Carbivore: 130 Healthy Recipes to Stop Fearing Carbs and Embrace the Comfort Foods You Love

Chef Lapine (SIBO Made Simple) promises in this informative outing that carbs can be part of a healthy and nutritious diet. She begins by providing accessible scientific context, pointing out that carbohydrates are sugar molecules that the human body breaks down into glucose, which is the “main source of energy” for cells, tissues, and organs. Though an excess of sugar can lead to inflammation, Lapine argues that cutting carbs completely can also have unfavorable effects, including an increase in production of the stress hormone cortisol and fertility issues among women. Special attention is given to “Carb All-Stars,” like oats and rice, and their numerous health benefits (“Potato starch has been shown to reduce insulin resistance and improve blood sugar control”). In addition to reducing added sugars, Lapine’s key strategy to consuming and enjoying carbs is pairing them with “carb companions,” foods with fat, fiber, or protein that help slow down sugar intake in the bloodstream. The tasty, gluten-optional recipes exemplify this strategy, with such offerings as sheet pan chicken BLT panzanella with vinegared tomatoes, spicy beef tagine with apricots and rosemary, creamy sesame noodle salad with smashed cucumbers, and chocolate peanut butter cups with crunchy quinoa. This will be a handy go-to for health-conscious home cooks looking for balanced and flavorful meals. Agent: Sally Ekus, Lisa Ekus Group. (Mar.)