This book is a MUST for any household that strives to work towards true natural health. A large part of our health is based on what we put in our bodies.  This book, in addition to the recipes, has a lot of information on basic health and nutrition. Before even getting to the recipes, in the "Introduction", are chapters such as "Fats", "Enzymes", "Carbohydrates" and "About Food Allergies, Food Choices and Food Combining". In her chapters on "Vitamins & Minerals", the author devotes 7 pages to explain each individual supplement.  All of this information is very useful to have in a reference format, readily available.

This is one of my favorite parts of the book: The author describes the process of Hydrogenation: (Page 12):

"This is the process that turns polyunsaturates, normally liquid at room temperature, into a fat that is solid at room temperature - margarine and shortening.  To produce them, manufacturers begin with the cheapest oils - soy, corn or cottonseed - already rancid from the extraction process. These oils are then mixed with tiny metal particles-usually nickel oxide.  Nickel oxide is very toxic when absorbed and is impossible to totally eliminate from margarine. The oil with its nickel catalyst is then subjected to hydrogen gas in a high pressure, high temperature reactor.  Next, soap-like emulsifiers and starch are squeezed into the mixture to give it a better consistency; the oil is yet again subject to high temperature when it is steam-cleaned.  This removes its horrible odor. Margarine's natural color, an unappetizing grey, is removed by bleach.  Coal-tar dyes and strong flavors must then be added to make it resemble butter.  Finally the mixture is compressed and packaged in blocks or tubs, ready to be spread on your toast."

Since our food can lead to not only physical stress, but emotional stress as well, pay attention to what you eat!  This is a popular time of year for extra special foods-especially sweets.  Before you go munching down on those cookies your co-worker brought into the office, or the cupcakes brought into your childs' classroom, really look at the ingredients.  Most baked goods from grocery stores will have hydrogenated oils in them.  Also, if someone has made something at home, you could simply state that you can't have hydrogenated oils and ask if it has been made with Crisco or margarine .

Hydrogenated oils can give some people headaches, and actually make them sick to their stomach.  Again, one way to avoid undo stress at this time of the year, or any time, is to be wise about your food choices. It is perfectly OK and acceptable to ask at your favorite restaurant if they serve "real butter". (Believe it or not, some "fine dining" restaurants actually mix real butter with margarine and serve it with their bread.)  French fries, onion rings, "kiddie meals" - ask what oils they fry in! (I'll save you some time: just don't order anything fried -at most restaurants- if you care about your heath, and your children's health.)

(For more information, read the book referenced and also go to the Dr. Mercola web site.)