Book review: TurboCharged

Quick take: In this new book, sister/brother team Dian Griesel and Tom Griesel present an eating plan based on vegetables, fruits, (mostly) lean protein and water and the elimination of grains. Instead of aerobic exercise, prescribed physical activity involves several short sessions of low-impact activities and walking. The goal: relatively rapid weight loss through burning stored fat and then maintenance through a slightly expanded menu of relatively easy-to-metabolize foods (but grains continue to be off-limits).


Audience: Omnivore and largely carnivore eaters who want a healthier alternative to Atkins-style diets and are willing to substitute whole foods for processed foods, junk foods and also for grains (from breads to brown rice and oatmeal). And for those not into heavy aerobic fitness routines but who are willing to incorporate short activities, such as a few sets of push-ups, squats, etc. and leisurely walks into their day. Vegetarian/vegan protein alternative limited to tofu until a later cruise-control phase that allows beans and nuts. Note: For an effective vegetarian/vegan quick-results plan, check out the new Kickstart Your Health at http://www.pcrm.org/newsletter/mar11/kickstart.html 


Key concepts: Working with the body instead of starving it. Working in harmony with metabolism and hormones to burn stored fat. Easier digestion based on eating when hungry, drawing some elements from calorie-restriction diets but without the need to count calories or weigh/limit portions. Aerobic exercise can stoke hunger for more calories than dieter would burn. Aside from allowance of meats and cheese, which are linked to diseases and disorders (research sources include AICR, AACR and other scientific organizations independent from corporate entities), this diet plan offers such health benefits as reducing insulin levels and insulin resistance, and boosting intake of essential vitamins and minerals through real/whole foods.


Fresh ideas: Learn to distinguish between hunger and appetite (a learned memory) and between hunger and thirst. When and how much water to drink (often, lots). Artificial sweeteners sabotage weight loss. Brushing your teeth can quell cravings. Tightening your belt assists your brain in controlling appetite. Separate your protein and veg-fruit meals.


Food for thought:
* STRESSED spelled backwards is DESSERTS.
* If you ate only fruit after 7 pm, by doing just this one thing, you’d dramatically improve your health and energy.
* Fruits and vegetables can be eaten exclusively and you’ll get plenty of nutrition. Interestingly, the human body is constantly recycling dead cells as a protein source.


More info: turbocharged.us.com