The Inside-Out Diet: 4 Weeks to Natural Weight Loss, Total Body Health, and Radiance

Wong, a naturopathic doctor and nutritionist, suggests that a healthy liver is the key to managing weight. She believes that a liver overburdened by a fatty, salty, sugary diet is unable to fulfill its role metabolizing fats, proteins and carbohydrates; absorbing vitamins; breaking down unwanted compounds; and removing chemicals from the blood. According to Wong, almost every malaise imaginable—from a craving for sweet, starchy or fatty foods and difficulty losing weight to stress headaches, depression, rashes and body odor—can be blamed on an overworked liver. To that end, she delivers a program designed to promote optimal liver function. Foods that are recommended include whey and flaxseed, more cruciferous veggies (e.g., broccoli and kale), antioxidizing fruits and vegetables (blueberries, beets and garlic) and lean and organic meats and eggs. Certain fish, fructose sweeteners, most dairy products and heavily processed foods are verboten. Keeping a food journal, exercise and relaxation, and detoxifying your home are encouraged. Shopping lists, detailed meal plans, what to order when dining out and a section of liver-friendly recipes fill out the plan. The advice is sound, and a focus on detoxifying the liver is the detail that sets this book apart from other health and diet books. (Sept.)