- Email: [email protected]
Consumer
188
EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS IN REVIEW
The book encourages monitoring eating patterns and using behavioral techniques, such as visualization, to overcome specific cravings for food . While it includes helpful timetables for initiating these behavioral exercises, the book does not discuss new research or the origins of binge eating nor does it provide information on new techniques for dealing with binge eating. The implied promise that by following the book's 12-day program the reader will have freedom forever from out-of-control eating is enthusiastic but may be overly optimistic for many readers. This reviewer would have liked to see more emphasis placed on distorted body image and on techniques for helping readers overcome the current assumption that "thin" is desirable, despite body frame or genetic background. Nevertheless, the book encourages readers to learn to like themselves and to evaluate their goals regarding career, family and personal relationships more realistically. The health profeSSional dealing with clients attempting to overcome occasional eating binges may find the book helpful; however, the authors specifically state that it is not written for the person attempting to deal with severe anorexia or bulimia. Gail K. Kaitschuck, M.S., LoO ., RD., Augusta Nutrition Consultants, 3636 Wheeler Road, Augusta, GA 30909.
CONSUMER Living Binge Free: A personal guide to victory over compulsive eating, Latimer, J., 1988. From Living Quest, 3962 Fuller Ct., Boulder, CO 80303, 138 pp., softcover, $11.95. ISBN 0-929109-05-8. Stories of recovery from bulimia are always encouraging, particularly when they include practical suggestions that can help others deal with their own eating disorders. Jane Evans Latimer's book is an informative account of her experiences confronting her inner being, and how the process of self-discovery gradually led her to healthier eating behavior. This clear, easy to read book is written primarily for the binge eater; however, it is also suitable for the health care professional who is at an entry level in learning how to work with people with eating disorders. Jane Evans'Latimer's reflections on each stage of her recovery (the emotions, insights and experiences) are organized into specific mini-chapters with related exercises. These exercises, a positive feature of the book, help sufferers define and promote changes in their attitudes and behaviors. Of course, these guidelines will not be effective for everyone, but for a young person with a problem of short duration or for individuals
undergoing therapy, the guidelines can be effective tools for self-help. The author's own comments indicate that virtually no professional help was available to her when she began her struggle to overcome bulimia. Fortunately, specialized professional care can now be found, and Latimer acknowledges that with these supportive services, the bulimic's chances of recovery will be enhanced. Alice L. Tobias EdoO., RD., Director of the Program in Dietetics, Foods and Nutrition, Department of Health Services, Lehman College, CUNY, Bronx, NY 10468. CONSUMER The I-Quit Smoking Diet: The revolutionary 21 day plan, Alpert, J., 1988. From Contemporary Books, 180 North Michigan Ave. , Chicago, IL 60601, 174 pp., hardcover, $16.95. ISBN 0-80924587-6. Losing weight has been a national obsession for some time. Now, with the dramatic change in smoking norms, quitting smoking may well become the next obsession. The author of this book is a psychotherapist, and the first half of the book explains her theory of addiction. Alpert's premise is that people develop addictions in order to suppress negative feelings they are unwilling to face . The author maintains that unless these feelings are faced and accepted, one addiction will be traded for another (e.g., smoking for overeating). The reader is instructed to keep a "feelings diary" to help diagnose suppressed feelings . As suppressed feelings are acknowledged, the need for unhealthy coping mechanisms (smoking, overeating) diminishes, according to the author. The second half of the book explains the eating plan, a basic exchange diet, and includes a three-week menu that allows 1200 calories for women and 1500 calories for men. The nutrition information given is generally accurate, except for a chart on p. 97 which states that folic acid and vitamin B-12 "prevent lung cancer; calm depressed nerves." The author lists food sources of the vitamins, however, and stresses the danger of megadoses. A three-page bibliography lists excellent smoking cessation, nutrition, exercise and self-help resources. Written in an easy to read style, with lots of anecdotes to illustrate major points, this book could be helpful to the person who smokes and/or overeats to suppress negative feelings . But it is my opinion that many smokers smoke for other reasons, just as there are many reasons why people overeat. I question whether the average dietitian could determine the
type of person who could benefit from this book. More a psychology book than a nutrition book, I feel it might be best suited for use in individual or group counseling, rather than as a self-help resource. Kathy Schwab, RD., Health Promotion Coordinator, Lincoln National Health Plan. , 2655 Camino del Rio North, Ste . 300, San Diego, CA 92103 . CONSUMER Peace of Mind During Pregnancy: An A-Z guide to the substances that could affect your unborn baby, Kelley-Buchanan, C., 1988. From Facts on File, Inc., 460 Park Ave. S., New York, NY 10016, 384 pp., hardcover, $24.95. ISBN 0-8160-1970-X. This is a timely and balanced presentation on how environmental substances may affect the development of an unborn child. The book provides information that can be used to accomplish two objectives: the prevention of those fetal abnormalities that science and history have linked to teratogens, and alleviating unnecessary fears during pregnancy.
It is information-packed. Nearly 200 alphabetized agents are summarized in a standard format. Some of the agents included are drugs (prescription, over-thecounter, illicit), common household materials and events (microwave ovens, air travel), workplace conditions (video display terminals), and diseases (AIDS, herpes, measles). Entries include medication classification; generic name; brand name; FDA pregnancy category; a risk summary (including time of exposure risk, pregnancy outcome and quality of documentation, similar in format to Consumer Report); and a detailed description of the agent, the ways it is used and its effect, if any, on the unborn child. References to scientific studies are listed at the end of the entry. The book is also
J. ofNutr. Educ. Vo!' 21, No.4 fully indexed by both generic and by product brand names. There is very little medical jargon used in the book, but the content is not fluff. The author emphasizes information pertinent to the outcome of pregnancy by distilling apparently mountains of teratology and toxicology research to the application level. Very interesting letters are included from expectant mothers, which chronicle their experiences and solidify the human connection for the parent-to-be . The book also includes information on the natural risks inherent to reproduction, diagnosis procedures for problems, an overview of safety testing, and sources for further reading. If a pregnant woman has a general feeling of unease about something, this book can be very reassuring in that it explains the true risks involved in pregnancy, rather than those routinely sensationalized by friends, family or the media. According to the book jacket, Christine Kelley-Buchanon was one of the three founders of the nation's first teratogen registries, the California Teratogen Registry at the University of California-San Diego. She was coordinator of the Registry for seven years. Cathy L. Hix, Ph.D., R.D ., Professor, Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, TN 38505 . PROFESSIONAL Food and Nutrition Information Guide, Szilard, P., 1987. Libraries Unlimited, Inc., P.O. Box 263, Littleton, CO 801060263, 358 pp. , hardcover, $37.50. ISBN 0-87287-457-5. Have you ever sat down to write a paper and realized that an obscure reference was needed? Or worse yet, been totally confused with regard to locating vital resources for a presentation? If so, the new Food and Nutrition Information Guide, by Paul Szilard, may be your
Augustl989
passport into a world of nutrition resources. The book is divided into seven parts containing 23 chapters, and is designed as a reference book for anyone dedicated to locating specific nutrition information. Nutrition students will find chapters 4 and 8 ("Locating Research" and "Getting Started on a Research Paper") especially helpful, while the seasoned professional will find chapters 3 and 7 ("Literature of the Field and Its Publishers" and "A Guide to Government Publications") useful. Part III deals exclusively with nutrition resources location. The "Food Composition Data" chapter allows the nutrition explorer to discover a wealth of domestic and internationally produced nutrient resources. A quest for nutrition and food consumption surveys; dietary standards, recommendations, and guidelines; nutrition education and assessment resources can all be found in Part III. To round out this extraordinary reference book, the author has included sections on "Dietetics" resources, "Food Science and Technology," and lastly, "Related Areas," which includes food service and preparation resources , as well as guides for locating information on social and cultural factors influencing nutrition. If your own nutrition information compass needs tuning or is in a chronic state of disrepair, this book will not only serve as an excellent guide, pointing you in the right direction, but will also provide an uncluttered path to your final destination. Kris Clark , M.S., R.D., Doctoral Candidate , Penn State University, University Park , PA 16802. CONSUMER H 20: The guide to quality bottled water, Wiesenberger, A. , ed. , 1988. From, Woodbridge Press Publishing Co. , P.O. Box 6189, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, 175 pp., softcover, $11.95. ISBN 0-88007-1664. Water - we can't live without it. Yet few of us give much thought to exactly what we are getting when we turn on the tap. This volume takes a look at water, with a particular focus on bottled water. Included in the first third of the book are discussions of the human body's need for water, water in history and legend, pollution , and mineral waters . The remaining two thirds of the book are devoted to a look at bottled waters from around the world. The strength of this book lies in its very interesting approach to water and its historical role. This information is contained both in the early chapters and in the discussions of the products from the various bottlers.
189
Unfortunately, the author, who is a strong proponent of the use of bottled water, goes to extremes in making his points on the advantages of this product. A great deal of general information is presented regarding benefits of bottled water, yet little scientific evidence is presented. Although various authorities are quoted, no actual references are given. Incorporated throughout the text are illustrations depicting water and its many uses. These make the book visually appealing as recreational reading; however, its lack of scientific support and biased presentation limit its usefulness to the nutrition educator. Pamela L. Brady, Ph.D ., Extension Foods SpeCialist, University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, Little Rock, AR 72203. PROFESSIONAUCONSUMER Cooking it la Heart, Hachfeld, L. and B. Eykyn, eds., 1988. From Mankato Heart Health Program Foundation, Inc., 101 North Second Street, Suite 202, Mankato, MN 56001, 435 pp., spiralbound, $14.95 + $1.75 P/H . ISBN 09620471-0-4.
In 1980 the Minnesota Heart Health Program, with funding from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, began community research efforts to prevent heart disease. Mankato, Minnesota was one of the three sites chosen to implement extensive educational strategies to reduce cardiovascular disease risk within the community. This book is an outgrowth of that project and includes dietary recommendations and recipes. The chapter entitled "Cooking a la Heart Dietary Recommendations" presents guidelines unified from the reports of seven national agencies involved in cardiovascular disease risk reduction. The scientific and medical rationale for the guidelines are clearly explained in an eyecatching format. Suggestions for shopping and menu planning with sample
EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS IN REVIEW
The book encourages monitoring eating patterns and using behavioral techniques, such as visualization, to overcome specific cravings for food . While it includes helpful timetables for initiating these behavioral exercises, the book does not discuss new research or the origins of binge eating nor does it provide information on new techniques for dealing with binge eating. The implied promise that by following the book's 12-day program the reader will have freedom forever from out-of-control eating is enthusiastic but may be overly optimistic for many readers. This reviewer would have liked to see more emphasis placed on distorted body image and on techniques for helping readers overcome the current assumption that "thin" is desirable, despite body frame or genetic background. Nevertheless, the book encourages readers to learn to like themselves and to evaluate their goals regarding career, family and personal relationships more realistically. The health profeSSional dealing with clients attempting to overcome occasional eating binges may find the book helpful; however, the authors specifically state that it is not written for the person attempting to deal with severe anorexia or bulimia. Gail K. Kaitschuck, M.S., LoO ., RD., Augusta Nutrition Consultants, 3636 Wheeler Road, Augusta, GA 30909.
CONSUMER Living Binge Free: A personal guide to victory over compulsive eating, Latimer, J., 1988. From Living Quest, 3962 Fuller Ct., Boulder, CO 80303, 138 pp., softcover, $11.95. ISBN 0-929109-05-8. Stories of recovery from bulimia are always encouraging, particularly when they include practical suggestions that can help others deal with their own eating disorders. Jane Evans Latimer's book is an informative account of her experiences confronting her inner being, and how the process of self-discovery gradually led her to healthier eating behavior. This clear, easy to read book is written primarily for the binge eater; however, it is also suitable for the health care professional who is at an entry level in learning how to work with people with eating disorders. Jane Evans'Latimer's reflections on each stage of her recovery (the emotions, insights and experiences) are organized into specific mini-chapters with related exercises. These exercises, a positive feature of the book, help sufferers define and promote changes in their attitudes and behaviors. Of course, these guidelines will not be effective for everyone, but for a young person with a problem of short duration or for individuals
undergoing therapy, the guidelines can be effective tools for self-help. The author's own comments indicate that virtually no professional help was available to her when she began her struggle to overcome bulimia. Fortunately, specialized professional care can now be found, and Latimer acknowledges that with these supportive services, the bulimic's chances of recovery will be enhanced. Alice L. Tobias EdoO., RD., Director of the Program in Dietetics, Foods and Nutrition, Department of Health Services, Lehman College, CUNY, Bronx, NY 10468. CONSUMER The I-Quit Smoking Diet: The revolutionary 21 day plan, Alpert, J., 1988. From Contemporary Books, 180 North Michigan Ave. , Chicago, IL 60601, 174 pp., hardcover, $16.95. ISBN 0-80924587-6. Losing weight has been a national obsession for some time. Now, with the dramatic change in smoking norms, quitting smoking may well become the next obsession. The author of this book is a psychotherapist, and the first half of the book explains her theory of addiction. Alpert's premise is that people develop addictions in order to suppress negative feelings they are unwilling to face . The author maintains that unless these feelings are faced and accepted, one addiction will be traded for another (e.g., smoking for overeating). The reader is instructed to keep a "feelings diary" to help diagnose suppressed feelings . As suppressed feelings are acknowledged, the need for unhealthy coping mechanisms (smoking, overeating) diminishes, according to the author. The second half of the book explains the eating plan, a basic exchange diet, and includes a three-week menu that allows 1200 calories for women and 1500 calories for men. The nutrition information given is generally accurate, except for a chart on p. 97 which states that folic acid and vitamin B-12 "prevent lung cancer; calm depressed nerves." The author lists food sources of the vitamins, however, and stresses the danger of megadoses. A three-page bibliography lists excellent smoking cessation, nutrition, exercise and self-help resources. Written in an easy to read style, with lots of anecdotes to illustrate major points, this book could be helpful to the person who smokes and/or overeats to suppress negative feelings . But it is my opinion that many smokers smoke for other reasons, just as there are many reasons why people overeat. I question whether the average dietitian could determine the
type of person who could benefit from this book. More a psychology book than a nutrition book, I feel it might be best suited for use in individual or group counseling, rather than as a self-help resource. Kathy Schwab, RD., Health Promotion Coordinator, Lincoln National Health Plan. , 2655 Camino del Rio North, Ste . 300, San Diego, CA 92103 . CONSUMER Peace of Mind During Pregnancy: An A-Z guide to the substances that could affect your unborn baby, Kelley-Buchanan, C., 1988. From Facts on File, Inc., 460 Park Ave. S., New York, NY 10016, 384 pp., hardcover, $24.95. ISBN 0-8160-1970-X. This is a timely and balanced presentation on how environmental substances may affect the development of an unborn child. The book provides information that can be used to accomplish two objectives: the prevention of those fetal abnormalities that science and history have linked to teratogens, and alleviating unnecessary fears during pregnancy.
It is information-packed. Nearly 200 alphabetized agents are summarized in a standard format. Some of the agents included are drugs (prescription, over-thecounter, illicit), common household materials and events (microwave ovens, air travel), workplace conditions (video display terminals), and diseases (AIDS, herpes, measles). Entries include medication classification; generic name; brand name; FDA pregnancy category; a risk summary (including time of exposure risk, pregnancy outcome and quality of documentation, similar in format to Consumer Report); and a detailed description of the agent, the ways it is used and its effect, if any, on the unborn child. References to scientific studies are listed at the end of the entry. The book is also
J. ofNutr. Educ. Vo!' 21, No.4 fully indexed by both generic and by product brand names. There is very little medical jargon used in the book, but the content is not fluff. The author emphasizes information pertinent to the outcome of pregnancy by distilling apparently mountains of teratology and toxicology research to the application level. Very interesting letters are included from expectant mothers, which chronicle their experiences and solidify the human connection for the parent-to-be . The book also includes information on the natural risks inherent to reproduction, diagnosis procedures for problems, an overview of safety testing, and sources for further reading. If a pregnant woman has a general feeling of unease about something, this book can be very reassuring in that it explains the true risks involved in pregnancy, rather than those routinely sensationalized by friends, family or the media. According to the book jacket, Christine Kelley-Buchanon was one of the three founders of the nation's first teratogen registries, the California Teratogen Registry at the University of California-San Diego. She was coordinator of the Registry for seven years. Cathy L. Hix, Ph.D., R.D ., Professor, Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, TN 38505 . PROFESSIONAL Food and Nutrition Information Guide, Szilard, P., 1987. Libraries Unlimited, Inc., P.O. Box 263, Littleton, CO 801060263, 358 pp. , hardcover, $37.50. ISBN 0-87287-457-5. Have you ever sat down to write a paper and realized that an obscure reference was needed? Or worse yet, been totally confused with regard to locating vital resources for a presentation? If so, the new Food and Nutrition Information Guide, by Paul Szilard, may be your
Augustl989
passport into a world of nutrition resources. The book is divided into seven parts containing 23 chapters, and is designed as a reference book for anyone dedicated to locating specific nutrition information. Nutrition students will find chapters 4 and 8 ("Locating Research" and "Getting Started on a Research Paper") especially helpful, while the seasoned professional will find chapters 3 and 7 ("Literature of the Field and Its Publishers" and "A Guide to Government Publications") useful. Part III deals exclusively with nutrition resources location. The "Food Composition Data" chapter allows the nutrition explorer to discover a wealth of domestic and internationally produced nutrient resources. A quest for nutrition and food consumption surveys; dietary standards, recommendations, and guidelines; nutrition education and assessment resources can all be found in Part III. To round out this extraordinary reference book, the author has included sections on "Dietetics" resources, "Food Science and Technology," and lastly, "Related Areas," which includes food service and preparation resources , as well as guides for locating information on social and cultural factors influencing nutrition. If your own nutrition information compass needs tuning or is in a chronic state of disrepair, this book will not only serve as an excellent guide, pointing you in the right direction, but will also provide an uncluttered path to your final destination. Kris Clark , M.S., R.D., Doctoral Candidate , Penn State University, University Park , PA 16802. CONSUMER H 20: The guide to quality bottled water, Wiesenberger, A. , ed. , 1988. From, Woodbridge Press Publishing Co. , P.O. Box 6189, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, 175 pp., softcover, $11.95. ISBN 0-88007-1664. Water - we can't live without it. Yet few of us give much thought to exactly what we are getting when we turn on the tap. This volume takes a look at water, with a particular focus on bottled water. Included in the first third of the book are discussions of the human body's need for water, water in history and legend, pollution , and mineral waters . The remaining two thirds of the book are devoted to a look at bottled waters from around the world. The strength of this book lies in its very interesting approach to water and its historical role. This information is contained both in the early chapters and in the discussions of the products from the various bottlers.
189
Unfortunately, the author, who is a strong proponent of the use of bottled water, goes to extremes in making his points on the advantages of this product. A great deal of general information is presented regarding benefits of bottled water, yet little scientific evidence is presented. Although various authorities are quoted, no actual references are given. Incorporated throughout the text are illustrations depicting water and its many uses. These make the book visually appealing as recreational reading; however, its lack of scientific support and biased presentation limit its usefulness to the nutrition educator. Pamela L. Brady, Ph.D ., Extension Foods SpeCialist, University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, Little Rock, AR 72203. PROFESSIONAUCONSUMER Cooking it la Heart, Hachfeld, L. and B. Eykyn, eds., 1988. From Mankato Heart Health Program Foundation, Inc., 101 North Second Street, Suite 202, Mankato, MN 56001, 435 pp., spiralbound, $14.95 + $1.75 P/H . ISBN 09620471-0-4.
In 1980 the Minnesota Heart Health Program, with funding from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, began community research efforts to prevent heart disease. Mankato, Minnesota was one of the three sites chosen to implement extensive educational strategies to reduce cardiovascular disease risk within the community. This book is an outgrowth of that project and includes dietary recommendations and recipes. The chapter entitled "Cooking a la Heart Dietary Recommendations" presents guidelines unified from the reports of seven national agencies involved in cardiovascular disease risk reduction. The scientific and medical rationale for the guidelines are clearly explained in an eyecatching format. Suggestions for shopping and menu planning with sample