POPULAR NUTRITIONAL PRACTICES: A Scientific Appraisal

by ‧ RELEASE DATE: May 11, 1986

A most welcome scientific appraisal of the latest nutritional theories, remedies and regimens. Yetiv's aim is to provide physicians with information on widespread nutritional practices and fads as well as on the new frontiers of nutritional research. He has also geared the book to arm the general public with facts on the effectiveness, safety and dangers of recent widely publicized ""miracle"" cures, diets, remedies and practices. He accepts as valid only conclusions obtained from scientifically controlled studies. The information has been culled from over 5,000 recently published scientific papers and a number of books. Some findings are surprising: ginger root proved more effective than Dramamine in combatting motion sickness in a recent test. Garlic and red pepper have been proved to reduce cholesterol levels. One study found that frostbite victims suffered less tissue loss when aloe vera was applied. A late-night high-carbohydrate snack helps induce sleep. Lecithin (an essential fatty acid) has increased memory in scientifically controlled tests on rats, and is currently being evaluated for its effects on manic. depression, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease and other neurological conditions. And lastly (but far from completely) an aspirin a day helps keep strokes and heart disease away. Much of the book, of course, debunks claims for nutritional fads. Most popular herbal remedies don't perform as advertised; some are downright dangerous. Linus Pauling's clinical trials of vitamin C cannot be replicated under more scientifically stringent conditions. Ditto the theory that food additives and salicytates produce hyperactivity in some children. To demonstrate how the public can be duped, Yetiv devotes an entire chapter to the recent ""starch-blocker"" weight-loss craze and to the somewhat hoary Laetrile controversy. In yet another chapter, he virtually demolishes Life Extension: A Practical Scientific Approach, which espouses ""megadoses of approximately 25 'nutrient supplements' daily"" to ward off lethal illness and add years to life. If space permitted, much, much more could be highlighted, all of it pertinent. In short, this book is just what the doctor ordered--and what the patient needs.

Pub Date: May 11, 1986

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Popular Medicine Press (P.O. Box 12607, Toledo, OH 43606)

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 15, 1986

Categories: NONFICTION