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Staying Healthy with Nutrition: The Complete Guide to Diet and Nutritional Medicine
The twenty-first century edition of this groundbreaking work presents authoritative health and nutrition information available in an easy-to-use format and a friendly, engaging tone.
“An excellent guide for those wishing to make smarter dietary choices.”—Andrew Weil, M.D., author of Healthy Aging
Decades of practical experience and scientific research from Dr. Elson Haas and Dr. Buck Levin are compiled into one encyclopedic volume that features newly expanded chapters on special supplements, lifestage programs, and breakthrough medical treatment protocols for fatigue, viruses, weight management, and mental and mood disorders such as anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Part One gives a detailed analysis of the building blocks of water, carbohydrates, proteins, fats and oils, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.
Part Two evaluates food and diets, discussing every food group and most diets around the world. A special chapter on the environment and nutrition raises awareness and offers guidance about food additives, industrial chemicals, food irradiation, electro-pollution, and other health and ecological issues.
Part Three brings all of this nutritional information together, showing readers how to make wise and commonsense choices while building a healthy diet. A personalized eating plan for the year, the Ideal Diet is both seasonally and naturally based, and a healthy lifelong diet.
Part Four contains specific nutritional and life-style therapies for enhancing all stages of life and suggests treatments for common conditions and diseases such as aging, menopause, bone loss, weight loss, and cancer by focusing on nutritional thirty-two special diet and supplemental programs.
Anyone interested in enhancing wellness, eating right, treating illness naturally, and living in harmony with nature will find Staying Healthy with Nutrition to be the ultimate handbook for optimal health and vitality.
“An excellent guide for those wishing to make smarter dietary choices.”—Andrew Weil, M.D., author of Healthy Aging
Decades of practical experience and scientific research from Dr. Elson Haas and Dr. Buck Levin are compiled into one encyclopedic volume that features newly expanded chapters on special supplements, lifestage programs, and breakthrough medical treatment protocols for fatigue, viruses, weight management, and mental and mood disorders such as anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Part One gives a detailed analysis of the building blocks of water, carbohydrates, proteins, fats and oils, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.
Part Two evaluates food and diets, discussing every food group and most diets around the world. A special chapter on the environment and nutrition raises awareness and offers guidance about food additives, industrial chemicals, food irradiation, electro-pollution, and other health and ecological issues.
Part Three brings all of this nutritional information together, showing readers how to make wise and commonsense choices while building a healthy diet. A personalized eating plan for the year, the Ideal Diet is both seasonally and naturally based, and a healthy lifelong diet.
Part Four contains specific nutritional and life-style therapies for enhancing all stages of life and suggests treatments for common conditions and diseases such as aging, menopause, bone loss, weight loss, and cancer by focusing on nutritional thirty-two special diet and supplemental programs.
Anyone interested in enhancing wellness, eating right, treating illness naturally, and living in harmony with nature will find Staying Healthy with Nutrition to be the ultimate handbook for optimal health and vitality.
944 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1992
99 people are currently reading
694 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
February 1, 2016
This is my text book for class. I haven't completely finished it yet, but since I'm on chapter 11 (the mother of all chapters in this book, apparently), I feel as though I can give my general impressions and thoughts on the book.
Elson M. Haas injects his own personality and ideas into this text, which is a bit more entertaining than reading the usual college text. It's very informative and thorough, even though some of his information isn't correct. SOME. Note I said some! For the most part, it's all very solid information, but there have been a couple instances in class where we had disparaging thoughts and opinions. Every once in a while he tends to ramble or repeat himself, but other than that I like the book.
Anyway, if you are a registered nutritionist, dietitian or RHN and would like a very complete tome to add to your collection, this is a good one. RHNs, you're most likely reading this for class (maybe), so my recommendation means nothing anyway.
Elson M. Haas injects his own personality and ideas into this text, which is a bit more entertaining than reading the usual college text. It's very informative and thorough, even though some of his information isn't correct. SOME. Note I said some! For the most part, it's all very solid information, but there have been a couple instances in class where we had disparaging thoughts and opinions. Every once in a while he tends to ramble or repeat himself, but other than that I like the book.
Anyway, if you are a registered nutritionist, dietitian or RHN and would like a very complete tome to add to your collection, this is a good one. RHNs, you're most likely reading this for class (maybe), so my recommendation means nothing anyway.
April 23, 2009
This book is HUGE and a GREAT source of information. It's not the type of book that you sit down and read from cover to cover (although you could if you wanted) but rather I've been using it as a reference. It's organized and easy to look things up, and the information she gives is very informative and non-judgemental.
It's really made me think about what I am putting in my body and in my children's bodies. In fact, I guess the only negative is that it made me want to go through my cupboards and throw a bunch of stuff away, stuff that is not as healthy for my children as I realized. I know I'll be referencing this book for a long time.
It's really made me think about what I am putting in my body and in my children's bodies. In fact, I guess the only negative is that it made me want to go through my cupboards and throw a bunch of stuff away, stuff that is not as healthy for my children as I realized. I know I'll be referencing this book for a long time.
November 24, 2021
Way before Michael Pollan landed on the scene with "The Omnivore's Dilemma" and taught more Americans to think about how and what they eat, there was Elson Haas and "Staying Healthy with Nutrition."
One Goodreads reviewer said this is "not the type of book that you sit down and read from cover to cover."
Oh, but I did. But I was also a weirdo in 1992 and still am.
Haas' comprehensive book (first edition, 1992) taught me, first, how to shop and eat with the seasons, because even though I grew up in the fertile (for a little while longer, anyway) San Joaquin Valley, I grew up eating bananas and oranges and canned fruit cocktail year-round, and I didn't eat my first fresh peach until I was out of high school.
I permit everyone to have foods that they simply will never delight in - for me, that's eggplant and mushrooms, of any kind. But I also maintain that most people who don't like tomatoes because "they are mushy" simply haven't read Haas' book, for if you eat a Sacramento-grown tomato July-early October, that tomato will not be mushy; it will be one of the best things you've ever tasted.
Haas also taught me the concept of "whole foods," a close relation of seasonal eating. I began to limit my intake of processed foods and started cooking whole grains I'd never heard of - amaranth (still a favorite), quinoa (which our one lone tiny natural food store carried) and even millet (call it birdseed if you must).
I learned about all the vitamins, minerals and fats we need - some more so than others - and what they do for us and where to find them naturally in our foods (or through sunlight, etc.). I learned why it's important to have color on your plate - not only is it visually interesting, but it indicates a variety of nutrients are present.
I learned about "protein combination" and how to sit down to a complete-protein vegetarian meal. Consuming adequate protein as a vegetarian should not be challenging, if you're eating well in general. I am really only concerned about B12 and D and therefore take those two supplements. Otherwise: Get the most you can from your food.
As I recall, Haas opens with a chapter on water, and I loved that. He discusses the ecological impact our food choices have though perhaps he does not go into the degree that Pollan does in "The Omnivore's Dilemma" (I haven't read it).
I do have Haas' book open now, and I see I misspoke: In the later chapters, Haas discusses nutritional application, including the diet's role on disease prevention and how to implement a "nutrient program" for things like pre- and post-surgery, stress reduction, menopause, weight loss, skin improvement, nicotine detoxification and so forth. I do recall skipping a couple of these chapters that just didn't apply at all to me. The book also includes a seasonal weekly meal plan with recipes. I tried every one of them! Lots of cooked rice and other grains for breakfast for a while. Time-consuming but also a practice in patience and meditation.
His tone is generally conversational and I enjoyed it. Some reviewers (likely dietitians-in-training) point out that even the 2012 edition contains some outdated information in some areas. This is certainly possible with ongoing and contradictory medicine and health studies. I still follow some of the practices I learned in the book, such as eating a mid-day snack of seeds or nuts every day. I follow others, even if their value is disputed because I generally think they make me feel good.
I've never dieted or been a "guilty" eater. Still, Haas' book affirmed that if one generally eats well, indulgence here and there should not lead to disaster. Therefore: My dessert will never be a bowl of fresh fruit. It will ALWAYS be processed, just with quality ingredients. Enjoyment matters - to digestion, to the whole body and to the mind.
No selling of dietary fads here (those can f*** right off). The overall building blocks of nutritional medicine and how to eat are all here, and they remain solid.
One Goodreads reviewer said this is "not the type of book that you sit down and read from cover to cover."
Oh, but I did. But I was also a weirdo in 1992 and still am.
Haas' comprehensive book (first edition, 1992) taught me, first, how to shop and eat with the seasons, because even though I grew up in the fertile (for a little while longer, anyway) San Joaquin Valley, I grew up eating bananas and oranges and canned fruit cocktail year-round, and I didn't eat my first fresh peach until I was out of high school.
I permit everyone to have foods that they simply will never delight in - for me, that's eggplant and mushrooms, of any kind. But I also maintain that most people who don't like tomatoes because "they are mushy" simply haven't read Haas' book, for if you eat a Sacramento-grown tomato July-early October, that tomato will not be mushy; it will be one of the best things you've ever tasted.
Haas also taught me the concept of "whole foods," a close relation of seasonal eating. I began to limit my intake of processed foods and started cooking whole grains I'd never heard of - amaranth (still a favorite), quinoa (which our one lone tiny natural food store carried) and even millet (call it birdseed if you must).
I learned about all the vitamins, minerals and fats we need - some more so than others - and what they do for us and where to find them naturally in our foods (or through sunlight, etc.). I learned why it's important to have color on your plate - not only is it visually interesting, but it indicates a variety of nutrients are present.
I learned about "protein combination" and how to sit down to a complete-protein vegetarian meal. Consuming adequate protein as a vegetarian should not be challenging, if you're eating well in general. I am really only concerned about B12 and D and therefore take those two supplements. Otherwise: Get the most you can from your food.
As I recall, Haas opens with a chapter on water, and I loved that. He discusses the ecological impact our food choices have though perhaps he does not go into the degree that Pollan does in "The Omnivore's Dilemma" (I haven't read it).
I do have Haas' book open now, and I see I misspoke: In the later chapters, Haas discusses nutritional application, including the diet's role on disease prevention and how to implement a "nutrient program" for things like pre- and post-surgery, stress reduction, menopause, weight loss, skin improvement, nicotine detoxification and so forth. I do recall skipping a couple of these chapters that just didn't apply at all to me. The book also includes a seasonal weekly meal plan with recipes. I tried every one of them! Lots of cooked rice and other grains for breakfast for a while. Time-consuming but also a practice in patience and meditation.
His tone is generally conversational and I enjoyed it. Some reviewers (likely dietitians-in-training) point out that even the 2012 edition contains some outdated information in some areas. This is certainly possible with ongoing and contradictory medicine and health studies. I still follow some of the practices I learned in the book, such as eating a mid-day snack of seeds or nuts every day. I follow others, even if their value is disputed because I generally think they make me feel good.
I've never dieted or been a "guilty" eater. Still, Haas' book affirmed that if one generally eats well, indulgence here and there should not lead to disaster. Therefore: My dessert will never be a bowl of fresh fruit. It will ALWAYS be processed, just with quality ingredients. Enjoyment matters - to digestion, to the whole body and to the mind.
No selling of dietary fads here (those can f*** right off). The overall building blocks of nutritional medicine and how to eat are all here, and they remain solid.
December 26, 2018
This is exactly the book I've been looking for! Objective, to-the-point facts on nutrition, vitamins, eating habits, and other topics such as preservatives, toxins, etc. I've seen too many "fad" nutritional books that are biased toward either vegan/vegetarian, low carb, low fat, high fat-low carb, etc. This book seems to be objective enough to allow the readers to decide on their own what diet path to take. This book, a good diet, and exercise can stand on their own and I feel this book can last a long time as a good reference book. Personally, I prefer a well-rounded diet (including some red meat), chicken, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts. I lean toward organic or natural foods. Should readers decide to focus on another particular diet, they can supplement this book with one that follows their philosophy. I highly recommend this book as a stand alone or as a starting point to other diets.
April 21, 2024
Initially, I was quite enthusiastic about reading this book. However, having completed the required readings, I find myself rather disappointed and perplexed as to why my school deems this book essential.
Haas presents a lot of information as facts whereas it's simply his own opinions. It's written in an odd conversational way, making it sound like someone who's trying to sell you something on the internet rather than presenting scientific information. Moreover, it lacks substantial references to credible sources. I was expecting this to be a scientific textbook as it was presented to us.
One particular example that stands out is the chapter on Alkaline diets and food combining and how one can change their blood pH by eating certain foods. Haas presents this concept as factual despite its lack of evidence-based support. (Besides many more outdated ideas)
In my opinion, promoting this book as an introduction to nutrition could potentially be harmful to new students since most of what Haas talks about is his personal views that are not backed by science.
Haas presents a lot of information as facts whereas it's simply his own opinions. It's written in an odd conversational way, making it sound like someone who's trying to sell you something on the internet rather than presenting scientific information. Moreover, it lacks substantial references to credible sources. I was expecting this to be a scientific textbook as it was presented to us.
One particular example that stands out is the chapter on Alkaline diets and food combining and how one can change their blood pH by eating certain foods. Haas presents this concept as factual despite its lack of evidence-based support. (Besides many more outdated ideas)
In my opinion, promoting this book as an introduction to nutrition could potentially be harmful to new students since most of what Haas talks about is his personal views that are not backed by science.
January 20, 2020
It is not an easy read, having said that, it is full of information. You have to keep in mind nutrition information is constantly changing and much is or can be swayed by personal opinion or interpretation of science, facts etc. It is repetitive, but that is beneficial when using this as a resource, but hard to deal with when reading the entire thing for a class.
I do like that he challenges you to question. He gives his own ideas on what he thinks is right, but provides options.
All in all the majority of this information is important and thorough to those in the field of nutrition. It is an excellent resource to keep on hand.
I do like that he challenges you to question. He gives his own ideas on what he thinks is right, but provides options.
All in all the majority of this information is important and thorough to those in the field of nutrition. It is an excellent resource to keep on hand.
June 10, 2019
Incredibly thorough. I really enjoyed how he blends his writing to include personal experiences and science even when they don't agree and he's very clear what is his opinion and what the scientific research says
August 16, 2017
FINALLY!
May 11, 2019
Outdated information on saturated fat and it colors all the dietary recommendations. Base information is good though.
Want to read
September 19, 2019some people took them 5 months to read thoroughly ...I hope I can make it
October 24, 2016
This book is just chock-full of nutrition information. Since it has such detailed information about all the vitamins and minerals, I refer to it quite often when I write about nutrition, and I've even used it when I'm feeling drained - trying to determine what I need to get my energy back. It has been used so much that the edges are frayed, and I have no plans to give it up. It's invaluable! I gave it four stars instead of five because Haas recommends an all natural diet with no processed foods whatsoever - very strict. Although this is great in theory, it is impractical. In my opinion, in this day and age, there are very few people who can follow this strict of a diet successfully. But, the basics of the book are great!
March 12, 2013
Excellent source book for anyone in the nutritional field. It is one of the textbooks that I needed for school, and I am definitely keeping it. I find this is my first go to book when looking for information. Haas does a great job outlining information so that its easy to read and thorough.
A book that goes perfectly with this one: A-Z Drug-Herb-Vitamin Interaction guide. Lists specific contraindications with prescription medicine and vitamin-herbs. To me, these two books are assets and really compliment each other.
The only time I find it doesn't have the answers is when it is concerning protocol for specific conditions. But I guess that's what other text books are for!
A book that goes perfectly with this one: A-Z Drug-Herb-Vitamin Interaction guide. Lists specific contraindications with prescription medicine and vitamin-herbs. To me, these two books are assets and really compliment each other.
The only time I find it doesn't have the answers is when it is concerning protocol for specific conditions. But I guess that's what other text books are for!
January 13, 2009
This is a very informative book about nutrition and health. It talks a lot about vitamins, foods, diet, and other health related topics. The book is over 900 pages long. I think it is suitable as a reference book. I read the sections I was interested in and skipped a lot.
There are four main sections: The Building Blocks; Foods, Diets, Nutritional Habits, and the Environment; Building a Healthy Diet; and Nutritional Application: 32 Special Diets and Supplement Programs.
There are four main sections: The Building Blocks; Foods, Diets, Nutritional Habits, and the Environment; Building a Healthy Diet; and Nutritional Application: 32 Special Diets and Supplement Programs.
April 17, 2013
I made it through this entire textbook plus answering questions and 2 tests in 11 weeks.
This book is filled with some amazing information on ourselves and on our planet. Reading about preventative medicine really inspires me to be more proactive in my own health rather than reactive.
The information provided is extensive and covers a wide range of topics.
Definitely a must for my nutrition collection
This book is filled with some amazing information on ourselves and on our planet. Reading about preventative medicine really inspires me to be more proactive in my own health rather than reactive.
The information provided is extensive and covers a wide range of topics.
Definitely a must for my nutrition collection
November 5, 2012
I got this book for my herbalist course that I've half finished. It's a great reference for alternative/complementary courses. It's easy to use and I think it's one of those books that you'll always go back to.
August 4, 2014
A lot of really amazing information, also a lot of rambling - but all in all a very informative read! One of those books I could return to a million times over. Much beneficial information to delve into.
June 12, 2008
Amazing whopper of a book with everything imaginable for holistic wellness.
April 1, 2014
Fabulous information about nutrition written so that it all makes perfect sense. Use this as a reference/text book. It will always be on my "currently reading" list.
June 4, 2009
GREAT reference book!!
May 30, 2012
Very insightful!
Read
March 29, 2013I want a read table content.
Thanks!!
Thanks!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2014
My least favorite book from my NTA class.
600-699-applied-science
December 2, 2019613.2
January 31, 2008
A must for everyone who wants to live and eat healthier!
Read
April 2, 2017This was about an 800 page textbook, and I did not actually read it from cover to cover, I read various parts and skimmed the rest.
April 19, 2017
Very big book although most of it didn't interest me. He tries to be unbiased and mostly succeeds (it does smell a bit vegetarian despite his best efforts). Not as dense/novel as I'd like
June 6, 2018
This book had some interesting points and I learned a lot from this book. I probably wouldn't have chosen to read it if it wasn't part of my class. It's about as exciting as any text book.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews