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To Your Health
A veritable romp of books covering health, fitness smarts and Father's Day.
by Annabelle Robertson
June 1, 2006
I
f you've tuned into Oprah lately, you've heard all about unhealthy eating and its
consequences - and even seen up close what it does to our organs. Our first book, therefore, offers
insight on food and lifestyle for optimum health. For many of us, alas, eating well is not enough
-- we also need to shed a few pounds. If you're at a loss about where to start, try this book,
which gives the lowdown on popular diet programs. Then check out the daily exercise regime from a
trainer to the stars who swears that just 45 minutes a day is more than enough to get in shape.
Staying informed is also important, especially when it comes to medical decisions about our health.
So don't forget to research doctors, hospitals, pharmacists and even medications, say two renowned
physicians, in a book that shows us how to do just that. Finally, we've got two gift books for
Father's Day. The first, from an award-winning columnist, pokes fun at life in the 'burbs. The
second provides everything dad could hope to learn about outdoor cooking - along with some
delectable recipes. So break out the grills and start cooking, ladies, before the June heat cooks
you!
SuperFoods Health Style: Proven Strategies for Lifelong Health
Steven G. Pratt, M.D. and Kathy Matthews (William Morrow, $24.95)
Dubbed "the Food Dude" by Oprah, Dr. Steven Pratt believes that health is a "web," a complex
synergy of information, motivation and good habits, with good nutrition as its cornerstone. In this
sequel to his bestselling Superfoods Rx, he offers the first two, so readers can establish the
third. His approach is holistic, dealing with sleep, stress management and exercise, as well as
those crucial disease-fighting foods and antioxidants we've been hearing about. Inspirational and
highly informative.
3 Fat Chicks on a Diet: Because We're All In It Together
Suzanne, Jennifer and Amy Barnett (St. Martin's Press, $21.95)
We've seen the television ads, but which weight loss program is for you? These former "fat"
chicks, of the well-known Web site, have got the skinny. Whether Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig,
South Beach or surgery, their book reveals all, providing detailed analyses, pros and cons, and
participant comments about cost, commitment and outcomes. Hilarious, down-to-earth and helpful.
Body Express Makeover: Trim and Sculpt Your Body in Less than Six Weeks
Michael George (Fireside, $16.00)
Too busy to work out? Michael George has the solution, in less than 45 minutes a day. Early
chapters offer the usual motivational material, but this famous trainer soon shifts into gear with
a balanced nutrition and exercise plan. His diet lacks details and requires time for shopping and
preparation, but his exercise regime blends cardio with strength training for maximum efficiency.
Workable and practical.
YOU: The Smart Patient: An Insider's Guide for Getting the
Best Treatment
Michael F. Roizen & Mehmet C. Oz (Free Press, $14.95)
Every year, medical mistakes cause an estimated 44,000 to 98,000 fatalities - at least twice
the number claimed by drunk driving. Another 40,000 people also die, and 1.3 million are seriously
hurt because of medication mishaps - many due to doctor or pharmacist error. The solution, say
these physicians? Become a "smart patient." Arm yourself with information, ask questions and
participate in every healthcare decision, from hospital choice to medication management. An
excellent resource.
Man of the House: Reflections on Life with Dogs, Divas and a
Bunch of Little Dudes Who Keep Calling Me Dad
Chris Erskine (Rodale, $23.95)
It's a skill to make people laugh and cry at the same time, but Chris Erskine manages to do
just that. He also makes you think - a lot. A Los Angeles Times columnist who writes about family
life in the suburbs, Erskine explores adoring toddlers, narcissistic teenagers, hot neighbors and
exhausted spouses. From childbirth to aging via the empty nest, he offers both witticisms and
insights. Well-written and surprisingly profound.
The Big Book of Outdoor Cooking and Entertaining: Spirited
Recipes and Expert Tips for Barbecuing, Charcoal and Gas Grilling, Rotisserie Roasting, Smoking,
Deep-Frying and Making Merry
Cheryl Alters Jamison and Bill Jamison (Morrow Cookbooks, $24.95)
Surveys reveal that Americans largely prefer cooking in backyards, patios or balconies. This
aptly timed cookbook addresses the myriad forms of outdoor cooking and equipment, as well as the
many flavors and textures these methods impart. Recipes range from Kansas City Rib Rub and 10
elegant butters, to smoked Kalua Pig and Peppered Rib-Eye on the grill with Truffle Vinaigrette.
Lacks photos, but chockfull of history, tips and techniques.
