The Side Effects Bible    by Frederic Vagnini & Barry Fox Order:  USA  Can Broadway, 2005 (2005) Softcover      Reviewed by Hilary Williamson This handy reference book opens with a 'How to Use' chapter, which advises readers to look up a drug's generic name in the index, in order to access its entry. On the pages (in Chapter 3) for each drug are: information about the medication; possible side effects; the nutrients it takes from the body; other nutritional implications; and suggested supplements and foods to ingest in order to replenish the body's stores (consultation with a physician is also advised). The first chapter addresses 'Nutrient Robbery' in general, and explains that a percentage of drug side effects (between 10 and 30%) 'are the direct results of drug-induced nutrient deficiencies' and hence curable. It also emphasizes that excesses of particular nutrients can also be harmful. Chapter 2 explains nutrients (vitamins, minerals and enzymes) 'At Risk', the body's daily requirements for them, symptoms of deficiencies, the side effects of taking in too much, what foods they're found in, and the drugs that take them out of the body. I looked up Lipitor in Chapter 3, and found that it might deplete the body's supply of Coenzyme Q10, found in foods like chicken, salmon, oranges and broccoli. We are very conservative about taking medications in my family, but sometimes it is unavoidable. The Side Effects Bible is an impressive resource on what can be done to mitigate the effects of necessary medication. I recommend the inclusion of a copy in your home medical reference shelf. 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