Total Renewal

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY MAR 17, 2003

Lipman, a Manhattan-based doctor versed in both Chinese Western medicine, and co-author Gunning present a sensible seven-step program to renew health. According to Lipman, modern medicine is currently a disease-care rather than a health-care system, which treats the symptoms (often with unnecessary drugs) rather than getting to the root of the illness itself. In his 25 years as a physician, Lipman has found that a combination of Western and holistic approaches (such as acupuncture and yoga) can best serve patients who suffer from modern malaise and such problems as chronic pain, irritable bowel syndrome and acid reflux. His program involves taking responsibility for one's own health, establishing a more open, communicative relationship with a doctor, and spring-cleaning the body's system to repair damage from exposure to toxins in food and the environment. His seven steps (take responsibility for your health and well being; remove toxins and decrease your total load; recognize your unique diet; replenish nutrients and balance hormones; release tension and relieve stress; revitalize with a detox; and reconnect to yourself, others and nature) are described in distinct chapters with specific instructions on foods to eat, toxins to avoid, and ways to live more healthfully. According to Lipman, toxicity is the biggest challenge to being healthy today; his integrative approach provides practical methods for revitalizing the body and spirit.