Healthy B.P.M.

Gillian McKeith’s Food Bible, The Complete A-Z Guide To a Healthy Life is as complete a reference manual as I’ve ever read. Published by the Penguin Group in 2008, it’s filled with bright clear pictures and the tone is like being talked to by a close friend. Through her years of working with food and nutrition, the author’s purpose is to empower us to be healthier through the foods we eat. This is not a diet book but a reference for anyone interested in being and staying healthy.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the book is how complete it is.  It starts with Ms. McKeith’s ten key health factors and how they are affected by our nutritional habits. She then goes on to explain the nutrients that influence these health factors. This “master class” as she calls it provides enough information to create the best nutritional plan for you.

I was unfamiliar with some foods mentioned, like dulse, borgotti beans, pulses, rocket, courgettes, aubergines, and tempeh, I have no idea what they are but am intrigued by the notion that there’s a whole world of nutrition I’ve yet to discover.

In the section on Food and the Stages of Life we’re treated to an overview of our nutritional needs from infancy to adulthood.  The gender specific references are well suited to the hurried and sometimes over the top life styles so many of us experience nowadays.

The A-Z of conditions begins by describing the condition or ailment along with possible causes, an action plan of what to eat/drink, what to avoid, and suggestions for herbs and supplements. It ends with extra tips for treating the condition. It’s very inclusive with ailments I wouldn’t expect to find. While I’m sure many would like to know how to cure or treat a hangover I’d rather have seen information on PCOS/Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Still the overall information is extremely valuable.

As a teenager I remember my mom drinking her “tonic” which was lemon in hot water first thing in the morning. When I asked what it was for she’d just say “its good for you”. Thanks to the Food Bible I now know that mom’s tonic alkalizes the body and kick starts liver and bowel functions. Thanks Gillian for finally clearing up that mystery. The Food Bible would be a wonderful addition to anyone’s coffee table or library.