Turn Off the Fat Genes: The Revolutionary Guide to Taking Charge of the Genes That Control Your Weight

Five key genes influence an individual's tastes and appetite, affect the body's tendency to store fat, adjust calorie-burning ability and determine response to exercise, explains Barnard (Foods that Fight Pain; etc.), a physician and genetic researcher; however, he argues, we can manipulate our fat genes and our thin genes (yes, everyone has both!) by implementing diet and lifestyle changes. Instead of a low-calorie diet, which he predicts will lead to later bingeing, he emphasizes a diet high in fiber (whole grains, legumes, vegetables and fruits). Moreover, Barnard claims, carbohydrates are not the enemy we think they are; instead, it's the butter, sour cream, oils or other fats people slather them with that are the problem. In a nutshell, it's not how much but what we eat that makes the real difference. To wit, he eschews animal products, including dairy, because of their fat content, and opts for a vegetarian diet to maintain both good health and proper weight. Putting his theory to the test, Barnard closes his compassionate, clearly written and well-argued book with a three-week ""gene-control program"" that features enticing menus and recipes. (Feb.) Forecast: Barnard's name and fat-fighting program is about to burst onto the national stage--alongside the likes of Dr. Atkins and Barry Sears--with a 33-city tour and major TV and radio publicity. Although many readers may prefer a non-vegetarian diet, Barnard's distinctive marketing advantage--his unique insight into how we can control certain genes--offers something no other diet book does.