I read the whole thing in one day. I fell asleep reading it. And then I even dreamed about it. (In my dream I was interrogating Jillian about all the questions she left unanswered.) I posted yesterday that I think Master Your Metabolism by Jillian Michaels is the best health/nutrition book I’ve read in the past year. That may have been a bit premature. Like bjbella5 said about Bethenney Frankel’s Naturally Thin, “it started off well for me, but the ending wasn’t so great.” (Had the same reaction to Naturally Thin myself, girl.) Unlike Naturally Thin, however, Master Your Metabolism, completely changed my mind on some issues. Fact: my head is still spinning.
How Jillian & I Are Alike
1. Experimenting on Ourselves. Read this excerpt and tell me who this sounds like:
“I was obsessed with finding the right ways to burn fat. For awhile I followed the prevailing wisdom…[but when that didn’t work] Scratch that, move on to the next thing. I did the same thing with my diet. I experimented with Pritikin, Atkins, Blood Type, pH, Paleolithic, begetarianism, food combining – even the dreaded Master Cleanse – you name the diet, I went on it. Why? Because I wanted to be skinny!
For a full decade, I treated my body like I was a lab rat. How could I have dreamed that all these extreme experiments were messing with my hormones? All I cared about was never going back to being the fat kid, and frankly, I didn’t care how I got the results I was looking for.”
Sadly, this could totally have been written by me. This part really threw me for a loop because I’d always considered my “experimenting” to be a good thing. I was challenging myself and keeping things interesting and… overtraining to the point I supressed my thyroid. Sigh.
2. Working harder and getting less results. Jillian talks about how during the first season of The Biggest Loser, she was so afraid of not looking “the part” on TV that she dieted down to 1200 calories a day and exercised like a maniac. After the show finished taping, she let her calories go back up to a reasonable 1600 and gained 15 pounds overnight, which she then drove herself nuts trying to lose before the next season started. She talks about how other people could have a glass of wine, no big deal, but if she did she immediately gained weight. Given the amount of time she spent exercising and what she was eating, she should not have been gaining weight.
You all may remember that I have had similar complaints. Remember the 10 pounds I gained in 3 weeks last June? I’m not saying I’m fat but I am saying that given the amount I exercise and how clean Ieat, that should not have happened. Not only did that experience wreak havoc with my psyche but I’ve spent nearly a year since then unsucessfully trying to “fix” it.
3. Screwed up hormones. Jillian then goes on to describe meeting with an endocrinologist and discovering that not only is she hypothyroid but that all her hormones were wildly out of whack. During my overtraining debacle, I had a similar experience except that unlike hers, my doctors would not listen to me and I never did get any answer for my messed up thyroid test results except “let’s wait and see.”
How Jillian & I Are Different
1. She says her fave book is Ageless by Suzanne Sommers. (No health book, no matter how good, compares to Les Miserables or Till We Have Faces. Sorry.)
2. She has the body she wants.
3. But the real difference between us is that she’s figured out what works for her. And she’s sure it will work for everyone else too. This is the part of the book that I had a hard time with. I loved the beginning where she detailed how she got herself into that mess – it’s pretty much my story except without all the famous people and TV cameras. But when she got to the how she healed herself, I found my skepticism rising. How many fitness gurus have I heard say, “It works for me, it’ll work for anyone!” That’s just not true.
Jillian is better than most. She doesn’t ask you to take her word for it carte blanche. Unlike her last book (Which if you read Making the Cut, then this one will leave you dizzy with how quickly she spins a 180), she does a really good job of presenting the current research and findings in the field. She details all the major hormones that you read about and then explains what their function is, how they get messed up and foods that both help and hinder them. Her basic recommendations involve eating healthy, clean, whole foods in 4 meals a day, about 4 hours apart. She tells you to get a full night’s sleep and also advises you to get rid of toxins in your enivornment by drinking purified water, tossing plastic food containers, and most importantly buying organic everything (even your sheets!). There’s nothing in there that any reasonable doctor could disagree with. It all aligns with current research.
Except that she also got put on thyroid medication. She says that medicine is not a cure-all for everyone and that hypothyroidism must be managed with lifestyle changes as well as meds and that even if you’re not hypothyroid any number of other hormones could be messed up. But. Anyone who is familiar with hypothyroidism knows that the right meds in the right combinations make all the difference. The cynic in me wonders if her miraculous overnight return to health would have happened from the meds alone – something I don’t have and won’t conceivably get – even without going organic and all the other changes she made. And there’s no answer for that.
Conclusion
The whole premise of the book is how she changed her diet, exercise and lifestyle (and used some meds) to fix her hormone imbalances. Since “figuring out the secret”, she’s been able to maintain her weight and improve her health with normal effort on her part. She writes:
” I’m thirty-four, and I feel healthier than I ever have before. I don’t overeat, but I live on 1800 – 2,000 calories a day instead of 1200. I spend about five hours a week in the gym at most. I don’t have to do more because my body takes care of that balance naturally. For someone who practically used calculus to track her food and exercise for years, you can’t imagine how freeing that is.”
And that, my friends, is where I want to be. Free. See, I started this whole health-nut craze years ago in my efforts to lose my baby weight and get healthy. Somehow I’ve managed to lose more of myself than I have of the weight. I never wanted to have to count every calorie and second-guess every food choice and exercise for hours every day. And yet that’s what I’ve become. And it’s not even working. I’m 14 pounds heavier than I was at this time last year (yes, yes, I know some of you think that’s a good thing.) I’ve had no notable performance or strength gains. I’m not any happier. In fact, I might be crazier. So what do I do? I just keep trying harder. I keep trying the next thing hoping that this will finally be “it” for me. And yet each thing may actually be hurting me by messing up my natural hormonal balance rather than helping. It was this realization last night that turned everything upside down for me.
I think Jillian’s right about the toxic hormone environment we live in. I do think that pesticides, poisons, additives, preservatives and many other side effects of our wonderful modern society do mess up our bodies in ways we are just beginning to understand. And yet, is her answer the right one? Or is it just another compilation of what is generally accepted now to be “best practice”? And if so, would it hurt to try?
This book may not be “it” – my answer to life, the universe, and everything (42!) – but it certainly is a wealth of knowledge about how our hormones effect our health and how our environment effects our hormones. Jillian tells a very compelling story in a very real manner. No matter how many times I’ve gone back forth with loving and hating her, I can’t deny that the woman is honest. And I have to respect that. This book is a must-read in my opinion. But now I really want to hear your opinions about it! Leave me a comment below; I have one copy to give away (just be warned, if you win it, I will expect a full report from you on what you think of it!)
PS> Kudos to so many of you for guessing it right! You guys are so stinkin’ smart!
I would love to read this book. Your description of your (and her) struggles sounds so much like mine– it seems the more I fight my weight the more I eventually weigh. I’m kind of at a loss as to what to do– never mind the fact I’m less than 3 months away from having a Master’s in nutrition. Shouldn’t I know all the answers by now? Shouldn’t we both? My mom, both grandmas and an uncle are all hypothyroid– I have many of the symptoms but normal labs so I don’t know what to think about all that…. Thanks as always for such an honest post.
I feel much the same as you, especially as a scientist myself. I can’t read enough about scientific research on nutrition and hormones, and the interactions with pesticides. I think the organic take on this is interesting, and would love to read this book. And I think I, too, would read it cover to cover in one day!
I want. I want. I want. *Jumping Up and Down* PLEASE!!!! I’ll give up gummy bears for a week. 😀
It sounds intriguing. I find that some diets work for people or lifestyle changes, but nothing works perfectly for everyone, not even the one I promote, although I feel it is better than most and worked for me.
The book sounds interesting but I agree the ending sounds rough.
Ahh I should have known. I think I’m going to love this book.
If only the world were as cool as hitchhiker’s guide!
So much of this rings true for me. I would love to win this book!
girl you KNOW Im gonna read this now.
she’s “fine” but Id never have read the book otherwise.
YOU? SMART INSIGHTFUL SPOT-ON and a tough cookie, errr, fig to impress.
I’d love to read this book. I think it would go greatly with the other fitness/health books I’ve just read. Having the body you want ect. sounds like a fantastic dream.
Having read her other books and left feeling a bit frustrated, I’m very intrigued that this one is worth it….and I could provide a full report!
I think Jillian has the correct attitude. I used to be obsessive about calorie counts and workouts, but now, I just do what feels natural and eat and live healthily. Yeah, I’ve put on some weight, but honestly, I’d rather have muscular legs than have people constantly coming up to me and telling me I look skeletal.
When I first saw this book I thought “great, another diet book”, which I refuse to buy. But after reading what you said about it, it seems I can relate to a lot in the book. Sounds like it is worth a read…
I don’t usually read “diet books”, because there’s already so much info on the internet to digest.
But Jillian Michaels is hot, and I’d love to hear what she’s got to say.
I’m interested to hear what she has to say.
I would love to read this book but I have a major problem with the thyroid medication Jilian is taking. I have a friend who controlled her weight via thryroid meds for years. Any way that your metabolism can be sped up seems to really help keep the weight off. If we could all add that little pill to our daily plan, I think most people would find it made a difference in their weight.
Organic SHEETS??
You lost me there.
I’m all for eating clean, and living clean; at least, as cleanly as possible, but I think this emphasis on “organic” has become the latest rip-off fad. If it’s labeled ‘organic’, they can charge more. Simple.
Out of curiosity, does she explain what she means by “organic sheets”? Does that mean the 100% cotton is grown organically?
Incidentally, has anyone considered that 100% cotton sheets, grown organically and not treated with any chemicals of any kind would have to be washed by hand, in spring water, on a washboard, with ‘organic’ soap (lye) and hung to dry on the clothesline, then ironed, before being put on your straw/horsehair mattress in order to do you the least bit of good? At least you’d get a workout, doing it the old-fashioned way….
And if she is claiming that organic sheets are going to have an effect on hormone levels, shouldn’t that also apply to every other article of clothing that comes into contact with her body? What about all that spandex and lycra?
Oops – did I sound a little cranky? Must need more coffee….
I got so much out of your summary and review of the book! It sounds like to me, it would be interesting more from the memoir perspective than as a health book. I makes me like her a lot more to know how much she’s struggled.
But the fact that she went on hormone medication makes the “look how I eat, and now I’m fixed” argument far less compelling to me.
I’ll have to look into the hormone issue more–I agree we get way too much exposure to toxins but I’m a little pessimistic (imagine that!) about how much we can do to change that without becoming totally obsessive and destroying our mental health as well.
Great review, thanks!
I think this sounds like a great read – although I think the challenge is to apply her attitude to the plan… and NOT treat this like just another way to get “what I want.” Great review though!
I’d love to read this book! I generally like Jillian Michaels and her no-nonsense approach. I’d particularly like to read this because I have hypothyroidism myself.
I do agree with the fact that when we count down so much on our calories, our bodies go into “lockdown” mode and we can’t lose/sometimes gain weight. I’ve actually lost weight eating MORE calories than I thought I should. CRAZY! Speaking of crazy, I do like Jill. Maybe ’cause I’m a fan of the “Shred,” but she brings up some interesting points. Thanks for sharing!
Sabrina – It does seem like there are a lot of us caught up in this scenario, doesn’t it? I totally share your thyroid frustration!
Katiejo – yeah, the organic section really intrigued me too. It’s probably the most compelling argument for going organic that I’ve ever read.
SeaBreeze – Girl, I would never take away your gummy bears! But I so want to hear your thoughts on this book!
Herbalife – I’m glad you found what worked for you!!
Maggie – Amen to that, sister!
MizFit – You must tell me what you think of it. You are the voice of rationality in my head (since apparently I don’t generate one of my own!)
m – It’s WILDLY different than her other books, DVDs, etc. It’s even very different from what you hear her say on TBL.
Kari – You are where I want to be:) Glad you’ve got it figured out!
Maggie – Amen to that, sister!
MizFit – You must tell me what you think of it. You are the voice of rationality in my head (since apparently I don’t generate one of my own!)
m – It’s WILDLY different than her other books, DVDs, etc. It’s even very different from what you hear her say on TBL.
Kari – You are where I want to be:) Glad you’ve got it figured out!
ZooGardener – Those were my thoughts exactly. I can’t help but wonder…
BagLady – Oh I love you!! You crack me up. I had the same reaction to the organic sheets thing. And yes, she did say to try and buy organic clothing etc. too – esp. for babies and children. Which I get the reasoning for it but holy crap – I have 3 kids how is that going to work?!?
Crabby – I’d love to hear your thoughts on this book. I agree with appreciating her struggle and yet also being skeptical.
Charlotte,
I kept hitting the refresh button last night on your blog hoping I would find out which book you had read before I went to bed. By 10:30, I couldn’t stay awake any longer, and I was so excited to get to your blog this morning…as soon as I had my morning cup of Coffee-Mate. 🙂
That excerpt from Jillian’s book could have been written by me as well. Crazy. I’ve tried them all, and I do think I have found a good balance for myself, but my hormones are still out of whack. Not to share too much info, but no period…ever! Been that every since I lost all my weight and then got too thin. I’ve had my thyroid tested several times and taken natural thyroid medication to get my numbers back to normal. I then overdid the thyroid meds and starting leaning towards hyperthyroidism. Then just stopped taking them altogether, and that reminds me, that I should have my levels tested again soon. My husband takes Levoxyl for hypothyrodism, and his illness started soon after running a really tough half marathon. He became really sick in Feb. 2 days after the race and by that summer all he wanted to do was sleep. He blames it on overtraining. That thyroid is a tricky thing!
Anyway, I would love to read this book, but I think I disagree with Jillian. Everyone is different, and I think people need to find something that works for them…just don’t over experiment. Been there, done that, and I messed up my body!
That being said, I too eat about 1800-2000 calories a day and I’m working out a lot less. It’s working.
Thanks for your review. If I don’t win, maybe I’ll just pull a Charlotte and hide somewhere in Borders and read my own copy. I know the perfect little nook over in the fiction section. 🙂
Greta – Good point.
Holly – Yes, I’ve heard other people break thru plateaus simply by eating more. That hasn’t worked for me but I’m glad it did for you!!
Sounds like a great read. I do love her honesty, and how she isn’t afraid to cop to all the unhealthy things she’s done while trying to promote health and fitness.
I definitely believe that eating whole and organic is by far the best thing to do, but it isn’t a magic cure-all. I think what’s really important is being able to listen to our bodies. Understanding what foods/exercise programs make us feel best both physically and mentally can go a long way.
As someone who may have an overactive thyroid (didn’t get the test done because it was midterms week), I feel like her medicine plays a bigger role than she’d like to admit.
I’m interested in reading it, but honestly, it’s mainly because you liked it so much.
Wow, amazing how much of this rings true for me as well. I think I need to get my thyroid checked. I haven’t been wearing my fuzzy purple robe at home over all my clothing, because I enjoy looking like Barney!
I would love to read this book as well! I wasn’t that interested until I read your review (I thought it was more geared towards encouraging people to get rid of the fake sugars because they wonk up your body chemistry).
I identified with the part about not losing (or gaining!!) when all of your tools tell you that, mathematically, you should be losing. Even with the personal heart rate monitor, calorie tracker, meticulous weighing and measuring of food etc.
Wonderful, interesting review, Charlotte!!
I can’t explain why yet, but I hate the word metabolism! I do like that she isn’t all about speeding up the metabolism, which is one of the theories of early aging!
Love the 42 reference!
I love a good experiment on my body as well as the next person. Its awesome that Jilliam has taken all the guess work out of it for all her readers. Sounds like a fantastic read!
Pick me! Pick me!
I have to admit, when I saw her interview on the net the other day regarding this book, it just seemed to *click* that she knew what she was talking about. I’m so glad she wasn’t pushing supplements or cutting out food groups entirely…this sounds like a healthy life change anyone could live with.
I’de love to read this book. I know I’ve screwed up my hormone levels with all the crap that I’ve done to my body. east-of-eden06(at)hotmail(dot)com
Sounds really interesting. I’d love to check it out. I agree that organic is good – but then my budget doesn’t really allow me to go all the way with that.
And I feel like I have spent so many years battling my body. I feel like Jillian too- that I have to eat less and exercise more just to maintain myself. And never mind trying to lose. I have to wonder why that is. What is going on and can I fix it?
I actually am part of a long term study on people who were once very overweight but have kept the weight off for good. And I once was partnered up with a woman who had never had any weight issues. They tracked our diets and made us wear pedometers. I haven’t seen the results of it – but they were trying to see if I did indeed, because I had so many weight issues in the past, have to work harder and eat less than her, the “normal” one, just to maintain myself.
I feel the same way. I try and try and try to lose weight. My diet is not perfect, but it’s not terrible either and I do exercise. For a long time the most I managed to do was keep my weight the same. Lately I’m gaining and there is no reason why I should be. It’s so frustrating.
I am currently working through a similar discovery & research phase with my own body & hormones. I know that I am supposed to feel better at my age, I know that I am supposed to be able to eat like other people, I know that there is something wrong; but getting a doctor to take me and my symptoms seriously is a whole other story.
I think, considering how many people are struggling, this speaks very bluntly to the state of our healthcare system.
I'd love to read the book even though Jillian & her 30 Day Shred are my nemesis.
Looks like a good book, now we just need to find a doctor who’s willing to care that we would like to be at our own optimal health instead of just better than average.
Good Morning Char!!
I don’t really want the book, but I did want to say something. Jillian put that she hates spending hours at the gym. I personally LOVE to spend time in the gym because I’m with my friends!! I love the feeling of a bunch of fun people working out to improve our lives. That’s the part that I love!
I want this book. But I won't win it, so I'll just go to B&N and buy it.
I'm leery of the success she's had since she's taking hormones (and I find out this afternoon if I need any). But a readable book about diet and those unexplained weight gains (hello 10# gain with no changes in food or workout!) will be a blessing to me.
Thank you for the summary! I got a blast about the book from Jillian’s website today and I thought — No way! That’s what Charlotte was reading!
I must read this book. Jillian inspires me like no other. Making the Cut is one of my workout bibles, and completely changed my gym life for the better. I edged away from the diet side of that book, though – because that shit was crazy… now I am thrilled to finally have a diet supplement that makes sense.
Please send me a copy so I don’t have to read it standing up in the bookshop, or have to wait for years at the library, or have to beg my publishing friends to risk their jobs by stealing me a copy, and so I don’t have to trade off 2 weeks organic food products so I can afford to buy the book. I want to read it obsessively all night in the comfort of my bed, and then put it on my shelf next to her other books to read again and again.
I would LOVE to read this book. In fact, if I don’t win it, I’ll probably just go buy it. (Have you ever read of Suzanne Somer’s books? I actually have a lot of respect for her and the research she’s done, after reading (almost all) of them.) (And yeah, I used parentheses within parentheses. Oh, well. ;D)
I DO think it’s odd that after pitching the Metabolic Diet so strongly though (which is all about the “EVERYONE’S DIFFERENT” philosophy), that she’d turn around and advocate any kind of regimen that was a one-size-fits-all. THAT seems weird to me.
Having said that though, I do think there is a lot of hormonal weirdness out there (both environmentally and behaviorally induced), and that it affects our bodies a lot more than we probably realize.
The thyroid thing? I was actually diagnosed with hypothyroidism too, but decided NOT to medicate. I ended up going to a doctor of Oriental Medicine, and got a few supplements and some diet recommendations (I’d be interested to see if my recommendations – which lined up EXACTLY with the Metabolic Diet – line up with Jillian’s recommendations). And I feel SO. MUCH. BETTER. No meds. Yay!
Marste,
I just read your response from 2009 on Charlottes post. I also have a hypothyroid. I am taking meds (armour thyroid) but I’m having some problems with it. I want to go see an endocrinologist but i am a student and i cant afford it right now.
I am curious if you could tell me what supplements and diet recommendations your doctor of oriental medicine recommended to you? Do you still follow those or did you switch to meds eventually?
Thanks so much for your time.
Angela
I was so anxious to know what book, that I dreamt about you last night. And in my dream, the book was a “new one” by the mom from the TLC show “Little People, Big World”. I doubt she has a single book, much less a new one. I should probably cut back on my blog reading!
I haven’t had my period (without the aid of the pill) in several years, I workout for 12 straight days (at least) before I give myself a rest day. I need to read someone who knows what they’re talking about tell me to stop doing what I’m doing, what I should be doing, and what will happen if I don’t change my ways. Sounds like this book has all of that.
This book sounds like the help I need. I have been dieting/exercising for the past three months LIKE crazy, and I haven’t got the body to show for it. I get so confused on what to eat, how much to eat, when to eat, how to exercise, when to exercise, how much to exercise! I need balance!
Like you, I have a love/hate relationship with Jillian Michaels. I used to want someone like her to whip my body into shape and not let me give any excuses. But I find the more I accept my body and the effort I’m putting in to live the healthiest life possible, the more I feel that Bob’s approach would better suit me.
Either way, your review of her book has convinced me that I’d love to read it. I’d love to read it even more if it were free!
thanks again for making me aware of another perspective! i would like to learn more.
over the last 4 months i’ve tried to get more scientific about losing weight and all it has done is made me more nuts. i’ve eaten more in the last 4 months than i ever had — what’s up with that?!?!?
i’m too distracted with a busy morning to write a compelling plea for the book… please? (it’s all i’ve got : )
gotta run so i’m not late for my bike ride.
stacy from detroit
Ok Charlotte, I love Jillian! I can’t wait to read her new book.
As soon as I get finished with the complete hitchhikers guide. AGAIN! (I just love that book!)
Pick me please!
Jenn
i am an intrigued skeptic. i am with you in thinking that the “1 size fits all” mode for diet/fitness books is a little too easy.
that said, i would love to read it with my critical thinking cap on. i also have a “girl crush” on jillian. i just finished her 30 day fitness “making the cut” program. it was awesome and insane. i am stronger–and also tired! i’m always looking for how to be healthier, spend less time in the gym….so, i’d love to read it.
you definitely would get a full report from me! maybe i’ll buy it if i don’t win….from a used book store.
Forgot to actually comment on the book itself. I have wacky hormones also from years of trying every diet that worked for anyone else. One diet that worked really well for me but sucked to actually execute was the yeast connection. It cleared up so many of my issues but was so complicated and restricted that my life and my budget could not handle it. I am curious to read her interpretation of the science behind hormone therapy. If it makes any sense at all I will probably implement as much as I reasonably can.
I want this book soo much!
Charlotte, I love your wedsite and I can relate a lot to what you talk about. I found your website from a link on “sisterskinny.com It’s a small world in regards to the blogging community (I don’t have a blog myself) Wasn’t it you in the comment section in “Boppa ding dong” complaining about how much weight you have gained so far with this current pregnancy?
“I’m 14 pounds heavier than I was at this time last year (yes, yes, I know some of you think that’s a good thing.”
How much of that is pregancy weight? Now I’m just speculating, but you really lost your credibilty with me if you are complaining about pregancey weight.
Stephanie in UT
After reading your review of Jillian Michael’s new book, I would love to read the whole thing! It sounds like she has done her research and includes many fact based ideas plus personal accounts. I respect Jillian. This book sounds like what I really need!!
I would love to read this book! So…please pick me!!! I, too, appreciate Jillian’s honesty!
Four small meals every four hours – that sounds a lot like my hunger cycle. I’ve heard of diets that say to eat 6 small meals a day, but I’ve never been able to do that – I always end up eating when I’m not hungry. And I’m NOT the kind of person who loses weight by eating more. I hope you find what works for you, Charlotte. From what I’ve read about your diet and exercise regime, it really doesn’t make sense to me that you would easily gain weight. Maybe Jillian is on to something with those hormones. Thanks for filling us in about this book!
To Stephanie in UT,
I think you might have seen an older blog post. Look at Charlotte’s March 18th post for some clarification.
She would have zero cred with any of us if it was prego weight she was commenting on 🙂
I’m a little skeptical of all the organic, antibacterial mindset. I grew up eating crabapples off trees (without washing them) and eating dirt and probably licking lead paint and I turned out ok. In fact, I’m a lot better off imo – I’m on NO medication and get sick approximately once a year. However, I would love to see some science on it.
My own experiment last month made me crazy as well. No matter how much I try, sometimes my body wants to hold onto weight and sometimes it will let go. That’s why I switched over to doing something that makes me super happy for the next 3 months, a competitive and strictly athletic pursuit…
BJBella5 — the comments on BDD were recent… the March 18 post doesn’t make any definitive statements on Charlotte’s condition…
Sounds like a cool book — especially the thyroid medication part. I’ve been reading up on research about how the thyroid affects weight loss; there is some interesting stuff out there on the subject.
Wow, great description of the book. Now I really want to read it.
“No health book, no matter how good, compares to Les Miserables or Till We Have Faces.”
I love you. I read your blog for the first time yesterday and I’m looking at it in greater depth today. I have to admire a smart woman who takes care of herself.
LOL I KNEW it was Jillian’s book! I really would love to read it. I listen to her podcasts a lot and have been a huge fan since she’s been on Biggest Loser.
After years of binge eating and different “plans”, I too have wondered what damage I have done to my metabolism and my hormones. It’s scary. Even if I don’t win, I will probably get this book because it sounds so informative!
But I agree with you 100% on the fact that it would be so great to be “free”. I hope reading this has given you a good sense of direction and will really help you make the changes you want in your life 🙂
I love your take on Jillian’s book. I am a lot like you…I try everything, but never end up looking how I want to look. I would love to read her book!
I would LOVE to read this book!! Jillian is such an inspiration, just like you! 😀
WANT!
I have to say the hair bristled on the back of my neck when I had an inkling that it was Ms. Michael’s book you were reading for the exact reason you pointed out: “Which if you read Making the Cut, then this one will leave you dizzy with how quickly she spins a 180.”
However now I’m interested in her take on the hormonal connection!
I am dying to read this book, so I hope I win it! 🙂 I really like the things Jillian says. No comments yet, but i’ll give you a full review after I read it!
Wow, I would really love to read this book!
I haven’t had a period in 2 months and I’m not pregnant. I recently lost a lot of weight. I exercise and eat a lot. I have no insurance. I am trying some different “experiments” like eating a higher % of fat, various herbs, trying to reduce exercise time/intensity (hard to do because I love it). I don’t know what else to do.
It was comforting to read that others are going through the same thing. Insurance or no, I don’t want to fix this problem through meds honestly.
I would love to find women who have been successful at restarting their periods and what worked for them. Anyone know anything out there?
Your story really hit home. As a fat kid, I had & still have lots of hang ups!!! I even went thru the phase of getting too thin when I first lost my weight. Like you, I was & quite honestly am still obsessed with being fit. I hate the cardio but I do it because I have to & honestly, it is good for the heart & lungs. I LOVE MY WEIGHT TRAINING.. obviously!
I do think that hormones control a lot of this weight stuff. My body has changed so many times over the years & really now going thru perimenopause. But, I am not on any meds & thru diligence, hard work & clean eating 85-90% of the time, I have managed to keep my weight under control even now at this age & with hormone issues.
I work out a lot more than 5 hours per week but I continue to change things up all the time both food & weight wise & have even made great strength & performance gains along with body fat loss. Some may say I overtrain but for me, it works for my body & I love being in the gym training with weights!
I think every body is different so I do disagree with Jillian's "if it works for her it will work for anyone". But saying that, she does have a lot to offer.
I would love to read her book! I don't have "extra money" so I would love to be a winner but I know you have a lot of great people here that may need it more than me.
Optimizing hormones is not new. Jillian is just the first mainstream celebrity to get people thinking about how important it is. I have not read this book so I have no comments about her approach but from reading some of the comments, there seems to be an apparent deeper issue…being comfortable in your own skin. Looking a certain way, having “muscular” legs, maintaining a specific weight…of course it is human nature to want to look and feel sexy but what is your body capable of?
Being capable of anything and being prepared for that imagined moment of heroism is so much sexier than wearing a size 4.
It’s funny, since my kids’ autism diagnoses (as well as both of my parents being diagnosed with cancer and my dad passing away from it), I have been focusing more and more on the crud that we eat, drink, and breathe in every day. I have to wonder just what all that stuff is doing to us.
I recently had my thyroid tested, and the results came back normal. But I’m still gaining weight. Am I overtraining? My hormones FEEL out of wack (2 weeks of PMS, anyone?), so maybe I should read this book!
“…Which I get the reasoning for it but holy crap – I have 3 kids how is that going to work?!?”
That’s why you should do what I do. Let them run naked. 😉
Charlotte, you may need to clarify the 14 pound issue.
Please, I’d love to read this. I recently gained 5 lbs and I’ve no idea why.
I am curious why you think this is happening to you? From your post:
"I'm 14 pounds heavier than I was at this time last year (yes, yes, I know some of you think that's a good thing.) I've had no notable performance or strength gains. I'm not any happier. In fact, I might be crazier. So what do I do? I just keep trying harder. I keep trying the next thing hoping that this will finally be "it" for me. And yet each thing may actually be hurting me by messing up my natural hormonal balance rather than helping. It was this realization last night that turned everything upside down for me."
You seem to know a lot yet this seems contradictory to that. I just started reading you so…. Are you giving yourself & body a chance to adjust to new things before changing them? Are you doing to much, eating too few calories or too little fat in your diet. Just curious since I have been able to make gains while on a program that some may consider overtraining but works for me.
Sorry for intruding if you feel I am doing so.
This book sounds freakin awesome. And I promise that if I win it I’ll have an extensive review of the book on my site 😀
I definitely need to get to the library and get this book. I have struggled trying to lose my last 10 lbs for over 3 years now…and it seems the more I do the harder it is to keep from gaining weight back. I actually seem to maintain my weight better when I’m not training for something and running tons of miles. I just want to find the right combination that allows me to have Jillian arms and stomach and not have to spend all day long in a gym!
you’ve definitely caught my interest in this book. especially the part where you talk about being “free.” i want that so bad. win or not, i’m going to have to pick up this book!
This book sounds really interesting. I’ve often thought Jillian and I are really similar but now it seems even more so. I’d love to get her take on hormones since I know my thyroid is all messed up too. I agree with you though– there’s no way a suzanne sommers book is the best book ever. I hope I win but either way I’m definitely going to read this! utgal2004[at]yahoo[dot]com
Oh how I relate to your blogpost and how you feel. Sadly I would have been next in line with you if I hadn’t have realized the kind of information that was wrong in the book.
I suffered FOREVER with thyorid, stress, stalling and I wasn’t getting it. I don’t know if you have ever checked out Leigh Peele’s Metabolic Repair (comes with the Fat Loss Troubleshoot package) but I highly highly recommend it.
http://www.fatlosstroubleshoot.com
(hope it is okay to link, if not feel free to pop it out 🙂 )
LOVE your blog by the way, your awesome!
To the anti-organic sheet person–organic refers to how the agricultural product is grown/produced. Cotton uses tons of pesticides. If you like clean water, no dead zones, etc, you might want to consider organic agricultural products of any sort. It’s not just greenwashing in this case–it has a specific meaning by the USDA! (More specific than “made with [organic] ingredients”!).
This book does sound very interesting. I’ve had a similar experience to you with the weight gain…I can’t figure out what changed or how 7+ pounds have found their way onto my body…The ramblings that go through my head are: could it be muscle–my clothes seem to fit the same…but 7 pounds worth? Maybe its water/hormones? Maybe I have a tumor? Maybe its normal and ok and I should just deal (which is the hardest one…). But every week on the scale I have a mini-freak out…Maybe Jillian has some advice 🙂
This book sounds sensible, and I’d like to read it.
I have struggled with a sluggish thyroid myself, and know for a fact there are huge connections (esp. for women) between hormones and weight.
So nice to read that I am not alone. To stay at the weight/size that I am comfortable with, I need to do consistent exercise and stay @1200 cals a day. When I jump to a normal level of eating, I put weight on really quickly (and have a tough time getting it off). I am up around 10 pounds now and just have not had the mental energy to focus on getting it off. I have kept up my workouts but have given into my sweet tooth far too often. For me, it is not my Thyroid (had that checked out last year), it is just age – guess that old metabolism i just not what it used to be.
would love this and I promise to pass it on and share the knowledge after I have read this
Your review of the book open me up to some many questions. I tend to lose weight at times withour dieting just eating normal meals at normal times I like Jillian and she seems to get results looks like a great read. Thanks for the giveaway
sharr1226 at yahoo dot com
I listened to an interview with her on the NPR radio station the other day and I was interested in the book. Thank you for the giveaway.
I know I have messed up my metabolism starting way back when I was a teenager on those crazy starvation-type diets that were all the rage.I would love to read how Jillian suggests to fix it. thanks for the chance
I’ve ordered her book, I’ve got to wait till mid-May to get it (I live in Romania) but I;m very glad you liked it. I’m quite a fan of Jillian’s and she’s helped me so much transform my body and my life.
Last Sunday she did some segments on her radio show about her book, it’s some information that we’re gonna find there, I suggest you all download the podcast and pay attention to what she’s saying because it’s bloody scary!
http://a1135.g.akamai.net/f/1135/18227/1h/cchannel.download.akamai.com/18227/podcast/LOSANGELES-CA/KFI-AM/Jillian%20Michaels%2004-05-09.mp3
It sounds like a helpful read.
Thanks for the giveaway!
kimspam66(at) yahoo(dot)com
I just recently found your blog, and REALLY enjoy your writing! You make me laugh a lot and that’s a great thing.
In cruising the archives (I found a page that was mid-last year for some reason and that’s where I started), it was interesting to me when you found out about the hypothyroid thing, because I am also hypothyroid (among with other fun endocrine system mishaps like low adrenals).
I’ve read a LOT on hypothyroid, and I am on a couple of group forums with others who suffer thyroid issues. One thing I can tell you is that medication most often IS needed to help get things moving… BUT almost nobody I have ever spoke to has been able to regulate their weight with medication alone. It’s actually a common question “I’m on medication and my labs are normal and I STILL can’t lose weight!”
For most of us with hypothyroid we really have to focus on doing EVERY single thing we can to optimize our metabolism. And for most the weight is always harder to get off, and takes longer.
So my humble opinion is that anything you can do to help your metabolism out while dealing with this disease is worth doing. (I’m doing a program with my nutritionist at my Dr. that uses a lot of metabolic boosting tactics and it’s the first time I’ve lost weight in 3 years– even with the totally good eating and working out!)
As for Doctors and hypothyroid… I won’t get started! What I will tell you is that you need to educate yourself on the subject and then find a Dr. who will work with you. Most doctors (even endocrinologists) know very little about hypothyroid and it’s treatments. There are many different ways to go and like everything else, one way doesn’t work for everybody. There are a LOT of people out there that have suffered for YEARS with this problem because of not getting any or the right help from their Dr. I’d hate to see you be one of them.
OK I guess I got started, but I’ll stop!
I am going to buy Jillian’s book, though, as my focus right now is all about the metabolism boost.
OK… just had to add one more thing since I actually just read ALL of the comments.
I saw a lot of comments about because she’s on thyroid hormones it’s hard for them to swallow the diet part.
Thyroid hormones are not a magic pill that speeds up your metabolism. It just adds back into your system hormones that you do not have enough of, produce enough of, or convert enough of (as there are several types of thyroid hormones to deal with).
Even if you are on the exact right pill (or pills) for you with the exact right dosage, all this does is makes your thyroid act more “normal.” This process often takes a year or two as it’s very much trial and error.. fun stuff!
After that is done you still have to fix the damage to your metabolism that has been inflicted.
And like I said almost all people with hypothyroid have difficulty losing weight even when their levels are in normal range…
Don’t mean to harp on it or anything but it’s one of the major frustrations with hypothyroid is people, and doctors, thinking that now that you’re on the medication everything should be fixed. And when it’s not, they figure it must be your fault…
Also Charlotte… find out what your labs actually are and research if you can… I was told mine were fine for 5 years (since 2003 when I was having all the symptoms and asking to be tested.) I just looked back at the labs and they were not fine, or normal. They were high since 2003… but my Dr. didn’t know enough about the values to know that.
Just sayin’…
Our hormones are synergistic, meaning they all effect one another. But what comes first, the chicken or the egg? Hypothyroidism and hyperinsulinemia are strongly associated. A good endocrinologist (a branch of medicine dealing with disorder of the endocrine system and its specific secretions called hormones) should understand the hormones like the back of his or her hand.
I’ve just started this book and am so glad to read your review! Looking forward to finishing it.
I just want to say to all the people who seem to think Jillian’s thyroid medication “explains” her fitness and ability to maintain her weight, that I highly doubt that’s the story. I have a hypoactive thyroid and am on medication, and I can say definitively that it is NOT a magic bullet. I still gain weight if I overeat and don’t exercise! Thyroid meds bring you to a NORMAL baseline, because without the meds you are lagging behind. Please don’t trivialize Jillian’s hard work and dedication by suggesting that properly medicating a health condition fixed everything for her. It just doesn’t work that way.
This sounds like my life story!!! I had no idea Jillian and I had so much in common!
Hi! Just found your blog and was intrigued because I also snatched this book up as soon as I saw it and read the whole thing. One question: Jillian never addresses the “eat 30 minutes after working out” advice that I’ve read so many other places. Has anyone ever heard her address that?
Although I’m definitely trying to eat foods with fewer “suspect” ingredients, I was already eating pretty well to begin with. Jillian has a lot of good advice, but she’s OBSESSED with her looks. And that’s what I’m trying not to be. Have any of you read “Am I Hungry?” by Michelle May? That book changed my yo-yo diet mentality forever. It’s taken a long time, but I think the real key to happiness is letting go of this perfectionism and just LIVING. Obsessing over our weight and bodies only takes the focus away from what’s really important: health, compassion, and love. I’m not saying I can do this every day (obviously I bought and devoured Jillian’s book) but I try to give myself a break. I don’t want to be as obsessed as Jillian…I want to enjoy the life I have. My sister has advanced brain cancer – now there’s something bigger than the fat on your butt! So if you’ve got a messed up relationship with food like most of us women, try the “Am I Hungry?” book. It’s not perfect, either, but it’s a great start.
If I was blessed enough to win this book I would continue with the blessing and “pay it forward” to others after I was finished with it. I think it would be neat to have everyone put their names in the inside covers with a few comments as to what inspired them or helped them from this book. It could be one small thing that I or they were to read that could help make a positive change that otherwise would not be made.
Like others have written, the idea of another gimicky diet book was a total turn off. But, I couldn’t deny that I was being compelled to buy it, even with the fad-ish looking, slick cover. My issues revolve around menopause and hormones and I wanted to learn more.
Well, let me tell ya, I now have it on my “this is one book every living being should read” list. Forget about the weight loss parts…that’s beside the point (and would be a side effect of living and eating ‘clean’). What I learned about the chemical world we live in (and YES, that includes going for organic sheets…those without chemicals sprayed on them for us to breath in all night long) has changed how I’ll eat, sleep, play and live.
BUY IT NOW! 🙂
I've sat in Target and B&N for about 2 hours reading it (I know I know just buy it all ready I will I will soon) I've been on a trek to find the right med balance with my hypothyroidism since Dec. (08) I'm *almost* there I have a specialist apt next month but of course even a slight modification of my meds yet again this will be the 5th time I think) will be no guarantee. So I picked up this book by accident while waiting on my Mom one day. I'm sold. I totally believe it. The problem for me is FINDING organic goods and how in the world to cook(I've been a box junky all my life.) I'm going to try it but budget concerns will take it a few weeks for me to work up to the full "menu". We'll see.
I have also read the book, and my endocronologist who prescribes my thyroid medication said it would pair with my regimine. Thyroid medication, regardless of dosage, does not magically make you thin. It reduces heart attacks, helps fertility issues, lowers PMS, makes mentral cycles reasonable, stops hair from falling out, and increase Basal body temperature.
My meds only stopped the insanity. It allows for normal diet and exercise measures to work, but does not give you an advantage over others. 10 hr of exercise and a 1200 calorie diet should make anyone thin, unless your thyroid is not function; in this case, the person would gain weight, as I have for 10 years.
Excellent book Jillian, and I am glad someone does more than say "stop eating, start moving"…
I also have to comment — I used to be a size 6. Then my thyroid stopped working completely and i grew to a size 16 without changing a thing! I am on a natural medication for my thyroid and I STRUGGLE with losing weight–it does not drop off magically with medication. It merely brings you "even" with people who have a normal thyroid function. The only way the medication would make you lose weight would be if you abused it and went hyperthyroid–which brings even worse problems!
I totally agree about the book in that she has some awesome information about the hormones, symptoms, how they work. I have determined NOT to diet anymore, just make some lifestyle modifications. I do believe that hormone testing is ESSENTIAL to know what may be wrong but it is also helpful to find a DR (ND if the MD doesn't listen) who treats the person and not the LAB values. I am an RN but still am made to feel like a hypochondriac when i talk to m primary MD and it is new way of looking at things for most MDs. Some people need hormone replacement (thyroid for example). I also found the book "Hormones, Health, and Happiness" by Steven Hotze MD that i am also reading. Same premises and information but also deals with treatment when needed with bioidentical hormones, not synthetic ones. My favorite line in his book is "Chronic illness and disease are not caused by deficiencies of prescription drugs. The causes are comples, relating to poor nutrition, lack of exercise, a stressful life, a weakened immune system, declines in levels of hormones, to name only a few…" Jillian's book is great (I love her sense of humor – especially about there not being a CHEETO TREE. i am implementing most of her recommendations but am also doing hormone testing and consulting a ND because i am not convinced her solution is a 'one size fits all". Jena
If your Dr.'s won't do the specific thyroid tests (of your T4 specifically) don't bother…the general one won't tell you anything. Second…even though the medication is pivotal there are many things you can do. Take a B100 Complex (TRA), Vitamin C, Iron, Vitamin D, Calcium. These can all help with the functions the thyroid hormone fails to do. I have had hypothyroidism for 15 years and have been at my "college" years weight for some time. I am conscious of what I eat. I fill half a plate with veggies, the other half with protein and a bit with carbs. I still eat junk food but not often (and when I do I often feel ill). When you begin to relax and know what works your body will sit where it needs to and you have to accept that it will be that way. Good luck..I really hope you find resolve for this! It is very frustrating when Dr.'s don't listen to you…keep advocating for yourself!!!
Thanks for the article. Very informative. I saw her infomercial last night and was reeled in enough to remember her name and part of the title. (Don't watch Biggest Loser, had no idea who she was).
Might try to pick up the book from the library. Thanks for your point of view and balanced review.
I have hypothyroidism. I am 29 and was diagnosed when I was 27. I was going to the gym, lifting and doing cardio and eating right and was gaining weight. I also couldn't keep my eyes open – I was exhausted all the time. I still struggle with it despite being on thyroid medication (synthroid). I DID NOT lose the 15 pounds I gained after starting the medication. In the last year and a half I have had my med dosage changed 10 times. I am 130 pounds at 5'4 and I used to be 112-114 pounds. I still work out but it is a battle – I am exhausted all the time. Just today I slept 14 hours and need at least 10 hours a night. I cannot lose the weight and now my tsh is at a stable level and has been on the 75 mcg of Synthroid. Doesn't matter. If you have a thyroid problem it is harder. You need to eat clean clean clean – lower carbs..and lots of protein and less calories. You need to work out and move. I went from doing 20-30000 steps a day to 3,000-5,000 because I am so tired. Some days the only time I move around is at the gym. Synthroid medication did not make her lose weight and is not the answer for people needing to lose weight. I had gained 15 pounds one time before I was hypo and I lost it right away with proper diet and exercise. Now I need to work out 3 months heavy lifting before I notice any difference in muscle gain. I would give anything to NOT be hypo NOT on meds and 15 pounds overweight. This sucks. Jillian is an inspiration to me because I know what she is going through and she is still in great shape. Now the only thing I question is what thyroid med she is on. The synthroid I take is only a t4 replacement which is not optimal – and it's synthetic. I would put money she is on a dissected med which is really hard for us civilians to get – and also the formula for dissicated meds like Armour has changed and a lot of people say it doesn't work. Also – when your thyroid is messed up – other things start to go to…my adrenals are fatigued. I have to take Aldactone to control testosterone…(too much causes acne) – anyway…so to anyone who thinks if everyone could take hormone replacement meds would lose weight they are mistaken…hypo also messes with your heart rate and body temperature and many many other things and the pill doesn't take it all way by any means. I hate this disease.
ps: You can have a "normal" tsh and still be hypo. And even if you get put on meds it doesn't mean they are going to help – they help a little…they help my heart rate – I was having pvc's – so when I have those I know something is off….also…I take organic coconut oil 2-3 times a day – when I stick with it..it does help with weight and I can lower my thyroid meds
I read her book, and I must agree the beginning is so me to a T. I am 29 yrs old have been diagnosed with Hashimoto's hypo-thyroidism. I have been to 3 different endos, and still cant seem to feel better. My levels are normal, but I do not feel normal. I am tired all the time, and I cant seem to lose weight. I am 15 lbs overweight, and have been trying to lose this same 15 lbs for 5 years. I think Jillian does provide some good recommendations and insight on what hormones really do to your body, and I think I agree with her mostly, but some of this stuff is just not that easy to do all the time. I travel a lot for work, and we go out to dinners, I cant always find a place that has organic produce, it is just not realistic. Also I just cant see myself using organic makeup which she suggest. I am not going to go spend thousands of dollars to basically change out every product I use. I also dont all endos think of all the hormones, and trying to find a doctor who does is hard. I liked her book because it definitely made me think a little more about just calories, but i have to be hoenst i am a little overwhelmed with where to start, and how much she expects you to change.
I actually just bought the book and the companion recipe book. I think everything in this book is me. It's my story, sometimes even my words. I actually have and appt. in June to see and endocrinologist, but by then I may weigh even more. In 7 months I've gained over 20 lbs, on 1200 calories and 8-10 hours of work in the gym, running, yoga, everything. The question am I crazy has been said so many times Im not sure what to think. When I get it, Ill let you know what I think.
Found your post by a search for the book…I, like many of your anonymous commenters have been diagnosed with Hashimoto's. I've been on meds 6 months. I work out/run a minimum of 5 days a week, have been counting every calorie and staying under 15-1800 a day and can't lose ONE pound. I bought the book but haven't started the "clean eating" plan yet. I was looking for someone who had done it to see what they thought. So, I'm curious, did you adopt her plan? Did it work for you???
I will be buying her book this week. As for the struggling frustration with "normal" thyroid levels and fatigue, lethargy, etc., my husband and I visited an MD who is board-certified in Internal Medicine who treats us with implantable hormone (testosterone) pellets and placed us on Armour Thyroid medication. This is strictly self-pay but has made a world of difference in our energy, exercise and ability to do the activities we need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Check around for doctors like this out there!!! It is worth it to add this piece to the pie…
I found this book by accident. I was food shopping and ran into what I THOUGHT was a Metobolic book by Jillian Michaels. It was actually the cookbook.
I went out an bought the book.
I DO like it. It gave me a lot of answers. I was doing the eat clean diet (Tosca Reno) and didn't realise there were a few things I should be staying away from.
I adjusted.
I am trying to buy organic, but like the rest of the world out there $$ is a factor. I do the best I can. I DO buy organic Milk, eggs and chicken. Some fruits and veggies I buy organic. I bought ingredients to make my own shampoo (its cheaper anyway), I use lemon juice to whiten my whites and salt or sugar to clean my face, but not use plastic with two small children and a husband? To purchase organic bedding is a little out of my range. My finances dictate Walmart or similar.
As for my health, hard to find a dr that will listen to me 100%. I like armour thyroid and Im being fed synthroid and cytomel. I say I have swollen glands am I told I don't because it doesn't feel swollen to the dr. I can find another dr, yes, but this is the best dr Ive found and she's the best in my area.
just got the book and looking forward to reading it. jillian is one of those people who you trust enough to listen to because she looks and lives the part. if you're gonna preach it, MEAN it! 🙂 imagine a daycare owner who didn't like children. or an overweight trainer. i don't know about you, but i wouldn't hire a fat trainer. thanks for your blog!
Actually, handling yourself isn’t that hard and in fact you don’t need a someone to do it. It’s all in the mind, just think of the possible best thing on your health then you’ll see that it’s really working. Take a breath in and out exercise to unload and reload your system with fresh air and then it feels better. Meditating doesn’t really require you to join in any yoga class but the key is just within you. You better checked on yourself and see if this really work.
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You know what my problem is, I smoke organic weed. And that is when the craving start popping up. I tried to quit but that is very difficult. I just like the fact that you can tell your mind to relax instantly. But it does not help me with losing weight though. So I have two problems, my weight and my bad smoking habit. I don’t smoke sigarettes, only weed, but it is still a very disturbing addiction. I really hope I will find the mindset to be strong enough to quit.
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