Today is World Book Day, and in honour of this auspicious event we have decided to take a look at five health books which have made an impact on readers.
The books included on this list represent the wide spectrum of health literature available. Have you read any of these? Let us know which health books have changed you life in the comments section below.
The China Study – T. Colin Campbell, et al.
This book, one of America’s best-selling books about nutrition, examines the link between animal products and a variety of chronic illnesses. It is a champion of vegan and plant-based diets as a way to limit the likelihood of developing a chronic disease. Based on the largest scientific study of its kind, the China-Cornell-Oxford project, looking at correlations between counties of China which consume a high proportion of animal products and the rates of cancer, heart disease and other chronic illnesses.
Spontaneous Healing – Andrew Weil, M.D.
Another American bestseller, this book looks at the possibilities of spontaneous healing. The author examines case histories and medical techniques from around the world. He demonstrates how spontaneous healing has worked to cure life-threatening illnesses, chronic pain and severe trauma. The book outlines an eight-week programme allowing the reader to discover how spontaneous healing works and how to harness its potential power.
Our Bodies, Ourselves – The Boston Women’s Health Book Collective
Originally written in 1971, the current edition came out in 2011. This best-seller gives advice and health information for women on topics ranging from birth control and menopause, to gender identity and mental health. It has been described by The New York Times as “a feminist classic” and “America’s best-selling book about women’s health.”
Lifting Depression – Kelly Lambert
Its tag-line reads, “A neuroscientist’s hands-on approach to activating your brain’s healing power”. The book looks at Lambert’s research and modern trends in neuroscience to help people understand depression and other mood-disorders. Highlighting stories of change, the book offers a commonsense way of preventing and treating one of societies most widespread illnesses.
Free to be You and Me – Marlo Thomas and Friends
Not strictly health-related but valid nonetheless, this illustrated book aimed at kids relates to compassion, empathy and understanding . A special 35th anniversary edition has been released, collecting inspirational songs, stories and poems. The book celebrates individuality and challenges stereotypes, something as relevant today as it was 40 years ago when the original books came out.
Which health related books have changed the way you live? Let us know in the comments below.