Lyle McDonald
1 An informative read
While I think Lyle is abrasive to the point of abuse in many of his frequent posts to the misc.fitness.weights USENET newsgroup this book is an excellent reference for anyone considering doing a cyclical ketogenic diet. You should also read www.c-k-d.com, particularly the forums. This diet works, no question about it, and is very effective for atheletes who don't want to catabolize muscle while cutting fat. If you understand the principles outlined in the book, a non-bodybuilder can also make great progress on a modified and slighly less strict version of this diet. I know as I've done it myself by going from 23 to 15% bodyfat in four months while at the same time improving my squat and deadlift personal bests.
The goofballs who've given this book 1 stars are likely either harboring a grudge against Lyle personally for his above-mentioned behavior or are just too dense to appreciate what is in this book.
2 Ketogenic Diet
This book is so amateurish it's embarrassing. Heavy on supposition, and lean on facts. So many concepts could have been presented far more easily with a few diagrams. This author is merely masquerading as a scientist.
I've read many of the good reviews and they seem decidedly like the coached words of friends and relatives dropping in. The best part about this book is the cover artwork.
3 Best Low Carb/Keto Diet Book - EVER
The is the book if you want information on the low-carb/ketogenic diets. It is my ibible for losing fat!
4 My 5 stars and 2 replies to the critics
It's the best book on the subject. Period. However, for those angrily giving low rating to it, I have two suggestions.
1. Go see new user-friendly online versions of it at bodyrecomposition.com
2. See what's they've done with what the critics call too technical approach at dietandbody.com/fat_burning_index.html
They do all the counting so dieters have to stick to the allowed foods and recipes and all goes on nicely and automatically
5 The ONLY book you need on high-protein, low carb diets...
"The Ketogenic Diet" is a clear, well written book which explains, in language anyone can understand, the science behind ketogenic diets, which includes such diets as Atkins, the Zone, e.t.c. Not only does it offer sample diet structures for someone interested in one of these diets, it goes further, to explain the why and how of these diets in ways that Atkins never has. This book should repudiate most if not all of the claims so-called "conventional science" has with these diets.
6 The ONLY book you need on high-protein, low carb diets...
"The Ketogenic Diet" is a clear, well written book which explains, in language anyone can understand, the science behind ketogenic diets, which includes such diets as Atkins, the Zone, e.t.c. Not only does it offer sample diet structures for someone interested in one of these diets, it goes further, to explain the why and how of these diets in ways that Atkins never has. This book should repudiate most if not all of the claims so-called "conventional science" has with these diets.
7 A must have for any dieter
This is an excellent guide to dieting. Although the focus of this book is on various ketogenic diets, I was pleased to see much information on how the body uses nutrition. This is a very comprehensive guide to ketogenic diets with plenty of references if you are the sort to devel deeper into a subject. Although I thought it was expensive when I first bought it, I was pleasantly surprised when I began to read it. It was definately worth every penny.
8 Useful...
Contains everything you might ever want to know about ketogenic dieting. Has a detailed discussion on the physiology of ketosis and debunks a lot of the BS out there claiming these diets are harmful.
Also contains a pretty good how-to section on the nuts and bolts of training while in ketosis.
9 I would give it zero stars if I could
This book was a total waste of money. It is poorly organized and poorly written. It reads like a term paper (snore). I bought the book in hopes of gaining a deeper understanding of low carb, ketogenic diets. Rather, I gained a deeper understanding of how easy it must be to self-publish a low-quality book these days.
10 No Thankyou
"Ketogenic diet" is just a fancy sounding term for the recycled high protien Atkins diet which *real* health experts have been warning people about for decades.
Yes you will lose weight....temporarily, but it will be extremely hard on your health.
The author is a regular contributor to the usenet group misc.fitness.weights where the majority of his posts reflect an arrested adololescent's mentality and a total absence of a mature thought process.
No wonder he is recycling obsolete and unhealthy nutrition advice
11 For advanced dieters with a desire to experiment
This book regurgitates (haha) material found elsewhere in the literature. Although it provides good references, the substantial work is left to the reader to determine if what the author claims is indeed what the research supports. Many times you will find that it is just supposition and unwarranted and that further research needs to be done - especially meta-level studies. The ketogenic diet itself is not for beginners, or even intermediate dieters. It requires a massive realignment of the energy pathways in the body related to food processing, makes you feel terrible most of the time, and better results can be obtained by sensible eating using something like a 33/33/33 (carbs, fat, protein percentages) plan using commonsense as well (hint - don't eat icecream at 10pm right before bed!). And without adverse effects on your cardiovascular system.
The diet has been followed by those mostly experimenting with their bodies (in other areas as well - including use of drugs to aclitate fat loss, well-being and for other reasons)to unknown long-term effects - but would be difficult for the average Joe/Mary that has grown use to three meals a day with usual work-life schedules.
The book is OK to read if you are interested in ketogenic diets or the physiology and biochemistry of dieting. But many other books or journals have covered that ground. As a practical matter, the ketogenic diet has been overly hyped as most diets are. It is but one more, albeit well-written diet book that dieters can store on their shelves; but the real work is within the dieter's mind - the will power issue; if you have the willpower - most any diet will achieve good results - and without the potential deleterious effects on your body of the ketogenic diet
12 Been There, Done It, This Works
Over the last year I have dropped from 262 to 185 following a ketogenic/calorie restricted diet. While losing this weight I have gained both muscle mass and strength through weight lifting and running. I have read, I think, every "low carb" diet book on the market - THIS BOOK IS FAR THE BEST for understanding the "mechanics" of weight loss with no BS.
When a friend asks me to recommend diet books I always recommend this along with The Protein Power Life Plan by Eades, which goes more into the health aspects. However, unlike McDonald, the Eades aren't much for footnotes and have "borrowed" a great deal of material from others.
Finally getting a handle on my weight has been the single best thing I have done for myself. These two books were the key. Do make sure to take mineral supplements, calcium, potassium and magnesium - not optional.
13 Exceptionally thorough and complete
I have been looking for a diet book like this for years. Since I've been involved in weight lifting I have tried to read as much as possible about various diet methods. When low-carb diets became popular I was skeptical, but wanted to learn more. I read through the material I could find online and just finished "The Greenwich Diet". In all cases I found myself totally unsatisfied with everything I read. Every book pitched it's particular take on the low carb diet as a miracle cure and didn't provide much information about what was really happening to your body. I decided to give "The Ketogenic Diet" a try and was stunned -- it is the most complete diet book I have come across. I finally understand how many types of diets work (not just low carb diets).
McDonald begins with a history of ketogenic diets and then goes into a detailed explanation of how various nutrients (both macro and micro) affect your body. After this explanation he presents three versions of the ketogenic diet, with two of the diets aimed at athletic individuals who are looking to maintain their exercise performance while on one of these programs. Each diet is accompanied by detail information about how to implement the diet.
As I have said, the material in this book is incredibly detailed and completed, but what really makes this book worth 5 stars is that the information is presented in a non-biased way. According to the introduction, McDonald wrote this book to clear confusion about ketogenic diets, not to champion them. Much of the material is accompanied by research references and McDonald clearly states where research is lacking or where he is offering his own opinion.
Overall, "The Ketogenic Diet" will make an excellent addition to any dieter's collection of reading. Also, if you are considering a ketogenic diet this will gives you an unbiased view of how they really work.
14 Grateful Bodybuilder
This is, without any doubt, the best researched and well written book that I have read since leaving University.
A bodybuilder for some years I have always struggled (as do most) with my bodyfat levels.
I started this diet at 20% body fat and have, over the last 12 weeks, reduced that level to 11.5%. A loss of 23lbs. I am thinking of competing in September and should reach my goal of 5/6% well before.
It's been a while since my abdominals have been seen, but by this diet method they are back, and all without having to put myself through the usual hell that bodybuilders have to in order to drop bodyfat percentages.
I have found that I have lost next to no muscle just fat.
Thanks Lyle McDonald! Your book is the best thing since sliced bread. (Although I've forgotten what it tastes like.)
15 The most thorough investigation of ketogenic diets.
The amount of misinformation circulating about ketogenic diets is dumbfounding. This book is the most thorough investigation of all medical research regarding ketogenic diets that has ever been assembled. The references are impressive, to say the least.
Although quite technical, I had no problems understanding any of it. Lyle presents a clear, no-nonsense/no-hype explanation of what a body goes through in ketosis. A must-read for anyone on a ketogenic diet or considering one. Everyone should bring an extra copy to their physician to stave off the "misinformed speech" problem.
16 It really explains what happens in your body
People that opted for a low-carb lifestyle are actually making a life-or-death decision on their own lives. It does not help that there are a lot of misinformation around it, specially suggesting that you will have all sort of health complications because of it.
This is a very complete book on the subject. It explains the physiology around a ketogenic diet. It's well researched and full of references. It leans toward athletes but anyone could learn a lot from it.
This book does not tell you how to follow a Ketogenic diet. For that purpose I would recommend "Protein Power".
I've read literally tens of books on low-carb diets. This one is the only one that really explains what happens in your body. I highly recommend this book for anyone that want to know more on how a low-carb diet works.
17 WAY too technical for anyone but bodybuilders!
While this book handles some issues that Atkins doesn't address - such as AMOUNTS of food and calories ultimately mattering - it's too demanding of the non-bodybuilding dieter, who may not be measuring each gram of fat, protein and carb with such detail. The tone of this book assumes the dieter has complete self-control and no emotional issues when it comes to food - and can make shifts in carb/fat/protein balance in his or her diet with no difficulties or resistance! This may be helpful to athletes who want to develop a certain physique - in my opinion, it's pretty useless information to those of us who are just trying to eat healthier and lose some weight! Better to stick with Atkins - a lot better written, and much less expensive!
18 Required Reading for Low Carbers!
I've been low carbing for a year now. I found Protein Power to be the very best introduction to the low carb lifestyle, though like most diet books it makes it seem a whole lot easier than it really is. I found Dr. Bernstein's Diabetes Solution to be the best introduction to how to use low carbing for people with Diabetes. But this book gave me a much deeper understanding of what really is happening in our body's while we low carb.
This is not an easy reader. Lyle writes like a scientist. But he does explain a host of physiological processes that go on when we shift our metabolisms to a fat-based rather than glucose based fuel burning mode.
If you want to move away from diet-meister hype and overblown promises to serious understanding of how our bodies work, based on a rock solid analysis of scientific research, this is the book for you!
19 Unparalelled integrity in a world of hype and lies
This book gives totally honest information and is a must for anyone considering ANY diet. The information given will help you make decisions on how to diet and what to expect. Every aspect is covered and the "state of the art" is revealed so all may benefit. Great thanks to Lyle and a fine job!
20 The book for the intelligent dieter.
This book is a breath of fresh air in the dank world of dieting. Many individuals have followed the ketogenic diet and found it to be both healthy and effective for fat loss. Nonetheless, various "experts" and others consistently tell dieters that it is neither. Those who use it have frequently had to keep their heads down in the "fat free" world ("You eat WHAT for dinner?"). To our great relief, Lyle McDonald has done the legwork and presents a factual, research-based, and balanced account of the effects of ketogenic dieting in one volume and in an eminently readable fashion. This book should appeal to readers at all levels, from academician/researcher to practitioner to dieter. Its value as a review of the literature on ketogenic dieting, as well as a practical guide for the application of the ketogenic diet to various situations, far outweighs its price. The compilation of these references in one place is well worth the price of the book, but it doesn't end there...it also provides easy to understand and follow practical applications. This is a book that all dieters, ketogenic or not, would do well to read.
21 A great book looking for updated and through information.
Lyle's book is truly a complete guide to the world of ketogenic dieting. It has information that will be useful to "traditional" dieters as well as dieting bodybuilders. The in-depth biological foundation for the science of the diet is there but one can also skip that and get right to the actual mechanics of implementing it.
22 A terrific book!
Why can't we get this terrific book at amazon.de
23 The Lowcarb Dieter's Bible
FINALLY! A book that tells the unadulterated truth about low carbohydrate diets both pro & con with absolutely ZERO hype. You will know more about lowcarb dieting than Atkins, Eades and Sears combined after reading this book!!! If you can only afford one book on lowcarb then get this one.
24 Great book; great author.
The book provides a thorough understanding what to do in order to successfully combine the ketogenic diet with exercise. Almost as important, it also tells you *why* you need to do it that way. Understanding "why" really helped me to make the behavior changes I was striving for. His advice saved me from many costly mistakes I would have made otherwise. If you don't think that changing your body is possible, try implementing the guidelines in this book.
25 Best Low Carb Book on the Market!
I have spent probably over $200.00 on low-carb books but it wasn't until this one that is the most complete, accurate, and to-the point about low-carb with exercise training. It tells you exactly what you need to do, to get in the best shape of your life. Great training tool, excellent research. Absolutely one of the best books I've ever read!
26 Excellent. Top book in its field.
You've heard about the Atkins and "Protein Power" diets, maybe even tried them. The book, "The Ketogenic Diet", makes the presentations of those diets more scientific. In addition to providing this nutritional information, Lyle McDonald also gives suggestions for exercise in combination with the diet. (Just remember, no book is a substitute for qualified advice from an appropriate practitioner, if that advice is required.)
27 Best Low Carb Book you Could Ever Buy!
I've spent 100's of dollars on many different low-carb books, but it wasn't until this one that I have all the information that I could ever need. All of my other books COMBINED don't equal 1/4 of this book. I did good with lowcarb but it wasn't until this book that I'm now doing AWESOME! Thanks Lyle!
28 The book to buy for an objective review of low carb diets!
This is the book to buy if you're looking for an objective review of the science behind low carb diets. It is easy to understand, and provides hundreds of references for readers wishing to analyze the nitty gritty themselves. This book excels at combining the nutritional info with the exercise physiology. I refer to my copy often.
29 How To Lose Fat On A Low Carb Diet - Best Book On The Market
Lyle McDonald's book is the best low carbohydrate (ketogenic) book I have ever read. I have lost over 50 pounds of fat and am able to stop injecting insulin (am now diet controlled) to control my type II diabetes following a ketogenic diet. (Lyle McDonald does not tell anyone to stop taking any medication without their physician's approval)
While being technically accurate he is able to translate these ideas for the average person (like me) to understand. If you plan to use a low carbohydrate diet to lose weight/fat and intend to do any form of exercise this book is a "must read".
This is the only book that gives specific detailed easy-to-follow instructions for ketogenic dieting. Atkin's was good, this book is 10x better.
Investing in this book is sure to help you achieve your fat loss goals in the fastest safest manner possible. The book has helped me, it can help you too.
30 Fat loss from scientifically based information.
The honest and unbiased facts in this book will open your eyes to the truth about fat loss and exercise. I've read every diet book out there about Ketosis and these people should be ashamed to have published such misinformation. Mr. McDonald's book is and will be a textbook for dietitians, general physicians and endocrinologists all over the world. I've lost 35 pounds of fat, not muscle, using the books exercise and eating requirments. The single fact that proves that this book was written for helping people, not just take their money, is the authors statements, which are always backed by "good" research, is that it's calories that makes one fat or lean not what one eats!
31 A must have for anyone interested in dieting off some fat!
This book is so chock-full of information that it practically loses the weight for you. Lyle helps you to set up your diet, gives you sample workout routines and covers every detail necessary to successfully use a ketogenic diet. The title of the book really says it all. It is a COMPLETE guide.
32 Absolutely a must read for every fitness-minded dieter.
The "Ketogenic Diet" book is a wonderful combination of "how to" diet along with "why" it works. Biology, physiology, diet and exercise are all articulated for the layperson. This is a fascinating approach to fat-loss that flies in the face of traditional low-fat/high carb diets. It works for me!
33 The best book on ketogenic dieting
Everything you need to know about ketogenic dieting (and more). Packed with practical information, theory and scientific references, yet very easy to read.
34 An absolute MUST read.
As a former FAT man I have found Lyles book the best money I have ever spent towards attaining my goal of single digit body fat %. I was 28% when I started and I am now 10% thanks directly to Lyles book. I also councel others for weight loss (especially bodybuilders) and the book has served me well as a tool of my trade. Another thing I like about this book is everything has been researched and the research material is included for everyone to read this is not very common these days.Thank you Lyle I appreciate all your work and I gladly parted with my money for your book.
35 Be-all, end-all on Ketogenic Dieting
Lyle has encapsulated the many aspects of the ketogenic dieting world into one glorious compendium. A must-read for people in search of the how's and why's behind the world's most effective fat-loss diets. Congratulations Lyle!
36 Simply the best source of information for Ketogenic Dieters
If you liked BodyOpus then this book is essential for getting the most out of any low carbohydrate or Ketogenic diet. It is straightforward and honest in its approach, with well researched information on all aspects of diet and exercise for Ketogenic dieters. This book will give you the knowledge to better understand just how your body works whether it be to lose fat or gain muscle etc. It's about time someone spoke the truth about diet and exercise and this book has done it. An absolute must buy!!
37 Outstanding
Quite simply the definitve guide to weightloss and achieving the body you always dreamed of through ketogenic dieting. Tons of references makes this book stand out from all others as the author cites REAL studies to back up his ideas unlike so many other countless books on dieting. I too have used this diet with fantastic results.
38 Outstanding! I recommend it wholeheartedly.
The Ketogenic Diet is both technically complete and a joy to read. It contains a wealth of information on fat loss, not weight loss. This includes not only all aspects of a Ketogenic Diet, but also supplements, exercise programs and just some plain good advice. Anybody who is interested in fat loss should have it.
39 Excellent reference-combines basic science and how to's.
This is a well written, well referenced, and unbiased book on diet and exercise. The basic science is comprehensive but easily understood. The practical recommendations based on the science, and the authors own experience, have made a huge difference in my own dieting results. Any dieter can gain a better understanding of metabolism by reading this book. It should be considered mandatory for anyone serious about using exercise (esp. weightlifting)and diet to change body composition.
40 Scientific in the Best Sense of the Word
The Ketogenic Diet contains lots of technical information and yet is immensely, even compulsively, readable. Lyle McDonald presents everything you want to know about low-carb diets: how they work, how to design a diet based on your individual activity level, how to incorporate aerobic and resistance training while dieting. The style of the book is scientific, in the best sense of that word: McDonald backs up his assertions by siting studies, but he is willing (and eager) to acknowledge that individual response is variable. Perhaps the most valuable thing about the book is that it teaches the reader to assess their individual response to the ketogenic diet, offering the opportunity to optimize sports performance and fat loss in an intelligent, results-oriented manner.
41 Great book!!
This is an incredibly informative, easy to understand book about ketogenic dieting. I highly recommend it.
42 The Best
Simply the best book available on dieting. It's packed with unbiased info on the Ketogenic diet, with lots of refereces to science reports. I've used the diet with spectacular results, far better than with a regular high carbs/low fat diet.
