Prevention's The Sugar Solution    by Prevention Editors & Ann Fittante Order:  USA  Can Rodale, 2006 (2006) Hardcover Read an Excerpt     Reviewed by Hilary Williamson The Introduction states that if you 'take charge of your blood sugar', it can 'energize you within hours, soothe crankiness and fatigue within a day, allow you to (finally!) shed extra pounds, and dramatically reduce your lifetime risk of heart attack, stroke and dementia'. Prevention's The Sugar Solution, presents 'cutting-edge medical research on blood sugar, insulin resistance, and diabetes and related conditions', interspersed with personal accounts of Sugar Survivors. It starts by talking about Why Blood Sugar Matters and The "Sweet" Crisis - that is an exponential increase in North American sugar consumption over the last century (largely indirect, via sweeteners added to processed foods). The authors suggest scheduling a fasting plasma glucose test to check for high blood sugar. The solution offered here? A good carb eating plan based on glycemic index food rankings, as well as physical fitness and stress reduction recommendations. Quizzes are included to help readers assess their personal risk. The book promotes the Benefits of Balance in blood sugar (explaining how blood sugar works in the body, through life), and details health issues that can arise from imbalances - including memory problems and depression. An Eat Well for Life chapter offers simple ways to blunt the blood sugar impact of a meal, and discusses how to make lower glycemic index choices. There's a nutritional cheat sheet for weight loss, recommending what to eat (e.g. fiber and cinnamon) and to substitute, and suggesting healthy, planned snacking. The book continues with sections on Fitness, Stress reduction, a 28-day plan for a Lifestyle Makeover (including menus), and 7 Solutions for Specific Blood Sugar Problems (particularly different forms of diabetes). At the back of the book are over sixty healthy and enticing recipes, for dishes like Stuffed Mushrooms, Eggplant Parmesan, or Chocolate Soufflé Cake. The presentation is somewhat repetitive - making similar points from different perspectives, for emphasis - and there's a fair amount of overlap with what other health books suggest on good eating habits. But you won't go wrong following the general advice in Prevention's The Sugar Solution for eating, exercise and stress reduction - and if you have any concerns about blood sugar or diabetes, then the specifics here will be of great interest to you. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more NonFiction books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews