cover image The Complete Leaky Gut Health & Diet Guide

The Complete Leaky Gut Health & Diet Guide

Makoto Trotter and Doug Cook. Robert Rose (Firefly Books, North American dist.), $24.95 trade paper (288p) ISBN 978-0-7788-0501-4

Naturopathic doctor Trotter and dietician Cook have created a comprehensive and user-friendly manual for sufferers of leaky gut syndrome, a condition in which the gut lining is unusually permeable. Many health issues can develop from a hyperpermeable intestine, and the authors stress the importance of addressing the problem with a plethora of methods that complement each other, such as acupuncture, stress management, and adequate sleep. Their foremost suggestion is a complete diet overhaul. Say goodbye to baguettes, broccoli, and brie for a while. Though the regimen can seem daunting%E2%80%94no dairy, gluten, coffee, processed foods, or even cruciferous vegetables, among other guidelines%E2%80%94the authors walk readers through the three-phase program, offering advice on ways to ease caffeine dependency and finding the best sources of non-animal protein. Along with what not to eat, they explain what to eat, when to eat it, and what supplements to take. Half the book is devoted to recipes that meet their guidelines, including appealing roasted tomato and red pepper soup, agave flax muffins, and traditional English celery bake. Trotter and Cook insist that leaky gut syndrome, with the proper care, doesn't have to be a drain on the patient. (Apr.)