The New York Times Book of Health:: How to Feel Fitter, Eat Better, and Live Longer

In an attempt to present the latest scientific information and make sense of often confusing research findings, editor Wade has selected over 100 recent (since January 1993) articles by New York Times reporters and arranged them into broad categories. These include health habits, weight, exercise, nutrition, food supplements, cancer and heart disease. The book is additionally broken up into sections that address four stages of life: pregnancy and birth; childhood; menopause; and aging. Brody is the principal contributor, with eight other reporters also represented. Unsigned introductions to the individual sections provide perspective on such troublesome issues as good and bad fats, the pros and cons of antioxidants, the relative value of moderate and vigorous exercise and the risks and benefits of hormone-replacement therapy. As Wade acknowledges and as these selections illustrate, science doesn't have clear answers to many of today's health questions. Research continues apace, and apparent discoveries are reversed, restored and revised with dizzying speed. Nevertheless, at the risk of information overload, some core truths emerge and balances are struck in this thorough volume. Author tour. (June)