The fight between Denise Minger and Dr. Fung has been going on for years. The two have locked horns over the potential health dangers of gluten and fat, and their claims have been subject to much scrutiny. While Dr. Fung’s blog is the more scientifically based (although that doesn’t mean he’s right), Minger’s blog is much more entertaining. I decided to take a look at both sides and present them to you here.
I’ve heard the argument that parents should not use food as a reward for their children to eat less of—that, instead, the parents should use some other strategy, like money or chores. The argument usually goes something like (paraphrasing here) “It is important to teach children that they have control over their own eating, so that they will not give in to the temptation of food. If we use money or chores, then we are saying that a parent is in charge of their child’s behavior.”
While some people are quick to point out that there are no plans to change the name of “tintorera” to something like “LoseIt”, there have been several recent conversations on the blog that have turned into arguments between me and a certain Dr. Fung. I will not get into the details, but the summary is that he’s totally not cool with my choice of food tracking software.
A Mingerian magical’hypothesis Trying to lose weight? Do you have a few hours?’Take a look at Denise Minger’s latest and longest blog post:
In justification of low-fat foods: A demand for a mental development (part 1)
This is an extended version of her 2014 AHS Vegan Lessons presentation (worth watching, and only 30 minutes long).
While a low-carb diet may be beneficial for metabolic issues including obesity and type 2 diabetes, a low-fat, plant-based diet may also be beneficial. Why? Minger attributes this to the enchantment of severe fat loss, which is presumably distinct from the magic of carbohydrate loss.
Interesting, but not true.
by Dr. Fung
Dr. Fung provides a succinct yet fascinating summary of the debate:
Dr. Fung: Kempner’s rice diet [and Minger’s post]
For example, Dr. Fung says the 10% fat rice diet works because you eat the same amount of carbohydrates but skip everything else (almost no protein or fat). The repetitive diet robs eating pleasure – you only eat when you’re hungry. They are fasting the rest of the time.
Remarks
While I agree with Dr. Fung on most issues, Minger’s lengthy article has some intriguing insights. Food incentives (such chocolate, ice cream, or doughnuts) are common in Western junk food macronutrient swamps, leading to overeating. Diets based solely on plant-based foods circumvent this issue.
I have several issues with Minger’s post. She debunks the myth that Ansel Keyes started the lean movement. It’s a lie. While he did not create lean, as Minger claims, he is the main person who made it an official doctrine. A wonderful triumph.
That low-carb diet of Dr. Atkins. Dr. Atkins popularised a weight-loss idea that has been studied and tried for over a century: the low-carb diet. That’s why, decades later, “Atkins” still connotes low-carb. Dr. Atkins did not create the low-carb diet, but he did play a major influence. No one can’really deny it.
I found Minger’s article fascinating and – as always – amusing. But I get the impression she’s more interested in controversy than knowledge. That’s not magic.
Formerly
Low-carb diet’history’The Atkins Diet Man’s True Story Asian carnivores eat less!
I’m going to be blunt here; I’m a Denise Minger fan, and I’m not afraid to admit it. I’ve read her book, seen her speak, and listened to her podcast. In short, I believe Denise is one of the most knowledgeable fitness professionals in the industry today. And while I do not necessarily like her methodology, or her infatuation with Dr. Fung, I do appreciate her honesty and dedication to sharing her knowledge with us.. Read more about dr kempner weight chart and let us know what you think.