Review by RimaTM -- Health Tips, Myths, and Tricks

RimaTM · Post by **RimaTM** » 20 Dec 2017, 14:14

[Following is a volunteer review of "Health Tips, Myths, and Tricks" by Morton E Tavel, MD.]

3 out of 4 stars

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Health Tips, Myths and Rips- A Physician’s Advice by Morton E. Tavel MD, is a non fiction work which seeks to debunk many of the popular trends in health and wellness while providing a wealth of information on what constitutes the foundation of a better lifestyle.

It is thorough, well researched and littered with relevant examples to support the author’s viewpoint. The use of jargon is minimal when compared to similar works which makes for an easier read and retention of the knowledge presented.

Laid out in a logical sequence, the author begins with the foundation of good health which is diet. Perhaps, though, more attention could have been placed on the daily consumption of fruits, vegetables, grains and seeds. The examples cited of fast food companies processing their meals even further under the guise of appearing to be more natural rather than being synthetic, as well as the marketing to children in the name of charity, are among the many useful and hitherto unknown facts that are used to entice the consumption of unhealthy foods. The tips on reducing the amount of consumed unhealthy foods are simply presented and can be easily incorporated into daily life.

Several individual chapters are devoted to a number of related issues that affect the overall wellbeing of the individual. Topics such as sleep, smoking, the use of painkillers, exercise and the linkages to cancer and Alzheimer’s disease are well researched and amply supported by case studies. The author has also drawn from his own experience as a medical practitioner thus lending credibility to his arguments.

The sections pertaining to Myths and Rips are thought provoking and balanced, presenting both sides of the discussion, and allows the reader to draw his or her own conclusions. As in the first section pertaining to Tips, arguments put forward are reasonably supported by case studies and research papers.

Coming from the medical fraternity, it is understandable the author has sought to present alternative therapies, treatments and remedies as unproven and unscientific, though he has not presented cases where the use of such treatments has adversely affected patients.

His advice of “buyer beware” seeks to caution potential users of alternative treatments, but it must be stated he has uttered these words of caution throughout the text. Personal bias may have played some part in the statements made on members of the medical fraternity who tout alternative remedies and treatments to a national audience on television, however, the reader is free to make up his or her mind as to the validity of the argument.

All in all, there is an abundance of useful information in this text, with reference sources listed for additional support. It is well worth the read and I would personally use much of this advice in my own daily living, giving my interest in health and wellness. I highly recommend this book for anyone who is actively interested in addressing health issues and needs to sort through both the clutter of published information and hearsay. I would give this work a 3 out of 4 stars

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Health Tips, Myths, and Tricks
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kdstrack · Post by **kdstrack** » 22 Feb 2018, 06:38

You point out that the author begins with the foundation of good health. It was interesting that the first chapter was on weight loss - sure the catch the reader's eye. Your comments on the author's opinion of alternative therapies as unproven as scientific reflect his training but not the actual health environment. Thanks for your comments on this book. Nice job.

EvaDar · Post by **EvaDar** » 22 Feb 2018, 20:25

RimaTM wrote: ↑20 Dec 2017, 14:14 Coming from the medical fraternity, it is understandable the author has sought to present alternative therapies, treatments and remedies as unproven and unscientific, though he has not presented cases where the use of such treatments has adversely affected patients.

His advice of “buyer beware” seeks to caution potential users of alternative treatments, but it must be stated he has uttered these words of caution throughout the text. Personal bias may have played some part in the statements made on members of the medical fraternity who tout alternative remedies and treatments to a national audience on television, however, the reader is free to make up his or her mind as to the validity of the argument.

Great review. We have similar thoughts on the book. There was some useful, new information in the book for sure, but also much that is available elsewhere. Good point about alternative medicine, too. Not only did the author not provide examples where alternative treatments adversely affected people, he neglected to mention that there is a trove of scientific research that shows how many people benefit. I love your comment that people will decide for themselves. But, I admit to wishing the doctor would have the confidence and diversity of thought to have at least done his homework on alternative medicine. Thanks for a balanced and beautiful review.