Breaking the Food Seduction: The Hidden Reasons Behind Food Cravings---And 7 Steps to End Them Naturally - Hardcover

Why is it so hard to resist the temptation of chocolate? Because chocolate triggers the release of natural opiates in the brain. It's a drug "strong enough to keep us coming back for more," according to nutritional researcher Neal Barnard, M.D., president and founder of the Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine. Cheese also releases mild opiates during digestion--no wonder we crave it. In Breaking the Food Seduction, Barnard helps you understand and overcome your food cravings. He explains which foods "hook" us the most and why, and what to do to break free when you want to decrease the calories and fat that accompany these seductive foods. Cheese, for example, is about 70 percent saturated fat and has more cholesterol, ounce for ounce, than a steak.

Barnard offers seven steps to breaking your food cravings, devoting a chapter to each one, with anecdotes and plenty of clear, sound, practical tips. Then he presents guidelines for healthy eating using "the New Four Food Groups"--vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains--with a three-week menu plan and 113 healthful, vegan recipes. Highly recommended for people who want to understand their food cravings and finally get rid of them. --Joan Price

A renowned health expert reveals the hidden reasons we crave chocolate, cookies, cheese, and other problem foods—and how we can beat the cravings once and for all

If you’ve ever tried a new diet only to find yourself falling prey to the same old problem foods, read this groundbreaking book for important new solutions that really work.

Breaking the Food Seduction delivers renowned expert Neal Barnard’s important research findings that explain what happens in our brain and body chemistry when we crave chocolate, cheese, and other problem foods—and how to stop these chemical cravings forever.

Praise for the Work of Neal Barnard, M.D.
“Dr. Neal Barnard is a brilliant visionary, one of the leading pioneers in educating the public about the healing power of diet and nutrition.” —Dean Ornish, M.D., author of Eat More, Weigh Less

"Here at last is the book that shows why certain foods can be so addictive and exactly what to do about it. Its medically sound guidelines, sample menus, and wonderful recipes will help you defeat your food addictions and improve your health-and let you regain control of your life." —John J. Pippin, M.D., F.A.C.C., director of cardiovascular medicine at the Cooper Clinic

"This incredibly practical book shows simple and proven ways out of troublesome dietary habits. But it also reveals how foods get us hooked—surprising facts most readers would have never suspected. It is must reading for anyone who eats--and wants to enjoy good health. Readable and reliable, practical and providing hope for millions.” —Hans A. Diehl, Dr.HSc., director of the Coronary Health Improvement Project and chairman of the board of the Lifestyle Medicine Institute

“Breaking the Food Seduction is based on solid research and presented by an accomplished physician and investigator. This book squarely addresses some of the most critical nutritional problems we face—not only what we should be eating, but also how we can free ourselves from the habits that have kept too many of us from enjoying better health. With tasty and tempting meal plans and recipes, this book will have a major impact on our health.” —Henry J. Heimlich, M.D., The Heimlich Institute at Deaconess Hospital

“If we all were more careful in our choices of food and drink, our health would improve enormously. Dr. Barnard has been advocating healthful nutrition for many years. His message is beginning to be heard.” —William C. Roberts, editor-in-chief of American Journal of Cardiology and director of the Baylor Cardiovascular Institute