Dr. Mark Hyman’s new book, Ultrametabolism: The Simple Plan for Automatic Weight Loss is actually a holistic approach that combines both conventional and alternative methods for regaining health and losing weight. Dr. Hyman, editor in chief of Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, provides a vivid road map for individuals to follow who want to restore their health and increase their longevity.  

According to Dr. Hyman the secret of dieting, found on pages 159 and 160, comes as no surprise as it includes calorie restriction, eating a healthy breakfast and exercise. However, he does not stop there as he goes on to explain how what you eat and how it is prepared is important to your overall health. In the explanation, he reveals the importance of a three-phase system which includes first detoxifying the body by ridding it of poisonous ingredients (such as sugar and salt). The second step is to reintroduce foods slowly to determine if you have an undiagnosed allergy to any specific categories, and lastly to then plan what you can safely eat to maintain weight loss, as well as, keep you healthy and free of the diseases associated with obesity. One of the things that amazed me, however, was that many of the things that I had believed were bad for you like olive oil, nuts and avocados are actually, what we are deficient in. 

Throughout his book, Dr. Hyman cites sound research, including endnotes, that validate his work as he joins his extensive pieces of information together to show how irritating ailments like itchy feet, dandruff, and fatigue can often be tracked to what we eat. Additionally there are recipes and shopping lists included that offer the reader a resource for implementing the plan. One problem I had with his research, however, was his claim that simply eliminating dairy, corn syrup, and transfats from a diet would guarantee weight loss. I believe that for that to be effective someone would not be able to simply supplement the undesirable foods with artificial sweeteners, potatoes or an overabundance of any other food and still be able to lose weight. Another difficulty I found with the book was his preference for foods that the average American will have difficulty finding and when they do find it priced outside of their budget.

Overall, the book it clear, easy to understand, and gives solid advice which I think many readers would find quite helpful. Therefore, if you are willing to change your eating habits and try a new approach to a healthier you this book would be a good investment.

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