Summary

Dr. Sears explains how poor nutrition can lead to clinical diagnoses of many childhood disorders, specifically ADD, ADHD, OCD and the like. He focuses on the differences in omega 3 and omega 6 and how they effect the brain, particularly when there is significantly more 6 than 3, as seen in the Standard American Diet. The book discuses bad carbs and the sugar – related issues involved, and also chemical additives and their effects on children’s bodies. He then lays out strategies for changing your family’s eating behavior and their approach to food. Practical tips are given good and bad choices and how to get kids excited about eating healthy foods. The author highlights the need and requirements for healthy breakfasts, grazing through out the day, making good choices when eating out and teaching children to choose healthy foods. The final section of the books discusses supplements, provides sample menus and recipies.

 

Review

Dr. Sears is arguably the most famous pediatrician in the US and brings tremendous credibility to the link between nutrition and behavioral disorder, especially for those who aren’t completely convinced. The book is easy to read, if a bit choppy, and tries to explain the complex issues involved in a very simplified manner. The concepts are well laid out, with much anecdotal evidence. Practical tips are supplied from someone who has heard all of the excuses. Parents are given very specific things to look for and to avoid. This book is extremely useful and the advice is easy to follow. I believe that it should be required reading for all parents.