The Zen Diet Revolution: The Mindful Path to Permanent Weight Loss

By Martin and Philippa Faulks (Watkins Publishing 2013)
Reviewed by: Marjorie Nolan Cohn, MS, RDN, CDN

Based on the Japanese principle of kaizen (which means “improvement” or “small permanent change for the better”), the Zen Diet Revolution is centered on incremental changes that add up to a gradual lifestyle overhaul, weight loss and improved health.
 
The book focuses on four areas of change — mental, dietary, lifestyle and exercise — through visualization, meditation and mindfulness, with the overarching message to slow down, make food meaningful, pay attention to life and treat the body with respect.
 
The book’s back-to-basics approach may be best suited for readers with little to no nutrition knowledge, and while there are meal suggestions and grocery shopping ideas, its lack of structured menus, calorie values and meal plans may leave some unsure of their next step. In addition, the recommendation to take numerous herbs, supplements and teas to decrease fat cells is unsubstantiated and expensive.
 
Still, there are no outrageous claims or advice that would harm readers — and overall this is a very good book for someone who wants to slowly but surely change their lifestyle and lose a few pounds in the process.

Food & Nutrition Magazine
Food & Nutrition Magazine publishes articles on food and diet trends, highlights of nutrition research and resources, updates on public health issues and policy initiatives related to nutrition, and explorations of the cultural and social factors that shape Americans’ diets and health.