Book
Mann T. Secrets from the Eating Lab: The Science of Weight Loss, the Myth of Willpower, and Why You Should Never Diet Again. New York: Harper; 2015.
Why we cite it
Popular science synthesis of 20+ years of research from Mann’s Health and Eating Lab and the broader literature on dieting, weight regulation, and eating behavior. Argues that calorie-restricting diets are counterproductive because of biological responses (neurological, hormonal, metabolic) — not because of willpower failure — and offers 12 evidence-based “smart regulation strategies” that work with human biology rather than against it. Extends Mann’s 2007 meta-analysis (cdf01) with accessible explanations of the underlying mechanisms and practical alternatives. Directly relevant to the project’s emphasis on sustainable behavior change over restriction.
About the author
Traci Mann, PhD: Professor, Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota. PhD Psychology, Stanford University (1995). Director, Health and Eating Laboratory. Fellow of APS, SESP, and APA. Research funded by NIH, USDA, and NASA. ~9,000 citations. Has never accepted funding from commercial diet or food companies.
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