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Your Body in Balance: The New Science of Food, Hormones, and Health
This nationally bestselling book explains the shocking new science of how hormones are wreaking havoc on the body, and the delicious solution that improves health, reduces pain, and even helps to shed weight.
Hidden in everyday foods are the causes of a surprising range of health problems: infertility, menstrual cramps, weight gain, hair loss, breast and prostate cancer, hot flashes, and much more. All of these conditions have one thing in common: they are fueled by hormones that are hiding in foods or are influenced by the foods we eat.
Your Body in Balance provides step-by-step guidance for understanding what's at the root of your suffering-and what you can do to feel better fast. Few people realize that a simple food prescription can help you tackle all these and more by gently restoring your hormone balance, with benefits rivaling medications. Neal Barnard, MD, a leading authority on nutrition and health, offers insight into how dietary changes can alleviate years of stress, pain, and illness. What's more, he also provides delicious and easy-to-make hormone-balancing recipes, including:
Cauliflower Buffalo Chowder
Kung Pao Lettuce Wraps
Butternut Breakfast Tacos
Mediterranean Croquettes
Apple Pie Nachos
Brownie Batter Hummus
Your Body in Balance gives new hope for people struggling with health issues. Thousands of people have already reclaimed their lives and their health through the strategic dietary changes described in this book. Whether you're looking to treat a specific ailment or are in search of better overall health, Dr. Neal Barnard provides an easy pathway toward pain relief, weight control, and a lifetime of good health.
Hidden in everyday foods are the causes of a surprising range of health problems: infertility, menstrual cramps, weight gain, hair loss, breast and prostate cancer, hot flashes, and much more. All of these conditions have one thing in common: they are fueled by hormones that are hiding in foods or are influenced by the foods we eat.
Your Body in Balance provides step-by-step guidance for understanding what's at the root of your suffering-and what you can do to feel better fast. Few people realize that a simple food prescription can help you tackle all these and more by gently restoring your hormone balance, with benefits rivaling medications. Neal Barnard, MD, a leading authority on nutrition and health, offers insight into how dietary changes can alleviate years of stress, pain, and illness. What's more, he also provides delicious and easy-to-make hormone-balancing recipes, including:
Cauliflower Buffalo Chowder
Kung Pao Lettuce Wraps
Butternut Breakfast Tacos
Mediterranean Croquettes
Apple Pie Nachos
Brownie Batter Hummus
Your Body in Balance gives new hope for people struggling with health issues. Thousands of people have already reclaimed their lives and their health through the strategic dietary changes described in this book. Whether you're looking to treat a specific ailment or are in search of better overall health, Dr. Neal Barnard provides an easy pathway toward pain relief, weight control, and a lifetime of good health.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published February 4, 2020
654 people are currently reading
3078 people want to read
About the author
Neal D. Barnard
71 books405 followersNeal Barnard, MD, FACC, is an Adjunct Professor of Medicine at the George Washington University School of Medicine in Washington, DC, and President of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine.
Dr. Barnard has led numerous research studies investigating the effects of diet on diabetes, body weight, hormonal symptoms, and chronic pain, including a groundbreaking study of dietary interventions in type 2 diabetes, funded by the National Institutes of Health, that paved the way for viewing type 2 diabetes as a potentially reversible condition for many patients. Dr. Barnard has authored more than 100 scientific publications and 20 books for medical and lay readers, and is the editor in chief of the Nutrition Guide for Clinicians, a textbook made available to all U.S. medical students.
As president of the Physicians Committee, Dr. Barnard leads programs advocating for preventive medicine, good nutrition, and higher ethical standards in research. His research contributed to the acceptance of plant-based diets in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. In 2015, he was named a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology. In 2016, he founded the Barnard Medical Center in Washington, DC, as a model for making nutrition a routine part of all medical care.
Working with the Medical Society of the District of Columbia and the American Medical Association, Dr. Barnard has authored key resolutions, now part of AMA policy, calling for a new focus on prevention and nutrition in federal policies and in medical practice. In 2018, he received the Medical Society of the District of Columbia’s Distinguished Service Award. He has hosted four PBS television programs on nutrition and health.
Originally from Fargo, North Dakota, Dr. Barnard received his M.D. degree at the George Washington University School of Medicine and completed his residency at the same institution. He practiced at St. Vincent’s Hospital in New York before returning to Washington to found the Physicians Committee.
His latest book is The Power Foods Diet: The Breakthrough Plan that Traps, Tames, and Burns Calories for Easy and Permanent Weight Loss. With more than 120 recipes and beautiful food photography, it shows the surprising ability that certain foods have to cause weight loss.
Dr. Barnard has led numerous research studies investigating the effects of diet on diabetes, body weight, hormonal symptoms, and chronic pain, including a groundbreaking study of dietary interventions in type 2 diabetes, funded by the National Institutes of Health, that paved the way for viewing type 2 diabetes as a potentially reversible condition for many patients. Dr. Barnard has authored more than 100 scientific publications and 20 books for medical and lay readers, and is the editor in chief of the Nutrition Guide for Clinicians, a textbook made available to all U.S. medical students.
As president of the Physicians Committee, Dr. Barnard leads programs advocating for preventive medicine, good nutrition, and higher ethical standards in research. His research contributed to the acceptance of plant-based diets in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. In 2015, he was named a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology. In 2016, he founded the Barnard Medical Center in Washington, DC, as a model for making nutrition a routine part of all medical care.
Working with the Medical Society of the District of Columbia and the American Medical Association, Dr. Barnard has authored key resolutions, now part of AMA policy, calling for a new focus on prevention and nutrition in federal policies and in medical practice. In 2018, he received the Medical Society of the District of Columbia’s Distinguished Service Award. He has hosted four PBS television programs on nutrition and health.
Originally from Fargo, North Dakota, Dr. Barnard received his M.D. degree at the George Washington University School of Medicine and completed his residency at the same institution. He practiced at St. Vincent’s Hospital in New York before returning to Washington to found the Physicians Committee.
His latest book is The Power Foods Diet: The Breakthrough Plan that Traps, Tames, and Burns Calories for Easy and Permanent Weight Loss. With more than 120 recipes and beautiful food photography, it shows the surprising ability that certain foods have to cause weight loss.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
August 29, 2025
I only made it through 50% before I gave up. Very heavily promotes a low-fat plant-based vegan diet.
* Eat more plants, skip animal products entirely, minimize use of added oils, shed excess weight.
* Changing your diet changes your hormones.
* "It pays to be bit on the thin side, but not overly thin" with a BMI of 19-20 seemingly ideal.
It's hard to piece out any possible nuggets of wisdom when the extremely limited identical repetitious recommendations sure look like a miracle cure for any and all that ails you. The repetition is what really got to me, but I'm also not sure the anecdotal content and narrow scientific corroboration isn't cherry-picked to support the author's beliefs. Unfortunately, I couldn't get past the delivery style to find out.
* Eat more plants, skip animal products entirely, minimize use of added oils, shed excess weight.
* Changing your diet changes your hormones.
* "It pays to be bit on the thin side, but not overly thin" with a BMI of 19-20 seemingly ideal.
It's hard to piece out any possible nuggets of wisdom when the extremely limited identical repetitious recommendations sure look like a miracle cure for any and all that ails you. The repetition is what really got to me, but I'm also not sure the anecdotal content and narrow scientific corroboration isn't cherry-picked to support the author's beliefs. Unfortunately, I couldn't get past the delivery style to find out.
February 9, 2020
Although I was lucky to read this book 3 or 4 times last year, I sat down today with the final product and read it again. I am so SO happy Neal wrote this book. It’s the perfect balance of enough information so you are well informed, but he doesn’t bog it down or go so deep that it becomes dry and exhausting. It’s fantastic how he breaks the medical literature and science down in a way anyone can understand. PLUS he provides illustrative studies (and testimonial stories from his patients) to further help the reader grasp the concept. This is key imho for a true foundational understanding. Above all, you can tell he CARES and is a happy person—this is not a militant or scaremongering “bully” book.
Many of the plant-based diet books can be critical, dry, harsh, and bullying. You’re left feeling like some white dude is yelling at you about things he has never personally felt,
Or experienced.... Neal is different. this book (and Dr. Barnard) feels like a caring older uncle or family friend. He is COMPASSIONATE and gentle. He also manages to cover a broad spectrum of hormone-related issues that both men and women face in one book. While this book is primarily targeted at women, there are chapters dedicated to men’s health.
Ultimately, his prescription is a very low fat, high fiber, plant-centered diet. Vigorous exercise is encouraged, though mostly to help with weight loss and fertility (as excess body fat can cause hormone haywire. Body fat = more hormones).
If you struggle with infertility, mood disorders, PCOS, PMS symptoms, ED (men), hot flashes, risk of cancer/have cancer, thyroid la la, weight troubles, etc. read the chapter dedicated to your issue in the book and eat the foods he recommends. At the very least, be informed about exactly how all the foods you eat affect your hormones and medical issue. That may be all you need.
Lastly, I’m the author of the recipes in the back (to be transparent) and my review is for the text; I choose not to review myself. Thanks! 🍏🍎🍐🍋🍈🍓🍉🍌🍒🍑🥭🍍🥦🍆🍅🥝🥬🥒🌶🥕🧄🧅🥔🍠🥗🥫🍴
Many of the plant-based diet books can be critical, dry, harsh, and bullying. You’re left feeling like some white dude is yelling at you about things he has never personally felt,
Or experienced.... Neal is different. this book (and Dr. Barnard) feels like a caring older uncle or family friend. He is COMPASSIONATE and gentle. He also manages to cover a broad spectrum of hormone-related issues that both men and women face in one book. While this book is primarily targeted at women, there are chapters dedicated to men’s health.
Ultimately, his prescription is a very low fat, high fiber, plant-centered diet. Vigorous exercise is encouraged, though mostly to help with weight loss and fertility (as excess body fat can cause hormone haywire. Body fat = more hormones).
If you struggle with infertility, mood disorders, PCOS, PMS symptoms, ED (men), hot flashes, risk of cancer/have cancer, thyroid la la, weight troubles, etc. read the chapter dedicated to your issue in the book and eat the foods he recommends. At the very least, be informed about exactly how all the foods you eat affect your hormones and medical issue. That may be all you need.
Lastly, I’m the author of the recipes in the back (to be transparent) and my review is for the text; I choose not to review myself. Thanks! 🍏🍎🍐🍋🍈🍓🍉🍌🍒🍑🥭🍍🥦🍆🍅🥝🥬🥒🌶🥕🧄🧅🥔🍠🥗🥫🍴
September 3, 2020
A lot of anecdotes of people having miraculous recoveries from their hormonally-based health issues. My skeptic mode would be on high alert, but I have my own anecdote to add. I switched to a healthy plant based diet when I was having incredible kidney pain. I was afraid I might die young. Early tests showed a swollen kidney. The fear was an excellent motivator for me to clean up my diet. I was one of those miracle stories. I cured myself. After 6 weeks on a whole food, plant based diet, the MRI showed normal kidneys. My nearly constant allergies to all the pollens and grasses and the dust mites also cleared up. I could breathe better and my symptoms have disappeared like a miracle.
None of that is hormone related, so to tie it back to this book, I had one more observation. My very heavy periods went back to normal. While reading this book, it all began to make sense. The fiber is able to clear out the excess hormones in my body that are at least partially created by my excess body fat. So my next step is I need to lose the weight because fat cells are estrogen generators.
I have not done the very low fat thing that Dr. Barnard recommends, but he definitely gives me something to think about. First, I am motivated to not do those little cheats that I know have been keeping me overweight. Those junk foods that occasionally slip in and aren't helping. I'll see what results I get from taking the diet more seriously like I did when I was trying to save myself from those kidney problems. I started a couple weeks ago and I have already lost a few pounds. If I find that I need to, I will consider reducing my nuts, seeds, and avocados as Dr. Barnard suggests.
None of that is hormone related, so to tie it back to this book, I had one more observation. My very heavy periods went back to normal. While reading this book, it all began to make sense. The fiber is able to clear out the excess hormones in my body that are at least partially created by my excess body fat. So my next step is I need to lose the weight because fat cells are estrogen generators.
I have not done the very low fat thing that Dr. Barnard recommends, but he definitely gives me something to think about. First, I am motivated to not do those little cheats that I know have been keeping me overweight. Those junk foods that occasionally slip in and aren't helping. I'll see what results I get from taking the diet more seriously like I did when I was trying to save myself from those kidney problems. I started a couple weeks ago and I have already lost a few pounds. If I find that I need to, I will consider reducing my nuts, seeds, and avocados as Dr. Barnard suggests.
February 26, 2020
I have strong feelings about health/medical books. I was prepared not to like this, but I really did (admittedly, I skipped chapters that don't apply to me, like men's cancer and PCOS and diabetes, so I can't assess those).
Things I liked:
+ It's written by an actual M.D.
+ There's a reference list! With actual citations in the chapters! (This should be a "duh" aspect, but surprisingly a lot of "wellness" books don't include any actual citations). And the sources are often legitimate, peer-reviewed, high quality studies!
+ He doesn't once mention "Leaky Gut", because if he did I would have quit reading on the spot. I'm so freaking sick of everyone on the internet (even MDs, but granted they're all commercialized sell-out MDs) saying that leaky gut is the cause of Hashimotos, and Celiac, and literally every other ailment.
+ He doesn't demonize gluten (at least in the chapters I read).
+ He doesn't talk about detoxing (because he's an MD and realizes that detoxing is not something drinking juice or taking a pill will do)
+ Promotes plant-based diets without being too preachy about it. He has guidelines for how to get started and doesn't say you have to throw everything out of your fridge immediately.
+ He includes sample meal plans and recipes that aren't crazy complicated or expensive.
Things I didn't like:
+ He demonizes oil. I haven't gone too deeply into the literature on oil's impact on the endocrine system, so maybe it can mess with hormones (which is the underlying theme of the book), but there are a lot of important nutrients in EVOO and other oiles that vegetarians/vegans need (healthy fats, Omega 3/ALA, etc.). Also, personally I think pushing people to avoid oil at all costs can lead to disordered eating (just watch any youtube video from someone who is anti-oil, and you'll likely see 1000s of other dangerous eating behaviors along with it).
Thanks Netgalley for the e-ARC!
Things I liked:
+ It's written by an actual M.D.
+ There's a reference list! With actual citations in the chapters! (This should be a "duh" aspect, but surprisingly a lot of "wellness" books don't include any actual citations). And the sources are often legitimate, peer-reviewed, high quality studies!
+ He doesn't once mention "Leaky Gut", because if he did I would have quit reading on the spot. I'm so freaking sick of everyone on the internet (even MDs, but granted they're all commercialized sell-out MDs) saying that leaky gut is the cause of Hashimotos, and Celiac, and literally every other ailment.
+ He doesn't demonize gluten (at least in the chapters I read).
+ He doesn't talk about detoxing (because he's an MD and realizes that detoxing is not something drinking juice or taking a pill will do)
+ Promotes plant-based diets without being too preachy about it. He has guidelines for how to get started and doesn't say you have to throw everything out of your fridge immediately.
+ He includes sample meal plans and recipes that aren't crazy complicated or expensive.
Things I didn't like:
+ He demonizes oil. I haven't gone too deeply into the literature on oil's impact on the endocrine system, so maybe it can mess with hormones (which is the underlying theme of the book), but there are a lot of important nutrients in EVOO and other oiles that vegetarians/vegans need (healthy fats, Omega 3/ALA, etc.). Also, personally I think pushing people to avoid oil at all costs can lead to disordered eating (just watch any youtube video from someone who is anti-oil, and you'll likely see 1000s of other dangerous eating behaviors along with it).
Thanks Netgalley for the e-ARC!
February 17, 2020
A clearly written book that is engaging to read. Dr. Barnard uses scientific evidence to highlight the role of nutrition in different types of hormone-related problems such as diabetes, problems in menopause, thyroid care, skin and hair care, sexual dysfunction, and male and female hormonal related cancer. Some of these areas have been well-trod by other plant-based books such as Dr. Gregor's How Not to Die, but others seem like new avenues for research.
I like Dr. Barnard's written in that he relies on scientific evidence but he also weaves case studies from his own practice to help illustrate the science behind his recommendations. He also presents material in an easy-to-understand way without digging too deep into the details. Finally, I like that he is clear about the boundaries of his advice, and is clear when the science is still undecided on a particular topic.
The book does have a fair amount of repetition: for nearly all ailments, cut out animal products, cut out oil; eat foods high in fiber. For many who have read other books in this area, this advice is not new. His writing, though, inspires me to work harder to make my diet even more whole-foods plant-based.
I like Dr. Barnard's written in that he relies on scientific evidence but he also weaves case studies from his own practice to help illustrate the science behind his recommendations. He also presents material in an easy-to-understand way without digging too deep into the details. Finally, I like that he is clear about the boundaries of his advice, and is clear when the science is still undecided on a particular topic.
The book does have a fair amount of repetition: for nearly all ailments, cut out animal products, cut out oil; eat foods high in fiber. For many who have read other books in this area, this advice is not new. His writing, though, inspires me to work harder to make my diet even more whole-foods plant-based.
January 1, 2022
This guy really hates meat, fish and dairy, although that’s not immediately obvious from the cover. I wanted to read the recipes once I’d read the whole book, but now I’m sorry I spent so much time on it. The recipes are mostly trying to recreate non-vegan foods, so I think they would just be disappointing or complicated. Next time I need to be more careful about what I pick up off the library shelf and spend my time on!
January 12, 2022
I can’t believe this book was written in 2020, it reads right out of the 1970’s. The main advice is to lose weight, which newer studies have showed is unsustainable. Further, dieting has proved to be detrimental to long-term health. The information in this book about plant based diets is interesting, but I have a hard time believing these studies simply because they are likely just confirmation bias.
February 11, 2020
It brought some new things to my attention. But it is still too broad and would be a good introduction to the benefits of plant-based diets. I had hoped that it would go more in-depth, as there are already many introductory WFPB books out there.
December 8, 2021
This is Nonfiction/Health. This was about a totally vegan approach to ultimate health. I've read a few books on this and while I liked the message, this one wasn't my top favorite on this subject. So 2.5 stars rounding up to 3.
January 28, 2021
Excellent exploration as well as explanation of how we truly are what we eat... and a plant-based diet is the best way to find our way through issues like diabetes, depression, etc. to achieve optimum health! Great recipes by Lindsay Nixon, too... ❤
"...health authorities recommend that everyone over age fifty take a B12 supplement or use B12 -fortified foods. This is actually good advice for everyone, no matter what your age. And a B12 supplement is essential for anyone on a vegan diet."
"...health authorities recommend that everyone over age fifty take a B12 supplement or use B12 -fortified foods. This is actually good advice for everyone, no matter what your age. And a B12 supplement is essential for anyone on a vegan diet."
July 2, 2020
I'm a fan of Barnard's earlier books. This one is a total disappointment. Overly simplistic and repetitive. Each chapter covers a different health issue, the diet and lifestyle changes are essentially the same. Glad I borrowed it from the library, rather than paying for it.
March 6, 2023
It was good. A lot of information to digest so I will have to reread this one a few times. It did open my eyes up to some things I should be aware of that I didn't know. I did enjoy there were recipes at the end of the book it was a fun surprise.
July 4, 2025
I’ll start with a positive: at least in part due (indirectly and directly) to this book, my dad has changed his eating habits and reports that he feels great, and his doctor is impressed with his data. He’s been able to stave off and even eliminate the need for some
medication.
However, after receiving a recommendation from him to read it, getting through was a labor of love.
The repetition. “Give up meat” and “stop eating dairy” and “going vegan is the healthiest choice” and endless variations. I was wishing for a stone-faced editor to crack down.
The recommendations. The impossibility and seeming contradictions. Drinking water out of a plastic bottle is detrimental to health. Water filters don’t necessarily work on certain chemicals. Tap water is a no go. If you can’t get spring water, buy spring water in a bottle… uh? At least make sure it’s BPA free and don’t let it get hot. Also, eat tons of veggies and fruit, but beware of herbicides and pesticides. Buy certain things organic. Organic also means it’s non-GMO. Most animal feed is GMO- another good reason to give up meat and animal products. By the way, chemicals used on farms eventually make it into the water, so you should care about where your water comes from too!
I wanted to scream at the book- AT LEAST I’M EATING SPINACH AND DRINKING WATER!
The writing style is clearly not for me. I’d rather save reading time and just watch a 30 min infomercial. But also the content had me confused. Who is the audience? Cancer patients, check. Diabetes patients, check. Various hormone maladies, painful periods and menstrual problems, prostate, check check check. Let’s just call it a miracle cure vibe, except what about the medical problems not mentioned? Some people can be harmed by too much fiber, etc. Definitely talk to your doctor. I wish he had mentioned some of the drawbacks. It would have given more authority to the advantages.
Moving on, this book is also apparently supposed to be read by government regulators. BPA is hopefully going the way of DDT. The differences between US chemicals and European. Oh, are farmers/ranchers supposed to read it? That little bit about Monsanto was interesting; animal welfare is mentioned too, and it doesn’t take much searching to find that Dr. Barnard is associated with PETA. FINE but I just wanted to read about a healthful diet, not have my food politicized. Is this a political book or a diet book or a medical text? Who is he trying to convince and of what? People who need the diet for health may feel condescended to (the repetition). Farmers and politicians aren’t going to read it. That leaves people who already think vegan is the way to go, and that kind of makes me regretful. Sad. (Me, a liberal daughter of a conservative father who is surprised he’s gone vegan and wants to find out why. Is it because my liberal aunt recommended the book to my conservative father or because she made him eat vegan food for a week while he took care of her after cancer surgery? Probably the book. It’s not like my aunt is an out of this world chef or anything.)
Now I’m being picky but seriously the word “healthful”. I know, I know, healthful describes something that promotes good health while healthy describes something that has health, but there is also the concept of variety to keep things from being tedious, not to mention colloquial usage. It is a word that makes me feel funny reading it, and I had to read it too many times.
I slogged through to get to the recipes, and heaved a sigh when looking at the serving sizes and calorie counts. I’m supposed to eat a cup of soup for lunch for 130 calories? Oh, it only has soymilk, onions, and mushrooms in it, go figure. I guess I could include a taco too… only taco shell, sweet potato, and sauce? Then I still have room for sushi… made out of sweet potato… still not enough calories. As I don’t live in a location where vegan products can easily be found, I did appreciate the focus on Whole Foods and not vegan yogurt, vegan butter, vegan sausage like a lot of internet recipes. (Blended cashews and nutritional yeast do not vegan Parmesan make. Just say you’re topping your pasta with crushed cashews! Same for tofu mayo.) There are a few gems, but I was left feeling a squeeze for time and money, and still hungry.
On a scale of diet books, at least I’m not questioning the science (because I already agree). He hasn’t convinced me of anything contentious, or to change my mind on anything. Expected this-book-would-be-better-as-a-pamphlet quality. (Or maybe a diabetes pamphlet, a cancer pamphlet, etc. cover as much shelf space as possible, why not?) 1/5 for tedium, annoyance, and sadness.
medication.
However, after receiving a recommendation from him to read it, getting through was a labor of love.
The repetition. “Give up meat” and “stop eating dairy” and “going vegan is the healthiest choice” and endless variations. I was wishing for a stone-faced editor to crack down.
The recommendations. The impossibility and seeming contradictions. Drinking water out of a plastic bottle is detrimental to health. Water filters don’t necessarily work on certain chemicals. Tap water is a no go. If you can’t get spring water, buy spring water in a bottle… uh? At least make sure it’s BPA free and don’t let it get hot. Also, eat tons of veggies and fruit, but beware of herbicides and pesticides. Buy certain things organic. Organic also means it’s non-GMO. Most animal feed is GMO- another good reason to give up meat and animal products. By the way, chemicals used on farms eventually make it into the water, so you should care about where your water comes from too!
I wanted to scream at the book- AT LEAST I’M EATING SPINACH AND DRINKING WATER!
The writing style is clearly not for me. I’d rather save reading time and just watch a 30 min infomercial. But also the content had me confused. Who is the audience? Cancer patients, check. Diabetes patients, check. Various hormone maladies, painful periods and menstrual problems, prostate, check check check. Let’s just call it a miracle cure vibe, except what about the medical problems not mentioned? Some people can be harmed by too much fiber, etc. Definitely talk to your doctor. I wish he had mentioned some of the drawbacks. It would have given more authority to the advantages.
Moving on, this book is also apparently supposed to be read by government regulators. BPA is hopefully going the way of DDT. The differences between US chemicals and European. Oh, are farmers/ranchers supposed to read it? That little bit about Monsanto was interesting; animal welfare is mentioned too, and it doesn’t take much searching to find that Dr. Barnard is associated with PETA. FINE but I just wanted to read about a healthful diet, not have my food politicized. Is this a political book or a diet book or a medical text? Who is he trying to convince and of what? People who need the diet for health may feel condescended to (the repetition). Farmers and politicians aren’t going to read it. That leaves people who already think vegan is the way to go, and that kind of makes me regretful. Sad. (Me, a liberal daughter of a conservative father who is surprised he’s gone vegan and wants to find out why. Is it because my liberal aunt recommended the book to my conservative father or because she made him eat vegan food for a week while he took care of her after cancer surgery? Probably the book. It’s not like my aunt is an out of this world chef or anything.)
Now I’m being picky but seriously the word “healthful”. I know, I know, healthful describes something that promotes good health while healthy describes something that has health, but there is also the concept of variety to keep things from being tedious, not to mention colloquial usage. It is a word that makes me feel funny reading it, and I had to read it too many times.
I slogged through to get to the recipes, and heaved a sigh when looking at the serving sizes and calorie counts. I’m supposed to eat a cup of soup for lunch for 130 calories? Oh, it only has soymilk, onions, and mushrooms in it, go figure. I guess I could include a taco too… only taco shell, sweet potato, and sauce? Then I still have room for sushi… made out of sweet potato… still not enough calories. As I don’t live in a location where vegan products can easily be found, I did appreciate the focus on Whole Foods and not vegan yogurt, vegan butter, vegan sausage like a lot of internet recipes. (Blended cashews and nutritional yeast do not vegan Parmesan make. Just say you’re topping your pasta with crushed cashews! Same for tofu mayo.) There are a few gems, but I was left feeling a squeeze for time and money, and still hungry.
On a scale of diet books, at least I’m not questioning the science (because I already agree). He hasn’t convinced me of anything contentious, or to change my mind on anything. Expected this-book-would-be-better-as-a-pamphlet quality. (Or maybe a diabetes pamphlet, a cancer pamphlet, etc. cover as much shelf space as possible, why not?) 1/5 for tedium, annoyance, and sadness.
March 12, 2020
Love Vegan
October 23, 2022
*updated*
I’m a little cautious the more I progress through this book. The synopsis of the book and the writer’s accreditations did not give me the impression that this book would be such a strong advocate for 100% plant-based diet. I read up more on the author's background and it turns out that he is vegan. Regardless of his personal beliefs, I don't think it is right for him to recommend a 100% plant-based diet as a solution to hormonal issues such as dealing with PMS symptoms. I believe it differs for every woman and it's quite ridiculous to be so quick to point fingers at ALL animal products. Yes, I know dairy products are a sure red flag. Eggs may be a problem for some but I don't believe ALL women if not I'm sure almost every woman around me will be having hormonal problems since eggs are such a staple in the country I live in. I don't understand how nuts can be so adamantly discouraged here, for they are known to have anti-inflammatory effects and are a wonderful source of healthy oil.
No doubt I am not shocked at the benefits of having more fruits and plants but... it would be nice if the book wasn’t written in such a one-sided manner and with a more scientific POV - to state in a more factual manner what happens even with perhaps, 80% plant and 20% meat diet, instead of completely eliminating any meat in the diet.
I will not recommend reading this book. Not buying what I have read at all.
I’m a little cautious the more I progress through this book. The synopsis of the book and the writer’s accreditations did not give me the impression that this book would be such a strong advocate for 100% plant-based diet. I read up more on the author's background and it turns out that he is vegan. Regardless of his personal beliefs, I don't think it is right for him to recommend a 100% plant-based diet as a solution to hormonal issues such as dealing with PMS symptoms. I believe it differs for every woman and it's quite ridiculous to be so quick to point fingers at ALL animal products. Yes, I know dairy products are a sure red flag. Eggs may be a problem for some but I don't believe ALL women if not I'm sure almost every woman around me will be having hormonal problems since eggs are such a staple in the country I live in. I don't understand how nuts can be so adamantly discouraged here, for they are known to have anti-inflammatory effects and are a wonderful source of healthy oil.
No doubt I am not shocked at the benefits of having more fruits and plants but... it would be nice if the book wasn’t written in such a one-sided manner and with a more scientific POV - to state in a more factual manner what happens even with perhaps, 80% plant and 20% meat diet, instead of completely eliminating any meat in the diet.
I will not recommend reading this book. Not buying what I have read at all.
December 28, 2023
It was okay. Very repetitive at times but I drew some useful insights. Eat more fiber, consume vitamin rich foods, etc etc…The fact that I was raised by a health-conscious mother made me already aware of a lot this, but I definitely plan to incorporate more high-fiber whole grains into my diet.
I wanted to read this book to better understand my body and how I can better eat according to what my hormones need. But i feel like this was 10% about that and 90% about going vegan. And frankly I’m not going to do that because I like eating animal protein
I’m always a little cautious when reading books like this because it feels like this doctor is definitely pushing an agenda. I’m going to have my sister, who’s a registered dietitian, read it so she can vet it.
I wanted to read this book to better understand my body and how I can better eat according to what my hormones need. But i feel like this was 10% about that and 90% about going vegan. And frankly I’m not going to do that because I like eating animal protein
I’m always a little cautious when reading books like this because it feels like this doctor is definitely pushing an agenda. I’m going to have my sister, who’s a registered dietitian, read it so she can vet it.
December 8, 2021
I have mixed feelings about this book. It is rooted firmly in evidence-based science, but there are so many anecdotes that it gives off a slightly hokey and fad diet feel. That being said, I would have absolutely killed to have had this book 7 years ago when I was in the throes of some truly terrible health issues, with no relief in sight. This book clearly, simply, and factually resolves everything I suffered through. I wish I could reach back in time and give it to my former self, but I will settle for recommending it to others who may be struggling now. If you have ever wondered if your hormones might be related to your health issues, read this book.
January 7, 2021
This is an easy to read, pro-vegan book written by an MD that basically concludes every chapter with the same simple recommendations. I have been emphasizing a plant based diet for about a year (it’s a work in progress) and can personally attest to the many benefits. There are studies quickly referenced and personal accounts which I could identify with. The extra bonus is a sample menu and a lot of recipes at the end that offer great variety and something for everyone!
February 26, 2020
Another book that is due to the library before I finish!
I appreciate this research. For me, I didn't really glean too much new information. But it is certainly a good place to start for anyone with hormonal issues.
I appreciate this research. For me, I didn't really glean too much new information. But it is certainly a good place to start for anyone with hormonal issues.
July 18, 2024
Mucho cherry picking de casos milagrosos. Eso no me gustó. Además es bastante repetitivo y demoniza en exceso las comidas de origen animal y aceites.
Sacando eso, me llevo ideas interesantes (1. las células grasas producen hormonas y 2. la fibra limpia el excedente de hormonas) y buenas recetas.
Sacando eso, me llevo ideas interesantes (1. las células grasas producen hormonas y 2. la fibra limpia el excedente de hormonas) y buenas recetas.
November 2, 2022
It's astonishing when you think about it. Our bodies not only need the right fuel in starchy carbs, but also the right amount of hormones to help us thrive. Do you believe that hormones are only useful for fertility purposes? Let Neal Barnard MD, FACC, educate you about the truth of hormones in his 2020 book Your Body in Balance: The New Science of Food, Hormones, and Health with recipes by dietitian Lindsay S. Nixon and nutrient breakdown by a RN.
Perhaps you don't realize how important a balance of hormones is for your weight, mood, pain levels, and cognition? Barnard, founder and president of Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine, explains and describes how the weight will fall off, your moods stabilize and become positive, your pain releases its grip, and your mental acuity soars when you give your body the right amount and kind of male, female and unisexual hormones.
This is not a book selling you hormones. Barnard is only interested in making your life better through promoting a low-fat, plant-based diet and your prescribed medication or surgery.
I checked out the recipes in his 2017 book The Cheese Trap and noticed how much they called for full-fat coconut milk. The new book's recipes do not, only using lite coconut milk. While they have never called for oil, I'm glad his new recipes reflect importance of limiting saturated fat from coconut too.
There's much confusion on what causes insulin resistance, heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and cancer, the leading causes of death. Barnard explains that it is too much dietary fat clogging up our bloodstream so that insulin cannot get out of the logjam and into the muscles. It's not sugar or carbs. Too much animal protein with all its saturated fat is the problem.
I was pretty worried when I learned that the sugar called galactose was very damaging to a woman's ovaries. I mistakenly thought brown rice syrup contains it, but galactose is only broken down by lactose in animal protein.
Unfortunately the many recipes for every kind of meal do not include illustrations, but they sound delicious. Nixon likes seaweed, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, and rice or red vinegar quite a bit, but I didn't see broccoli, tempeh, seitan, or tahini, but she likes miso paste. Barnard includes his own simple recipe for Arame Salad. I also want to try Nixon's Rainbow Nori Rolls. Both kinds of seaweed, I believe, are a good source of iodine.
Highly recommended!. .
June 11, 2020
This is an excellent book on how food relates to hormones, which in turn relate to the diseases that are plaguing modern society. The author has decades of experience as a physician and author, and literally wrote the book on nutrition that is used in American medical schools. He talks about how diseases and conditions like diabetes, thyroid disease, cancer, infertility, Alzheimer's, ED, high cholesterol, depression, acne, etc. (even hair loss) are all linked to our hormones and how much of an effect eating animal products has on those hormones. He recommends a low-fat, plant based diet, and provides hundreds of studies to back up his advice (many of which he's helped run, with large numbers of subjects). It was especially interesting to read of all of the societies that once had low numbers of problems because of their traditional diets, that now have the same diseases and conditions that we do because they've adopted our diets (examples -- Japanese men had low instances of hair loss in the past and Chinese women had low breast cancer rates, but as their diets have changed those rates have gone way up). And instead of just using anecdotal stories that could be correlation instead of causation, he further illustrates the point with large-scale studies that replicated the findings.
The basic advice comes down again and again to the huge role that fiber in particular plays in helping to regulate our hormones (which we get from large amounts of fruits and veggies), but also to avoid the hormones that are in dairy, eggs, meats and other animal products, along with the importance of movement and exercise. He provides many case histories of patients who have reversed serious diseases like diabetes, completely gotten off medication, lost significant amounts of weight, etc.
One of the things that kept hitting me as I was reading this book was that he's after long-term health for his patients and readers. There are a lot of popular diets right now for the short term but I appreciate that he's interested in giving information that will keep you healthy into old age.
I read a digital ARC of this book via Net Galley.
The basic advice comes down again and again to the huge role that fiber in particular plays in helping to regulate our hormones (which we get from large amounts of fruits and veggies), but also to avoid the hormones that are in dairy, eggs, meats and other animal products, along with the importance of movement and exercise. He provides many case histories of patients who have reversed serious diseases like diabetes, completely gotten off medication, lost significant amounts of weight, etc.
One of the things that kept hitting me as I was reading this book was that he's after long-term health for his patients and readers. There are a lot of popular diets right now for the short term but I appreciate that he's interested in giving information that will keep you healthy into old age.
I read a digital ARC of this book via Net Galley.
October 15, 2025
I just could not with this book. This author has an agenda and it doesn’t at all match mine. Holy cow… (or should I say “Holy Broccoli” since this bruh is so anti animal protein/products)? Rumor has it, he’s vegan and affiliated with PETA. As a gal who grew up on a farm, active in 4-H and FFA (which he mentions in the book insinuating it’s not a good thing), I know that PETA tends to be *just a wee bit biased. So buckle up and get your broken record player ready for his message.
I DNF’d this after reading the first few chapters (um, identical message for different ailments) then skipped to the section I was most interested in: thyroid support.
I have hypothyroidism and I AM healing it with diet and lifestyle choices… I can’t hardly believe it but I’m thrilled. Also, I sure as heck am not doing it vegan style. My blood sugar spikes/dips would end me if I tried to eat that many carbs and try to eat one the government “recommendation” of protein per day of 46 grams as he mentions in the book.
Many people with Hashimotos/thyroid issues are slow oxidizers (low metabolism) aka, have a much lower UCT (unique carb tolerance). No where that I can see did he mention that. One recipe in the back for a single meal smoothie has 100 carbs and 61g(!!!) of sugar. And minimal protein. What the world?
No mention whatsoever of the possible benefits of going GF for *some thyroid issues (I’ve seen great improvements in my personal journey). All “ditch the animal product, go vegan.”
No mention of resistance/strength training importance for women and hormone/metabolism support.
No mention that not all folks are created identical so while vegan might work wonders for some (which is wonderful!) it’s not a cookie cutter solution for all people everywhere.
Such a let down for a book that seemed to have a lot of potential.
I DNF’d this after reading the first few chapters (um, identical message for different ailments) then skipped to the section I was most interested in: thyroid support.
I have hypothyroidism and I AM healing it with diet and lifestyle choices… I can’t hardly believe it but I’m thrilled. Also, I sure as heck am not doing it vegan style. My blood sugar spikes/dips would end me if I tried to eat that many carbs and try to eat one the government “recommendation” of protein per day of 46 grams as he mentions in the book.
Many people with Hashimotos/thyroid issues are slow oxidizers (low metabolism) aka, have a much lower UCT (unique carb tolerance). No where that I can see did he mention that. One recipe in the back for a single meal smoothie has 100 carbs and 61g(!!!) of sugar. And minimal protein. What the world?
No mention whatsoever of the possible benefits of going GF for *some thyroid issues (I’ve seen great improvements in my personal journey). All “ditch the animal product, go vegan.”
No mention of resistance/strength training importance for women and hormone/metabolism support.
No mention that not all folks are created identical so while vegan might work wonders for some (which is wonderful!) it’s not a cookie cutter solution for all people everywhere.
Such a let down for a book that seemed to have a lot of potential.
May 11, 2024
So like any self-help book there will be things you agree with and want to implement and that just make sense and others you might be skeptical on, and this one is no different. However, being someone that has been dealing with some health issues that this book coincidently covers I figured I might as well try out some of the theories. Fingers crossed! Really though this is a very well written book in terms of easy to follow, makes logical sense, not too detailed, but yet gives enough examples. Maybe it's a little pushy, but you can feel the author's persuasion is founded in just wanting to make everyone feel healthier. I've had this book on my too read list too long and wish I had read it sooner. I'm excited to and interested in making some dietary changes to see if they help with my other issues and if so then I will certainly love and appreciate this book that much more for coming into my life when it did!
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February 9, 2024I admit to only reading the chapters that are of utmost importance to me at the moment. I plan to go back and read what I skipped but I get the gist of it even without reading them. Essentially: being vegan will solve all your problems. Because I'm currently very concerned about hormonal imbalance and have already toyed with the idea of being vegan, I'm very open to the message. But I could see how some might not be as receptive.
For me, it's the push I need to try to go vegan. I won't succeed 100%, but at minimum I will add soy to my diet, which I have been strongly avoiding until now.
For me, it's the push I need to try to go vegan. I won't succeed 100%, but at minimum I will add soy to my diet, which I have been strongly avoiding until now.
September 7, 2023
This was so incredibly repetitive. Have menstrual cramps? Cut out meat, dairy, eggs and you’ll be cured. Here’s a story or two of people who followed this advice and were cured. Have cancer? Cut out meat, dairy, eggs and you’ll be cured. Here’s a story or two of people who followed this advice and were cured.have autoimmune diseases? Same scenario and you’ll be cured. I was looking for more science-based facts about what is going in your body when it’s out of balance and how the systems are interconnected… which the title and description alluded that’s what I was in for with this book. Instead this was more of a “want to loose weight? Want a cure all? Eat plants.” There’s a ridiculous amount of money in selling weight loss/diet guides and this felt like yet another doctors approach to get a piece of the big $$$ instead of providing actual valuable education on the body. It also really bugged me he is so anti oil of any kind. That’s insane. Time to move on from fat phobic culture bro.
And with all that negative feedback… 😆I gave it a redeeming two stars because I felt validated reading about how meat can exasperate autoimmune symptoms. Nearly 4 years ago I cut out meat because it made me feel terrible; joint pain, brain fog, lethargy… it was rough. I didn’t know I had autoimmune problems then but can appreciate my own personal physical in-tuneness to eliminate foods that can speed up progression and symptoms of my disease.
And with all that negative feedback… 😆I gave it a redeeming two stars because I felt validated reading about how meat can exasperate autoimmune symptoms. Nearly 4 years ago I cut out meat because it made me feel terrible; joint pain, brain fog, lethargy… it was rough. I didn’t know I had autoimmune problems then but can appreciate my own personal physical in-tuneness to eliminate foods that can speed up progression and symptoms of my disease.
August 6, 2021
The author gives many references, so it works well as a starting point for your further research.
January 7, 2022
The anecdotes become repetitive after a while, but the message does land. I think what differentiates this book is the latest research and diet correlation of health conditions which are typically not associated with food. Definitely give this a read.
April 25, 2025
I did garner some useful information from this book but found it a bit too simplified and somewhat repetitive.
I think if you’re not already doing a plant based diet then this is a useful book for you but if you’ve been vegan for quite sometime, then not so much.
I think if you’re not already doing a plant based diet then this is a useful book for you but if you’ve been vegan for quite sometime, then not so much.
February 29, 2020
I had listened to several YouTube videos where he talked about the book, so the material did not seem new to me when I read it. Still, the number of hormone-based conditions that can be helped by a low-fat, plant-based diet is astounding. We should be shouting this from the rooftop. Breast and prostate cancer, polycystic ovary syndrome, PMS, autoimmune, and thyroid issues can be helped. There are other conditions that I probably have forgotten, but the diet is the same for all of them. If you are suffering from about any condition, including obesity, it's important to give a low-fat, plant-based diet a try.
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