The Obesity Code: Unlocking the Secrets of Weight Loss (Why Intermittent Fasting Is the Key to Controlling Your Weight)

by Jason Fung

THE VICIOUS CYCLE OF UNDER-EATING AND SO WE have the vicious cycle of under-eating. We start by eating less and lose some weight. As a result, our metabolism slows and hunger increases. We start to regain weight. We double our efforts by eating even less. A bit more weight comes off, but again, total energy expenditure decreases and hunger increases. We start regaining weight. So we redouble our efforts by eating even less. This cycle continues until it is intolerable. We are cold, tired, hungry and obsessing about calories. Worst of all, the weight always comes back on. At some point, we go back to our old way of eating. Since metabolism has slowed so much, even resuming the old way of eating causes quick weight gain, up to and even a little past the original point. We are doing exactly what our hormones are influencing us to do. But friends, family and medical professionals silently blame the victim, thinking that it is “our fault.” And we ourselves feel that we are a failure. Sound familiar? All dieters share this same sad story of weight loss and regain. It’s a virtual guarantee. The cycle has been scientifically established, and its truth has been forged in the tears of millions of dieters. Yet nutritional authorities continue to preach that caloric reduction will lead to nirvana of permanent weight loss. In what universe do they live?