Review by Booklist Review
In this sympathetic account, author Shah, an internal-medicine and allergy/immunology physician, identifies hormonal imbalance as the reason women often feel like they're running on empty. Using personal examples and case studies, she identifies the main culprit (adrenal fatigue) and considers food choices that exacerbate the condition. She cites additional concerns: chronic inflammation that can exhaust the immune system, and intestinal irregularities that sap energy reserves. Many of the symptoms for these conditions overlap, as do her solutions: dietary changes. Many recommendations will sound familiar, like adding fiber, monitoring dairy, eliminating sugar, and avoiding processed foods. Shah also reviews current theories on circadian rhythms and intermittent fasting (she's a fan). What makes all this advice palatable is Shah's charming storytelling style and considerable, user-friendly support: fasting schedules, innovative ways of getting outdoors and getting some exercise, grocery and pantry-stocking lists, and almost 50 recipes, accompanied by the specific ways they'll help improve energy. Her final thoughts consider the brain/body connection. Readers ready and willing to commit to change will appreciate this comprehensive, reassuring advice.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Doctor and nutritionist Shah debuts with a punchy and informative take on living a more energized life. A car accident at 32 was her catalyst to make changes in her life, and her "WTF" plan ("as in why the eff was I so tired?") was the result. Her advice is centered around regulating women's "energy trifecta," made up of balanced hormones, a well-functioning gut, and a healthy immune system. To that end, Shah focuses on diet, circadian fasting, stress reduction, and sleep: she encourages readers to adopt a diet heavy on plants and fiber, consume all of their calories during an 8--10-hour window, sleep 7--9 hours every night, and incorporate low-intensity exercise into daily life. Quizzes, cheat sheets, and "energy booster" facts round things out, along with a two-week meal plan. Shah peppers personal stories throughout, and her tone is reliably encouraging: "Remember, this is not about perfection. This is just about improving your metabolism." Those feeling worn down will want to check this out. Agent: Heather Jackson, Heather Jackson Literary. (Mar.)
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