Why We Get Fat

Science writer Gary Taubes returns to the argument of his earlier Good Calories, Bad Calories: that certain kinds of carbohydrates, rather than fat or simply excess calories, drive obesity. Here he brings that case, with fresh evidence, to a wider audience. Taubes attacks the calories-in, calories-out model of weight gain and highlights research on how insulin regulates fat tissue. He also addresses why some people are thin and others fat, what roles exercise and genetics play, and which foods to eat or avoid, and concludes with a diet. Published in 2010, it has drawn criticism, including from Harriet A. Hall, who called one of its central ideas simply wrong.

Bill Gurley included it in his Above the Crowd post on thinking about diets and other complex matters. Cardiologist Monali Y. Desai named it among the nutrition books she recently found interesting.