Gut Instinct

December 4, 2006
According to Pallardy, a French osteopath, dietician and author, the abdomen is a "second brain," producing crucial immune cells and a network of neurotransmitters; in this thorough, well-sourced guide to intestinal well-being, Pallardy argues that in order to operate on an optimal level, a person must pay the same attention to his abdominal brain as he does to his cranial version. To that end, he presents readers with seven simple steps to a happy, stress-free, smoothly functioning tummy. Most of the method stems from simple common sense: eat regularly and slowly, choose meals carefully, and exercise consistently. Other of the steps lean earnestly toward the new age; the author puts much emphasis on "abdominal breathing," asks readers to think with their gut through "abdominal meditation" and massage their stomachs for a few moments each day. Though informative, the writing can become convoluted, as when the author describes cellulite as "a result of a deregulated nervous system impacting negatively on the digestive process and causing a constant excess of fermentation in the gut." A rundown of common conditions, however, provides solid, specific advice. Pallardy's insights and methods, backed by his 35 years of experience, attention to current research and dedication to improving quality of life, should soothe many an upset stomach.