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The Rules of "Normal" Eating

A Commonsense Approach for Dieters, Overeaters, Undereaters, Emotional Eaters, and Everyone in Between!

(Gürze Books, 2005)

Ditch your diets and end overeating. Discover how to say “yes” and “no” to food in just the right balance by reading this wise, funny, compassionate book that’s no-nonsense and straight-talking. Learn to:

• Follow the four rules that “normal” eaters practice intuitively
• Change negative thinking and create healthy habits
• Manage difficult emotions, rather than starving or stuffing them
• Feel healthy and “normal” around food
• Create a life that is truly satisfying

Readers’ Reviews

“I’m reading The Rules of “Normal” Eating for the third time. Each time I get some new insight out of it.”


“Wow! The Rules is so on point for me. My food issues are so related to emotional issues from my childhood and neglect and undernourishment that it colors many of my choices. By eight years old I was breaking into houses stealing food out of refrigerators to try to survive and when I hear a "no" to food in my head it makes me mad. I am that child again angry that others had food and I did not. I am really gaining insight into my issues with food, and already seeing improvements.”


“This book about “normal” eating was recommended to me by my nutritionist (shout out to Ginger!) and it has been so enlightening in many ways. It touches on many things I already knew about eating but has much much more that is new for me. I particularly like this book as it can be picked up and put down and then returned to. It isn't necessary to read it cover to cover. This is one of those books that will always be part of my life's little reference library - a TOP 10.”


“The Rules of “Normal” Eating is less about how to eat successfully than about how to think successfully, when it comes to food, eating, weight, and body image. Koenig’s explanation of how our beliefs affect our eating and self-care patterns provides a welcome source of hope for those who struggle with overeating. She reminds us that if we become aware of the beliefs that (sometimes unconsciously) govern our choices about how and why we eat, we can choose to change or refine them in a positive, constructive way, to reflect our true values and goals. She makes an excellent case for the self-compassion, self-care, patience, persistence, and non-judgmental curiosity that promote lasting behavior change, but that often elude the chronic dieter. Her style is encouraging, accessible and compassionate. This book was very helpful to me personally.”