Customer Reviews

The Science of Healthy Drinking

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As one of the scientists involved in the original 60 Minutes program on the "French Paradox," and as someone who directs an Institute at Boston University that carries out research on alcohol and health, I was delighted to see the new book by Gene Ford. I find it accurate in its scientific facts and balanced in their presentation; besides, it is very enjoyable to read. I would recommend it to anyone wanting to get information on wine and alcohol. It is nice to have such comprehensive coverage of the topic of drinking and health in one ready source.

There exists a large number of scientific studies indicating that the reasonable and moderate use of alcohol can benefit as many as thirty common health problems, such as heart disease, blood pressure, stroke, obesity, diabetes, angina, and cancer, to name just a few. It seems that for various reasons the majority of mainstream medical practioneers are unaware of these findings, as well as mainstream thinking in general. A highly educated propfessor friend of mine for instance, who has a continuous problem with kidney stones, producing several excruiciating episodes a year, does not drink, and has not drank any alcohol for many years, was stunned when I showed him Chapter 21, on "Kidney Stones". The evidence discussed there in suggests a reduction in kidney stones of up to 39%, with only a moderate daily consumption of wine. In speaking to his doctors, none of them had ever heard of this before. This is only one of what could be thousands of examples of how, "The Science of Healthy Drinking" brings to light highly valuable medical information that the vast majority of American Physicans are barely dimly aware of. This book is an invaluable tool in bringing to awareness the positive benefits of alcochol to so many commonly occuring medical conditions as to make it basic reading material for every "student of medicine and health" regardless of whether they are professionlas or just want to be informed healthy lay people.

For those who want to know the facts about moderate drinking, this is your book.

I love this book. I have it displayed under my hanging stemware, where it's frequently commented on. Often friends are completely unaware that there is scientific research as to the benefits of drinking, so it's a great way to expel all the conservative myths. I don't think I've read a book with as many references to peer-reviewed literature as this, which is even more impressive! Highly recommended.