5 comments about The Mindful Way through Depression: Freeing Yourself from Chronic Unhappiness.

1. I was actually led to seek out information on meditation as a treatment for depression through a book called Surviving America's Depression Epidemic by psychologist Bruce E. Levine. That book takes a highly insightful approach to investigating the sociological and personal genesis for depression and I credit it for saving me from succumbing to this condition. Afterwards, I bought "The Mindful Way through Depression" to supplement Levine's more brief explanation of meditation as a therapeutic modality.
   
   Three psychologists - J. Mark G. Williams, John D. Teasdale and Zindel V. Segal began investigating why it was that people who became depressed once would experience constant relapse even after treatment. They eventually were led to the work being done by Jon Kabat-Zinn who had been researching the benefits of meditation at the University of Massachusetts Medical School.
   
   The approach they eventually created is called Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (or MBCT), which begins with the understanding of human psychology branching out of the Buddhist contemplative traditions of ancient India. This understanding of reality is then applied to findings of Western cognitive-behavioral therapy. Despite its Buddhist influences, the practice is completely secular. There is no mention of Buddhist concepts such as anatta, dharma or nirvana but the essence of the contemplative traditions is still present. The meditations in the book and on the CD are focused on experiencing the present moment as it unfolds here and now. This is what is meant by mindfulness.
   
   Some of the reviews on this page mention "curing" depression. Yet, like Dr. Levine, the authors of this book redefine depression - not as some inherent chemical or genetic fault that needs to be eradicated with psychotropic drugs - but as a habitual reaction towards our unpleasant feelings. Taking a poignant insight from Buddhist philosophy, the authors realized that much of our suffering is due to an aversion towards our own unpleasant feelings. (Note: Depression is NOT unpleasant emotions themselves. Negative feelings - sadness, fear, anger, anxiety, etc. - are benign in and of themselves. It is a pattern of reactions towards these feelings that is the depression.)
   
   Feelings - both the pleasant and unpleasant - are important messengers which contain vital information about whowe are and the state of our lives. However, when depressed, we often become paralyzed by our unwillingness to be with our fear, sadness, anger, anxiety, etc. This initial aversion cycles into depression in a complex interplay between our emotions, thoughts and behaviors. This is why we often find ourselves sinking deeper into depression the more we try to "think" our way out or just "snap out of it." At worst, these attempts only serve to further estrange us from our emotions or cause us to start ruminating, cementing our depressed thoughts. At best, they serve only as a cosmetic and temporary solution.
   
   I was happy to discover that MBCT addresses some of the shortcomings of traditional CBT that Levine criticizes in his book. CBT has a preoccupation with thoughts specifically - neglecting the nuanced relationship between our external circumstances, our emotions, thoughts and behaviors. Likewise, I found CBT tends to be exhausting. Who can stand to analyze their thoughts constantly, especially when they don't have an understanding of where those thoughts are coming from to begin with? The mindfulness practices in this book place thoughts in the wider context of life itself and bring us out of our own heads. The "Body Scan" that begins the CD is an excellent way of bringing one into the entirety of the body and opening to the physical, sensory experiences most of us have come to ignore.
   
   Eventually, what these practices serve to do is awaken one to the true nature of living. Depression itself can be seen for what it is - a pattern of thoughts, feelings and behaviors - that we eventually learn to transcend. If you are currently depressed, this may all sound highly dubious. I myself was skeptical at first. But, having nothing to lose, I read through the book, practiced the meditations as described and suspended judgment for the eight weeks recommended by the authors. Within the first two weeks, it started making more sense. I felt I was living more "in the moment." When depressed, our days often feel monochromatic - everything runs together in a big jumble of anxiety, numbness, inaction, etc. Weeks go by and we feel like we haven't actually LIVED through them.
   
   Mindfulness completely transformed this familiar experience for me. My days feel longer and more varied. I started noticing tiny details like where I hold tension in the body, when I needlessly and repetitively feed anxieties with negative thoughts, and started to notice things in the world around me more. Many people construe "curing" depression with banishing all unpleasant emotions. However, this is neither possible nor desirable. These sorts of emotions will always arise. However, the aim is to learn to be open to them instead of becoming overwhelmed by them. I can't really explain exactly how different this feels, but it felt like being a child again: awakening to the newness of each and every moment, as a child experiences the world, is really the heart of mindfulness.
   
   This book and CD would certainly do fine as a stand-alone if you are just interested in feeling better. The insights into the workings of the mind and emotion are remarkable and all supported by the latest research. The CD narrated by Kabat-Zinn is extremely helpful as well in setting up a regimented practice and commitment to yourself to get better. If, however, you are also interested in learning about depression as a cultural, sociological and historical phenomenon, I highly recommend Bruce Levine's "Surviving America's Depression Epidemic" which touches on many topics not dealt with here, including the role of schooling in teen depression, shyness or social phobia, abuse and neglect, the role of depression for artists and musicians and loss of community in modern-day society. Both are excellent books, however, that deal with different aspects of the same topic.



2. I feel very grateful to the authors of this book, having suffered from recurring bouts of depression over the past dozen years or so. For help, I tried several books on cognitive therapy and saw a few therapists who focused on this approach. But, each time, after initial improvement, I ended up in a mental boxing ring fighting with the same old repetitive, negative thoughts. I would try to substitute negative thoughts with more realistic ones, as cognitive therapy encourages, but I soon realized this process would go on endlessly, without any real change. As someone wrote in an earlier review, it was exhausting. It never seemed possible to me that depression could be dealt with at the level of thinking since habitually negative thinking is the main problem in depression!
   
   In "The Mindful Way through Depression," the authors really take the reader to a different level in handling negative, ruminative thoughts and their accompanying difficult feelings. I love the underlying theme of the book: that it's not the content of our thoughts that's important, but rather the present-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings, physical sensations and surroundings. Emphasis is also placed on deeply accepting all of these sensations -- not running from them in fear or aversion, but approaching them with gentle awareness and curiosity and allowing them to be there. There's a huge freedom in this, but it takes perseverance.
   
   One point to note: I think it was wise of the authors to state at the book's outset that a person suffering from fairly severe depression should wait until he or she is on the mend before attempting to use the book. Personally, I think trying to do some of the exercises would be very difficult during a deep depression.
   
   Finally, while the book is completely non-secular and beneficial to anyone, it will probably be particularly appreciated by people already interested in areas such as mindfulness, yoga, meditation, and "Westernized" Buddhism.



3. I have used Mindfulness techniques with many clients in my private practice, but in the last couple of years have begun working with mentally ill inmates in a maximum security prison. These inmates are often depressed and feel out of control. I was looking for a way to help them understand their feelings and regain a sense of control over their circumstances. They have responded very positively and are applying the principles to their lives. We recently started a meditation time where they meditate at the same time of day even though they are in separate cells and not able to directly communicate with each other. This has been a powerful, positive experience for them. The book has been a hit with a very tough audience.



4. Before I start I just have to say that this book is FANTASTIC and is a really exciting step forward in the treatment of depression. At last - a non-drug approach to one of societies most overwhelming problems: Depression.
   
   As a person who has suffered from depression in the past and as a therapist, I truly enjoyed this book from start to finish. It told me all I needed to know about mindfulness and taught me the process in a very comprehensive yet easy to follow way.
   
   I had read several books on mindfulness by various authors before receiving this book. Compared against the others that I read, I found this one to be the most clear, so even if you do not suffer from depression, but are looking to learn mindfulness, this book could be just what you are looking for. The other bonus with this title is that it is not repetitive like similar titles I have read - it just tells you what you need to know.
   
   Some observations that I would make though are as follows.
   
   1. There were a few spelling and grammar mistakes throughout, however they didn't affect my `reading flow', so this should be an issue.
   2. The layout of the separate sections could have been better laid out. It shows you how to follow an 8 week program in the end of the last chapter. I would have liked to seen it laid out so that you read and practice a section at a time rather than learning everything before you start.
   3. There is a warning in a couple of places in the book that warn you not to us the program in is entirely now if you are experiencing an episode of clinical depression. This somewhat confused me as the title of the book is `The Mindful Way THROUGH Depression.
   4. The book comes with a CD... It was recorded using the voice of one of the authors, Jon Kabat Zinn. The meditation entitled `The Body Scan' seemed a little rushed. As a personal preference, I used an old CD that I had from Jon that was much better quality for me and worked well.
   
   These were the only negative things that I picked up and wanted to include them to make this review as balanced as possible. There were so many things right with this book though that the comments above are small concerns against all the things that you will get out of reading it.
   
   So in conclusion: this book is easy to follow, very inspirational and motivates you to learn mindfulness and overcome your depression. It is simply fantastic.
   
   Warmly,
   
   Richard MacKenzie
   Author of Self-Change Hypnosis



5. Not only did I like the tape, it was so inspiring. The shipping was within alloted times.

5 comments about You Can Heal Your Life (Gift Edition).

1. I absoulutely love this book. If you apply its principles in your life you will definately see a change. I have very little to say about it because it is such a personal experience for me. If you find yourself reading this review, buy the book you are meant to read it.



2. I love everything I have read from Louise Hay. She gives us all so much hope.



3. I bought this book yesterday and I finished reading it in one sitting. I could not put it down. I'll read the book again slowly and start to do the exercises today.
   
   Although this book was first published over 20 years ago, the message is still so relevant today, especially after the phenomenon of "The Secret".
   
   I recommend to read this book together with "The Sedona Method: Your Key to Lasting Happiness, Success, Peace and Emotional Well-Being".



4. This book was recommended by a friend who permanently keeps it on her bedside table. I am reading it now and without even finishing it, I have already purchased 4 others to give to family and friends. I like the author's straight forward approach of taking charge of your life. GREAT book!



5. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in helping himsef/herself improve their thoungts and positive energy.

5 comments about The Expectant Father: Facts, Tips and Advice for Dads-to-Be, Second Edition.

1. This book is specifically designed for the first time father's without a clue. It discusses everything from the basics of morning sickness to really acknowledging the needs and support a woman requires during pregnancy. It also assist with opening discussions for what's happening and what's to come. We enjoyed it.



2. this book is writen by a caveman for cavemen. If you found this book helpful you should not be having a baby, or you live in the 1940's.



3. This book was one of the best books we got as expectant first time parents. A lot of the information in here you cannot find in the other books for just women. Half of the pregnancy is all about the father too (which women can sometimes forget in the mess of baby making) and this book can offer a lot of insight for women who are confused about their man's behavior. It offers insights to the way men and women differ in the whole pregnancy process. I highly recommend this book for women who are interested in having their partners involved in the process.



4. The book is simplistic and preachy. More often than not, you're reading three pages about something that can be clearly stated in a paragraph. Equally often, that material seems misplaced (waiting until the sixth month to speculate about gender???) and thrown in there to thicken the book. I believe, with common-sense editing, this book could be less than fifty pages without sacrificing any content. The few things that I did learn I could have learned from several other books, along with a great deal more.



5. I read a lot of baby books in preparation for new baby - mostly from the library - and I can say that this is one of the books that I did end up buying to use as reference. It is well written and contains a lot of information in one place. Also nice to get a father's perspective.

5 comments about Gardening When It Counts: Growing Food in Hard Times (Mother Earth News Wiser Living Series).

1. I would give this book zero stars if I could. I am so surprised this book has such high ratings. First, the author can not stop himself from talking down to his readers, and making himself appear as he is the greatest thing since sliced bread. Half the book is about how great he is and how "Everybody Else" is stupid and worthless. This is the most negative book on gardening I have ever read. I do not recommend this book at all.



2. This is a serious manual for subsistence gardeners. Steve Solomon differentiates himself from "everybody else" and the result is a no nonsense guide delineating the right way to get maximum yield from a piece of land using organic methods. He has no time for hobbyists, so this book is meant for those who are really trying to feed themselves from their gardens. I really appreciate the advice here, but for a light read, I would stick with Barbara Damrosch, who provides good advice in a more light-hearted way.



3. Gardening When It Counts is truly a book for our times. There's already a well-deserved buzz about this book among home gardeners I know. For one thing, it firmly refutes the supposed advantages of mulch gardening. In the burgeoning nationwide return to growing our own vegetables, it's important to produce the most food for the least amount of effort and expense, and this book offers the very advice we need. The author is a Master Gardener from whom beginners and experienced gardeners alike can learn much. Steve Solomon has provided full details on everything from soil preparation to harvesting, and the illustrator Muriel Chen has contributed helpful drawings for even further clarification.



4. I think this book is a very honest account of how to grow veggies under difficult circumstances. He has honest criticisms of the seed/garden center/etc businesses and how to avoid buying stuff that is of poor quality.
   
   His advice on simple methods for determining your soil type, making your own compost fertilizer, spacing for various crops, type of sprinklers that work best and where to get them, and a whole lot more is here and very valuable.
   
   I especially liked his advice on simple garden tools; how to find them and how to use them and how to maintain them. Truly great stuff that does not always mean a rototiller (although he tells how to use them, too, and which kinds work best).
   
   The only reason I did not give it a 5 is MY problem. I have not finished the book yet but I am still reading it. Just MY lack of time right now.
   
   Here is the deal. What if the grid is down and you cannot irrigate your crops with city water? How do you grow a garden without irrigation? How do you grow a garden without a gas-powered tiller? How do you save seeds for the next year's crop? Where do you find open-pollenating seeds?
   
   It's all here and more.
   
   Thanks for a great read.
   
   Warren of Kansas



5. I am a gardener and I read books and magazines in addition to my hands on efforts. This book has made me think about the way I have been gardening and the complications that I have put on my efforts. This is a much more simple way to do things and I have learned so much about larger spaces, the effort levels of fruits and vegetables, simple tool use and care and water resources.
   
   Excellent book. Although I bought it for myself, I had to get it away from my husband.

5 comments about Cesar's Way: The Natural, Everyday Guide to Understanding and Correcting Common Dog Problems.

1. I absolutely love watching Mr. Millan's show, and think that the way he understands and interacts with dogs is magical, so when our family got a chihuahua puppy, we also bought this book, assuming we'd learn how to raise Sam. While the book is full of interesting advice and understanding of dog psychology, I find it lacking in techniques to actually help you deal with common dog problems. For example: no advice on housebreaking, chewing, etc. The book is an interesting read, but I'm still searching for the one that will give me more detailed exercises to work on with my chi (I'll still watch Dog Whisperer on tv, though!).



2. Good auto-biography and concepts but I would have liked a little more "how to". Learned a few tips for my new puppy and I see where I made mistakes with my dog but would have liked more direction on how to correct bad behavior.



3. Carefully read the book, and then read it again. With lots of exercise and work we turned our "wild" biting and attacking 8 month old rescued Lab-dalmation "Layla" into a sweet dog that is actually quite bright and can fetch and hike for hours, and sit and stay. We even have her getting along with the cat. We almost took her back to the SD Humane society, she was attacking our 12 yr old German shepherd and any other dog or person she saw during a walk. But with Cesar's help we didn't fail our dog, "Layla". She still needs work out on the trail, but what a difference.



4. This book is wonderful! His book teaches you how to "think" like a dog and how to train your doog with methods that WORK! I highly recommend this book:)



5. Forget what you think you know about dogs and let Caesar teach you the proper way to interact with your canine friends. In almost all cases of bag dog behavior, Rule #1 "It's the owner, not the dog that's the problem." Even the kindest gentlest of humans are making mistakes that can lead to problem dogs. Caesar sets us straight with Dog Psychology.

5 comments about The Numerati.

1. In this informative book we are introduced to a new breed of mathematicians, "the numerati", who are responsible for gathering loads of private information individuals provide when they use a credit card, donate to a cause, surf the Internet, or even make a phone call.
   
   The book's chapters include:
   
   1. Intro
   2. The Worker
   3. The Shopper
   4. The Voter
   5. The Blogger
   6. The Terrorist
   7. The Patient
   8. The Lover
   9. Conclusion
   
   This book is so so interesting. I especially enjoyed the chapters on Shoppers and Bloggers. One firm in New York analyzes data from web searches, and gathers some 20 billion behavioral clues on internet users each day. I also learned about an interesting Blog search engine, how political consultants target particular voters, and so much more. This non fiction book is highly recommended.



2. Probably a book about interesting topics. I say "probably" beasuse I was unable to read it. Book is written in childishly infantile style that is appropriate for kindergarden kids. I made many attempts to read this book - from the beginning, form the end, from the middle. Sorry. Facts are hidden in jumble-mumble



3. Reading Baker's well-written and insightful book dispels any notion that numeracy is not necessary to fathom the 21st century.



4. In terms of delivery etc., all that stuff was on time and as promised. The book itself is quite good but repetitive and, in some way, if you keep reading from newspapers and magazines often, then it offers little new.



5. Highly recommended. Baker's The Numerati reports on how the growth of large-scale databases and sophisticated analytical techniques are remaking politics, business, health care and government. An excellent companion piece to Ian Ayres book " Super Crunchers: Why Thinking-By-Numbers is the New Way To Be Smart. Ayers is a member of the Numerati (and come to think of it - sort of surprising that he is not profiled in Baker's book) where Baker is a journalist. The books taken together help round out the picture on rapid growth of data and evidence based decision making.

5 comments about Green Goes with Everything: Simple Steps to a Healthier Life and a Cleaner Planet.

1. Over the past year, there have been dozens of books on the green theme published, and Green Goes with Everything: Simple Steps to a Healthier Life and Cleaner Planet, by Sloane Barnett, is the newest. Barnett does her research and presents a good primer to get anyone started on a healthy, toxic-free life.
   
   My biggest complaint is Barnett's obsession over non-toxic cleaning products and cleaning the home. On one hand, I get it--her son, Spencer, had an asthma attack at age three that landed him in the hospital. (Spencer gets better once the toxic cleaning products are removed.) The other source of her obsession is what is a bit annoying--her husband is CEO of Shaklee products, which are non-toxic household cleaning products.
   
   Now, Barnett is not alone--there are entire books written about how to clean your home and with what products. I just think too many--including Barnett--go on and on about cleaning and non-toxic products--just DO IT and move on to more important subjects. really--cleaning the house is not rocket science...
   
   The first three chapters are devoted to the subject of a non-toxic home. In chapter one, we learn "the real dirt on clean." The chapter discusses the probable toxins in our home and what is "scary" vs. is "safe" dirt.
   
   Chapter two informs about the dangerous cleaning products in our home.
   
   Chapter three is about alternative safe cleaning products. This is where we hear how wonderful and superior Shaklee products are. A bit too info-commercial for my tastes. Barnett does offer some simple handmade cleaning solutions and non-toxic household cleaning products that Shaklee doesn't manufacture. The reality--most of the "alternative" non-toxic cleaning products work just fine.
   
   Chapter 4 is about non-toxic body care products. Hair color, deodorant and other unsafe products are discussed and safe alternatives are provided.
   
   In chapter 6, Barnett explains how to eat organic while buying smarter and cheaper and what chemicals to avoid in food.
   
   Chapter 7 discusses clean water. Good advice on how to make your tap water safe and to avoid the extremely wasteful throwaway bottles.
   
   In chapter 8, a broader look at how to keep the air in ones home clean is discussed. Barnett writes about fireplaces and stoves, cabinets, furniture and upholstery and mattresses--all stuff that outgasses and degrades the air quality. She does a good basic job of this, but for an comprehensive guide to all facets of furniture, walls, floors and more, a great companion to this book is: HARMONIOUS ENVIRONMENT: BEAUTIFY, DETOXIFY & ENERGIZE YOUR LIFE, YOUR HOME & YOUR PLANET.
   
   Chapter 9 covers energy in the home and Barnett provides easy ways to save on energy in the home.
   
   There are resources at the end of the book for many green products.
   
   Recommend as a good, green primer for the home.



2. I found Green Goes With Everthing -- to be a witty, practical read that gives simple information on what toxins are, why they are relevant, and how to get them out of your home and body. The thing I love so much about this book is that it is written in a way that makes it simple to take action. It is informative without being preachy. It is detailed without being overwhelming. The author ends each chapter with five green "hot tips". If we all implement just one tip from each chapter we all will be contibuting to a healthier planet, a healthier home and a healthier body!



3. From: www.BasilAndSpice.com
   
   Book Review: Green Goes With Everything: Simple Steps To a Healthier Life and a Cleaner Planet by Sloan Barnett (Atria Books, 2008)
   
   Sloan Barnett is a mom on a mission. Because her son was diagnosed with asthma, now at epidemic numbers, she began to research the disease. Ms. Barnett, the Green Editor of KNTV, and a contributor to NBC's Today Show, is also a television and print journalist. She found that asthma has skyrocketed 160% since 1980 to 9 million children under age 18 diagnosed. Asthma is the most chronic disease affecting 1 of every 13 school-aged children in the United States.
   
   While researching and interviewing doctors, toxicologists, and scientists, Ms. Barnett discovered six epidemiological studies which have found a link between certain cleaning products and asthma. Unapologetically, Ms. Barnett switched all cleaners in her home to the Shaklee brand and never again needed to take her son to the emergency room with an asthma attack.
   
   Green Goes With Everything covers all aspects of a chemically-free home:
   
   * Household Cleaners: focuses on which products to avoid and which to use for less chemical exposure
   * The body: perfumes, makeup, deodorant, hair care products, etc.
   * Water: addresses bottled versus tap issues
   * Air: pollution occurs in the home from chemical-laden products
   * Energy: develops thoughts around recycling and conservation
   * Food: special notice given to the organic industry
   * Baby: this is where it all begins and ends--"My two oldest children are both allergic to nuts. My third child, who was raised in a nontoxic home, eating only organic formula and food, recently tested allergy free. Look, I can't be certain that our new lifestyle is the reason this baby is allergy free, but it sure does make you think."--Sloan Barnett
   
   Further Highlights:
   
   * The European Union bans more chemicals than the U.S. "The levels of PBDES in American mothers were anywhere from 10-100% higher than in mothers in Europe." (PBDEs--common flame retardants found in household goods--mattresses, furniture, carpet padding, etc..)
   * The author had her own bloodwork done at Harvard School of Public Health to show the level of toxins in her body compared with the U. S. Average Level.
   * The book is backed by several pages of researched notes.
   * It includes a substantial resource guide of companies that create chemical-free products.
   * Each chapter begins with five green tips and some plain green truths.
   
   If you're unsure about what's safe to use or put into your home, your children have allergies and/or asthma, or you're planning to have a baby, this book is your manual. Green Goes With Everything can help you make a difference in the quality of your home and the lives of your children. Take it from me, the mother of a son who was once diagnosed with allergies to almost all foods and pollens. I too created a clean home for my family.
   
   A BestSeller Review
   
   5 Stars



4. "Most Americans, but especially children, have dozens of pesticides and other toxic compounds in their bodies, many of them linked to health threads. A source of many of these toxins? Common, everyday, run of the mill household consumer products. There's no polite way of saying this: your body is a landfill, a dumping ground for a mind-boggling array of toxic chemicals. So is mine. So is your child's..." Sloan Barnett writes. She continues to discuss other potential household toxins and simple steps that everyone can take to a healthier life and a cleaner planet.
   
   "Green Goes with Everything" is divided into ten chapters, including: The Real Dirt on Clean, Scary Clean, Safe Clean, Clean Body, Clean Baby, Clean Food, Clean Water, Clean Water, Clean Air, Clean Energy. Each chapter starts with several items on plain green truth, and ends with five green-hot tips that you can use to improve your life.
   
   This book is filled with useful information and convincing facts and statistics. I like Sloan Barnett's style of writing. She is able to convey complicated issues and facts in plain English. I can tell she did spend a lot of time doing research and investigation. Most of the important facts or data have official sources. Sloan noted over 160 sources for her information at the end of the book.
   
   Going green is one of the most important trends of our century. I have always been interested in this subject and have even written a book on it (LEED AP Exam Guide, Outskirts Press, 2008), yet I still learn a lot from Sloan's book. For example, on page 54, she gives you a tip to use water, white vinegar and lemon juice to make your own safe and clean window cleaner. On page 92, she points out: "...Two common shampoo ingredients, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and its close relative sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), are surfactants or sudsing agents. They have been found in lab studies to cause severe epidermal changes in the skin of mice. However, as with coal tar, the FDA's position is that, since the products are in contact with the skin only briefly, they cause no harm..." She then gives you several alternative shampoo brands that are safe and effective.
   
   "Green Goes with Everything" is an information-rich and reader-friendly book. It has a lot of useful information that can improve your health or even save your life.
   
   This is a book to be savored and returned to again and again.
   
   Gang Chen, a Book Reviewer for Bookpleasures
   Author of "LEED AP Exam Guide" & "Planting Design Illustrated." LEED AP, AIA



5. I purchased this book because I am interested in doing what I can to be "green". I saw the author on the Today Show and it seemed like the book would be very good for ideas for cleaning up my home. I knew her husband was CEO of Shaklee and expected some mention of the company products. However, I didn't think I would read about Shaklee numerous times in every chapter.
   
   The book seems to be focused more on promoting Shaklee than providing green information. I stopped reading after several chapters because the constant mention of Shaklee products was, for me, a distraction from the content.

5 comments about Eat Right 4 Your Type: The Individualized Diet Solution to Staying Healthy, Living Longer & Achieving Your Ideal Weight.

1. Let me first say that you need to read the whole book first. I know a lot of people that are excited to start and they are really dont read all the book. This is the only way that you are going to really the results that your body needs and want. I believe that is why a lot of people call the book a crock. Also please buy the companion book because it is great to take to the grocery store.
   
   A friend of mine that has cancer daughter bought her this book. I am so fortunate that I picked up the book off her coffee table and flip through the pages. The best thing that has ever happen to me and my husband. It meant for us cleaning out our food pantry. I am a O and husband is a B blood type. If you do this change you need to have your family on board. Especially if their is different blood types in your home.
   It is expensive at first, because you will have to give away or gradually stop using your avoid foods. We gave away a lot of stuff. My family started right away. I stopped coffee right away which if you know me I was a Starbucks addict. I still have a balance on my card which I will use for soymilk. I had already stop using splenda, boy after I stop their stock will go down(smile)
   We are going in our third week and now that we have all our food in the pantry.
   What I really like is I am never hungry. Before I started this blood type diet and I dont want to say diet because it is just a change of the way of eating. There is so much food to eat and I promise you will never be hungry. Before I started this process I felt 75% of myself. I am 50+ and now I can say I am 100% of energy in these short weeks. I have lost weight and I am going to start by exercising in a couple of days.
   
   Buy and Read this book, I wish I would have known about this a long time a go.



2. You really do not need the larger book if you just want to try the diet.
   The smaller ones for each individual blood type gives you all you need to know about what to eat and not to eat. However, the larger book does trace the diet and how it was accomplished. Found it interesting. Am going to give it a try!!



3. I didn't think that blood type would affect how my body metabolized the food I eat until I read this book. It makes perfect sense. I reccomend everyone that has the time read this book because it will open up your eyes to why you feel bad after eating certian things and better after others.



4. I really enjoy this book because it's a natural way for me to keep weight off without having to try a crazy crash diet or exclude foods that I enjoy. Moderation is the key!



5. The author is a naturopath who claims he can heal people through diets designed to fit 4 blood types (A, B, 0, AB). If this were the thesis of this book, I would simply accept the author's word for it. Many non-conventional doctors use different media and methods to convey their healing abilities and, while the real nature of their systems baffles scientific analysis, fact is that they can heal. Unfortunately the author reached great success by stitching a delirious "scientific" theory around his thesis. I'll be expressing only few major critiques.
   
   1) The evidence he presents to support his thesis is 100% circumstantial. About a third of the book sounds like this : "John, who was suffering for this and that, came to my office. After putting him on the right diet, his symptoms reverted or regressed". Circumstantial evidence can be used as a starting point but it cannot be used to prove a theory, nonetheless the author sells his theories as if they were the Gospel
   2) D'Adamo states that group 0 is the blood group of hunters-gatherers. The group A are the farmers and the group B are the nomads. Well, this is not true. Go in the data bank and look for yourself. As an example, you'll notice that very many hunters-gatherers (Inuit and Ainu among others) have a lower group 0 incidence than peoples who have been farmers for millennia. The only major hunter-gatherer population fitting his scenario is the American Indian (both North and South). Amerindians were bottlenecked during their migration from Kamchatka to Alaska. Obviously, concepts like "genetic drift" are alien to the author.
   3) Nowhere in the scientific literature could one find any of his "studies" he claimed were being wrapped up at the time of publication
   4) The auhtor's knowledge of the biochemistry of lectins, albeit seemingly sound to most people, is primitive and incomplete. He is not just trying to keep it simple: he dismisses or ignores everything that may hinder his "truth".
   5) For D'Adamo's theory to be valid, food lectins must remain functionally intact through the stomach, the intestine and, in many cases, the cooking process. Moreover they should remain invisible to the immune system. This is frankly hard to believe. The author states that lectins do in fact survive digestion (no prove or literature is presented on this) and completely ignores the host immune reaction.
   Again, I am not questioning that D'Adamo may have the ability to heal people, however the "scientific" foundation on which this entire book is based is beyond weak: it is simply delirious.

5 comments about The Sanford Guide to Antimicrobial Therapy, 2008.

1. It's always good to have the latest edition in the office and at the hospital.



2. I cannot read the print. It is too small. Please send me a copy with larger print
   Thank You
   Jim Buonavolonta, M.D.



3. Great book..
   Small, essential, but with all the necessary informations to start an antibiotic therapy!
   
   Just not so easy to learn how to read it!



4. This is a great book for dosing, length of course and concerns for age groups, allergies and other health concerns bearing closer watching. There is a best and alternative med listed. Great information and concise.



5. Well
   I would like to say that this is a great book, yes its true.
   The only prob is that you got to know what you're doing...and you got to know this book well...otherwise you're not going to come up with anything...
   IF you pick up this book thinking that you're going to come up with the greatest antibiotic combinations you're wrong. You're just going to sit it there somewhere. and look elsewhere.
   You need to know how to read it, as it is full of acronyms for lots of antibiotics; and so forth and so on...
   You need to get used to it ask attending that might have you used it b4 so that you know what you're up against and stuff...especially if you're going to be working with critically ill patients; who are in icus
   They need the best combinations possible of antibiotic ...
   Make sure you protect you're calling...

5 comments about The Edge Effect: Achieve Total Health and Longevity with the Balanced Brain Advantage.

1. This book along with my Doctor saved my life! My total cholesterol was 293 and it is now at 152. My triglyceride level went from 625 down to 230 and is still improving. The quiz section in this book is right on. It fit myself and my sister to a "T". If you are serious about feeling younger and improving your all around health this is the book.Check out the "Younger You" book also.



2. I found this book very interesting and helpful regarding some health problems I was having. Makes sense to me. Highly recommend it.



3. Came in great shape, will use this service again. Recommend this seller to anyone looking for clean, great shape material.



4. This book is about achieving total health by balancing your brain chemistry, based on a quiz you take (in the book) to determine your dominant neurotransmitters. Once you take the quiz and find out which of the four major neurotransmitters is dominant, you can take supplements and eat foods that supposedly restore your brain's normal biochemistry (normal meaning how it was before you started having symptoms of disease).
   The author says everyone is born with a dominant neurotransmitter that determines their health and their personality, and when this gets out of balance, signs of illness begin. He lists the supplements you should take and the foods you should eat to get back in balance again, and also recommends some exercises, both physicla and mental. At the end there is a section of exercises you can do to improve your memory.
   In his private practice the author claims to have healed many people by simply balancing their brain chemistry, and this is a wonderful thought, but he doesn't say where you can find a doctor to work with who would be into this type of treatment. Most doctors would not agree to do some of the tests he recommends, and would not be open to his ideas. He claims you can do it on your own, but I am concerned that the high doses of some of the supplements may be harmful. On the other hand, I'm a bit of a risk taker and decided to start the supplement and diet program to see what will happen. If anyone else has tried this program, I'd like to know their results and whether they would recommend it. This book has a very interesting and believable theory, but I think is too new to be accepted by mainstream medicine, so you're pretty much on your own if you apply it.



5. I can't believe there aren't more rave reviews here. I had to jump up and down when I realized that 10 years of discomfort, allergies, forgetfulness, and other annoying symptoms had a chance to finally be resolved.
   
   Of course, one cannot make any medical claims. Its just a window into what could be an answer for you.
   
   After taking the test (questionnaire in beginning of book), and reading about my Dominant type, Deficient type, and other personality/physical characteristics of the 4 neurotransmitters ... I put the book aside for a bit. I found just that knowledge had given me alot to ponder. Why do I procrastinate, why do I love to be creative... Is it good for my type to drink caffeine...? Well its alot of questions no one ever asked me, and it made me take a second look at what I do and when I feel sick.
   
   I did quite poorly on the deficiency scale. My most severe defiencey being GABA, and hence I have had chronic hives, Irritable bowel, anxiety and other things. But could GABA have anything to do with it?? Well I have taken many credits in Neurology-- this never came up. I have been to Neurologists, Dermatologists, Allergy Specialists-- why has no one given me a GABA promoting drug (atleast)?? Guess there is a disconnect between wellness and typical medical protocols.
   
   I followed the GABA promoting diet (Almonds, oranges, bananas, oats, whole wheat, broccoli, spinach, fish, eggs, and much more...). No drugs. It made a huge difference. I also drank an herbal tea (passion flower, valerian), that helps promote GABA. I decreased caffeine. I focus on what's good for my body to make and store enough GABA to keep my body relaxed. It made an impact-- big enough, that I finally feel my health can be great again.
   
   Thank You Dr. Braverman!
   
   The other reviewer is correct. You cannot get all the lab tests you want run by your MD. Its not considered necessary. You will have better luck with a Chiropractor, or just going on faith and following the diet to see how you feel.
   
   The diets are not hard-- they might include alot of foods you crave since you need building blocks of that neurotransmitter most.
   
   One thing that alot of health enthusiasts may be weary of, is his notes on aspartame containing the Dopamine promoting element phenylanaline... since fake sweeteners are typically considered toxic. I do not know what to say on this. I guess in certain situations your body can make use of it.
   
   I still give the book 5 starts because the advice outweighs the drugs and artifical stuff. Many books I've reviewed showed me weak points in my health and toxins in my environment... but few have given the remedies to fix the problem. Check out this book!