Dr. Andrew Jenkinson

Why We Eat (Too Much) by Dr. Andrew Jenkinson is a thought-provoking exploration of the reasons behind our overeating habits. Dr. Jenkinson is a respected bariatric surgeon and in his book, he delves into the science and psychology behind overeating, examining how our modern lifestyle and environment contribute to excessive food consumption.

Overview

In Why We Eat (Too Much), Dr. Andrew Jenkinson aims to shed light on the issues surrounding overeating by combining his medical expertise with his understanding of human behavior. The book provides a comprehensive analysis of how our eating habits have changed over time and offers practical solutions for individuals seeking to regain control over their eating habits.

Key Points / Ideas

Dr. Jenkinson's main argument revolves around the notion that our modern environment is a major contributor to our overeating tendencies and the rising rates of obesity. He explores how factors such as increased availability of high-calorie foods, portion sizes, constant exposure to food advertising, and sedentary lifestyles have influenced our eating habits.

The author presents scientific evidence from various studies to support his claims. For example, he highlights research showing that our brains have evolved to seek out high-calorie foods due to their scarcity in our ancestral environment, but this evolutionary adaptation backfires in today's food-abundant world, leading to overconsumption. Additionally, Dr. Jenkinson discusses the influence of stress and emotional eating, explaining how our brains are wired to use food as a means of comfort and reward.

Furthermore, the book explores the role of our gut microbiome in regulating our appetite and metabolism. Dr. Jenkinson emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy gut microbiota through a balanced diet rich in fiber and fermented foods.

To help individuals reverse their overeating habits, Dr. Jenkinson provides practical strategies and tactics such as mindful eating, portion control, and finding alternative coping mechanisms for stress. He also discusses the potential benefits of intermittent fasting and low-carb diets, backed by scientific research and real-life cases of success.

Conclusion

In Why We Eat (Too Much), Dr. Andrew Jenkinson offers a thought-provoking analysis of the causes and consequences of overeating in our modern world. He provides readers with a compelling blend of scientific evidence, medical expertise, and practical advice to tackle this prevalent issue. The book serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the complex factors that drive overeating and offers strategies to help regain control over their eating habits.

Readers who are interested in exploring this topic further might also find books like The Hungry Brain: Outsmarting the Instincts That Make Us Overeat by Stephan J. Guyenet and Mindless Eating: Why We Eat More Than We Think by Brian Wansink insightful.