Dr. Bob Arnot
1 An outstanding resource for those dealing with breast cancer
Having just been diagnosed with a recurrence of non-metastatic breast cancer, I decided to seek out resources that might help me make the lifestyle changes I failed to make after my first episode, in order to prevent yet another recurrence. Since I'm in a doctoral program, I decided to take a course on alternative medicine and immediately began reading the texts, which led to this excellent resource.
Dr. Arnot's book is highly readable and very sincere. By that I mean it has heart, explained by Dr. Arnot's statement that he conducted the research for his wife who, upon her Mother's diagnosis with breast cancer, asked him what she could do to keep from getting it. The information in the book was his answer to her--information he decided to share with other women. His job as a medical reporter provides him with a language deftness and communication skills that enabled him to make technical information accessible to a lay audience. The latter is what makes the book easy and enjoyable reading rather than work.
Like many, I questioned how valid his information was--until I encountered the same information (as well as studies) in other credible sources. Dr. Anot is not just a good reporter, he's a good scientist.
I, too, have talked this book up to most of the women I know. Prior to reading it and the other resources I've encountered, despite having a decent lay knowledge of this disease, surprises abounded. Why don't they teach anything substantive about health and wellness in school when it's so crucial to leading a happy, productive, and healthy life? I expect many of you can guess the answer--it's not in the interests of the power elite, specifically the drug companies and American food industry. (Read one of the fascinating books on "McDonalidization" for insight on this mindset and it's political/economic influence.)
My only complaints about the book are that I would like to see a follow-up edition with the conclusion to many of the studies that were in progress when it was written. Many of them have concluded by the end of 2004 and I'd sure like to know the results. I'd also like to have seen the recipes that accompanied the meal plans, or even a separate volume containing recipes.
There is much that women who currently have, have had, or want to prevent this disease can do to hold it at bay and show it who's boss (especially since only 20% of cases are attributed primarily to genetic causes). Reading, no, absorbing the contents of this book, is one of them!
2 Better now, than later...
First, every woman I care about, my friends, sisters, mom, etc., will be getting a copy of this book as their next gift from me! Dr. Arnot gives example after example of medical research PLUS lifestyles of women all over the world showing better health than most Americans, revealing what scientists believe attribute to it! Unless every word and Doctor, or school referenced are all liars, this book is a LIFESAVE. Scientist have come a long way. They don't just say "don't eat this, but eat that" and you'll be fine. That's too simple. They know much more than that now and we need to take advantage of that. If they say breakfast is important, always eat SOMETHING, than that's what we should do! If you want a fiction book, or an easy fix, or if you want to ramble about how research in mice has little to do with humans, than keep fooling yourself. I'll take all the help a reputable doctor or scientist or medical college wants to give to prolong my life AND give me GOOD HEALTH at the same time. Many of us ae having our children late in life. My youngest was born when I was 38. I've got to live a long time to be there for her. My mother had me at 18! She's 70 now and I love having her around. I trust there is nothing in Dr. Bob's book that will hurt me -- but that will only help me. Should I still go to the doctor? OF COURSE!!! I have been getting yearly mamograms for 15 years, and only this year did I have a a small spot. I'm to get another exam in May 2002. I'm worried. They think it's nothing and say MOST OF THEM ARE BENIGN. What if i'm one of those woman not so lucky? I am not sure about Soy Isoflavones (the dosage) although Dr. Bob talks about it. Thanks, and KEEP READING!! ...
3 Not till I find out more about Lillian Thompson!
I was all set to get this book, really...Till it came to my attention that I alreasy HAVE a book that cites Lillian Thompson's research at The Univerity of Toronto with flax seeds on breast cancer in mice (or rats, whichever-- except that its NOT whichever, it's bloody mice! and they don't always get the same results in both!) and it says that she is going one step further and, in a pilot study, is giving flaxseeds to women recently diagnosed with the disease. Now there is a review right here written in December, 1998, about the hardcover edition of this book that says that Dr. Arnot failed to make clear that the results Lillian Thompson obtained were for mice. The book I bought was published in hardcover in 1998 and in paperback in 1999, and I just got it in 2000. So I though maybe since then Lillian Thompson had published something in which she had given flaxseeds to human subjects diagnosed with breast cancer. Since the government has granted free poblic access to Medline, I looked up her reasearh on it. She hasn't done recent research on any human subjects unless you count one experiment done a few years ago in which she gave various doses of of raw flaxseeds and processed (as in cooked: in bread and muffins) flaxseeds to healthy human subjects to see if what (no I don't know what--but it was what it was supposed to be) was excreted would be excreted in a dose dependant manner and if it would be affected by processing ( raw vs. processed): it was excreted in a dose dependant manner and this was regardless of whether the flaxseeds were raw or processed in muffins and bread. But on Medline I could find no experiments of hers on human subjects with breast cancer going back as far as 1993. It's not that her experiments on mice aren't encouraging , but one wonders what happened to the human subjects that were recently diagnosed with breast cancer who were going to get the flax seeds. It may not even be that she hasn't done that and published it too--it's just that as of now, if she has, I can't find it on Medline and I can find this other stuff of hers. I don't intend to stop using flaxseeds, but I'm also not getting this book yet. Also to be consdered, possibly, that I do not know about: another reveiewer said that some of the scientists whose work was cited in the book have disassociated themselves from it. One might want to know why. I do think that diet and some cancers are related and that it is worth one's while to find out what one can and try to reduce one's risk. However, I ,too, live on a budget, I have other needs too, and i'm not ready for this book yet.
4 I have breast cancer
I remember watching Dr. Bob on the Oprah show and I was hopeful because my diet and exercise routine (in addition to the suppliments I take) closely matched his anti-breast cancer book. I managed stress. I wasn't in a high-risk group.
Well...I'm getting ready for my second round of chemotherapy. People PLEASE DON'T BE FOOLED. Anyone is at risk and there isn't much you can do to stop this horrible disease before it hits you.
5 can women prevent cancer in their lifetime?
october is breast cancer month in this country, we participate in walking marathons, fundraisers and remember those who have died and survived...this book allows women individually, to become proactive in lowering their risk factors, by suggesting lifestyle changes. Dr. Arnot makes crystal clear that changing one's diet is the main factor in lowering breast cancer risk. He emphasizes lowering meat, fat, sugar,and alcohol consumption...in fact alcohol should not be in any woman's diet. He discusses the links between chemical estrogen, high blood insulin levels and obesity as high risk factors. I am amazed about the different sources of chemical estrogens in our environment. His research chapters on vitamins, herbs, good and bad estrogen, is insightful. Chapters include foods which are breast "friendly". This helps the reader to become more informed of her choices....proactive?...or passive? This book helps the reader to participate in the fight against cancer from the "life style change" point of view.
6 Just a word to the naysayers...
Though Arnot's book is simply (perhaps simplistically) written, it nevertheless points out exciting areas of research. Most of the dietary recommendations are just good sense for a generally healthy diet. As for supplementation with high doses of certain substances, one should of course study such things further before making radical changes. As a TV doctor, wouldn't you expect he'd write in a TV manner, ie. sensationalistically? I found the book useful as a source of ideas for further research, not a Bible. As for the vaunted American Council on Science and Health's critique, mentioned in the majority of negative reviews here: Take a look at their site, and you'll easily see that they're a bunch of apologists for the most conservative and capitalistic viewpoints possible, lackeys for the food and chemical industries. Check out their pieces on irradiation, why soda pop isn't a bad food, the bad rap that DDT got, etc ad nauseum. If that's the kind of people who you put your faith in, you have nothing to say to those who put their faith in a TV doctor. Think for yourself, read critically, maintain a healthy skepticism, and research thoroughly before making radical changes. But don't throw the baby with the bathwater. This book sheds light on some intriguing possibilities - use it as a starting point.
7 Buy it
This is a great book. I wish we would have had this information a long time ago and perhaps there wouldn't be so many women w/breast cancer. It's informative. You'll notice that he's not out endorsing his own line of food supplements. It really is an important book. I've read 12 books on breast cancer, I'd put this in the top 3 of the books to buy.
8 A must-read for every woman
Dr. Arnot has taken the terrifying subject of breast cancer and produced a book which is full of hope and specific information for how this dreaded disease may be prevented or reversed. The book begins with a highly informative and readable explanation of what is known to date about breast cancer and its causes.
I like this book, and recommend it highly, for several reasons:
1) Dr. Arnot has made the physiological processes surrounding breast cancer accessible to the reader by using analogies and simple, non-technical (as much as possible) language.
2) The message of hope is the underlying principle of the book. The reader learns that breast cancer develops as a result of a large number of factors working together, and that there are many steps along the way before an actual cancer develops.
3) The book gives specific instructions for dietary and other lifestyle changes which can interrupt the process at various steps along the way. In other words, there is not just one tiny window of opportunity, but many, many things we can do to stack the odds in our favor that we won't get the disease, or to decrease it if we already have it.
4) The dietary and lifestyle changes recommended by Dr. Arnot are simple and make good sense. Most have other benefits, in addition to preventing breast cancer. For example, he recommends lowering the intake of fats, and eliminating certain types of fats. He also recommends a regular exercise program. It is well-known that reducing dietary fat intake, and following an exercise regimen also reduces the odds of developing cardiovascular disease.
Read this book as soon as possible. Get an extra copy for your mom, your sister, your daughter, your best friend.
9 Excellent summary of current research
This book provides a thorough and easy-to-read explanation of current research into causes of breast cancer and how to reduce the risk of suffering from it. Since this book was published, additional research supporting Dr. Arnot's conclusions has been published. Even the John Muir Medical Center in California is using flaxseed oil as part of their breast-cancer program. Why are cranks who oppose this book so upset about women eating more fiber and vegetables to stay slender and healthy? Haven't they seen the many epidemiological studies that show a strong correlation beween diet and breast-cancer rates? By the time an annual mammogram shows a tumor, it is too late; the cancer already has a billion cells. As a chemical engineer, I appreciated the step-by-step explanations of chemical processes that cause cells to divide out of control. Thank you, Dr. Arnot.
10 I view this book as harmful
I too STRONGLY feel one should read the American Council on Science and Health critique of this awful, misleading book. Breast cancer hits all types of women and it a FALSE assertion to suggest food has ANY impact on breast cancer. The kind of assertions in Arnot's trashy book can lead to a false hope about decreasing breast cancer risk which may cause women to defer or avoid established screening techniques such as breast self-examination or mammography. It is exploitive on Arnot's behalf, and I urge women to get breast exams and, if they are over fifty, to get mammographies. Get the facts and don't buy this book.
11 Wonderful and So Desperately Needed! Thank you, Dr. Arnot!
This is a fantastic book, and it is based on science. Poor Dr. Arnot is paying the price for being ahead of this time--we live in an age when preventive nutrition is not popular. This book is excellent, and I have actually looked into some of the research Dr. Arnot cites in the back of the book--he documents what he says! The most amusing thing I have read in a couple of negative reviews here is that people should avoid this book and do breast exams INSTEAD--that is exactly the problem, fellow humans! By the time you find something in a breast exam, it is too late for prevention! Dr. Arnot says, DO BOTH! Prevent now, and always do everything else as an insurance measure. The point of this book is so that when you DO your breast exams regularly, YOU NEVER FIND ANYTHING BECAUSE YOU PREVENTED IT! Thank you, Dr. Arnot! We are all in debt to you!
12 Best audio-book of a health title ever done.
The ability to condense a treasure trove of information contained in a best-selling hardcover book into an entertaining and informative audio book is a rare talent. Whoever did this one is a genius. Particularly because it's a health related title and absolute accuracy is essential. The staff at Dove should be praised for this excellent rendition of an important work.
13 This book is a placebo.
Before buying or reading this book, please read the American Council on Science and Health critique of the book. While many of the dietary suggestions do have documented health benefits, there is no evidence that these dietary changes will prevent breast cancer. As a practicing oncologist, I cannot tell you how many times I have seen breast cancer patients who had extremely healthy lifestyles yet wonder why they developed the disease. The kind of claims issued in this book can lead to a false assurance about decreasing breast cancer risk which may cause women to defer or avoid established screening techniques such as breast self-examination or mammography. Furthermore, my patients who have followed rigorous dietary treatment or prevention programs invariably suffer from guilt when these don't deliver as promised. They actually believe that the "one time I slipped" caused the failure. The claims made in this book are misleading at best, and dangerous at worst. We would all love it if the scourge of breast cancer were this easy to understand and prevent. Unfortunately, it is a complex disease without such simple solutions.
14 An outstanding set of tapes on an important subject.
The reason I liked this audio set based on Arnot's book is because it gives out key informaton and lets the reader decides which lifestyle nutrition choices work for them. No scolding or barking here. This is truly an excellent book on an important subject o cancer prevention. Also, Arnot explains so many things (the role of body types, conflicting studies, menarche, different types of oils) that I have not read about elsewhere and wish I had. Very useful. Dr. Arnot makes it clear that his suggestions and recommendations for healthy living are a supplement not a substitute for traditional medicine (if you want the latter). The audio version is beautifully read by Richard Gilliland - major kudos to all those who made it - for a set of tapes that I have listened to twice. I've lost two dear ones to cancer and I now plan to take responsibility for our health. Great job, Arnot. High recommendation to all intelligent readers interested not only in cancer prevention but good nutrition. Excellent!
15 I spent money I did NOT have on this book
I bought this book because of Oprah's recommendation. It was NOT easy to read. I have a college degree...so, I am NOT dumb. The recipes were NOT there...no directions on how to cook the things in the book. This book is now on my book shelf and I feel like I REALLY wasted the $25 I paid for this book. If I had a choice, I would not have given it ANY stars at all!!!!....sorry. My recommendation is, DO NOT buy this book....you will be wasting your money!! I live on a VERY limited income and I wish I had the money back that I paid for this book!!!!!!!!!!
16 Wonderfully succint material, user-friendly
Bob Arnot presents the material and allows the reader to draw his own conclusions. With the data available and the excellent charts and tables he provides, why wouldn't a reader make important changes in her diet? What we eat effects us in so many ways.
- Ginger Smith
17 So it's bad for you to eat more greens & fiber & less fat?
When my mother died of cancer, five years after finding out she had breast cancer (pre-menopause), I resolved to do whatever I could to learn more and improve my chances of avoiding cancer, if it was at all possible. Dr. Arnot's book was the extra motivation that I needed. Much of the information that is contained within his book has been around for year - - cutting out the "bad" fats, eating more of the right types of greens, incorporating more soy into your diet, eating less red meat and more fish, etc. Sometimes, you need to hear something a few times befire it sinks in. I can't imagine how some of the more mainstream dietary modifications can be considered dangerous. If Dr. Arnot is guilty of anything, he is guilty for not saying that many of his suggestions are a prescription for healthier living, not just for improving your chances in the fight against breast cancer. (As an aside, these suggestions which have been in vegetarian and health- oriented magazines for years.) As for those who argue that this book is dangerous to women because of the advice it gives and because it will discourage women from going to the doctor, Dr. Arnot couches his suggestions in terms of, well, suggestions. In many places, if I remember correctly, he says that women should talk to their doctor about their level of risk for breast cancer. Furthermore, women who will pick up this buy and buy are likely to be women who know that they are at risk or think that they are at risk because members of their family have died of breast cancer - - they will likely know that there is no magic bullet and that they will need to discuss their individual cases with their doctor. Perhaps Dr. Arnot should have said that in his book, that his ideas are suggestions because if diet alone could prevent breast cancer, millions of women would not have it. I should hope that intelligent women would knoiw that. As for why I didn't give the book the extra star? I agree with those reviewers who said that recipes would have been a nice addition. Though many good recipes are available in magazines and the Veggie Life Home Page (a personal favorite of mine), I would like to see what Dr. Arnot would suggest.
18 Tabloid Quality
I agree with the criticism that the American Counsil on Science and Health wrote in complete dismissal of this book's shoddy research. The book is a horror. There is no link between diet and breast cancer. See your doctor, get check ups, do self-breast exams AND STAY AWAY from this book. Shame on Arnot.
19 Excellent info for the thinking woman looking for options
This is a well written book that includes scientific information in a conversational style that is quite easy to read. The book offers options for women to make their own decisions. Being in the healthcare field myself, I have not been surprized to find that there have been criticizms of Dr. Arnot's work. What has been disappointing has been the patronizing tone of those criticizms. Primarily, the objections have been that reading the book "might confuse a woman's healthcare priorities", or give someone false hope.
I believe that anyone who actually reads Dr. Arnot's book will realize that he is saying that women have a right to know about the latest findings of research and make their own decisions about how to proceed. He discusses risks and what his recommendations would be to his own wife and daughter. Far from being a wild presciption for a new age fad diet, it is a thoughtfull look at improving one's diet and incorporating promising research.
After all, many physicians are on the tamaxofen band-wagon, yet, in the same breath are unwilling to look at natural methods that might yield similar results with fewer side effects and less risk.
I believe that women should be just as wary of a doctor patting her on the head and telling her that she's not smart enough to set her own priorities, as someone selling a "cure all". This book does neither. It's important reading, and I hope will encourage people to learn more about how their bodies work, the role nutrition plays in health, and the politics as well as the science of research.
20 It's a good start, but...
I recently had a benign lymph node removed from my breast (I'm 25) and received this book as a Christmas present. I will incorporate several of Arnot's recommendations into my currently unhealthy diet (soy, fish oil supplements, more vegetables, omega-3 fats, etc.), but this is something that I have been meaning to do anyway. I'm not necessarily convinced after reading this book that this is something I must do only for my breast health. I will do it because it makes sense that eating better is good for your overall health. The most disappointing part about this book is that Arnot lists several meal plans at the end (Asian, Mediterranean and New American), but no recipes. How am I supposed to incorporate these meals into my diet if I don't know the ingredients or instuctions for preparing them? This book was informative for me simply because I have never explored the subject before. However, I was left with the feeling after reading this book that I should do some more research to see how valid his recommendations really are. I had this nagging feeling throughout the book that he was one of those 'self-help' gurus that promises magical results that typically don't pan out.
21 Outstanding Book
Finally someone has the good sense to focus the public's attention towards prevention of this terrible disease. Dr. Bob clearly articulates a sensible approach towards reducing ones chance of contracting breast cancer.
The controversy surrounding this book reminds me how 10 years ago the tobbacco industry was arguing that their was no evidence linking smoking and lung cancer. Should millions of women continue to suffer for another 20 years while scientist wait for conclusive evidence that diet can reduce ones chance of contracting breast cancer.
22 "How To Make Money off Cancer Patients"
should be the title of this book. There is NO data backing up Arnot's ridiculous diets. There is also no link between diet and breast cancer. I found it diappointing and, as other reviewers mentioned, overtly oportunitstic.
23 informative but not well organized
there is a lot of information piled on and i didn't find it well organized. It would have been nice to have it summarized with normal measuring amounts ... i'm glad i read it, but it was dry dry dry.
24 A good book advocating a healthy diet
Honestly, I don't understand what all the controversey is about. This is an extremely well-written book advocating a nutritious, low-fat diet. Dr. Arnot never once claims that this diet is guaranteed to prevent breat cancer. He admits that someone could do everything right and still get this disease. But his recommendations MAY help, and WON'T HURT anyone. Anyone who has done a lot of reading about nutrition will have heard most of these recommendations before: choose whole grains over white flour; eat less fat; increase the amount of soy in the diet... I highly recommend this book.
25 Get the facts first
This book wrongly suggests diet can prevent breast cancer. As was mentioned in the New York Times' article describing the scandle surrounding this book, Bob Arnot has been asked to retract much of the scientific information he stated. There's no scientific data linking diet and breast cancer
26 Excellent. Take command of your own HEALTH.
Dr. Robert Arnot is affectionately known to millions of American tv viewers as "Dr. Bob" because of his accessability given the medium. Do not use this familiarity as an excuse to belittle or undermine his scientific and/or medical integrity.This book is a concisely written, highly readable GEM. Arnot's recommendations are easy to implement, and will definitely result in improved nutritional status for women who currently "enjoy" our Standard American Diet (SAD). (Which is notoriously nutrient, phytochemical, and fiber poor, while being replete with saturated and damaged fats, as well as with nutrient depleting and insulin-stimulating simple sugars.)If you are truly interested in the maintenance of health and prevention of cancer (as well as heart disease), not merely with "early detection" or "improved drug treatment protocol" buy this book - read, study and learn.Honor your body and its femaleness. Send love to your breasts. Follow Arnot's well-researched, well-documented recommendations: Enjoy a high-fiber, low GI, phytochemical and soy rich diet that is rounded out with healthful fats.THRIVE, and LIVE to tell your daughters, sons and granddaughters about it all.
27 There is no such thing as a breast cancer prevention diet
There is no such thing as a breast cancer prevention diet. Dr. Arnot's book is a set back to all of us in the scientific and advocacy communities who have worked hard to fund quality research and spread the message about the importance of a low-fat diet and exercise. This book is based on Dr. Arnot's conjecture and speculation and not on valid scientific findings. It is additional ammunition for those who would paint all research in this area as quackery.
Rather than being helpful, the specific recommendations in this book could, in fact, be harmful to women - not just for the false hope it holds out or the fact that it undermines good science - but also because when you mistakenly believe you have the answers you stop asking the questions.
In fact, this book goes far beyond simply recommending exercise and a healthy diet. Dr. Arnot makes specific recommendations for drastic changes in diet that could prove physically harmful to women. There is reason to believe that following some of the books' advice could result in adverse side effects.
Breast cancer is an extremely complex disease. This book does a great disservice to those in the scientific community painstakingly looking for real answers. The book also reduces complex issues to brief sound bites that misrepresent the science and mislead women. Information about breast cancer must be rooted in good science. The information in this book is not.
The data upon which Bob Arnot bases very specific recommendations, are very preliminary - based on studies done on laboratory rats or on a very small groups of women - and extrapolated in ways that the scientists never intended. This is worse than bad science. In fact, several of the scientists whose work is referenced have disassociated themselves from the book.
Unfortunately, the answers to breast cancer are not simple. We are all looking for the answers and are impatient to get them, but we are impatient for the truth - not hype. The information in Dr. Arnot's book is both premature and irresponsible and can be harmful to women
28 "misleading," "dangerous," "premature," "irresponsibe"
Before you buy this book PLEASE read the Wall Street Journal article from November 30, 1998 by Greg Critser regarding this book. The article notes that several prestigious medical groups have, variably, called this book "misleading," "dangerous," "premature," "irresponsible" and "a disservice to American women". On the "Today" show, Dr. Arnot "admitted that the title oversold the book, which he said should have been called 'The Breast Cancer Risk-Reduction Diet,'" not "Prevention Diet." Also noted in the WSJ article was that "central to Arnot's argument is his citation of the work of U. of Toronto's Lillian Thompson, which Dr. Arnot says shows 'breast cancer size actually decreased with a daily course of flaxseed.' BUT Dr. Thompson has only obtained these results in RATS. As me--and I was very clear that this work is ongoing and that we don't know yet if the findings in animals will apply to humans.'" The article goes on to state that Dr. Arnot "began, in Dr. Thompson's words, to 'pressure' her into 'backing him up.'" "'I told him I didn't have ANY results' regarding human breast cancer response to flax seed,' Dr. Thompson told [Mr. Critser]. 'He keeps calling me and pressing to say I'm seeing the same result in humans...I told him no, no, no--and then, the next day, he goes right back on TV and tells people not only did I confirm what he says--but he says 'now that this book is sort of up for attack, she's backing up. I never said anything to back up from.'" Books like this make me angry because they make extraordinary claims without solid research to support those claims. They sell to people who are most This book is a marketing ploy on a serious, horrible life-and-death matter and that is very, very sad
29 Be Aware of Dissenting Opinions to this book's contents
As someone who lost my mother to breast cancer, and whose sister survived aggressive (bone marrow transplant) treatment for it, I have a deep interest in anything that could help me avoid this hideous disease. I read this book (from my local library) the day he was on Oprah and later purchased it. I have begun following some of the more moderate recommendations. A lot in this book makes sense to me based on knowledge gained from much research in books and popular media.
However, after having bought this book, I became aware of the fact that the American Council on Science and Health has strongly criticized this book, to the degree of writing a position paper which can be accessed on the web at
I would suggest reading the ACSH paper and getting this book from your local library before purchasing it and implementing Arnot's ideas. Whatever your decision, make it with as much information as possible.
30 Self-help without the hype...it makes sense to me!
As a lawyer, I am very skeptical of wild claims. Dr. Bob has done a good job explaining the significance of new research in the field, providing balanced advice concerning the advantages and disadvantages of various dietary strategies, and creating the framework for a lifelong cancer prevention program. At times, he misstates the exact findings or methodologies of certain studies, but in general the punch line is correct. Carbohydrate selection is only part of the prescription, but for anyone who has considered a carbohydrate restriction diet (Sugar Busters, Zone, Protein Power, Atkins, etc., or McDougall Maximum Weight Loss) but held back because weight loss or heart health was not enough reason to switch, here is yet another voice in support of glucose control as a crucial determinant of health. The book's most glaring omission, as others have mentioned, is the absence of recipes in the menu plans; also, some of the glycemic index tables appear to be redundant and/or contradictory. Overall, I recommend this book highly.
31 Left me wanting more...
I thought this book was full of great information, but I was very disappointed not to find any recipes. I also wish he'd been more specific when he states that a low amount of soy in the diet can actually be dangerous (as well as too much soy). This concerned and confused me a bit.
32 Should be mandatory reading for all doctors.
I only wish this book haad been written 2 years ago. I had been finding different articles about HRT replacement and bringing the subject up to my gyn. doctor every time I went in for a checkup. He always managed to disuade me from stopping the medication based on the fact my mother had gone through severe osteoporosis and heart problems. I am now an eighth month breast cancer survivor. None was found in the lymph nodes. I have started Dr. Arnot's diet and am looking forward to many years ahead. My gyn.dr. has promised to read the book. Plus my 2 daughters.
33 It is a suggestion worth contemplating that is without harm.
My mother's two sisters have had masectomies, and I am sure that I am a good candidate for breast cancer. There are no other preventitive steps in existence at this time. As his book does not promise results, it is a healthy diet whether its results are proven or not. Although it is a preliminary study and won't be proven for possibly ten years or maybe more, what is the harm of eating correctly? It is not as if he is telling us to ingest drugs. These theories are believed to be true by many scientists and doctors in the field although they cannot be proven until more research is done. I would rather eat these foods, and possibly keep my breasts before I have to go through chemotherapy or die. Why not try? I have spoken to a woman who had nine months to live and refused chemo. She went on a diet quite the same as Dr. Arnot's. This was in 1970. She is 76 years old today. I never assume that people know everything and I imagine that foods that come from natural sources are better for you than anything we can manufacture.
34 Wonderfully informative!
Since I had already been working on correcting my eating habits for a weight problem, I found this book to be very helpful in that it corresponded with my new attitudes about eating to be healthy. A mediteranean cook book was the perfect addition to the information in Dr. Arnot's book. I am thankful for his informative teaching of how to prevent breast cancer. I have purchased additional copies to share with my friends and family.
35 Trailblazing book stirs controversy
Dr.Arnot has provided a road map of the latest studies linking diet and breast cancer. Like Josilin(diabetes) and Pritikin(Heart disease)before him Dr. Arnot has sounded the alarm that without a healthy diet women may be increasing their chances for breast cancer. Some in the research community wish to withhold any information on recent studies until all the results are in. Unfortunately that could mean a delay of 15 years or more. Dr. Arnot believes that studies will eventually prove the connection between diet and breast cancer and that armed with as much information as possible women,in consultation with their doctors, should be proactive in the fight against this terrible disease.
36 I found it disappointing as a survivor of breast cancer.
At first I was excited by this book. The recommendations for diet changes and hope for help for all women were exciting. However, when I got to the chapter for women who have already had breast cancer, I was very disappointed. It basically said forget everything else you have read so far...it's not necessarily meant for you. So I would not recommend this book for breast cancer survivors...and feel it is only perhaps worthwhile for very young women. Clearly, if diet is a strong factor, then it is most important in the early stages of life.
37 Preventing cancer with food?
This book struck me as strangely misinformed. When was it proven that diet could prevent breast cancer? It's very opportuntistic and self righteous in it's misconceptions. I agree with the previous review, though I wouldn't read a cookbook by the guy....
38 The most important book on women's health to date!
Dr. Bob Arnot should be congratulated on his groundbreaking book on breast cancer. It is about time that we began focusing on a cure as well as diagnosis and treatment of this deadly disease. This practical nutritional guide will help women of all ages avoid contracting this disease. This is a must read for all women. My mother has survived breast cancer that was diagnosed five years ago because of the advances we have made in diagnosis and treatment. I just wish Dr. Bob's research was in place twenty years ago so she would not have had to face the terrible ordeal this disease put her through.
39 Information backed by adequate research, but no recipes!
I found this book to be very intriguing and for the most part helpful. However, Dr. Arnot has lots of research and suggestions, but he never formulates a plan. The title is misleading. There is no diet in this book. The inadequacy of the American diet is incredible and Arnot does a good job of laying this out in comparison to Asian and Meditteranean cultures -- but where are the recipes? How does Dr. Arnot expect us to change our eating habits without giving us a jumping off point? I was gravely disappointed to read the entire book and not find recipes. He should offer a book of recipes to those who were left hanging...
40 Recommended by Health News Network
The Breast Cancer Prevention Diet is a well-written book that we have recommended to browsers of Health News Network.Easy to read and informative advice make this a must book for every woman concerned with her health.
41 Herbs "Are-Not" a Cure
If there was a way to prevent breast cancer with diet, this would be a significant book. Instead it is misleading and untrue. Arnot should stick to weight lossbooks.
42 A must read by ALL women of all ages.
This book is the most informative book about the whys, hows and need to do things regarding breast cancer. Dr. Arnot has made it a simple to read, thoroughly documented, life saving of all time book. Easy to follow, easy to incorporate into your lifestyle. Every woman married or single, wife, daughter, sister or cousin should incorporate this book in her own life at any age.
43 The belief - it can be prevented!
I am highly concerned about my health. I am especially interested in the subject of "diet" as method of preventing a horrifying disease I am all for it! Plus, anytime a doctor spends a good time writing a book specifically about preventing breast cancer then my belief is that most of our foods and the combination of foods can cause breast cancer. To me this is revolutionary for women. Choosing the correct foods for women is so important and hopefully the Federal Government will stop the injections of hormones into our animals, the addition of preservatives into natural products, feed our animals good and healthy grains, and the praying of chemical pesticides. The inhumane treatment of our animals, specifically our cows that produce milk is something, which should not be tolerated or excused. Cows are mothers too! It is one of the most important books for this century and a teaching book for the next millennium.
44 One of the two best books of the year
Of all the books I have read over the last year, two stand as exceptional. This book is a must for everyone, even men. As sons and husbands we men are also concerned for the women we love, our wives and mothers. Put this book to work for. This is a 'must read'. The other book that I feel is a 'must-read' is 'Life and Death on the Internet' by Keith A Schroeder. Here is another book that gives us the chance to be everything we desire while reducing the risks in our lives. Fear is a motivator. Knowledge is the relaxing herb. Put both these books to work for you and your family.
45 Great book for those who want to lower their risk.
On the eve of my Mother's 3rd anniversary of dying from Breast Cancer, I decided to read this book and try to make sense of it all. I have watched 2 great Aunts, 1 Aunt and my Mother die from this disease, and often wonder when it is my turn. Instead of waiting for it to happen, I bought the book, (and one for my sister also). Finally, someone trying to lower the risk before it happens. I liked the way he explained the risk factors we here of so often, and the way they are related to diet (which nobody ever really has explained yet). The only thing I didn't like about the book, was that there are no recipes to follow. In reading reviews on his other book, about losing weight, people said the same thing. DIDN'T HE LEARN FROM THE FIRST BOOK!!! To follow a mediterrian or asian diet, people need recipes. I couldn't put the book down, but think he should follow up with a cookbook.
46 Logical yet radical; a MUST read for ALL women!
Practical, insightful and uncomplicated look at latest research and healthful lifestyle info that every woman in Noth American needs to know. Not a food guru but an expert medical doctor, Dr. Bob Arnot dares to tell it like it is. With breast cnacer at epidemic proportions, this book needs to be on the list of any woman who wants to be pro-active regarding this dreaded disease.
