Sunday, September 4, 2016

"The Grain Brain Whole Life Plan" by David Perlmutter

Synopsis:
With more than a million copies sold worldwide, Dr. Perlmutter's books have changed many lives.  Now, he's created a practical, comprehensive program that lowers the risk for brain ailments while yielding other benefits, such as weight loss, relief from chronic conditions, and total body rejuvenation.  Science-based and highly accessible, THE GRAIN BRAIN WHOLE LIFE PLAN expands upon the core advice from Dr. Perlmutter's previous works, and introduces new information about the advantages of eating more fat, fewer carbs, and nurturing the microbiome.  Including original recipes, tips and tricks for common challenges, meal plans, and advice on everything from sleep hygiene to stress management, exercise, supplements, and more, THE GRAIN BRAIN WHOLE LIFE PLAN shows how to live happily and healthily ever after.

Review:
I am rather biased because I first read Perlmutter's book, "Grain Brain" last year.  I own it and "The Grain Brain Cookbook".  I am very grateful to Hachette and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advanced copy of his upcoming book, "The Grain Brain Whole Life Plan".

I am one of those generalized people that Dr. Perlmutter mentions in his introduction.  Going Primal/paleo/following the Grain Brain principles relieved my depression, almost-daily headaches, and frequent heartburn.  My brain is everything to me and the threat of Alzheimer's disease is the scariest possible future; I changed what I eat to thwart that likelihood.

The "Grain Brain Whole Life Plan" is a perfect balance for people who have never read his other books (giving an overview of his thesis) and people familiar with his work (adding new information).  I particularly enjoyed it because it motivated me to switch back to the Grain Brain lifestyle from paleo.

Aside from an abundance of references to his website, I liked the book a lot because (like his previous books) he discusses science-based research studies and what they mean in relation to how our bodies function on the small scale.

As a hobby chef, I found some of the provided recipes to be a little bit fancy for everyday people.  I live in a small town where some of the ingredients used would require a special trip to the city.  But then, I live in Canada so maybe things like jicama and juniper berries are more common in the U.S.  On the other hand, I'm excited to try roasted onion with balsamic vinegar in a salad!

Overall, I'm glad I read this book and would recommend it to anyone who wants to be healthier.

Read on,
Paula

P.S. I received this book for free from the publisher for review consideration. This in no way affected my opinion of the book, or the content of my review.