Golden Rules for Vibrant Health in Body, Mind, and Spirit

Book Review by Scott Hopkins, DC

Reading Golden Rules for Vibrant Health in Body, Mind, and Spirit, by Dr. Joseph J. Sweere, reminded me of going to a great lecture series - not the kind that you have to go to, but the kind that you want to go to. Besides the fact that this book delivers exactly what the reader expects from its title, it is done in such way that it actually drives you to turn the pages.

This is the type of book that I could recommend to a fellow doctor, as well as a patient, and not be concerned that the material was too sophomoric or too complex. I could see how some doctors might find this book a bit too basic; however, I totally enjoyed it. I would be surprised to find anyone who could read this book and not take something away from it to apply in his or her own life.

The book starts off by explaining the proper body essentials, such as food, water, exercise, sleep, supplements, etc. The author extrapolates on these topics by explaining body pH, different types of "wonder foods," certain kinds of water, and air quality. Dr. Sweere shows how small changes in your everyday routine can make lifelong changes.

The next section of the book deals more with symptoms and disease processes. The author discusses relevant topics such as heart disease, stroke, blood-sugar disorders, headaches, obesity, arthritis, cancer and other medical problems. First, Dr. Sweere describes the different types of diseases associated with the particular collection of symptoms. Then he discusses alternative treatment approaches, such as supplements, therapies, etc., as well as preventative treatments for those in good health. I personally found Dr. Sweere's explanation of obesity to be almost profound. He says that "most overweight people are still undernourished at the cellular level" and that "cellular starvation" causes "continuous craving" and "creates a vicious cycle of overeating."

This is a great book for anyone who wants to change his or her health, but doesn't know where to start. What is special about Golden Rules is that it gives you ways to better yourself that most people haven't tried before. If someone finds a chapter that he or she really likes, the author provides several in-depth ways to further pursue avenues of interest (books, phone numbers, Web sites).

There is an enormous amount of "did you know" stuff in Golden Rules - tidbits that your can throw in at a dinner party, or even use to start up a conversation. These are the perfect types of teasers that hook the reader (or an audience at your next lay lecture) and keep them intrigued. One concept Dr. Sweere discusses is that holding in anger toward another can be extremely harmful, because your brain can't determine between "justified anger or a debilitating negative emotion." I often relay this concept and its dangers to my patients and friends.

Golden Rules for Vibrant Health in Body, Mind, and Spirit is without a doubt a must-read for any alternative health care provider. Not only was the book easy to read, well put together, well-referenced, and interesting, but the text is also important to know. There are many patients who could be helped with the information in this book, but have no access to it because their doctor is unaware. I recommend this book to any health professional who wants to expand their knowledge of holistic health care, and to any patient who wants to find another cure for their problems besides what is written on a prescription pad.

Dr. Hopkins' Rating:

10 out of 10