Secrets of Good-Carb Low-Carb Living
By Sandra Woodruff, M.S., R.D., LD/N
Avery: A Member of the Penguin Group (USA) Inc., (2004)
ISBN: 1-58333-195-6
Reviewed by Rochelle Caviness
Low carb, and no carb eating is all the rage - but is it an effective means of losing weight? Is a low carb diet healthy? How does someone embark upon a low carb lifestyle? These, and many other questions are answered in Secrets of Good-Carb Low-Carb Living, by Sandra Woodruff. A registered dietician and respected nutritionist, Woodruff focuses on how to eat healthily while on a low carb diet, and the beneficial effects of a low carb diet. This book is the companion volume to The Good Carb Cookbook, which was also written by Woodruff.
In Secrets of Good-Carb Low-Carb Living, Woodruff explains the differences between good and bad carbohydrates. She also explains the connection that carbohydrates have in regard to insulin levels in the body, and how adjusting your intake of carbohydrates can be a tool in controlling type 2 diabetes. She also examines the pros and cons of various low carb diets, and she explains the problems that are inherent in diets that are high in saturated fats, as well as those diets that advocate very low, or even no carbs.
This book is divided into two parts. The first part, describes the "Benefits of Low-Carb Living." This section explores what a low carb diet is and how to use a low carb diet as part of a healthy weight loss program. To this end, Woodruff includes essential information that will help you to personalize the right plan for you, whether you are interested in losing weight, or simply maintaining the weight you are now at. She illustrates how to transit to a reduced carb diet and how to stock your pantry with good carbs. She also offers tips on how to eat carb consciously when you are away from home. Exercise, which is a vital component of any weight loss plan, is also mentioned in this book.
The second part of this book is devoted to good-carb / low-carb recipes. In all, there are more than 150 unique recipes in this book and each includes nutritional information based on serving sizes. The recipes are organized into thematic categories, such as Light and Easy Entrees and Smart Sandwiches and they run the gamut from appetizers to desserts. The recipes in this book are easy to prepare and are made from easy to find ingredients. Sample menus are also included.
Secrets of Good-Carb Low-Carb Living is a must read book for anyone interested in embarking on a low carb diet. Woodruff explains in clear and unambiguous language how, and why, a low carb diet works. Most important, she shows how to eat a healthy low carb diet, and provides a host of recipes that will delight the palate.
