Why Kids Make You Fat... And How to Get Your Body Back

Nutrition and fitness expert Macdonald (Body Confidence) focuses on helping parents in his latest offering. Macdonald, the father of two young children, gained 35 pounds in his first two years of parenthood. He aims to help parents to regain a measure of control, while admitting that life with children is bound to take unexpected turns. His plan calls for a one-week detox (no gluten, soy, cheese, alcohol, etc.) followed by “Ignite” and “Thrive” phases. Both “grab ’n’ go” and “gourmet style” recipes accompany each phase, since finding time to cook is another challenge for parents. “Eating in threes” is the approach’s foundation: parents should eat every three hours with the correct balance of carbs, protein, and healthy fats. This, the author claims, keeps blood sugar balanced and helps avoid “cracking” (e.g., reaching for pizza, donuts, or other fattening treats). Along with exercise and menu guides, Macdonald covers such topics as shopping with and for kids (never set out for the grocery store while hungry), travel, and “taxi service” tips (parents should pre-pack their MRFK—“Mobile Readiness Food Kit”—with wholesome on-the-go snacks). Macdonald’s amiable voice, combined with impressive before-and-after pictures of clients, will motivate parents hoping to drop pounds and live healthfully. Agent: Michael Broussard, ISB New Media. (May)