15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Well worth the purchase, August 7, 2006
This review is from: Health Power: Health by Choice Not Chance (Paperback)
Written by two authors of high academic reputation, Health Power is one of the most important and reader friendly books that distills complex scientific, medical and health issues into readable and delightful reading.
Aileen Ludington, a physician and writer, has teamed up with Dr. Hans Diehl, known as the founder and director of the Lifestyle Medicine Institute in California, USA. He works in collaboration with many experts and institutions, whose names are well recognized, especially in North American and European public health spheres. I am acquainted with him through his collaborative work with Dr. T.Colin Campbell (author of "The China Study"), whose work I highly regard. Dr. Diehl's epidiemiologic studies have received numerous recognitions and as a best selling author he is a sought after guest for television and radio programs.
He has become well known to a large circle of individuals through his health program CHIP (Coronary Health Improvement Program). This is a very intensive 30 day course, the goal of which is the reduction of coronary risk factors through a healthy lifestyle. The program is in demand by local communities as well as by private companies, and with a worldwide participation of 40,000 individuals it is the most widespread course of its kind. Through continuing evaluation and comprehensive program materials for the participants, as well as the cooperation of physicians and restaurants, the program continues to improve and expand.
The origin of this work is the fact that 75% of western illnesses, such as elevated blood pressure, obesity, impotence, diabetes, cancer, stroke and heart attacks are related to the high caloric, fat rich nutrition, lack of exercise; stress and in general to the poor state of our nutrition. The basis of the CHIP program is the stark reduction of the consumption of animal products, the ideal being total elimination of these.
The book "Health Power: Health by Choice, Not Chance" by Hans Diehl and his co-author Aileen Ludington has had a successful circulation of 1.5 million copies. Its appealing large format and graphic layout resembles that of a magazine. Because of this, the information is more user friendly than what is contained in Harvey and Marilyn Diamond's "Fit for Life," which people may shy away from because it is more weighty.
"Health Power" is obtainable in three different versions which address different ethnic groups - "Caucasians," "African Americans," and "Native Americans." I hope a new edition would not have to be published in three versions. Furthermore, the illustrations should be improved. The photos as presently used appear to be a bit flat.
This work book is divided into seven learning modules. In the introduction there is an overview of the hope of the authors for a new century of improved public health. The following chapters address the connections between illness and an unhealthy lifestyle; nutrition physiology in regard to the content and result of the consumption of foodstuffs; weight control; natural products for a healthy way of life; the connection between mind and spirit and a conclusion with index and literature references. It would seem preferable to me to have "applications" after each chapter - such as, questions about the previous explanations, which should motivate the reader to review the new knowledge (or at least a part of it) and make informed decisions which would lead to individual steps to be included in their daily lives.
If, in the future the two authors of this book continue to recommend the moderate consumption of animal products for those who are unable to forgo these (page 113) will need to be seen in a new edition. The same goes for their advice in using microwave cooking for vegetable preparation (p 55). Our body cannot utilize degraded nutritional elements, therefore one should advise against the use of a microwave oven. Furthermore, nothing is more dangerous for our health than animal products. Research results confirm this consistently and it is independent of their being organic or conventional products. In my view I would like to see on these two points a more radical approach.
From my perspective we have the same concept that because of well documented information and firmly grounded methodologies we have a better awareness of risks and the possibility of arriving at a healthier lifestyle. There, for me, lies the essence of this book. Additionally, I find attractive the fact that Aileen Ludington and Hans Diehl often refer to the Bible and the power of love and forgiveness, where other writers can only refer to sunlight and positive thinking. I am absolutely of the same opinion that as humans we are not made for a life of sickness and one without meaning, but with one dependent on our Creator for our answers.
"Health Power" conveys in a convincing manner how the reader can prevent deadly health risks, or can even reverse disease processes. Additionally, it contains information as to how the reader can strengthen his social and family relationships and attain a more meaningful spiritual life. In summary: This is a book which I hope will have wide readership and that the readers will receive the greatest benefit from it.
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
why not good health?, September 26, 2010
This review is from: Health Power: Health by Choice Not Chance (Paperback)
Each chapter is a comprehensive fun easy read for what is being discussed
Illustrations and side notes abound to get a minds eye on each subjects message
Even though it is not mentioned,the authors run fairly parallel to some of the China Study observations in that animal proteins come back like a devil you signed a contract with to take a bite out of our bodies,and viciously!
Take note,diabetes alone is caused mostly by high fat animal protein diets and will rule your life,from injections to doctors shaking their heads as you leave the clinic with your health wavering
The book mentions avg age before death is 65 in the USA, but 100yrs is achievable with a focus on mainly non meat protein sources,good sleep habits,exercise and keeping it simple low fat eating.
Recommended and Good Health!!
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