The Toxin Solution

February 1, 2017

Dietary recommendations to reduce toxin exposure and improve health are everywhere and range from widely accepted measures (e.g., eat more fruits and vegetables and fewer fatty and starchy foods) to extreme fad diets and cleanses. This title is somewhere in between. Pizzorno (Textbook of Natural Medicine) is a naturopathic physician and the founder of Bastyr University; hence his recommendations are grounded in naturopathic rather than conventional medical practice. The book begins with two chapters on the sources and health effects of recognized toxins such as lead and arsenic as well as phthalates, preservatives, and other chemicals. Subsequent chapters suggest diet and supplement regimens to detoxify the body, clean up the gut, and improve liver and kidney function. Pizzorno blends carefully cited, scientifically validated claims with assertions based on naturopathic practice but not fully supported by medical evidence (e.g., health risks associated with leaky gut, mercury from fillings, GMOs, and artificial sweeteners). In fact, the concept of detoxing with diet and herbal supplements is not generally accepted by mainstream medicine. VERDICT Readers interested in naturopathic approaches will appreciate Pizzorno's detailed explanations, clear instructions, and gentle tone. His recommendations for avoiding known toxins and eating healthier foods will likely appeal to a broader range of readers.--Janet Crum, Northern Arizona Univ. Lib., Flagstaff

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