8 Weeks to Optimum Health

March 3, 1997
Weil (Spontaneous Healing), a Harvard-trained physician attuned to alternative healing, delivers a concrete and convincing program in this holistic health guide. In a low-key but earnest tone, supporting his positions with reports of his own experience and those of others who have followed the program, Weil eases people into adopting new, beneficial habits (e.g., better breathing techniques) and the relinquishing of old, unhealthful ones (e.g., drinking coffee) in small steps. Thus, Week One introduces brief walks and some simple dietary changes such as eliminating saturated fats and adding broccoli, salmon and vitamin C. Gradually, the walks grow longer, the antioxidant supplements increase and further dietary changes occur, with green tea being introduced in Week Two, soy products in Week Three and herbal tonics and one-day fasts by Week Eight. To ease the process, a half-dozen or so recipes are included each week. What makes this program unique is Weil's emphasis on avoiding environmental toxins and the attention he pays to the mental and spiritual aspects of health. Whole grains, organic produce and use of sunblocks are essential elements of his approach, as are "news fasts," listening to music, buying flowers and performing service work. Specific guidelines for special cases--pregnant women, children, travelers, the elderly--are included, as are sources for some hard-to-find products, all of which adds to the persuasive authority of Weil's approach. BOMC selection.