Why Diets Fail (Because You’re Addicted to Sugar): Science Explains How to End Cravings, Lose Weight, and Get Healthy

Neuroscientist Avena joins journalist Talbott in a timely investigation about why so many Americans are overweight or obese and unable to lose unwanted pounds. Their theory, supported by Avena’s research into the causes of overeating and obesity, maintains that sugar addiction has striking similarities to drug and alcohol addiction. The reason diets fail, they assert, is because sugar is both addictive and ubiquitous. In addition, many diets can be confusing, expensive, or time-consuming. The authors present “The Sugar Freedom Plan,” a five-phase method that helps readers gradually reduce their sugar use, deal with withdrawal and cravings, and make lifestyle changes. Not surprisingly, recommendations include eliminating or reducing intake of such foods as soft drinks, cookies, cereals, pasta, breads, salad dressings, and sauces. To aid readers in this “revamping” process, which occurs over a period of weeks, they provide a Sugar Equivalency Table that reveals how much sugar is in specific foods so that readers can make better choices. Rather than calorie counting, the plan prompts readers to get to the root of the problem by focusing on cutting sugar and carbs, as well as alleviating feelings of failure and self-blame, while empowering readers to take proactive steps. Talbott’s personal journey with sugar addiction (which opens the book) is an added touch that effectively connects with readers. (Jan.)