Gut
The Inside Story of Our Body's Most Under-Rated Organ
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4.5 • 43 Ratings
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- £6.99
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- £6.99
Publisher Description
WINNER OF THE 2016 AUSTRALIAN BOOK INDUSTRY AWARDS, INTERNATIONAL BOOK OF THE YEAR
SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2016 BRITISH BOOK INDUSTRY AWARDS, NON-FICTION BOOK OF THE YEAR
LONGLISTED FOR THE 2015 GOODREADS CHOICE AWARDS 'BEST SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY BOOK'
A Sunday Times bestseller
The key to living a happier, healthier life is inside us.
Our gut is almost as important to us as our brain or our heart, yet we know very little about how it works. In Gut, Giulia Enders shows that rather than the utilitarian and — let’s be honest — somewhat embarrassing body part we imagine it to be, it is one of the most complex, important, and even miraculous parts of our anatomy. And scientists are only just discovering quite how much it has to offer; new research shows that gut bacteria can play a role in everything from obesity and allergies to Alzheimer’s.
Beginning with the personal experience of illness that inspired her research, and going on to explain everything from the basics of nutrient absorption to the latest science linking bowel bacteria with depression, Enders has written an entertaining, informative health handbook. Gut definitely shows that we can all benefit from getting to know the wondrous world of our inner workings.
In this charming book, young scientist Giulia Enders takes us on a fascinating tour of our insides. Her message is simple — if we treat our gut well, it will treat us well in return. But how do we do that? And why do we need to? Find out in this surprising, and surprisingly funny, exploration of the least understood of our organs.
PRAISE FOR GIULIA ENDERS
‘A publishing sensation that … sets out to free toilet talk from its taboo’ The Times
‘Enders’ gut manifesto calls on its readers to celebrate their lower bodies’ achievements, rather than apologise for them’ The Guardian
APPLE BOOKS REVIEW
German biologist Giulia Enders’ amazing nonfiction takes the concept of “listening to your gut” to the next level. Written in a refreshingly straight-talking style, Gut provides mind-boggling insight into an under-appreciated, little-known system of the human body. We learn how our intestinal bacteria actively communicate with our brains, and why 95% of serotonin is produced in the gut; the book also offers practical advice on maintaining digestive health. Enders turns a potentially dry subject into an adventure of discovery—we love her accessible humour and the book’s sweet illustrations.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Enders, a medical student, became fascinated with all things digestive after a roommate asked her about the mechanics of elimination. She discovered that the gut affects overall health far more than she thought. With a great sense of humor and ample enthusiasm, Enders explains everything readers did and didn't want to know about their innards. She describes the digestive journey of a piece of cake from eyes to outcome in graphic detail, showing how much more is involved than just the stomach and intestines. She explores the world of microbes to talk about the good (probiotics), the bad (germs), and the ugly (toxoplasma). Parasites feature as well, and after disgusting readers with the particulars, she kindly provides tips on how to avoid an infestation. Enders also includes advice on how to avoid constipation, how to lie in bed in case of bloating, and what to do for heartburn. She doesn't just state facts she delves into the science behind them, which is eye-opening and humbling to learn about. With Harry Potter references, a Facebook analogy for understanding microbial food preferences, and zany drawings, this book defies boredom.
Customer Reviews
Says what it is great book
Informative and easily read.
Great book
This book is much much more than it first appears. It is massively well researched by an author who is knowledgable and enthusiastic in her field. It has cutting edge research all through it. It has revolutionised the way I look at food and nutrition and the way I eat. I can't think of a book this year that has had a bigger positive effect on me!