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The Health Fix: Transform Your Health in 8 Weeks
A lifestyle medicine expert reveals his secrets for future-proofing your health and preventing illness. Starting with the experience of his own illness, Dr Ayan Panja, NHS GP and lifestyle medicine expert, brings a unique personalized framework to tailor targeted lifestyle-based interventions to you, with his groundbreaking new book Health Fix. Unlike many approaches to health and wellbeing, Health Fix focuses on the ‘why’ rather than just the ‘what’ with a
The unique Health Fix toolkit will help you change your health for the good by understanding the story of YOU.
The unique Health Fix toolkit will help you change your health for the good by understanding the story of YOU.
256 pages, Hardcover
Published April 4, 2023
56 people are currently reading
247 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
February 10, 2023
Not impressed with this one. The book was trying to cover too many bits and pieces, resulting in none being covered in enough depth.
The book is dumbed down, and I felt like I was being spoken to by a primary school teacher, with the bold italic writing feeling particularly patronising. References about habit formation, for example, need more respect than a couple of lines of explanation. The section on case studies was unnecessary, and the final section required much more information on how to make the changes - the tip to 'eat more whole food' is just not good enough.
I'd be amazed if anyone said this book inspired them to make changes - give me one of Rangan Chatterjee's cleverly thought-out, well-balanced, intelligently pitched and beautifully stylised books any day of the week.
The book is dumbed down, and I felt like I was being spoken to by a primary school teacher, with the bold italic writing feeling particularly patronising. References about habit formation, for example, need more respect than a couple of lines of explanation. The section on case studies was unnecessary, and the final section required much more information on how to make the changes - the tip to 'eat more whole food' is just not good enough.
I'd be amazed if anyone said this book inspired them to make changes - give me one of Rangan Chatterjee's cleverly thought-out, well-balanced, intelligently pitched and beautifully stylised books any day of the week.
July 26, 2023
I agree with people who have said this book goes down into the very basics, and doesn't really complicate things. However, I did find some usefulness in the framework suggested. Some of the things described I was already doing regardless, but it's easier to have a more systematic way of looking at it through what the author calls the health loop.
It doesn't offer much new information but it's a quick read and I found the framework beneficial.
It doesn't offer much new information but it's a quick read and I found the framework beneficial.
March 25, 2023
A very quick read but the idea that we can understand how our lifestyle and environment affects our health and that we can make changes to support ourselves is a really important one.
April 3, 2024
4.5 stars. A great introduction to systems-based lifestyle medicine for everyone and a good refresher for those of us working in the field. Ayan is a passionate patient and GP advocate & educator, and also has an informative bite-sized podcast: Saving Lives in Slow Motion. I attended the first Prescribing Lifestyle Medicine course that he ran in conjunction with Rangan Chatterjee, which was certified by the RCGP. I highly recommend his work
January 20, 2023
Similar to dr Chatterjee- they should set up an nhs service between them of lifestyle medicine. We’d all feel a lot better. I enjoyed this
January 26, 2024
Rooting for a holistic manner of leading life, NHS GP, and lifestyle medicine expert Dr. Ayan Panja, in The Health Fix, proposes a framework which he terms IDEAL, an acronym which when expanded reads, Identify, Define, Engage, Activate and Look Back. Taking a “systems” approach to good health (systems representing and referring to immune, gastrointestinal, endocrine, nervous, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal), Dr. Panja proposes that if our systems are “out of whack, then we may start to experience symptoms. But if we change our behaviours, this can change how our systems work, thereby resolving our symptoms.”
With real life case studies and illustrations, Dr. Panja proceeds to highlight implementable and practical ways of changing our behaviours that would ensure a proper and smooth working of our systems. In order to attain this change, we should according to Dr. Panja pay attention to what he terms to be out “Health Loop.” This Loop is an agglomeration of eight key factors – Exercise, Environment, Sleep, Infections, Diet, Genetics, Stress, and Sunlight. How one fares in each of these factors plays a key determinant in the expeditious working of the systems.
A complete and thorough understanding of the Health Loop would then enable a patient to develop a “Lifestyle Prescription.” As Dr. Panja writes, “A Lifestyle Prescription is simply a set of agreed actions that a patient and practitioner come up with together, but in the case of The Health Fix, you will learn how to generate your own.” The book is divided into three segments.
The Foundations section of the book introduces the reader to various behaviours and the human biology in addition to elucidating on the important aspects of the mental and physical processes. The Aspirations section acquaints the reader with a slew of real-life case studies which is a sample from the eclectic experiences of Dr. Panja as a doctor over a period of three decades. The final section of the book titled The Fixes, lays out strategies, tools and, hacks that the reader employ from an enhanced health perspective.
The Health Fix is a handy guide for healthy living, especially in an era where junk foods, smart phones and sedentary lifestyles have become more the norm than an exception.
With real life case studies and illustrations, Dr. Panja proceeds to highlight implementable and practical ways of changing our behaviours that would ensure a proper and smooth working of our systems. In order to attain this change, we should according to Dr. Panja pay attention to what he terms to be out “Health Loop.” This Loop is an agglomeration of eight key factors – Exercise, Environment, Sleep, Infections, Diet, Genetics, Stress, and Sunlight. How one fares in each of these factors plays a key determinant in the expeditious working of the systems.
A complete and thorough understanding of the Health Loop would then enable a patient to develop a “Lifestyle Prescription.” As Dr. Panja writes, “A Lifestyle Prescription is simply a set of agreed actions that a patient and practitioner come up with together, but in the case of The Health Fix, you will learn how to generate your own.” The book is divided into three segments.
The Foundations section of the book introduces the reader to various behaviours and the human biology in addition to elucidating on the important aspects of the mental and physical processes. The Aspirations section acquaints the reader with a slew of real-life case studies which is a sample from the eclectic experiences of Dr. Panja as a doctor over a period of three decades. The final section of the book titled The Fixes, lays out strategies, tools and, hacks that the reader employ from an enhanced health perspective.
The Health Fix is a handy guide for healthy living, especially in an era where junk foods, smart phones and sedentary lifestyles have become more the norm than an exception.
September 17, 2023
"The Health Fix: Transform Your Health in 8 Weeks" by Dr. Ayan Panja is a revolutionary guide that takes a holistic approach to wellness. Dr. Panja, an NHS GP and lifestyle medicine expert, draws from his own health journey and medical expertise to provide readers with a personalized roadmap to better health.
Unlike many health books that focus solely on what to do, "The Health Fix" delves into the 'why' behind our health choices. Dr. Panja introduces a comprehensive toolkit that empowers individuals to address the eight key factors impacting their health on a daily basis. This toolkit is not just about surface-level changes but aims to help readers understand the underlying reasons for their habits and symptoms.
One of the book's strengths lies in its emphasis on the interplay between symptoms and biology. Dr. Panja skillfully blends scientific evidence with real-life case studies, making complex medical concepts accessible to all readers. This approach helps readers connect with the material on a personal level, which is crucial for lasting change.
The book's promise of noticeable improvements within eight weeks is compelling. By encouraging readers to generate their own tailored lifestyle prescription, "The Health Fix" fosters a sense of empowerment and ownership over one's health. The inclusion of fixes that are specific to each individual ensures that the advice provided is relevant and practical.
In a world grappling with an increasing burden of non-communicable diseases and mental health issues, Dr. Panja's book is a timely resource. It provides a roadmap for individuals to take control of their health and well-being. The endorsement from Dr. Rangan Chatterjee, a respected figure in the field, further attests to the book's credibility.
In summary, "The Health Fix" is a groundbreaking guide that goes beyond surface-level health advice. Dr. Ayan Panja's personalized approach, supported by scientific evidence and compelling case studies, offers readers a chance to transform their health in a meaningful way. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking lasting improvements in their well-being.
Unlike many health books that focus solely on what to do, "The Health Fix" delves into the 'why' behind our health choices. Dr. Panja introduces a comprehensive toolkit that empowers individuals to address the eight key factors impacting their health on a daily basis. This toolkit is not just about surface-level changes but aims to help readers understand the underlying reasons for their habits and symptoms.
One of the book's strengths lies in its emphasis on the interplay between symptoms and biology. Dr. Panja skillfully blends scientific evidence with real-life case studies, making complex medical concepts accessible to all readers. This approach helps readers connect with the material on a personal level, which is crucial for lasting change.
The book's promise of noticeable improvements within eight weeks is compelling. By encouraging readers to generate their own tailored lifestyle prescription, "The Health Fix" fosters a sense of empowerment and ownership over one's health. The inclusion of fixes that are specific to each individual ensures that the advice provided is relevant and practical.
In a world grappling with an increasing burden of non-communicable diseases and mental health issues, Dr. Panja's book is a timely resource. It provides a roadmap for individuals to take control of their health and well-being. The endorsement from Dr. Rangan Chatterjee, a respected figure in the field, further attests to the book's credibility.
In summary, "The Health Fix" is a groundbreaking guide that goes beyond surface-level health advice. Dr. Ayan Panja's personalized approach, supported by scientific evidence and compelling case studies, offers readers a chance to transform their health in a meaningful way. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking lasting improvements in their well-being.
January 20, 2024
I found The Health Fix to be extremely easy to read, even some of the deeper medical terminology and explanations are written in a way to be clear and simple to understand and I read this in two sittings.
Having listened to podcasts in the lifestyle medicine space, and read other books on the subject, i wasn’t expecting to learn many new things, but I still did.
I learned a huge amount about how to understand my own health niggles better and how to make positive changes.
As a layman, with only a small amount of medical experience ( being a qualified first aider ), I thought the science was clear and concise
I understand The Health Fix is the author’s first book and I have to say, I'm certainly looking forward to more from him in the future.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
Having listened to podcasts in the lifestyle medicine space, and read other books on the subject, i wasn’t expecting to learn many new things, but I still did.
I learned a huge amount about how to understand my own health niggles better and how to make positive changes.
As a layman, with only a small amount of medical experience ( being a qualified first aider ), I thought the science was clear and concise
I understand The Health Fix is the author’s first book and I have to say, I'm certainly looking forward to more from him in the future.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
January 25, 2024
If, like me, you love a self help book then this is a great book to add to your arsenal. Through the use of case studies the author helps guide you through the process of understanding yourself better in order to identify behaviours that can sabotage ourselves, and then how to “fix” those issues and help us prevent/change illness and how to improve our wellness. Whilst I felt this book did not provide me with new information as such (in terms of eating whole food, drinking more water etc), I did like the concepts of the Health Loop and the IDEAL framework designed to help with changing habits and how the book feels less prescriptive than others in this field. It is an empowering read and a great reminder that we are the architects of our own health and wellbeing.
March 10, 2023
If you really feeling burnt out or dont know where to start to look after yourself better, this would be an excellent starting point. Some good interactive sections towards the end to help you on your way too.
But the case studies weren't relatable and I didnt find that section useful and also this felt a bit for people without any diagnosed conditions. Tips on these things with other illnesses could also be useful. At times it felt a bit too simplistic and dumbed down.
I do genuinely believe that every person could read this though and take at least 1 thing away from it to improve their health.
But the case studies weren't relatable and I didnt find that section useful and also this felt a bit for people without any diagnosed conditions. Tips on these things with other illnesses could also be useful. At times it felt a bit too simplistic and dumbed down.
I do genuinely believe that every person could read this though and take at least 1 thing away from it to improve their health.
January 26, 2023
Finished it… what a great book of tips, tricks and easy to implement activities that can improve the way you live your life.
Not having a medical background I worried whether this would be relevant to me but the way it’s written is easy to understand and very very relatable.
Concepts like the one minute recharge, the health loop and belly breathing are such a good tools to use on a regular basis but also can be fun… and I can’t wait to make that smoothie for breakfast!! Thanks Dr Ayan Panja
Not having a medical background I worried whether this would be relevant to me but the way it’s written is easy to understand and very very relatable.
Concepts like the one minute recharge, the health loop and belly breathing are such a good tools to use on a regular basis but also can be fun… and I can’t wait to make that smoothie for breakfast!! Thanks Dr Ayan Panja
February 8, 2023
I really enjoyed listening to this! The case study approach was such a fun and engaging way to get readers to think about health, almost like you’re playing along trying to figure out the mystery and then BOOM lifestyle medicine diagnosis. The narrator has a gentle, warm and optimistic tone. The health fixes suggested are straightforward, and the approach is designed to empower.
August 2, 2023
Many of our health issues can be addressed through a “lifestyle prescription” which treats the cause and prevents an issue growing into a longer-term problem. I’m a big fan of addressing the cause rather than medicating the symptoms so I knew The Health Fix by would be right up my alley!
What I didn’t know is how well thought-out and written it would be. Dr Ayan explains the “why” and “how” behind each “what” for the proposed fixes and sets out frameworks to help the reader succeed in their self-tailored package of fixes.
Divided into four parts: foundations, aspirations, fixes, and tailoring your own fix. It covers all of the common concerns: energy, digestion, pain, memory, mood, diet, sleep and exercise etc. What I particularly loved is that as well as supporting the reader in tailoring their own fix, it also provides ways to help stick to new habits and succeed (e.g. the IDEAL framework).
Highly recommended!
What I didn’t know is how well thought-out and written it would be. Dr Ayan explains the “why” and “how” behind each “what” for the proposed fixes and sets out frameworks to help the reader succeed in their self-tailored package of fixes.
Divided into four parts: foundations, aspirations, fixes, and tailoring your own fix. It covers all of the common concerns: energy, digestion, pain, memory, mood, diet, sleep and exercise etc. What I particularly loved is that as well as supporting the reader in tailoring their own fix, it also provides ways to help stick to new habits and succeed (e.g. the IDEAL framework).
Highly recommended!
June 30, 2024
The author illustrates and explains his personal diagnosis methodology, which he has crafted into a nice little program with catchy phrases and diagrams. The book reads well and is not overcomplicated with medical jargon. It is a good book to read if you are struggling to ascertain and figure out the cause of your own health issues.
January 15, 2023
At last… a doctor who is interested in systems rather than treating each symptom. What a tool. One of the best self help books in a very long time. It is a place you can bring all of your other research together in a common sense approach 👏👏👏
January 27, 2024
DNF at 30%
I’m so disappointed in this book, I had such high hopes towards it. I thought I could learn and grow from it but I couldn’t even bring myself to finish it. I didn’t learned anything new reading this book, it felt too basic and not deep enough.
I’m so disappointed in this book, I had such high hopes towards it. I thought I could learn and grow from it but I couldn’t even bring myself to finish it. I didn’t learned anything new reading this book, it felt too basic and not deep enough.
January 12, 2023
excellent book
This is a quick read and combines a common sense approach to troublesome symptoms and encourages us to examine how our lifestyles really impact our health-great book!
This is a quick read and combines a common sense approach to troublesome symptoms and encourages us to examine how our lifestyles really impact our health-great book!
March 27, 2023
Too basic for me..
it may suit someone with no knowledge of how to make improvements to their life
it may suit someone with no knowledge of how to make improvements to their life
July 1, 2023
Interesting reversion of traditional medicine looking at individual stories alongside the systems of our bodies. Really interesting.
October 7, 2023
I guess many informations were repeated. 🥲
April 7, 2024
Simple way to look at your overall health. I particularly liked the overview case studies that were in the book that made it easier to apply the theory to yourself.
#netgalley
#netgalley
April 8, 2024
Has some sound advise, but it really believes that if everybody does the fundaments a lot of health problems can be fixed. I like the start small idea, but doesn't fix my issues.
February 9, 2025
A must read.
February 9, 2025
Insightfull book with actionable items to improve your longevity
February 9, 2025
Simple, effective guide to health and well being. Would highly recommend
February 9, 2025
The case histories make this an Interesting read with realistic achievable goals. Prompted me to make changes to my own lifestyle
June 12, 2025
A fantastic explanation of the importance of lifestyle and personal histories on our health.
Simplifies the basic principles of health coaching in an easy to read book
Simplifies the basic principles of health coaching in an easy to read book
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews