The Serotonin Revolution: The Low-Carb Diet That Won’t Make You Crazy

Turner, a British television personality, nutritionist, and hypnotist, offers a new approach to weight loss by focusing on the alleged hormonal imbalances that keep readers from attaining their goals. Regardless of which of the four hormones (serotonin, dopamine, leptin, adrenals) she singles out, all roads lead to a low-carb diet free of processed foods, white flour, and refined sugar. She presents over 70 recipes, as well as meal plans, for each of the four hormones readers would like to focus on. Dishes include chicken breasts with lentils and roasted cherry tomatoes, tiger shrimp with cauliflower “couscous,” pollock with salsa verde and carrot puree, and even a baked mocha cheesecake that uses Stevia instead of sugar. All her dishes are toothsome and flavorful, with nutritional information provided. Regardless of which path readers choose to follow, they won’t do themselves much harm in moving to a more vegetable and lean protein-focused diet. If they incorporate exercise (only referenced in passing), they’ll likely do even better. Readers serious about addressing hormonal issues tied to weight gain would do better consulting a licensed endocrinologist. Color photos throughout. Agent: Deborah McKenna, Deborah McKenna Ltd. (Apr.)