The Biology of Success

NBC's chief medical correspondent Arnot exemplifies more than he actually advises in this misleadingly titled self-help book. There is little biology and few concrete recommendations to be found here regarding biochemistry or diet, supplement or exercise regimes. Instead, Arnot meanders from not-so-useful tips for regulating body temperature (""Armani suits have become a favorite because they're incredibly light and lack the thick insulated liners of the old English suit"") to clich d advice such as ""If you can't say something good, don't say anything at all."" The intent of the author (The Breast Cancer Prevention Diet; Dr. Bob Arnot's Revolutionary Weight Control Program)--to show that by maintaining mental energy, a person can succeed--is a fine one, and the book does make for good browsing. However, many of the topics Arnot addresses are covered more thoroughly and helpfully in other books. Arnot does touch on important issues, such as the dangers of ""carbo overload,"" the importance of timing sleeping with eating, food choices, spirituality and maintaining a positive attitude. The book concludes with protein, fatty acid and carbohydrate counts for various foods, plus a workbook to help determine the reader's type (e.g., morning or evening person, educator or ""strategizer"") in order to help identify weak and strong points. No doubt some readers will appreciate Arnot's easygoing tone and folksy recommendations. Author tour. (Jan.)