Review of UnDo It! by Dean Ornish, M.D.
Self-Help
UnDo It! by Dean Ornish, M.D., is a groundbreaking exploration into the power of lifestyle changes to reverse chronic diseases. As a leader in lifestyle medicine, Ornish draws on over forty years of research to offer a transformative approach to health that has consistently demonstrated its efficacy in clinical settings. His program has been notably recognized as #1 for heart health by U.S. News & World Report and has shown promise in improving cognition in early-stage Alzheimer's patients. Medicare now covers Ornish’s program, which underscores its credibility and impact.
The book presents a simple yet profound approach to health and wellness, broken down into four foundational principles:
Eat Well: Ornish advocates for a whole foods, plant-based diet that is naturally low in fat and sugar but high in essential nutrients. This dietary approach not only supports cardiovascular health but also contributes to overall well-being by emphasizing fresh, unprocessed foods.
Move More: The book emphasizes the importance of regular, moderate exercise, such as walking. This principle highlights how even modest increases in physical activity can significantly benefit health, enhance cardiovascular function, and improve mental health.
Stress Less: Stress management is a crucial component of Ornish’s program. The book provides guidance on incorporating meditation, gentle yoga practices, and other stress-reduction techniques into daily life. By addressing stress, Ornish shows how individuals can support their overall health and prevent the progression of chronic diseases.
Love More: Perhaps one of the most profound aspects of the book is its focus on the role of love and intimacy in healing. Ornish explores how emotional connections and supportive relationships can transform loneliness into healing, contributing significantly to a person's overall health.
UnDo It! is not only a theoretical guide but also a practical resource. It includes seventy recipes that align with the plant-based diet recommended in the program, along with easy-to-follow meal plans. The book offers tips for stocking a health-conscious kitchen and advice on eating out, making it accessible for readers looking to implement these changes in their everyday lives. Additionally, it provides recommendations for exercises and stress-reduction practices, all complemented by inspiring patient stories. These stories highlight real-life transformations, such as individuals who experienced significant health improvements in just nine weeks, potentially avoiding more invasive treatments like heart transplants.
The book has received high praise, including from Richard Carmona, MD, MPH, the 17th Surgeon General of the U.S., who described Ornish’s work as “elegant and simple” and worthy of a Nobel Prize. This endorsement reflects the book's potential to change lives on a global scale by promoting a scientifically validated approach to reversing chronic diseases.
In summary, UnDo It! by Dean Ornish, M.D., offers a comprehensive and accessible roadmap to improving health through lifestyle changes. Its evidence-based approach, practical advice, and inspiring success stories make it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their well-being and address chronic health conditions.
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General Resources
Books:
Dominion: The Power of Animals in Nature and in Our Imagination by Matthew Scully
Animal Liberation by Peter Singer
Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
A Billion Hungry Mouths: Feeding the World Without Consuming the Planet by Colin Tudge
Websites and organizations:
Documentaries:
Articles:
"The Case for Animal Rights" by Tom Regan
‘‘Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows: An Introduction to Carnism’’ by Melanie Joy
‘‘Animal Rights: The Abolitionist Approach’’ by Gary L. Francione
‘‘Fellow Creatures: Our Obligations to the Other Animals’’ by Christine Korsgaard
Seeds of Compassion: Finding Jesus Christ in a Vegan World by Michael Corthell
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