What’s wrong with being a skinny bitch?
I’ve been hearing a lot recently about a book called Skinny Bitch. That Posh Spice bought it (because she needs staying skinny advice?). That it is written by models. That it promotes a healthy vegan diet.
But the thing that I’ve read about the book that most made me want to actually read the book is this whiny negative review of it. The reviewer scoffs at “their laughably simplistic theory, that the secret of weight loss is just to eat healthy food” and goes on to proclaim, “Oh if it were that easy, we’d all be size eight and they’d never have been published, killing two birds - and I don’t mean them - with one stone.”
Um, actually I think it just might be that simple. Cut all the junk out of your diet, and you are probably going to lose weight. But the reviewer will never know, because she is hell-bent on keeping bad-for-you-foods as the centerpiece of her diet. When it comes to the benefits of veganism and healthy eating, some people just don’t want to hear it.
Has anyone out there read Skinny Bitch? What did you think?
[Update: I read it! See my review of Skinny Bitch here.]
Tags: diet, skinny-bitch, vegan, vegetarian, weight-loss-books
120 opinions for What’s wrong with being a skinny bitch?
Ward
Jun 21, 2007 at 10:01 am
Wow. Someone got a tad defensive in discussing their weight and being a carnivore.
“I bet I could still pack on the pounds on a vegan diet if I really put my mind to it.”
I think she missed the point.
Christina
Jun 21, 2007 at 10:21 am
I read the book and liked it alot, It has some good information and is given to you in a fun, light way except it has gotten alot of negative feedback because its misunderstood as 2 stupid girls not knowing anything about weight loss.
But i didnt get that at all from the book I think there just trying to have fun and inspire people.
Which it did for me definatly.
Lisa
Jun 22, 2007 at 11:40 am
I really, really enjoyed the book and thought it was very witty and funny.
But it does have a clear agenda and works towards it with the evidence it presents.
The general advice is sound and excellently presented.
However the specific details - like the hormones, additives and general handling of meat, fish, dairy and eggs is specific to the American industry. Which means for international readers you may need to research your own country’s food standards requirements.
It did work for me though, I am definitely going to take that final step from vegetarian to vegan. Loved it!
Céline
Jun 24, 2007 at 12:40 pm
I haven’t read the book, I didn’t even know about it until I read your post. It certainly raised my curiosity and I am going to buy it.
From the reviews on Amazon and the Daily Mail review, it seems that the writers are very upfront and that can shock some audience.
But I do agree with you, it is simple. Cut out all the junk and eat only what the body needs, the results will speak for themselves. It’s not rocket science and nobody should have to prove they hold a PHD to claim this.
I also agree with the fact that the whiny reviewer from the Mail missed the point. She assimilates V. Beckham to the story, it’s got nothing to do with the book. Victoria spends her life on strange depriving diets to keep her size 0. She isn’t a vegan as far as I know. Writing such a defensive review makes me think that the person who wrote it is fat and feels threatened by such topics. Truth is rarely is good thing to hear. Well, let her be a “fat pig” as she calls it. But I would like to ask her not to go and knock on the door of the NHS (National Health Service in Britain) for her diet-related illnesses thereafter.
Sara
Jun 25, 2007 at 4:11 am
Wow, what an odd review. Did someone jab her with a stick beforehand? I bought this book last year and really enjoyed it. I thought it was very informative and helpful.
Activist Mommy
Jun 25, 2007 at 5:15 pm
I hadn’t heard of the book before, but I think I might have to look for it now. That reviewer must has some issues not to understand that healthy eating can help you loe weight. Maybe if she wasn’t so busy defending her lifestyle she could get it.
Activist Mommy
Jun 26, 2007 at 4:18 pm
[…] Mommy {June 26, 2007} I’m no Skinny Bitch I read a post about the book Skinny Bitch over at Veggie Chic and immediately knew I had to buy it. Number one, with a name like that you just […]
Craig
Jul 1, 2007 at 9:09 pm
I just finished reading “Skinny Bitch.” It was a great read, and inspired me to go vegan. I just let me vegetarian friend borrow it, and I’m sure she will make the switch too. I love the way they presented their information - it was fun - I laughed out loud. I agree; that reviewer has issues. Diet has a direct relationship to weight. And eating healthy certainly sheds pounds. How could one scoff at such a simple concept?
Raw Lifestyle- Caroline Jeannot
Jul 3, 2007 at 12:18 am
I have not read Skinny Bitch, although I completely agree with her that changing the way we eat can have a huge impact on our health. I have recently become a raw/living foodist (eating only uncooked foods that contain all of their original enzymes, nutrients, and minerals), and have never felt better. I have more energy, am more alert, need less sleep, no longer have stomach gas and cramps, have shorter and less “painful” periods…and I have been raw for no longer than several weeks!
Although the concept is simple, I think too few people are willing to consider it because of all the sacrifices they imagine making (education will tell you however that you can still have bread, cookies, cakes, “pasta,” chips, etc. through the use of a dehydrator at a temperature less than 118 degrees-the point at which raw foods become cooked) and because it sounds too good to be true.
Perspectives are not easily changed, but cannot be without an open mind. Doesn’t sound like the reviewer had an open mind. I can only have sympathy for her.
-Caroline
Kym
Jul 18, 2007 at 2:37 pm
I bought a copy of Skinny Bitch last week and was really pleasantly surprised as I thought it was going to be another book which promoted the size zero phenomenon through ridiculous and unrealistic eating habits. The style of the book is like a good novel, once I started reading, I just couldn’t stop. The graphic descriptions of what actually happens to animals in slaughter houses made me physically sick & gave me plenty to think about. So I’ve decided to follow the advice in Skinny Bitch and try converting to a vegan diet. I’m on day 3 and yes, it does take a bit of getting used to but it’s amazing the delicious meals you can make from some soya beans & tofu! I’m definately starting to feel better, more energised and to enjoy my food more as I’m having to think about what I’m eating.
The only piece of advice I’m struggling with from Skinny Bitch is to ditch the caffeine. I only have one soya cappuccino a day but it is the highlight of my day and green tea just doesn’t have the same effect!
Kym.
Jul
Jul 18, 2007 at 7:25 pm
With all the positive reviews I’m hearing, I think I might just have to read this one for myself (even though I agree, giving up coffee sounds less than fun).
Terry
Jul 19, 2007 at 2:33 pm
No one liked their meat and dairy more than me. I read the book and was convinced. They were 100% right. I have been following the diet, and the weight is just FALLING off of me. It is wonderful. I feel better and look great. The list of foods they suggest are easy to find. I can’t say that I will never eat meat or dairy again, but I get up every day and make the decision not to.
Shelly
Jul 21, 2007 at 4:58 pm
Sounds like another book Carbs from Heavan, Carbs from Hell which also promotes a largely vegetarian diet. I am a strict vegetarian who is slowly converting to vegan and I look and feel great! I love the fact that Skinny B is a no hold’s barred, tell it like it is book, which is the truth. I just wish people would not only read it, but also LIVE it.
Cary
Jul 22, 2007 at 8:11 pm
I did like the book…most of it…i do not agree with the part about not using cold pills, medicine or things like that, some people need to be medicated and need to talk to the doctors that they see before taking advice from 2 former models.
Margaret Christianson
Jul 23, 2007 at 3:32 am
So, how hard is it to follow this new way of eating? Especially when you’re “Mom” and responsible for buying the food and feeding everyone in the family? My husband is the one who bought me this book, and now he’s balking at the fact that I’m taking it seriously!
I canNOT imagine my picky toddlers eating tofu; one is even allergic to soy. Granted, I haven’t finished reading the book, but I’m sure hoping they have advice to help Mommies! Especially Mommies who have husbands who wouldn’t give up meat if their lives depended on it! AND don’t support anyone else giving up meat!
Boy, do I have a challenge in front of me or what?
Jessie
Jul 23, 2007 at 1:56 pm
I bought the book about a month ago and I have made the switch to vegan. The chapter on “You Are What You Eat” made me ill. I shudder at the thought of eating meat. I’m very fortunate that my family are happy to eat what I eat, and are prepared to try new things. I am having loads of fun preparing vegetable chilli and trying new things. I also have a wheat intolerance, which restricts me a little, but with a little thought, it is surprising the delicious meals one can prepare.
My family do still eat meat on occasion though, and I am encouraging them to read the book and make up their own minds. I feel fabulous though, IBS almost non-existent, have loads of energy and feel better within myself. I’ve been a vegan for just over a month now and won’t go back.
Jul
Jul 24, 2007 at 9:08 am
Margaret - it does sound like you have quite a challenge on your hands. Good luck finding a healthy solution!
Veggie Chic
Jul 24, 2007 at 9:10 am
[…] last post about Skinny Bitch attracted a lot of great discussion and comments (some of which I will address individually in […]
robeast
Jul 28, 2007 at 1:06 am
There is absolutely nothing wrong with being a HEALTHY “skinny bitch”. I, too, was like that “whiny” reviewer. I just would not let anyone talk to me about veganism ’cause I looooved my meat and cheeses.
I am embarassed to say that if it were not for Victoria Beckham picking up this book, I would have never known about it. So, thank you, VB. Anyway, I have not finished the book yet, but am convinced that the “skinny bitch” lifestyle is the way to go. The graphic descriptions of what are done to the animals in the slaugtherhouses is enough to make me up-chuck all the meat and animal byproducts I have ever consumed in my life. And not to mention the antibiotics and hormones these poor animals get pumped with. Ewww.
Of course, I cannot become a vegetarian overnight. No one can. But I will definitely give it my best to become the “skinny bitch” I want to be!
Karen
Jul 29, 2007 at 4:27 am
I love the book Skinny Bitch. It is so funny! I tried to use their advice but ended up under-eating. So I saw a nutritionist who told me to eat more and protien, which helped. I re-read the book all the time for inspiration and a good laugh. Cheers to the authors for opening readers’ eyes about the horrors of the meat and junk food industries.
Sherrie
Aug 2, 2007 at 1:55 am
I just bought this fantastic book today after hearing about it on ” The View “. It really opened up my eyes and I will never eat meat or dairy again !! Make sure to check out the website http://www.GoVeg.com and you will be hooked also !! : ))
Dee
Aug 3, 2007 at 2:45 am
HELP! Being a fitness nut and avid weight lifter…..and did I mention tofu hater - where do you get enough protein to sustain the muscle that I’ve worked sooo hard to gain?
Jul
Aug 3, 2007 at 10:01 am
Hi Dee - good question. The short answer is that it’s really not hard to get enough protein on a vegetarian diet. As long as you’re eating enough food, you’re probably getting enough protein! I’ll address this topic more in-depth in the next week in a new post.
Dee
Aug 3, 2007 at 3:46 pm
Any other good sources of Veg. diet - for us dummies that have been lulled into the belief that dinner must include steak and potatoes?
I am not a great cook - just doin what Mom taught us all those years - fry / grill / open stuff. (hahhaha)
Rachael
Aug 3, 2007 at 11:12 pm
So, I thought the book was ok… haven’t had dairy or meat in 2 weeks, since I read the book. I was disgusted with the whole chapter about the animals… I now bring my own Boca Burgers to family functions. I could not believe everything I read. I kind of wish I hadn’t, but am glad I did. I am trying to inform my family of all the bad “Stuff” in dairy and the aweful stuff that happens to the animals they are eating, but the won’t listen. They wonder why we’re all over weight. They believe in eating meat meat and more meat topped with cheese and a huge glass of milk… They have given me a hard time but I am sticking to my guns and am happy with the decision I have made. It’s been difficult stopping cold turkey the way I did, and I work part time in a coffee shop… but I am doing it. And I refer back to the book when I need a refresher!! So good luck to everyone out there thats accepting a new life style and remember you are not alone!!!
Jul
Aug 5, 2007 at 1:54 pm
Dee - check out some of the websites listed on my sidebar under “vegetarian resources” - several of them offer extensive vegetarian recipe databases. Or head to your local bookstore and browse through the vegetarian cookbooks on offer. One of my favorites is Vegan with a Vengeance.
Rachel (and everyone else making positive changes in the way they eat) - good for you! Completely re-vamping your diet is not always easy, but you’ll be rewarded with greatly improved health for sticking with it.
Lara
Aug 5, 2007 at 5:00 pm
Thanks for the link to the Go Veg site Sherrie! I’m inspired and I’ve requested the vegetarian starter kit to get me going.
I was vegetarian for a number of years in my twenties, but I slowly went back to eating meat. Now that I am married to a committed carnivore, I’ve been eating meat with just about every meal without even thinking about it.
My health has been bad for a couple years, though, and I can’t help but remember how healthy I felt when I didn’t eat meat. I was also a healthy weight, whereas now I am obese (gosh it hard to even type that word!).
I haven’t read the Skinny Bitch book, but from what I’ve heard about it it makes perfect sense. After all, you are what you eat.
Missed it
Aug 11, 2007 at 5:23 pm
She totally missed the point. As you can see with all the other comments. Seriously, this book was all in simple terms. It tells it as it is. Why is eating meat considered neutral and not eating it so politically incorrect. Our bodies shouldn’t be a dumping ground for rotting flesh. This woman obviously didn’t get it. If you put dead stuff in u, you’ll feel horrible.
the WORST mother
Aug 12, 2007 at 3:30 am
About the Skinny Bitch book… I’m not sure if it’s about how to get skinny or how to be a bitch, two traits so sought after they apparently had to write a book about it. In my opinion, eating is for wimps. Real (a.k.a. skinny) women don’t eat.l We needed a book to tell us that? And by the way, Posh needs to lose a few more pounds, which is obviously why she bought the book… or is it because she needs to learn more about how to be a bitch?
TWM
ilyssa
Aug 17, 2007 at 11:18 pm
I loved this book. It has inspired me to be vegan. My sister was already a vegetarian, but now she is going to go vegan as well. The argument that inspired me the most is that humans are not built to eat all this meat. I believed it was natural, but that was before I read Skinny Bitch.
Natalie
Aug 18, 2007 at 6:37 am
I went to the NY Best Seller’s list because I want to start reading more. I hadn’t heard anything about Skinny Bitch but I was attracted to the title. I read the preview pages and I’m encouraged to go buy it for a fun informational read. I don’t believe in anything extreme. I was raised a carnivore and there’s a dear place in my heart for cheese, but I agree that these vices should be eaten maybe once or twice a week. I have a lot of digestive issues and I’m 20lbs. away from being healthy–not size zero. Regardless of the vegetarian/vegan debate, I think there is something for all of us in this book. Sometimes a straight to the point reminder is a refreshing way to stay on track.
Christine
Aug 21, 2007 at 6:49 am
I had been toying with the idea of going vegetarian, and after reading this book, I too, decided to take the plunge and give up the junk. I wasn’t a big meat eater to begin with, but now I have a reason. I had a brain tumor removed several years ago, it was benign thankfully, but ruined my life in other ways. My diet was horrendous before and I have been trying to make amends with my body ever since. This book really opened my eyes to our lovely modern day food industry. It feels good to know that now my eating will be even more in line with how it should have been all along- natural.
Celeste
Aug 22, 2007 at 5:25 pm
Loved the book. I just never thought of what I was putting in my body. I hope skinny bitch works on us old bitches too! I have been on it for only a week but I do feel better already.
Saba
Aug 23, 2007 at 9:41 am
I read the book this summer, and it actually works. I lost a lot of weight, and the book inspired me to go vegan. I highly recommend it.
khristine
Aug 24, 2007 at 3:14 pm
I thought the book was funny! They do push the Vegan lifestyle a bit too much. There are other options for people out there that want to still be a “meat eater” but dont want the added poison.
melanie
Aug 24, 2007 at 6:19 pm
I loved it! It was funny, informative, and inspiring! I never read diet books. I hate them, but this made me make serious changes in my life…this really isn’t a diet it is a lifestyle. It is about taking control over what you are putting into your body. I want to know everything about what is going into my body! So, far I’ve felt GREAT…better than I have in a long time so I recommend this book for anyone meat eaters, vegetarians, & vegans alike.
Susan
Aug 26, 2007 at 6:52 am
I’m glad that they wrote it and I got to read it. I’ve been pretty much living my life exactly as they described for the last year or so. It was nice to have someone finally acknowledge the way I live my life as being something CORRECT! Just a little affirmation that I am right and most everyone else is wrong…how sweet is that?
I’m sick to death of people making a face at me when I say that I eat a vegan diet and don’t drink soda. Soda is the devil, people in this country need to stop drinking it…I’ve thought that for years and years.
One thing about it is that you will lose weight if you are healthy and eat right. Your body will look amazing and other women will be jealous of you. I am a Skinny Bitch and I love it!
And, I love how they mentioned fasting. Fasting is something I do on a very regular basis and it’s a good thing for me. I could go on, but I won’t…
I loved how this book was written. It reads exactly how I would tell my best friend about what to do. Profanity and all. I sent this book to a friend to get her to read it first. Give your copy to a friend to help her change her life!
Zoe
Aug 27, 2007 at 4:37 pm
I started a few weeks ago and I lost half a size within 2 weeks. Normally it would have taken longer, so it helped me out a lot next to exercising everyday. I feel so much better, I have alot of energy now and I feel so much lighter. I think it’s great I should have done this many years ago.
Jen
Sep 2, 2007 at 10:29 am
I read about “Skinny Bitch” in two different magazines. At first, I thought this was going to be a work of fiction. I happened to see it at the bookstore and was laughing so hard, I bought a copy of it. When I was purchasing the book, I was buying it for entertainment value. In a Dr. Phil style - and isn’t that what people need when they need to face reality? - these two had me laughing throughout the entire book. So they are former models - that doesn’t necessarily make them less credible. I am certainly going to attempt to make the lifestyle switch. We are a society that makes excuses. If you have self-discipline, it probably is that easy.
Kat
Sep 4, 2007 at 8:45 am
So I read ‘Skinny Bitch’ and loved it! I’ve never been an over weight person, but I’ve gotten off track . . . After reading this book and changing my eating while continuing to work out regularly, I’ve lost 10 pounds. Am I a vegan? NO! I’m changing a few things at a time. Do I look and feel great? YES! Thank you to all the skinny bitches out there! Love you!
Heidi
Sep 14, 2007 at 6:52 pm
I have a question regarding Kefir. I have been making my own Kefir (live cultures) since around April, everyday I have a kefir smoothie which contains some mixture of fruits (berries, peaches, mangoes, etc). This has help my digestive system plus I have lost some weight. What do you suggest to use instead of milk? I read in many places that soymilk is no good either, especially in large quantities (I have a smoothie everyday, about 16oz). BTW, Kefir takes all the lactose out of the milk plus we buy organic.
Autumn
Sep 15, 2007 at 6:51 am
What’s hilarious about this review is that the authors of this book (skinny) are sharing FROM THEIR OWN EXPERIENCE on how you too can be skinny…
The writer of this review, however, (fat) is basically sharing with the world, from HER experience, why she’s still fat. She KNOWS the truth but gets pissed off when she hears and sees it in action. Hmmm, if I wanted to be thinner, I think that this review would help me to walk (no, jog) to the nearest bookstore and buy a copy of this book. Obviously, these SKINNY authors (one with a legitimate degree and the other…skinny) must know what they’re talking about. One doesn’t really NEED a degree to figure out that healthy eating = thinner body frame. Maybe the writer of this article should go and GET a degree in Nutrition and Will-Power because then she wouldn’t have to take out her bitterness on two women who are answering the question they’ve gotten their whole lives, “How do yo stay so thin?” Thankfully the answer is “by being healthy”, and not, “by starving ourselves, chain-smoking, drinking champagne non-stop and being addicted to cocaine…”
Jul
Sep 17, 2007 at 10:49 pm
Heidi - I personally don’t follow the strict vegan diet as recommended in Skinny Bitch, but I do limit my dairy intake. In smoothies I use rice milk, soy milk, almond milk, etc. Sometimes I use regular yogurt or soy yogurt. I’d encourage you to experiment with different ingredients to see what suits your tastes and meets your health needs.
Melinda Rider
Sep 24, 2007 at 8:40 am
I really wanted to make a comment. This book affected my life as well as my husband’s life. We are very pro-active to be healthy people, but this book provided such concept that we would not ignore. I have not eaten meat since I read that one horrible chapter. I am still upset about what I read. I just want to eat whatever is healthy for us, and we are looking hard to make that happen here in Boulder Colorado. We are lucky there are so many healthy food markets and vegan restaurants located here. THis book is amazing in alot of ways and it will change your life as well as your loved ones. Please pass the info on. Thanks …….. Q&M
Skinny Bitch gets you talking, but does it get you skinny?
Oct 3, 2007 at 4:08 pm
[…] I first posted about this vegan diet book sensation (in this post and this post), the comments haven’t ceased to come in from readers all over the place who want to share […]
Chris Gee
Oct 4, 2007 at 7:57 pm
I read the book and loved it! It was full of foul language and funny and honest. I went vegan a little over a month ago and feel awesome!
Lyndieloop
Oct 5, 2007 at 1:13 am
I bought it last week and read it in a day. It was funny and very good. I don’t plan on becoming a full vegan but I am definitely cutting down on my meat and dairy every opportunity I can. I’ve replaced it with tofu and boca style stuff, and beans. Dairy is pretty easy for me to avoid. My stomach has never felt so trim and slim, and good. I don’t feel like giving up coffee. That is always on the horizon but have not yet come to terms with challenging myself to do that.
Lyndieloop
Oct 5, 2007 at 1:17 am
P.S. I am also very affected by that meat chapter. Meat grosses me out ever since I read it. And I felt so bad. I almost couldn’t get through it. I can’t ever look at meat the same. I am just not ready to take a full stand on it. But I ate some chicken at our work potluck today, and it really grossed me out.
ailie
Oct 7, 2007 at 3:38 pm
People need to be mindful of the ammount of soy they are taking in. Please, if you read this book, dont think soy can be your main sub for protien. In eating it regularly it can cause fatigue and hairloss, also, if you become an soy junkie you can develope hyperthyroidism. So please do some research into vegan diets and how to mix plant protiens. x
ailie
Oct 7, 2007 at 3:39 pm
btw, Im a horrible speller if you hadn’t noticed….
Jul
Oct 8, 2007 at 4:37 pm
Ailie - Where did you get these ideas about the supposed ill effects of eating soy? It sounds like unsubstantiated misinformation to me, but if you have a legitimate source, I’d love to hear it.
Also, note that soy is not a “sub” for protein (as you call it), but rather a high-quality source of actual protein, and just one of many vegetarian protein sources.
Mel
Oct 9, 2007 at 1:51 pm
I bought this book in July and read it in one day. I love it and have read it twice since!
The moment I put the book down I declared myself a vegan. I have lost a stone in weight and managed to keep the weight off very easily since adopting the vegan diet.
I do agree they are basically promoting veganism, but I can only see positive things coming from that choice so why not! They have done it in a very sassy, approachable way.
I definitely recommend giving it a read!
Rae
Oct 9, 2007 at 8:02 pm
I liked Skinny Bitch a lot. It was easy reading and very funny. But I am not clear on a few things, maybe someone can clear up for me. If meat makes us fat how in the world does anyboyy lose weight on the Atkins diet. And this diet really works, but I do not recommend it. Vitamin B-12 is an essential vitamin that we need and yet it is only found in animal products. Being a vegan is so extreme. I would love to be a vegan but I know I do not have the discipline. Kudos to anyone who is able to maintian this strict way of living.
Angelina
Oct 10, 2007 at 12:17 am
I actually really liked the book..im a ll for self love and acceptance for all kinds of bodies..so if your happy about your body then thats great but those of us who arent and are constantly battling different diets..this is the way to go..it tells you straight out …if you eat shit you are shit…your going to feel like shit and therefore look like shit. Easier said than done right? Well they give you lots of helpful advice I feel like …I recently started it and find the whole book helpful for recipes and everything….any one saying its a bad shallow book ITS A GREAT BOOK so shutup and stop being so judgemental.
Jul
Oct 10, 2007 at 9:32 am
Opinions are welcome here, even if they are negative. Nothing wrong with being judgmental about a book! And what a boring discussion it would be if we all just sat around agreeing with each other because all the dissenters “shutup” as you suggest they do, Angelina.
tasha
Oct 11, 2007 at 3:32 pm
im mainly doing it to lose weight, if i dont lose weight ill go back to the meat. i was dissapointed by being conned into buying the book thinking that it was going to make me into a ’skinny bitch’ then buy the end they were like na its nuthin to do with being skinny…
chatnoir
Oct 16, 2007 at 10:55 pm
I got this book from my BFF who got it from her SIL. I bought my own copies on Amazon to give out. I loved it. I read it in one night and then re read it! I love Fit(not fat) for life and Skinny Bitch references that book. This book is perfect because it cuts through the crap. Anyone who really truly wants to lose weight, get off the rollercoaster and get control of their health should grab this book!
QKrazy
Oct 23, 2007 at 8:19 pm
I was visiting a friend who is a pescetarian and I found Skinny Bitch on her bookshelf. I was completely drawn to the title because it’s so provocative! I read the book cover to cover a couple days later and was amazed. As someone who used to say that steak was my favorite food, I have absolutely no desire to ever eat meat again. The descriptions of the conditions of the animals, as well as the hazards to my own health by eating meat, really made the case for vegetarianism! Plus, I love the technique they present to adopt a healthier lifestyle: cut out one vice per week. For me that was starting with cigarettes (just finished one week!) and meat (ok, I did two in one week), next will be my daily dose of wine, and then aspertame. Cutting out cheese and eggs seems like it will be hard, but I’m seriously thinking about moving into it gradually so that I don’t notice. I’ve already noticed a change in my choice of what I eat, especially when options are limited (like at lunch business meetings), my drive to get to the gym, my more restful sleep, and energy throughout the day. I’d give this book to every girl friend I’ve got, if I could.
QKrazy
Oct 23, 2007 at 8:32 pm
As I read through a few more comments here, I have one question. There’s a very important woman in my life who is overweight. I worry mostly about her health, but I also worry about her appearance, in that I know people discriminate against “fat girls,” whether they intend to or not. I see the way she operates and it’s unhealthy, but she doesn’t admit it. For example - alcohol only on the weekends (but most of the time, it’s binging), drowning salads in salad dressing (but claiming it’s healthy because it’s a salad), etc. I’ve tried to talk to her about her weight and she’s yelled at me, calling me anorexic. Her mom tried to talk to her about it, and she would just cry. I’ve given her a book about binge eating, Body for Life, and a subscription to Self. Nothing seems to work. I want to give her a copy of Skinny Bitch but don’t know if it will make any inroads. Any thoughts?
Jul
Oct 25, 2007 at 7:22 pm
QKrazy - I understand why you’re concerned about your friend, really I do. It’s hard to sit silently by while someone behaves in a way that you view to be self-destructive. But with the rest of the world judging her and telling her she needs to change, I would think that the best way you could support her would be by letting her know that you accept her exactly the way she is. Full stop.
It sounds like Skinny Bitch has led you to make some big changes in your habits. Why not try telling her about these changes going on with you in a way that doesn’t make it about her and her choices? I know, probably much easier said than done…
Cindy
Oct 27, 2007 at 4:23 pm
This book changed my life! I was a vegatarian (or so I thought). Until I read this book and learned that I was still eating some animal products. I am now totally vegan and feeling better than I ever have! Don’t be so negative about this book until you have walked the walk! Eat the way they tell you for at least a month and then decide. The book has a reasonable price and doesn’t lead you to have to buy anything other than items at your local natural food store.
Try it!!!
elise s
Nov 2, 2007 at 6:40 pm
I saw the book on the NY Times best sellers list and had to get it. I loved that the authors told it like it is - factory farms are horrendous institutions and should be abolished. I was a vegetarian before I read the book, but I’ve been trying to switch over to veganism…it’s definitely a challenge in our society - eating out is a pillar of social interaction in America and restaurants with viable vegan options are hard to come by.
silver
Nov 8, 2007 at 9:22 pm
I eat everything in small portions. EVERYTHING.
The French know how to do it. You don’t have to give up meat or dairy. Vegan shmagen…honestly, its OKAY to kill animals to get food. Don’t go on a slaughter spree. But when you have to, you have to.
Do whatever works fo ryou….because I honestly think some people find certain diets easier than others, and if you find a diet easy and its working for you, doesnt matter if its vegan or atkins or french-stick to it.
Personally for me though, i love vegetables, and i love chicken. I love cheese and greek yoghurt. Barring fast food(exceot maybe for chicken nuggets sometimes), I love most food if it is cooked well and has excellent taste. So why deprive one’sself of anything? If I think I’m gaining weight, I will reduce my portion sizes, make a concerted effort to eat more healthily and excercize regularly until the extra pounds are gone and tehn try and maintain it. “Skinny bitch” is definoitely right when they say use your head. Honestly, use your head, and stop when you KNOW you’re eating more than you should.
Eat what you want to eat, but KNOW when to stop. And I am not having anyu of that crap that goes with “oh but i just cant”. You can. Always.
Just use your head.
Momentary Particle
Nov 10, 2007 at 4:26 pm
I’m a 49-year old male and, after hearing about this book, went out to buy a copy for my daughter. However, once I started reading it I couldn’t put it down. I was originally going to give it to her for Christmas but decided not to wait (and she is reading it now.) The information in this book applies to anyone (certainly not just women) I don’t know if I will ever be able to give up dairy entirely and DO believe that vegan, vegetarian or whatever - that it also comes down to PORTIONS.
My first trip to the grocery store since reading SB should be interesting as I will be basically reading the ingredients on EVERYTHING and have already started integrating many new lifestyle choices into my diet. Already feeling better…thanks, girls!
Paula
Nov 12, 2007 at 7:17 pm
I originally bought this book for my sister. She is in a sorority and all the girls are always talking about the “skinny Bitches” who live next door. Well, I only had to read the title of the chapters to get interested. My sis has read it, and now all of her friends have read it too. She is having a hard time giving up meat still, but put the Skinny Bitches other advice into effect and has lost 13 lbs. in 2 months. Through the book she ordered the GoVeg.com starter kit and I watched the Meet your Meat video. It was just what I needed to push me over the edge to being a Vegetarian. I lost 5 lbs. right away, and am trying to put the rest of their advice into action to lose 45 more. All I need to remember is that sugar is “the Devil”. We both come from a house where meals are centered around meat and it is hard, but for the most part with a little planning it is becoming easier. I’ve been Vegetarian for 1 month today…all my other attempts only ever lasted 5 days. Go Skinny Bitches!
natalia
Nov 20, 2007 at 11:18 pm
I love the skinny bich book!!!! Iam a veg now, my sister says its a good idea!( She is veg too) I recommened this book a lot!!!!
Lauren
Nov 25, 2007 at 4:38 am
I am almost finished reading this book and I have got to say that I love it!! It really opened my eyes about the corrupt industries trying to run our lives by controlling what we eat and pumping us full of chemically enhanced hormones and other crap. I have decided to go vegetarian for now and maybe some day I will be courageous enough to go for total vegan! I feel very strongly about animal rights and haven’t really dont much about it until reading this book, I guess people really believe “out of sight, out of mind” when gorging themselves on their steaks, bacon, sausage, etc….not thinking about the suffering & inhumane treatment of poor, defenseless animals who died to give you that meal….ugh, it just makes me sick. Vegetarian all the way!!!!
Laura
Nov 28, 2007 at 8:48 pm
I LOVED this book so much, that I have read it twice in a week now. I have made several changes to my diet this past month. The first (and easiest for me) is that I haven’t had any meat in a month. I havent’ totally given up milk products as of yet but have drastically cut them back. I am drinking more soy milk and hardly eating any cheese. And, I feel fantastic!!! Everyone should read this book!
Alyssa
Nov 29, 2007 at 7:01 am
I’ve been reading the book, and while I agree that “industrial” food is killing us, and the large meat processors are particularly heinous, I have to also agree with the “Mail” reviewer who talks about the difficulty a vegan diet can present if you don’t live in a veg-friendly area, and/or if you have kids.
My kids have autism, and have reactions to soy. This is not a myth perpetrated by the meat industry, but a fact. They are on a gfcf diet, and finding things that are healthy and that they will actually eat is challenging, to say the least.
Also, I’ve seen a few folks here discounting others’ opinions because they’re “probably fat.” We all have a right to our opinions, even those of us with a BMI of 25 or over.
That said, I’m enjoying the book, and the ladies make me laugh (when I’m not cringing,lol!).
Marsia
Dec 23, 2007 at 2:08 am
What a great book.. it’s definitely addicting, I read it in just one sitting! At first, I was a little skeptical about reading it since I struggled with an eating disorder in high school and early college and continue to struggle every once in a while…however, although the book cracks jokes about being fat, it encourages a HEALTHY lifestyle where you can eat however much you want as long as it is healthy and natural. I have visited countless nutritionists who pushed red meat and dairy products on me, but it is nice to see that you can be healthy without these.
If I wasn’t recovered, I wonder how girls with eating disorders would feel reading this? Do you think this book would be beneficial or not to any eating disordered girls? Or is it way to risky?
J
Dec 28, 2007 at 1:10 am
I don’t understand how to follow this realistically… “I’m throwing a wedding! But, there will be no cocktails, no cake, no meat, no fish, no dairy, no champagne toast…”
“Wanna go out on New Years? No champagne, though!”
“It’s my birthday! No cake, I suppose…”
And, unless you cook every single meal for yourself… how do you know what has butter in it?
I had dinner at my boyfriend’s grandparents’ last night. They served beef with white rice. Am I really supposed to say, “I’ll have none of it, thanks” Then I look like a very weird, rude, girl with an eating disorder!
Jul
Dec 30, 2007 at 10:45 pm
Good point, J. It can be hard to stick to a healthy diet without offending others, coming off as overly picky, or never leaving the house. Good luck finding the balance that works for you!
VegMom
Dec 31, 2007 at 6:05 pm
I’d like to respond to J’s Dec. 28th comment. Eating vegetarian/vegan is no longer considered weird or rude or counter-cultural. People everywhere are learning that the current American diet is awful - look at the rising diabetes rate, the enormous people at the mall, the effects on the environment. Next time, ask your boyfriend to tell Grandma ahead of time that you are not eating meat, but you will eat all the side dishes and she doesn’t need to go to any special trouble. Then ask Grandma for her recipe for the delicious rice dish, or the vegetable medley, whatever. Kill ‘em with kindness, I always say. Then they’ll talk about what a wonderful, easy guest you were, not your diet. But don’t give up on your health or principles just to make someone else feel better.
Now, does anyone have a recommendation for a vegan milk substitute for my morning tea? I have tried 4 brands of soy milk and hate it. Thanks!
Jul
Dec 31, 2007 at 7:13 pm
VegMom - check out this recent post about people’s favorite vegan milk substitutes for some ideas.
Chris Gee
Jan 1, 2008 at 7:34 am
to Veg Mom: i use rice or hemp milk, plain if i’m adding to things, vanilla if i’m making a shake. i stopped adding to my tea for the same reason, just didn’t tase good. i’m glad because now i enjoy tea plain. i just always as a habit put milk in my tea, then when it just didn’t taste the same i stopped adding anything all together. for some reason i can’t drink soy milk. i can have soy products, but the milk makes my lips and the back of my throat itchy…..weird. and to J, yes you are going to be in sticky situations. i try to eat before i go or bring something with me. i know sounds crazy, but it works. and the more people that know about it, the more they accept it. and all that other stuff, yes you’re right. you can’t eat it, but everyone else can. let everyone else have their cake and all that other stuff. you know it’s no good. there are plenty of other options out there. you just need to investigate and read labels. no one is saying to become completly vegan if you don’t want to. if you find yourself if too many of those situations, just be aware of what you are eating, where it comes from, and what it does to your body. you will start to think twice and became a little more selfish about what you put in your body. i’ve been vegan for 5 months now and after years of crap food, being the skinny one in my family (at 223lbs.!) i’ve never felt better! 30lbs. down and 53 more to go!
Debbie
Jan 2, 2008 at 2:28 am
I love this book, and am trying to come close to being a vegan. My eight year old daughter recently asked us why we eat murdered animals. that comment actually made me sick to my stomach. Thinking about putting dead animal meat in our bodies is pretty repulsive.
in my opinion skinny IS better than fat! and I have always wondered why fat people are so jealous of the skinny? they will always have negative comments, because they are too lazy to get off their fat bootys and do something healthy. How about the fat advocates? they are always fat and not attractive, and try to convince the rest of the fattys that it is ok to be unhealthy. That always make me laugh.
Happy New year to all the healthy skinny vegans. Long live the skinny people!!!
The skinny bitches are back
Jan 3, 2008 at 8:34 am
[…] a look at the comments on any of my previous posts about the book Skinny Bitch (particularly here, here, and here), and you’ll see how strongly people react to this vegan treatise with an […]
Julie
Jan 4, 2008 at 6:13 am
I am still reading the book, I think it has some good tips in it. I actually bought some tofu today to try ~ now how to cook it ~ lol. Seriously I am going to cut back on coffee, eat fruit in the AM, diet soda has already been eliminated, and work on backing out of whatever else is not a healthy choice in my diet. Being in my mid 40’s is an eye opener, I will not get another temple to take care of and now is the time! (actually past time) ;-)
Michelle
Jan 4, 2008 at 5:57 pm
I found this book in B&N the other day.
While I probably won’t go completely vegan/vegetarian…it has a lot of great advice.
For the gal who was concerned with Soy…soy should be in moderation just like everything else. It is not linked with hypothyroidism. I have it…it’s genetic, it can be caused by radition exposure and heavy mineral poisoning. I grew up in mining country. It can also onset after pregnancy. Nothing to do with Soy. Too many folks like to spread stupid shit about HT…it’s a hypochondriacs favorite disease. HT is easily regulated by medication and exercise.
Soy is problematic for men as it simulates estrogen in the body…Skinny Bitches talks about using the least processed soy…good advice.
As for the meat chapter it pretty alarmist…anyone who didn’t grow up in the city should be aware of what we do for meat. There are choices for that.
VegMom
Jan 5, 2008 at 1:15 am
Thanks, Chris Gee and Jul, for the milk replacement suggestions. Hazelnut milk was pretty good in small quantities. I bought rice milk today so I’ll try it tomorrow morning in my tea. I’ve been vegetarian several times in my life - this latest incarnation has been 6 months now. I’ve been thinking about going vegan for several months and Skinny Bitch finally gave me the motivation to make that one last change. I have never eaten a lot of cheese, and I gave up meat a few years ago (I was just the queen of chicken and turkey). I like Tofutti, so ice cream is taken care of too! It’s just that damn milk in my tea (oh, and no more white sugar) that stands in my way to Skinny-dom! But I feel sort of non-bloated already - awesome. Thanks again!
Sharon
Jan 10, 2008 at 10:50 pm
Today is day 4 of my vegan transformation. On Day 1, I cleaned out my pantry, fridge and freezer - and I mean cleaned out! Day 2 was menu planning and shopping. The indexes in the back really helped with replacing condiments, sweeteners, sweet treats, etc. Day 3 I made a lovely printed menu for my fridge reminding me of all the delicious food I have available, from breakfast to snacks to main courses to sweets. I planned for any contingency. (I also had a superb! bm on Day 3.) I love the comfort food section in Skinny Bitch in the Kitch, and plan on one comfort recipe a week, and vegan chocolate cake for my skinny vegan boyfriend for V-Day. As for dinners with friends? The answer is to bring a delicious vegan dish to share - and if you know them well enough, talk to the hostess ahead of time and let her know you are animal-free and bringing a dish so she has the option of preparing some of her dishes without animal products, like dairy-free veggies and dressings. As a former carnivore, I can tell you your friends and family will be much more impressed by your delicious vegan cooking than by sermons. Don’t know about the weight loss yet, but I’m hopeful - and I know it’s time to stop polluting my body with junk! So far, so good - no cravings, only 1 small glass of organic wine. Good luck to fellow travellers.
Rachel
Jan 18, 2008 at 4:16 am
I read it in one sitting. It makes a lot of sense. It’s not just made up nonsense. The authors have over two hundred cited sources which is more than Ursula, (that whiny critic) can say.
It seriously made me consider my diet.
There’s way too much crap that we ingest. It only makes SENSE to know what we’re putting into our mouths.
Alyssa
Jan 18, 2008 at 7:03 pm
OK, what’s up with the cloning?!?!?!?! First GMO, now THIS?!
VegMom
Jan 18, 2008 at 10:05 pm
The idea of eating any cloned animal product is creepy. Plus, many clones are born with defects that make them unusable, and they are destroyed. Is the world so bereft of sustainable foods that this needs to happen? Do we really not care about the fact that these living creatures will suffer and then die so someone can eat a Porterhouse? Very sad.
Annie
Jan 19, 2008 at 6:48 am
As a personal trainer I always run out and get a copy of the big diet books to hit the stands, good thing to know what future clients are going to come in and need help fixing.
That book has caused me alot of headaches, alot of time spent with clients and our gym’s nutritionist trying to explain what a healthy vegan diet involves and alot of “Okay, im going to have to reffer you to our doctor”
As a long time vegan myself I found the book to be a little embaressing. But then im not the big preachy kind.
If a change of diet is the sole reason you are losing weight, it is ceritnaly not healthy, exercise paired with it is what makes for healthy weight loss.
On the topic of soy protein, soy contains phyotoestrogens, which can effect the body’s natural hormones if consumed excessively. You should have no more than one serve of soy per day. Dont believe me? Go and google it, there are thousands of medical journals available online that provide you with the negative effects of excessive soy consumption.
If you want to be a smart, healthy vegan, dont get the information out of a book, go and get the information from a nutritionist, or at least someone who actually knows what theyre talking about.
FormerlyObeseNowOverweightWorkin'OnIt
Jan 26, 2008 at 10:49 pm
I TOTALLY AGREE WITH EVERYTHING THIS POSTER SAID!!!
VegMom
Jan 26, 2008 at 11:59 pm
I have a suggestion for people trying to figure out a healthy vegan diet. Google “vegan food pyramid.” You’ll get three choices - click on the bright blue pyramid and print it out. The foundation is 8-10 glasses of water, then abundant fruits and veggies, then whole grains, etc. It’s a good reminder about what to emphasize (produce and grains). Soy is there but the amount is limited. Also, the current issue of VegNews has a great article about soy - how much, etc. And yep, Annie, exercise may almost be more important than anything. I walk for an hour everyday and never go to the doctor. I’m not kidding. Cheers!
Sun
Jan 29, 2008 at 7:09 pm
Wow, it is so clear to me why the author of that review is still fat. Maybe spend leass time whining, and more time planning a clean diet and exercise, you may be surprised how easy it really is to start shedding pounds and feeling healthy. YOU CLEALRY MISSED THE POINT OF THE BOOK. I feel sorry for you.
Alyssa
Jan 30, 2008 at 7:54 am
I will say that some of us eat clean, watch portions, exercise vigorously, and still have trouble getting weight off. It’s not ALWAYS just about calories in and out.
VegMom
Jan 30, 2008 at 5:49 pm
Hey Alyssa, doesn’t that just suck? Hormones and genes decide a lot of stuff. I’ve been vegan and no-junk for 3 weeks, loving it, amazing energy, sleeping great, but not yet skinny. I’ve only lost 2 pounds. Sigh. But I don’t feel guilty about my food choices, a big plus for me. So yay for that.
Alyssa
Jan 30, 2008 at 6:42 pm
VegMom, it TOTALLY sucks,lol! But as long as you feel good, that’s what matters.
Debbie
Feb 2, 2008 at 6:33 am
I always laugh out loud when people say they cannot lose weight. Less eating, and more exercise is all it takes. Why do women blame their hormones? That is the fat womans excuse.
1500-1800 calories a day, 5 days of 45 minute cardio. Try it, it works! Throw in some weights for extra credit.
VegMom
Feb 2, 2008 at 7:39 pm
Kind of harsh there, Debbie. I have walked 4-5 miles a day with my husband for years. Additionally, I do weights, pilates, Firm videos, you name it. But my body loves being size 10. The only time I got down to a size 6 was when my husband and I separated, and I basically stopped eating. (Sometimes I ask him to leave again, so I can lose some weight! :-) I love being vegan now because I feel so good.
Alyssa
Feb 2, 2008 at 7:41 pm
Sorry Debbie, it may work for you, and it certainly worked for me when I was younger. Now, not so much. I do cardio 6 days a week and strength train 3-4 days, plus yoga and pilates (not to mention chasing after my 2 young kids, lol!). And watch what I eat. The weight just doesn’t come off nearly as quickly as it used to.
But, hey! I’m healthy! And I’m not overweight, just a little heavier than I’d like to be.
Debbie
Feb 3, 2008 at 1:09 am
If anyone does 6 days a week of 45 minute cardio, keeping their heart rate at the appropriate level for age, and weight. That would be at least 5,000 calories a week!! plus weight training 3-4 times (I’m assuming an hour). That would be about 1,000 extra calories. Plus your metabolism keeps burning at a rapid rate after the exercise. Being a vegan I find it difficult to consume more than 1800 calories a day. If someone cannot lose weight doing that much exercise, and being a vegan, you should see a doctor immediately! could be a pituitary tumor, or maybe you take steroids of some kind? That could cause weight gain.
I am 42, two kids, and have no trouble maintaining skinny status.
I find it helps to go to a nutritionist once a year, just to keep everything in tune. Sometimes when you write it all down on a daily basis, you truly see where all the extra stuff is coming from.
Hope I did not hurt anyones feelings, but that was a little tough to believe.
Blessings,
Debbie
Paula
Feb 4, 2008 at 12:04 am
I was on business trip and returning home. As I was walking through the airport I passed a bookstore and of course the title piqued my interest. I bought the book and had just finished reading it as the plane landed at my final destination. I was a bit panicked. “Oh my gosh what do I do now.” I told my husband, “I’m not sure where I am right now but it is somewhere between vegetarian and vegan”. Well that book has changed my life. I am much healthier, happier and the pounds are dropping off without effort or thought. I have more energy and can’t believe the amount of food choices I do have. Every day I thank God I spotted that book. Last Christmas I received the companion book and loving the recipes. It is well written and great straight up advise.
Francine
Feb 12, 2008 at 7:33 am
I saw the book, “Skinny Bitch” at the book store and had to get. That was before I had seen all the hooplah about it. I have been following the vegan diet for over 2 months now and have lost 15 pounds. This is without feeling deprived or starved; I eat all day long. I must admit there were a few times I slipped up and ate real cheese, but for the most part I stopped having cravings for sweets and meat after 2-3 weeks.
I am not a large person, but I haven’t been this thin in several years. I went from 130 pounds to 115 pounds. I make sure I have a balanced diet and exercise 3-4 times a week. I feel very healthy and have lots of energy. I want to thank the authors of the book Skinny Bitch for changing my life for the better.
Jessica
Feb 18, 2008 at 8:37 pm
I read the book last night and it has literally changed my life. I have not started the new diet yet, but I plan on it next week. I am definitely looking forward to it after having read the comments.
Jamie Lloyd
Feb 28, 2008 at 8:50 am
I for one am 5′9 and weigh 120-125. I am very sick of people thinking I have an eating disorder just because I choose not to eat junk food or fast food. I work very hard to stay thin and healthy. It pisses me off that overweight woman look down on me or talk about me when I walk by, just because I have self control, and woulf like to live past 40 without having a heart attack. I loved the book!!!!!
VegMom
Feb 28, 2008 at 7:41 pm
Hi Jamie - If I saw you walking by, I would think “that’s how I want to look.” Unfortunately, first I’ll have to grow 6 inches taller! You are absolutely right - this is not about being skinny, really, but about being healthy and living humanely. Best regards.
Amanda
Mar 6, 2008 at 6:01 pm
I just gave birth to my son and wanted to get back in shape…so I snatched this book off the shelf at my sister’s place and gave it a read. I liked the book and it made sense, so I tried eating what the skinny authors eat, and now I’m a skinny bitch too and feel great. Those bitches know what they’re talking about when it comes to our bodies and what we should be putting into them.
Sarah
Mar 9, 2008 at 5:08 am
I have been working my way through this book and have been meat free for 5 days. I am overweight by 20 pounds but I look at this program as a life style change. I like the concept that I can eat anything I like, I just choose to eat healthy.
Jess
Mar 26, 2008 at 7:00 am
I loved the book!! I just read everyone’s review on the book and the people that are negative about it are the ones who aren’t open minded. It’s not here to brainwash anyone just to open your eyes. If you want to keep your eyes closed then fine, but don’t look down upon the people who follow vegan lifestyle! I’ve been following the lifestyle for 2 1/2 months and still going strong, love how I feel and also lost 5 lbs just in the first month! When I first told my friends about my choice they all laughed and think it’s a phase I’m going through. It’s very frustrating but I’m determined to prove everyone wrong and feel good about my choice forever!!
Colette
May 21, 2008 at 10:47 pm
I left her this comment. Apparently wallowing in her own self-pity and contempt for skinny people is more productive than–gasp–actually doing any research.
‘”There are so many reasons we get fat - depression, pregnancy, genetics - not just because we eat meat. I bet I could still pack on the pounds on a vegan diet if I really put my mind to it.”
Have you even looked at the fat content of ANYTHING you eat? How do you think you even GET protein? That’s right–animal fat. I lost a ton of weight by going vegan, because our methods of obtaining protein are plant-, NOT fat-based.
Instead of putting down the authors and everyone who happens to weigh less than you, maybe you should come to terms with YOUR food choices, and actually study nutrition. After all, Ms. Freedman has a *degree* in holistic nutrition (which, to answer your question, addresses natural ways to heal the body’s nutritional deficits), which is more knowledge than you admit to having, and is the reason why this piece is actually evidence of your own denial, rather than an article.’
I mean, come on.
Colette
May 21, 2008 at 10:49 pm
Whoops–to clarify, ‘her’ is the DailyMail writer
VeggieChick
May 24, 2008 at 5:16 pm
I am vegetarian since i was born due to religious reasons (i am Hindu) but after reading this book i think i’ll make the whole transition to being vegan, just because of all the cruelty to those poor animals. if u have a heart, after reading this book, u’ll change ur nasty meat-eating ways, because what’s done to these innocent animals just to provide food for our consumption is vile, wicked and evil. i can’t believe human beings are doing these things to fellow living beings. it’s sick and disgusting..and to all those meat-eaters out there who sit on their hineys, blissful in their ignorance about the inhumane way these animals are treated, go read this book now!!
Taylor
May 25, 2008 at 10:09 am
I read Skinny Bitch in about 3 days, and although it recommends cutting stuff out over time, I immediately went vegan. The language I found to be hilarous, and every chapter cut straight to the point. I cut out dairy and meat, and 10 pounds just fell right off of me without even really trying.
I gained some of the weight back (I was going overboard on things like peanut butter, soy ice cream…yummy stuff like that) but I have taken the next step in cutting out sugar, refined foods, white flour, etc. and the weight is coming off easily again. Once I reach my goal weight (which will probably happen pretty soon) I will start making some delicious vegan desserts again.
This book seriously changed my life. I went from diet to extreme diet, never losing any weight. But this is seriously so simple. I am eating completely healthful foods, losing weight and feeling amazing. I never thought I would ever be down to my high school size again.
I still drink red wine, try not to drink Diet Coke, occassionally drink beer and steal french fries, but this lifestyle has really changed me. It is so simple, what’s not to love? My favorite line from the book (it’s quite crude, but true!): “You will piss and shit yourself when you realize how much weight you will lose from cutting out dairy” Nothing is farther from the truth!
Sarah
May 28, 2008 at 3:41 am
Since March I have been living the skinny bitch lifestyle. I really love it. There have been some challenges. For some great recipes I recommend Tofu 1 2 3. You can get it at Amazon .com
breanna
Jun 9, 2008 at 4:22 pm
I COULDNT AGREE MORE! I LOVE THIS BOOK AND IT PISSES ME OFF TO HEAR PEOPLE DISCREDITING IT… but then again, the cold hard truth is scary… i mean come on, yea ok they use the term fat pig… but chances are those that are offended feel guilty cuz they just finished eating a supersized double quarter pounder with cheese, bacon and extra mayo and a coke. i recommend this book to anyone who cares about their health!
i love the way its written, as if i was just talkin to my girls! and i love the comments on smoking in the beginning, about it being so 80’s or whatever, because so many girls smoke to be skinny!
I recently began reading the book, and its exactly what i needed to jump start my healthy lifestyle. THE POINT OF THE BOOK IS NOT TO NECESSARILY GET SKINNY. ITS ABOUT EATING HEALTHY!!! after reading about 1/4 of the book, i was so grossed out by many of the additives in the foods i eat everyday.
i struggled with an eating disorder for more then 5 years. i became a “vegetarian” to cover up the fact that i wasnt eating. now, thanks to this book, i am making a positive LIFESTYLE change… i am a vegetarian again, but i am doing it the healthy way. i began my lifestyle change 9 days ago. i am focusing on eating healthy foods… which means i have to cook more, yes, but it is worth it. i have more energy, i feel better about myself, AND i have lost 5 pounds! and its not that hard!
Alyssa
Jun 10, 2008 at 3:29 am
I love the book, too, and the tone, to me, is fun and not offensive. HOWEVER, I do dislike the fact that fat-phobia and hatred is acceptable in our society.
And, let me just say for the record, most people I know who are fat actually eat very little. They have spent their lives yo-yo dieting, and it has severely messed with their systems. Many of my friends actually eat a pretty healthy diet and exercise every day, and are still fat.
BTW, good for you, taking the reigns of your eating disorder! That is AWESOME!!!!
eleanor
Jun 12, 2008 at 5:32 am
I read and own both The Skinny Bitch, and The Bitch in The Kitch. What a funny girlfriend dialogue. I am a nurse, I work with people with eating disorders. I personally do not think the book will have any great effect, one way or the other on people with eating disorders. Persons with anorexia or bulemia have an illness that either makes them not want to eat, or to hide junk foods and eat when alone. This book says eat, enjoy and eat healthy. It urges people too stop putting fatty, hormone injected foods into their bodies. The book says always have dessert with dinner. The recipe book gives several good dessert recipes, including chocolate desserts.
I am not an animal activist. I am however a semi vegatarian. I feel great and have alot of energy. My cholestorel is low. Eating healthy has certainly been benificial for me.
I have seen some criticism of these authors and their books. I wonder if the people criticising have actually read the books? I think they are terriffic books with an important message.
The authors used a funny, catchy title ,and some down home girlfriend language to get their point across.
donkey
Jun 18, 2008 at 3:06 pm
This is the most ridiculous book on the market. The statements she presents as fact are totally unfounded and mostly untrue. They do use a persuasive tactic though: They bog you down with some very specific details to add an effect to their argument, but in the end it has little or no relevance to the food discussed! These girls have no credentials, they are probably just cover up anorexics. As for me, when I research healthy foods and diet I want someone who is more educated or perhaps even a physician. You are an anorexic fool if you believe these idiots.
Chris Gee
Jun 19, 2008 at 4:00 am
donkey, guess what…..i’m fat, 223lbs., read the book, went vegan, lost 30lbs very quickly. i am still losing weight (another 8 so far). last time i checked that’s not anorexic. i follow the book and do not eat meat or dairy and feel great. you seem a little angry…..are you felling ok?
donkey
Jun 19, 2008 at 10:27 pm
Chris,
Good for you. I am truly happy for you. Am I angry? No, I just hate seeing bad information. The method of persuasion this book uses is simple: These girls present things as facts that aren’t facts, they attempt to scare you by presenting side effects to contaminants, poisons, etc. THAT ARE NOT A THREAT in the foods they mention. For instance, they attempt to scare you away from eating tuna by using the argument that it contains a pesticide which inhibits Acetylcholinesterase. This is a joke! First off if there was any threat in eating tuna it would be mercury and you would have to consume a large amount of it to be in danger of reaching toxic levels. Secondly, the oils in tuna have been proven to improve the vascular response to acetylcholine. Pesticides? Which do you think is more probable to contain pesticides? Yellowfin tuna which generally lives at least 60 miles offshore, or…corn, soybeans, tomatoes, etc. which are sprayed directly with pesticides?
I am not saying I disagree with a vegan lifestyle either, it’s just not for me. If that is working for you I encourage you to keep on that path. There are just a lot of things in this book that are not real threats and are not FACTS. I would encourage anyone reading this to do more research into some of these things before they believe them.
Sarah
Jun 23, 2008 at 3:58 am
I’d rather avoid eating “questionable” foods for the wrong reasons than eat them for the “right” reasons. Who cares if all of us stop eating meat - all the more for the rmeat eaters - and who care if we wont’ drink milk - all the more for the milk drinkers. As a past friend of Lima, I can tell you that the banter and language is not making me feel like renewing the friendship.
It’s about time we all looked at what we are eating (and what’s eating us). If I wont’ eat the ingredients why should my bacon?
Truth fully, if I ran my own little farm and raised all the creaturs myself I would probably have a big old slab of bacon. But since I am not…………..
Organic Is The Way
Jun 27, 2008 at 1:29 am
If you really want to be healthy, the best way is not vegan, it’s organic. Vegans must rely on many of the processed materials they scoff at in the book to get the right amount of vitamins and minerals. Organic meats, on the other hand, provide some nutrients veggies lack.
If you just care about being skinny, go ahead and give up meat. You want to be healthy? Go for organic meats and veggies.
Fifi
Jul 22, 2008 at 8:01 am
If you loved Skinny Bitch, you will love the website compassionatecooks.com. There’s an amazing podcast on there that you can either subscribe to - and it’s really easy - or you can just pick the topic you want to hear and press play! (Even easier!) :) The podcasts cover topics ranging from debunking the myths surrounding vegan/vegetarianism, dealing with people in your life who aren’t vegan/vegetarian, vegan nutrition, and more. The woman who speaks is intelligent and compassionate and incredibly easy to listen to. The website also has recipes and other fun stuff, so I really recommend checking it out!
On another note, reading all of these posts tonight made my day. I have no one else in my life who is also vegan, or even vegetarian, and it can be so lonely. It is absolutely wonderful to know that there are others out there who care about the fact that the meat and dairy industries treat animals inhumanely, and care enough to do something about it, rather than ask to be left in the dark and pretend it doesn’t go on. I think this book has strengthened the veg cause considerably. When I think of all the people who have turned veg because of this book, it makes me think of the huge positive impact we are having. The huge positive impact on the animals, on the environment, and on our health. And we get to look skinny and hot on top of it!
As a last side note, I had a hard time when I transitioned from vegetarian to vegan. If anyone else is having a similarly hard time transitioning to vegan or vegetarian, don’t worry so much about being perfect that you give up entirely. You’re still making a difference even if you do slip up and have ice cream or pizza once in a while. It will get easier and you CAN do it. Big changes can sometimes take time. Good luck to everyone out there who is changing their lifestyle! I think you are all incredibly thoughtful, compassionate people, to make the choice that you have chosen. : )
Jared Isbell
Sep 28, 2008 at 8:37 pm
I think that a book that is called “Skinny Bitches” is going to get the attention from far to many woman who suffer with Eating Disorders. I must say as I am nearly completely my Masters in become a Eating Disorder Therapist, that this book is a bad idea. That YOU should have the proper creditintials if you are going to write such a book. Also who knows if these authors are not simply just looking for information to back up what they are trying to say?
All in all, bad idea for a book!
Christin
Nov 25, 2008 at 11:51 pm
Jared Isbell did you even read the book? Probably not because then you would know that they even talk about not going overboard with the diet. They actually encourage you to eat. I loved the book and I just purchased skinny bitch in the kitch and the recipes are amazing. I have been a vegan for a month now and I feel great.
Alyssa
Nov 27, 2008 at 6:50 pm
Just wanted to let everyone know; the Ladies of SB have 2 workout DVDs coming out next month. You can pre-order them on Amazon.
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