Stress-Proof

August 1, 2017

This title recommends a variety of lifestyle and behavior changes to reduce the impact of chronic stress on mind and body. Storoni, an ophthalmologist with research experience in perceptual neuroscience, covers a range of topics, including emotional regulation, managing cortisol levels, cultivating a rational worldview, managing your body clock, reducing chronic inflammation and insulin resistance, and increasing motivation. Suggestions span cognitive and behavioral techniques to diet, exercise, meditation, and much more, supported with evidence from medical, psychological, and neuroscience research. She advocates complementary/alternative therapies (e.g., yoga, probiotics), for which she also cites supporting evidence. Most of the advice is practical for the average person, but some lacks sufficient detail to implement. For example, the author explains that reducing the intake of FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols) improves symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome but does not define these molecules or list foods containing them. VERDICT Extensively cited and evidence-based, this title offers a menu of options for limiting the effects of stress on physical, mental, and emotional heath. Readers will need to consult more detailed sources once they identify techniques to try.--Janet Crum, Northern Arizona Univ. Lib., Flagstaff

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