy and truly teach people how to live their best lives! Way to go Chalene! I would recommend this book to anyone and everyone and it makes a PERFECT gift too!
1 review
February 11, 2019
Wow! I do not know where to begin. This program is not just a diet, it’s a way of life!! I have learned so much about my health and the science of how my body reacts to certain foods that I am blown away with how much better I feel. Better sleep, less bloating, mental clarity and the energy I have!!! Knowledge is power, you guys!! Read this book!!
Profile Image for Katie Dale.
69 reviews
February 9, 2019
I've read so many diet books. I've yo-yo dieted so many times and I'm only 30! Chalene takes you through a journey of how to create your own personal food lifestyle. I would say diet but it's not a typical "diet". This is not a fad but a science based approach to your health. I love how she writes. It feels like she's talking to me and is personally taking me through my health and weight-loss journey. Love love love!
Profile Image for Sunset.
2 reviews
February 10, 2019
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of the book and it didn’t disappoint! I struggle with PCOS and like many, I’ve played the yo-yo diet game for most of my adult life. The 131 Method isn’t just another diet fad, it takes you to the root cause of the problem. You will learn how to heal your gut and how to reset your metabolism for good. Plus the book is super relatable and beautifully put together, which is everything this girl needed. I highly recommend this book!
1 review
February 11, 2019
The 131 Method has changed my life. It’s amazing how much better you can feel just by learning what foods work for or against you. Chalene and her team have put in all the work to help us all figure out how we can be the healthiest versions of ourselves without fad restrictive diets, dangerous medications, or endless workouts. I can’t thank her enough.
Profile Image for Gina  J.
1 review2 followers
April 10, 2019
Wow. What a genuine and honest story. Chalene personally shares her misconceptions of nutrition. She provides the science behind the 131 Method that is current and relevant to our bodies. This method is aimed to help us reach a better physical and mental status for our current lives. The 131 Method provides simple tools to use and give US the power to make the decisions for our own body. This promotes an individualized approach because no human body is the same!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 296 reviews

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