Burn

The Misunderstood Science of Metabolism

By: Herman Pontzer

Narrated by: P.J. Ochlan

Brought to you by Penguin.

Why do so many diets lead to more weight gain?

Do more active people have faster metabolisms?

Is exercise essential for weight loss?

Over the past 20 years, Evolutionary Biologist Herman Pontzer has conducted ground-breaking studies across a range of settings, including pioneering fieldwork with Hadza hunter-gatherers in northern Tanzania.

This book draws on his eye-opening research to show how, contrary to received wisdom, exercise does not increase our metabolism. Instead, we burn calories within a very narrow range: nearly 3,000 calories per day, no matter our activity level.

By taking a closer look at what happens to the energy we consume, Pontzer explores the ways in which metabolism controls every aspect of our health - from fertility to immune function - and reveals the truth about the dynamic system that sustains us. Filled with facts and memorable anecdotes, Burn will change the way you think about food, exercise and life.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2021 Herman Pontzer (P)2021 Penguin Audio

Well written on what can be a dry subject

Really enjoyed the approach and story weaves by the author to take us on a journey of diets and energy consumption. It makes what can sometimes be a dry subject interesting and relatable. Also called out the various fad diets and how they work.
Great book.

Excellent book on human metabolism

This book presents science backed evidence to explain the impacts of modernization on human health, nutrition and metabolism. Must read if you are interested in staying healthy.

Interesting but flawed

Information from research on traditional peoples and about constrained energy usage is really good, but has a limited understanding of fat storage and usage in the body and makes a number of very dubious statements that contradict considerable bodies of evidence and presents them as unassailable facts. Come for the great information on exercise energy use and human history but don't stay for the rest