164 Amazing Insights into the Science of Medicine, Nutrition and Well-being
October 15, 2011
Schwarcz (director, Office of Science & Society, McGill Univ.) offers readers answers to 164 questions related to health. Using a question-and-answer format, he tells readers how trans-fat-free margarine is made, why bicycle seats may affect erectile dysfunction, what probiotics are, and the story of Typhoid Mary. The questions are grouped by subject: health and supplements, unhealthy habits, healthy eating, etc. The responses range in length from a few sentences to several paragraphs. No sources are cited, and the book does not have a bibliography. The subjects covered include some mildly interesting trivia, for instance, that loggers in Thailand feed elephants amphetamines to make them work harder--requiring the creation of an elephant drug rehab facility. VERDICT An optional purchase; the material is easy to understand, but it is readily available in other sources. Without notes and a bibliography, the book is of limited use.--Barbara M. Bibel, Oakland P.L.
Copyright 2011 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.