"This book is a revolution! It goes way beyond the beliefs that have fueled modern pharmaceutical medicine for decades and gives you all the science you'll ever need to prove that there is another way." - Christiane Northrup, M.D., New York Times bestselling author of Goddesses Never AgeModern medicine and human health are at a critical crossroads, and the truth is that you and not your genes are in the driver's seat. You are the one who gets to make informed decisions on how you use and nourish the evolutionary miracle that is your body.Combining analysis of cutting-edge scientific findings with our deepest ancestral wisdom and health-promoting practices, Sayer Ji, founder of GreenMedInfo, offers a time-tested program to help prevent and manage the most common health afflictions of our day-cancer, heart disease, neurodegenerative diseases, and metabolic syndrome.Antiquated thinking and scientific dogma have long obstructed our understanding of our innate untapped potential for self-regeneration and radical healing. But the New Biology explains why biological time is not a downward spiral and how chronic illness is not inevitable when you implement nature's resiliency tools.In his thorough and thoughtful exploration of the New Biology, Sayer Ji fascinating new science of food as informationthe truth about cancer and heart disease screening and what real prevention looks likehow to reverse the most common forms of degeneration using food-based approacheshow the body extracts energy from sources other than food, including water and melanin; andhow to make sense of conflicting dietary recommendations and out-of-date food philosophiesEncoded within every tissue of your body is your ability to regenerate. Unlock your radical resiliency through this roadmap for diet, exercise, stress reduction, and the cultivation of the environment in which you choose to live.
An incredible, thought-provoking challenge to long-standing scientific axioms. I had read a lot of the research independently, but Sayer does a great job bringing everything into one place.
Some highlights (from my 90 pages of notes): - Plants have sentience and intelligence - Disease symptoms are actually a blessing in disguise - Humans can photosynthesize given the right raw materials - Melanin is a potential key to human evolution and extremely powerful - Food contains potent biological signaling molecules - Implications of the microbiome on overall health
The moral of story is something we all know: live more in harmony with nature.
Human photosynthesis? LoL. Makes your entire book on food and nutrition useless, no?
I created a won't read shelf so I never read this when reading other books on longevity. Pathetic that pseudo scientific crap shows up so frequently in popular health. This guy also lists selective research paper on his site to show supportive "evidence" for the quackery.
"Also known as paleo-deficit disorder, evolutionary mismatch refers to the collective deficiency of ancestral influences in the modern, industrialized landscape. Paleo-deficit disorder runs the gamut from reduced opportunities for privacy and solitude to decreased tactile contact with a variety of natural vegetation to reduced exposure to birdsong, daylight, and phytoncides, the allelochemical, volatile organic compounds emitted by plants that give the forest its characteristic aroma."
I have read many health and wellness books over the years, and Sayer's book Regenerate is not only appropriately named but talks about The New Biology, and is right on target for a paradigm shift in our thinking about what we call health and the body. Regenerate is absolutely what it can do, and will, if we allow it to, if we feed and nurture it appropriately in addition to having a healthy spiritual (not religious necessarily) mindset and practice. There were some stats in here on Cancer and the like that I had never seen before, and went "WOW!" That being said, get yourself a copy, borrow one from a friend or the library and allow all of what we believed in the past to be true about health to be formed into something totally new and transformative.
I have long followed Sayer Ji and was excited about this book. The first part of the book is slow simply because it is packed with research about such a variety of topics. It might be a good idea for some people to skim the first half of the book looking for health issues they are interested in rather than reading from cover to cover. Each section is well-documented and fascinating. The final portion of the book focuses on application, and I've read it 2-3 times already in preparation for implementing many of his suggestions.
While some of the information contained in this book holds water, the presentation--and other information--are lacking.
The first issue is the language the author uses--anything that is described as a "miracle" is instantly suspect. The language also seems to say that anyone can "regenerate" through the various practices listed in this book, but 1) many people are and they are not "regenerating" and 2) it is easier said than done to have access to clean food, air, and nature, and not have to work a sedentary job, etc.
The second is that the book depends upon the reader not being analytical about the way research is presented. Sorry, but "one research study says" does not cut it. Anyone can find a single research study that says what they want it to say. And there will be one or more studies that say the opposite.
And the book really does seem to pick and choose its research, such as using the outdated and debunked study that indicates HRT for menopausal women increases risks rather than reduces them. Peddling such information is irresponsible--newer, more rigorous studies indicate that HRT is neuroprotective and protects against bone loss, just to name two of its benefits. Continuing to scare women out of having all options on the table when it comes to making decisions about their peri-, post-, and menopausal health is the kind of patriarchical "science" that continues to make sure women are medically underserved or their symptoms and knowledge about their own bodies dismissed.
This book is packed with good information that everyone should know. It may be a little too scientific for many. However, I understand that Sayer added all the science so that there is validity behind the words! So I would say read it and skim over the parts you don't want to dive deep into. But read it. Everyone can get healthy if they read and take action. And no, this is not another fad diet. It is pure ancestral wisdom.
I am a nutritionist and have read many health books. This is well researched with many references, A general overview for many areas of how health can be improved with whole foods, supplements and lifestyle. if you already have knowledge this may not add a lot.
Sayer Ji is the founder of a popular alternative medicine portal. He was identified in 2020 as one of the largest promoters of COVID-19 misinformation on social media.(wikimedia)
A well researched work with many references, but for the most part a general overview on how health can be improved with whole foods, supplements and lifestyle.
‘Regenerate’ goes beyond conventional medical beliefs and reveals an alternative approach to health and ageing.
The world of science is brimming with evolving insights and revolutionary perspectives, and the boundaries of traditional understanding are continually pushed. Such is the case with ‘Regenerate’ by Sayer Ji, a book that seeks to transform our perception of health, ageing, and the intricate interplay between our genetic makeup, lifestyle choices, and the environment.
In this review, we embark on an exploration of ‘Regenerate’, delving into its revelations, strengths, and nuances, as it invites us to reevaluate our understanding of health and the body’s remarkable capacity for self-renewal.
Author’s background
Sayer Ji is the founder of GreenMedInfo, a leading open-access natural health database.
He holds roles as a reviewer for the International Journal of Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine, co-founder and CEO of Systome Biomed, a board member of the National Health Federation, and a steering committee member of the Global Non-GMO Foundation.
What is the book about?
‘Regenerate’ by Sayer Ji introduces a new way of thinking about health and ageing. It changes the way we understand the body’s ability to heal itself. The book explores how tiny RNA messages in our bodies affect our health, from getting older to heart health, cancer, brain decline, and metabolic problems. Ji challenges the idea that our genes are the only things that decide our health. Instead, he shows how our choices and the environment we live in also play a big role.
The book is split into three parts. Part I, ‘Your Body and the Miracle of Regeneration,’ explains how our bodies and plants are connected, how genes work, and how our choices affect our health. Ji talks about microRNAs, important messengers in our food, and telomeres, parts of our DNA that affect ageing.
Part II, ‘Rethinking Chronic Disease, Prevention, and Healing,’ discloses how the Western Pattern Diet is linked to chronic conditions and faster ageing. Ji also talks about how our feelings and thoughts can affect how our cells get damaged and how the medical system plays a role.
Part III, ‘Regenerate Rx,’ provides a plan for better health. The plan is revolving around the idea of detoxification from the Western Pattern Diet and eating like our ancestors did. The author also suggests engaging in intentional movements, sleeping better, and reducing stress to help our bodies fix problems and stop diseases.
Key takeaways from ‘Regenerate’
1.DNA is not a blueprint for our health, our choices are
The book challenges the conventional notion of DNA as a strict blueprint for our health and disease. In Western medicine, diseases were often blamed on our genes, but ancient medical systems and Eastern cultures say it is more about how our bodies, the environment, and our choices work together. This shift is about moving away from just genes controlling everything to a new field called epigenetics.
Epigenetics reveals that genes are not solely responsible for our health. Beyond genes, special proteins and processes on them also matter, and our environment can switch genes on or off. Our choices, such as diet, activity, stress management, and relationships, shape gene behaviour. This perspective shifts from genes being everything to acknowledging our control over health through lifestyle and environment, as various diseases related to gene use, not just the genes themselves.
2.To achieve health ourselves and ensure healthy offspring, we must embrace radical responsibility
The way genes work is getting a new twist with the discovery of microRNA/exosome genetic expression. Traditional beliefs centred on chromosomal inheritance through germline cells are being questioned as research indicates that traits influenced by lifestyle, experiences, and exposures can be transmitted across generations through somatic cells.
Things like pollution, heavy metals, pesticides, and things we do in our lives like smoking and feeling stressed can change how our genes work through epigenetics. But, we can fix this by using what nature gives us. Doing activities like exercise, being mindful, and eating healthy stuff from fruits and veggies can make our bodies stronger and more resistant.
Everything around us, from the air we breathe to the food we eat and how we think, matters for generations. Taking charge of this helps us make choices for our health and the health of those who come next.
3.Microbiome plays a crucial role in all aspects of our health
‘Regenerate’ challenges the idea that microorganisms only cause disease and uncovers how the microbiome influences digestion, immunity, and well-being. The microbiome, composed of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and archaea, is an intricate ecosystem that dwarfs human cells in terms of genetic material, with 99.9% of our genes residing within it. The microbiome has a strong impact, controlling digestion, nutrient absorption, detoxification, immune function, and even neurotransmitter production. Some friendly bacteria even help break down toxins, showing how crucial they are for our health.
The microbiome’s importance is evident since birth. Natural birth and breastfeeding are key for creating a diverse and balanced microbiome, strengthening immunity and overall health. On the other hand, practices like C-sections and formula feeding can disturb the balance of microbes, leading to problems. Breast milk, rich in nutrients and gene-regulating microRNAs, supports the variety of microbes, showing how closely nutrition and microbiome health are linked.
Strengths and weaknesses, according to readers’ reviews
Strengths: • Challenges established scientific beliefs, offering a thought-provoking and eye-opening reading experience. • Authoritative and knowledgeable, Sayer Ji’s expertise shines through, especially in areas like cancer treatment and energy sources. • Accessible explanations of complex topics, although the vocabulary might be challenging for some readers. • Profound dietary insights are presented in a digestible manner, allowing easy incorporation into daily routines.
Weaknesses: • The selective use of research undermines the book’s credibility. • The book’s premise is intriguing, but the dense use of technical terms in the first half may deter some readers.
Best quotes from ‘Regenerate’
“In fact, certain foods and lifestyle practices can unlock immense self-regenerative energetic resources within your cells, optimizing DNA expression and making them more important in affecting your health than any other single factor.”
“A recent study published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience demonstrated that while most forms of exercise slow down age-related decline, dancing has even more profound benefits. Considered a psychosocial intervention, dancing combines the mood-elevating effects of increased social interaction with improvements in brain function, cardiac fitness, and overall quality of life.”
“Also known as paleo-deficit disorder, evolutionary mismatch refers to the collective deficiency of ancestral influences in the modern, industrialized landscape. Paleo-deficit disorder runs the gamut from reduced opportunities for privacy and solitude to decreased tactile contact with a variety of natural vegetation to reduced exposure to birdsong, daylight, and phytoncides, the allelochemical, volatile organic compounds emitted by plants that give the forest its characteristic aroma.”
Final takeaway
‘Regenerate’ by Sayer Ji presents a transformative perspective on health and ageing, challenging traditional scientific beliefs. By unravelling the intricate connection between genetics, lifestyle, and the environment, the book advocates for a paradigm shift in how we approach well-being.
‘Regenerate’ is a thought-provoking read that empowers individuals to take control of their health and embrace a holistic approach to wellness. Anyone interested in reshaping their understanding of health, genetics, and their impact on future generations should consider reading this insightful work.
p. 95 "Het Casimir effect en andere op nulpuntenergie gebaseerde processen zijn werkzaam op het niveau van de meest fundamentele bouwstenen van onze biologische architectuur."
Read this for a friend who wanted an opinion. After a pretty promising introduction It reads like the copious notes of someone who has done an enormous amount of research into literature of varying quality about a subject about which the author has already formed opinions and is seeking confirmatory evidence.
I was challenged by the pages of unpronouncable scientific and medical jargon in the early chapters. The regenerative rewards appear in the later chapters.
Awesome book on natural detox through food and lifestyle...I made the mistake of googling Ji and learned some pretty terrible things about his views on Covid vaccines.
I really enjoyed the conglomeration of health perpetuating lifestyle techniques and will absolutely be incorporating some of them into my life. Ive always been health conscious to some extent, but recently I’ve been recovering from recurrent C. difficile and my entire diet and way of living has been forcibly changed.
Some studies contradicted each other, for example, we have evidence that coffee is beneficial in some ways and detrimental in others. So, ultimately, it’s all about finding which of these superfoods and lifestyle techniques are right for your body, and still eliminating the horrendous foods found in a typical Western diet. The constant stress and toxic food have permeated through almost all areas of life in the US.
I’m excited to implement these techniques and see which optimize my body and heal my intestines.
You better get up from sitting under that tree before another apple falls on your head! Otherwise, you're going to miss the wonderful world of the New Biology where time honoured and outdated scientific belief systems get thrown out the window. Great book and a relatively easy read. Some may get a bit bogged down on the genetics but I found it well thought out and a real treat. Like everything in our current world, things are changing at breakneck speed. This is certainly true for science and medicine and Sayer Ji's thoughtful and fact packed book is the perfect entry into The New Biology. Many authors state the problem but leave the solution up to others or the reader. Sayer Ji goes the extra mile and points out what the reader can do to make meaningful change. Highly recommend.
although I appreciate what I've learnt about new biology and how the author attempted to maintain an objective approach, they didn't do a great job at covering up the subtleties of their elitism and privilege. it almost made me guilty for eating fruits and vegetables that aren't organic because I simply cannot afford the luxury of buying them. even guilty for drinking tap water!
some very eye-rolling and obvious problems with this one (and author) but overall, it makes me appreciate my body for being naturally capable and regenerative in the first place. s/o to my heart, mind and gut for keeping me going.
I really appreciated the research in this book. It focuses heavy on the why for improving our health through food. It is less focused on the details of how, it does have a recommended plan to follow however, it had less detailed information than other books I've read. So as a first book on improving gut health I would suggest reading something that covers basics of what types of food do what and then read this one.
I have read so many different health and diet books but this one stands out for many of the different theories that it posits that I have not read of anywhere else. These theories are all backed by research. One of the most interesting is the idea that humans could be photoheterotrophic or we could have the ability to gain energy from the sun if we ate more greens. An interesting theory that I would like to read more about. Will definitely return to.
Love learning about how to manage health challenges by understanding what foods are good for you, how to nurture your mitichondria and enjoy better health overall. This is a great book for understanding how you can be in charge of your own health destiny!
Sorry but I gave up trying to "listen" to this book, On Audible. Narrated by Sayer Ji. His constant monotone and stilted enunciation just made it too difficult to listen to. Really needs to be re-recorded with a professional narrator.
Although I felt the information was good in this book, I don’t feel I found anything new from any other author covering similar topics. I feel it’s good for those first switching from a standard American diet to a more health-promoting diet.
Sayer Ji truly compiled fact checked medical knowledge in this book. Many times, he wrote above "my pay grade". But I learned so much from his work. I watch his podcast interviews, I try to remain open on the different opinions of him and his guests.