Some perspective: "It offers realistic strategies for real-life people that are dealing with real stressful jobs and lives," says Blatner. "I think that's really needed in this go, go, go culture."
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"The Sugar Fix," Dr. Richard Johnson with Timothy Gower (Rodale Books)
The plan: Johnson offers a plan to dramatically cut back on high-fructose corn syrup, a standard ingredient in many foods. He links this sweetener to the obesity epidemic and says that reducing consumption will lead to weight loss and better overall health.
Some perspective: People gain weight because they eat too many calories, no matter the source, says Blatner. But some dietitians say people should be cautious about consuming too much of the sweetener because the foods it is found in are often high in calories and low in nutritional value.
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"'The Biggest Loser' Success Secrets," "The Biggest Loser" experts, cast and Maggie Greenwood-Robinson (Rodale Books)
The plan: Contestants from past seasons of the hit reality show share their inspirational stories, with before-and-after photos, food and exercise pointers and strategies for issues such as finding the time to work out and overcoming weight-loss plateaus.
Some perspective: "I think we can learn a whole lot from people who lose weight and keep it off, in terms of real life strategies," says Blatner. "I call it biblio-therapy, or the idea that reading can help motivate us and inspire us."
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"Grace on the Go: Quick Prayers for Determined Dieters," Barbara Bartocci (Morehouse Publishing).
The plan: Bartocci, who brought us "Grace on the Go: 101 Quick Ways to Pray," presents 60-second prayers for the challenges dieters face, from making smart food choices to dealing with fashion magazines. There is even a Food Journal Prayer ... "Help me to see patterns. Deliver me from temptations. Amen."
Some perspective: "It offers some encouraging self-talk for healthy, in-the-moment decisions," says Blatner. "We all know that losing weight a lot of it comes from mindfulness. However, I will say that this is not magic. We still need to exercise and eat right."
