The Diet Myth: The Real Science Behind What We Eat

British research physician Spector (Identically Different) posits a provocative yet sound take on dieting—and how there is no one-size-fits-all plan. After suffering a mild stroke, he set out to research the healthiest diets in order to avoid a relapse. Spector claims that the microbiomes in our bodies are the real culprits behind weight loss or gain, and these can be manipulated through what we eat. He explains how probiotics and different mixes of food can positively or negatively affect the mix in one’s gut, and why certain ethnic groups can tolerate purportedly unhealthy substances, offering as an example the French and their love of cheese and red wine. Diversity of food choices is key, he believes. Spector takes a discerning eye to how calories, fats, trans fats, different types of protein—animal, non-animal, and milk products—carbohydrates, fiber, artificial sweeteners, vitamins, and various kinds of food affect biomes, and why the rise in antibiotics, sugars, and salt in food has raised the incidences of allergies and other negative health factors. He tested many of his theories on groups of identical twins, who theoretically should always react in the same way, but don’t. This fascinating work makes a persuasive claim to potentially both expand readers’ nutritional knowledge and shrink their waistlines. Agent: Sophie Lambert, Conville & Walsh. (Sept.)