Everything Fat Loss

I first encountered Ben Carpenter through one of his Instagram Reels, which stood out because it addressed weight gain and loss within the broader context of psychology and environment. He recognised that people have different reasons for finding themselves in their current situations, and this perspective instantly caught my attention. I became a follower and am glad I did because Ben consistently strives to be objective, backing up his content with solid scientific evidence. Shortly after discovering his Instagram, I purchased his book, Everything Fat Loss: The Definitive No Bullsht Guide, and gave it my full attention (and quite a few sticky notes). In short, I believe this book is not only helpful for those struggling with weight loss but also for anyone, particularly young adults who are often quick to embrace unhealthy trends without fully understanding their implications.

As expected, Ben Carpenter dedicates serious attention to the non-eating-related habits and challenges that can contribute to weight gain and difficulty losing weight sustainably. He places each problem at the center, examines it from every angle, and provides accurate, actionable insights in an accessible way. I particularly appreciated the balance between the studies he presents and his thoughtful interpretations, personal stories, and practical advice. His careful, empathetic tone makes the book feel like a safe space for readers who struggle with their weight.

Although I found his approach a bit too liberal at times, it gave me a sense of freedom that no other weight-related discussion has ever offered—the permission to simply be. It might sound strange, but his nonjudgmental tone feels like a breath of fresh air, as though you’re finally left in peace after enduring relentless criticism disguised as “good intentions.”

As the title suggests, this is a no-nonsense guide. The chapters are concise, containing only valuable information without unnecessary filler. Despite being a non-fiction book, it has a unique and engaging tone that makes it a pleasure to read. Crafting such a thoughtful and reader-friendly book must have taken significant effort, and I’m grateful to Ben and his team for their dedication.

By reading Everything Fat Loss, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of food-related topics, your body, your mind, and the numerous factors that shape your relationship with food and habits.

One recurring issue I’ve noticed in otherwise excellent sources of information is the limited acknowledgment of cultural differences regarding food. There’s often a strong focus on Westernized lifestyles, particularly U.S. standards, which can make it difficult to relate for those of us accustomed to different culinary traditions. For example, the dry, diet-focused meals commonly discussed in Western contexts feel far removed from the homemade soups, stews, and stuffed vegetables that are staples of Balkan cuisine and culture. To be fair, Ben does occasionally mention other cultures, but his references seem to primarily center on the Mediterranean region. While I don’t expect detailed discussions of unfamiliar cultures—that would veer into social anthropology—I do think this gap highlights the importance of considering cultural context in discussions about food and health.