On Corpulence - The History of Diet

On Corpulence is a booklet by William Banting, who is known for being the first to popularize a weight loss diet based on limiting the intake of carbohydrates, especially those of a starchy or sugary nature. The booklet contains the particular plan for the diet he followed. It was written as an open letter in the form of a personal testimonial. Banting accounted all of his unsuccessful fasts, diets, spa and exercise regimens in his past. His previously unsuccessful attempts had been on the advice of various medical experts. He then described the dietary change which finally had worked for him, following the advice of another medical expert.