Reboot Your Brain

August 19, 2013
In his latest book, health and nutrition expert and prolific author Null (Healing with Magnets), who is also host of syndicated radio talk show (The Gary Null Show), says that brain health can be improved through exercise, meditation, diet, diet supplementation, and brain challenges, rather than drugs, in the quest to fight Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, memory loss, depression, anxiety, dementia, and other mental health problems. Null suggests that readers exercise at least 45 minutes per day and at least five days a week. His dietary recommendations will be challenging for some to adopt. To combat the effects of chemicals and junk foods, certified organics are the only edibles permitted here: vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and the like. And water—lots and lots of water. For the simplest reboot, Null proposes 19 supplements a day, with various combinations of ingestion times and amounts. If the reader is suffering from anxiety, Parkinson’s disease, depression, or memory loss, for example, four to 11 added supplements may be necessary; the reader must determine which of the associated illnesses is most pressing, as only one additional supplement regimen is allowed. Null doesn’t provide guidance on how to make this determination.

November 1, 2013

Alternative health guru Null believes that as a result of poor lifestyle choices, the large segment of the American population over the age of 47 is heading for some form of dementia. According to him, stress, poor diet, and obesity lead to Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, and ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease), among other conditions. Null's solution is a vegan, low-fat diet that also excludes refined sugar, alcohol, and caffeine. Exercise and myriad nutritional supplements will also help. The book reads like an infomercial that's full of testimonials and references to animal studies that prove that following this regimen will reverse the diseases. Null is a popular radio personality with a following, but his credentials are from nontraditional institutions that are accredited but not rigorous. While proper nutrition and exercise are definitely linked to good health, the need for supplements is controversial. VERDICT Only for fans of Null; buy where he is popular.--Barbara Bibel, Oakland P.L.

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