Barbee openly admits that he is not presenting a balanced debate. He explains that other researchers, especially those tightly linked with big agribusiness interests, have already promoted the opposing opinions -- to the detriment of the general public, according to Barbee. This book details Barbee’s opinions about such sacred cows as:
- green tea
- soy
- vitamin C
- milk
- vegetarianism
- fluoridation of water
- debunk what he calls the propaganda surrounding the products so heavily promoted by the health food industry
- define the reality of each food’s benefits and risks
- deflate overblown research results
- detail specific tips on how to obtain the best of foods and avoid the worst.
One of Barbee’s main concerns is over-fluoridation, especially as related to green tea consumption. He contends that fluoride is a toxin that has leached into soils, been absorbed into the foods we grow and pervaded the water supply. If you drink tea, Barbee believes you are doubly exposed to fluoride in both the leaves and water, but other foods are damaged, too. The book describes many conditions and symptoms that are linked with over-fluoridation. Barbee claims that because it can be so toxic, fluoride:
- may contribute to hypo- and hyperthyroidism
- can cause renal impairment
- is considered a carcinogen
- can negatively impact bone-density
- is on the list of substances the EPA wants banned from the water supply
- in conjunction with aluminum, may be linked with Alzheimer’s.
The so-called wonders of soy are another area of serious concern. Barbee contends, as other researchers have, that soy products are not the secret to a long, healthy life. He argues that the much-praised Asian-style diet contains much less soy than that of the ‘more-is-better’ American approach. Barbee lists the many dangers of soy products, especially the hormonal effects of excessive soy consumption, and its negative effects on thyroid function.
Trans-fats
If you have a weight problem, you’ll be interested in Barbee’s claim that trans-fats, and not cholesterol or carbohydrates, cause weight problems. He offers thorough coverage of how and why trans-fats pervade our eating habits as well as the specific effects these trans-fats may have. He doesn’t preach about dietary restrictions. Rather, he explains the havoc that certain foods can wreak on the body and lets the reader decide if the taste is worth the risk.
Aspartame
Weight-conscience readers will also be interested in Barbee’s discussion of aspartame, the generic name for Nutra-Sweet. He considers it poison, and links it to:
- weight gain
- worsening or increased fibromyalgia symptoms
- nervous system disorders, brain cancer
- the exacerbation of diabetes
- addiction
Just when you may think nothing is safe to eat, Barbee offers some good news about cholesterol, eggs, red meat, butter and other high-quality fats -- yes, high quality fats. According to Barbee, fat containing conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) can be very beneficial. He also explains why the trans-fat-filled, hydrogenated vegetable oils ‘peddled’ by the food industry are the primary causes of heart disease and cancer.
Other Warnings
Barbee looks specifically at osteoporosis and conditions related to the use of bovine growth hormone. He defines and explains these issues in the context of their dietary causes. Alternative sources where you can get calcium and protein are included. Also included are specific details on the negative side-effects of using plastics as well as microwaving and irradiating our food. You’ll find Barbee’s theories regarding the role of these preparation methods in hormone imbalances and weight gain worth noting.
Vegetarianism is thoroughly discussed in its own chapter. Barbee debates:
- the philosophy and self-sacrifice of vegetarians - is it worth it?
- research studies’ “proof” of the superiority of vegetarianism
- some vitamin and mineral shortcomings of vegetarianism
- the effects of carbohydrates and other excesses
- environmental concerns
- current farming practices and their impact on food quality
