4 out of 4 stars
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The book "Health Tips, Myths, and Tricks" stands as a substantive and comprehensive compendium of health-related information that will whet the appetite of the most discriminating of health proponents. It appears to be a follow up to his earlier book "Snake Oil is Alive and Well," a term used as a metaphor for apparent health-related scams. His casual yet pointed speech underscores his passion for discovering the ultimate truth in an emerging mishmash of misinformation. His credibility as a well honored cardiologist, PhD researcher, and author stands; however, his sometimes disdainful and rancorous comments brings an air of subjectivity to his work. Aptly, his inferences from reputable entities like the AMA, FDA, FTC, EPA NIH, NCI, WHO, and Mayo Clinic keeps him largely credible.
The 'truths' contained within this tell-all manual contains 62 concise exploratory chapters all of which end with a summarizing conclusion or "bottom line." It's thrust is to keep the unassuming public and marketplace on the right track with the right information.
Provided is an example of some of which the reader will encounter in each of the three sections:
In "Tips," Dr. T. gives out practical and sensical advice on such topics as sleep, diet, exercise, breakfast, the common cold, etc.
"Myths " explore popular subjects like bottled water, energy drinks, probiotics, gluten-free/GMO/organic/fortified foods, red meat, raw milk, rapid weight loss, alllergies, and even medical tests and routine checkups among others.
Lastly, in "Tricks" he seeks to debunk conspiracy theorists and even disavows adjunctive supplementation and complementary care disciplines such as energy healing techniques, chiropractic care, acupuncture, homeopathy, and naturopathy as "irrevelant" and bogus as well as other topics. Within this unusual cornucopia, he names actual product brands, sources and websites with proven track records. Regarding the latter, he mentioned "Quackwatch" more than once as having repute. Although some of this information is dated, it's premise rings true today as charlatans are still alive and rich.
It becomes incumbent upon the individual to take on the enormous task of sifting through the increasing bevy of scientific and unscientific claims to date within the intercepting years since the book's publication circa 2015. The good doctor has given us a running start and his book serves as a springboard for making wise choices to self treat and head off scams. We must look to other reputable pioneers in determining what is safe and sane for us. Only then are we positioned to effectually partner with our trusted health providers in forging the best treatment plan, armed with the newest knowledge around!
Anecdotally, a holistic integrated approach to one's healthcare seems more prudent and realistic with many resources in place nowadays to round out our options with an eye toward blending Dr. Tavel's brand of
Western medicine with Eastern modalities for best results.
Most importantly, this book contains a spirited, highly valuable caveat: to properly discern what is safe, proven, and effective for oneself through continued exposure to similar reads that are scientifically research based. Assuredly, one will then be able to decide on an individual course of action to optimal health, wellness, enlightenment, wholeness and dare I say "Peace?"
I would give the book 4 out of 4 stars.
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Health Tips, Myths, and Tricks
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