The latter has been written by one of New York’s leading weight control doctors and reveals the secrets to the enviably lean bodies of clients who leave her Park Avenue offices.

Based on science, Dr Klauer’s diet is the key to how successful, rich and busy modern men and women lose weight and kept it off. The book begins with the author’s non-negotiables such as saying ‘yes’ to complex carbohydrates and also includes a selection of mouth-watering recipes.

In contrast to Dr Klauer, who was a research fellow at the New York Obesity Research Centre of St Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital, Steven Miller is a successful motivator who specialises in training company executives in positive thinking.

When trying to lose weight a few years ago, Miller developed a unique approach called The Life Bitch, which he uses in Get off your Arse & Lose Weight. A man who has no time for excuses or whingers, he takes the stance that if you know your butt is too big then get it off the couch.

Tough-talking (he calls a hippo a hippo) Miller’s book is, nevertheless, warm and witty and provides techniques that work. In his own words – “if you want to lose weight keep your trap shut!”