MD

While I have long been interested in the mineral magnesium - because of personal health problems as well as my professional training in hospital dietetics - I have found no other book on the subject that describes in layperson language the complexity of magnesium metabolism and the many health problems related to magnesium deficiency, as well as does THE MIRACLE OF MAGNESIUM.

Laypeople need access to this information because most physicians fail to see the connection between magnesium deficiency and, for example, heart disease - America's No. 1 killer! Why? Physicians learn comparatively little about the body's essential minerals in medical college and only recently has an ACCURATE test for measuring body magnesium been made available. Most physicians depend on the serum test for magnesium, not dependable for measuring the ACTIVE form of magnesium. Dr. Dean explains that mineral testing has evolved from taking whole blood measurements to testing for cell minerals to testing for mineral ions, the active component of minerals working at the tissue level. She writes: "Every year for the past forty years" the two dedicated scientists who developed this test "have produced on average a dozen peer-reviewed journal articles on magnesium and ionic magnesium testing. Their research convinces even die-hard skeptics...of the clear need for magnesium supplementation and the absolute requirement for ACCURATE testing."

Health problems Dr. Dean lists as having been successfully treated with magnesium therapy include HEART ARRHYTHMIA, SEIZURES, HYPOGLYCEMIA, COLITIS, HEAVY METAL TOXICITY, ASTHMA, MIGRAINES and NERVE PROBLEMS. I have been diagnosed with each of them -- most before it was known they can be magnesium-deficiency symptoms.

Two years ago I was stricken with periods of rapid heartbeat - a form of HEART ARRHYTHMIA. At first I thought possibly my new anticonvulsant might be causing me to lose potassium since taking extra potassium slowed my fast pulse and when I no longer took potassium my frightening sieges of rapid pulse would periodically reoccur. So I asked my nutritionally-oriented physician if he could test for potassium "leakage". Luckily he knew that for potassium to function it needs sufficient magnesium, and he ordered a 24 hour urine test for potassium, magnesium and other minerals. The test indicated I was excreting excessive amounts of BOTH potassium and magnesium. Follow-up tests showed that while the magnesium in my white blood cells was LOW that the potassium in my red blood cells was NORMAL. Obviously not enough magnesium was reaching my cells. At that point my physician prescribed INTRAVENOUS magnesium, and the night following my first shot I slept better than I had in a long time!

Several months later, following publication of her book, I noticed that Dr. Dean had written: "....magnesium is responsible for maintaining normal potassium and sodium concentrations INSIDE HEART MUSCLE CELLS." She also said that a magnesium deficiency can result in one's having not only arrhythmia, seizures and convulsions but also muscle weakness. MUSCLE WEAKNESS! I recalled that muscle weakness is one of the four major side effects known to be caused by my new anticonvulsant -the anticonvulsant I started taking shortly before I was stricken with rapid-pulse arrhythmia! At the time, I only related muscular weakness to leg and arm muscles. But after reading what Dr. Dean wrote I wondered, "COULD LOW MAGNESIUM BE WEAKENING MY HEART MUSCLES?" It seemed to me that a heart muscle that was too weak to produce a strong beat might beat much more rapidly, trying to pump more blood.

Elsewhere in the book I read, "Magnesium expert Mildred Seelig tells us that the side effects of many drugs may be associated with magnesium deficiency because MAGNESIUM BECOMES DEPLETED WHILE THE BODY IS TRYING TO DETOXIFY DRUGS."

My physician had told me the anticonvulsant I had previously taken - marketed for many years and, therefore, better evaluated - depleted magnesium. Upon reading Dr. Seelig's statement I began to suspect that my new anticonvulsant might be causing my low magnesium level and the low magnesium, in turn, might be weakening my heart muscles and triggering periods of rapid pulse arrhythmia.

In addition to receiving magnesium IVs and taking oral supplements I have paid close attention to Dr. Dean's suggestions for maintaining a healthy magnesium level. For example, she lists which foods and which brands of bottled waters have the highest levels of magnesium, which foods can block its absorption and which foods require extra magnesium for digestion and metabolism.

Just a year ago, following a 24 hour Holter test that recorded my periods of arrhythmia, my cardiologist recommended Digoxin for treating it. Because my arrhythmia had responded to taking potassium, I asked if - before trying any prescription drugs -- he would consider my first trying nutritional supplements that have been successfully used to treat arrhythmia. Unlike three other cardiologists I had consulted, he was enthused about exploring this comparatively new field with me.

His trust in me and my faith in what Dr. Dean had written were rewarded. Following my recent treadmill test, my cardiologist wrote:: "On the standard Bruce treadmill she has an excellent aerobic capacity of 10.1 METS. She completes 53 seconds of stage 3 with a maximum heart rate 158 and no arrhythmia...Recovery is rapid to heart rate 83 within six minutes and her examination and treadmill test electrocardiographically are normal before, during and after exercise."

Jerri Spalding Fredin, 78 years young
September 2003

As a nurse I am required to have 24hrs of CE credits, to renew my license. We can choose from various subjects and titles to accomplish this. I am a Medical/Surgical nurse which basicly deals with every possible ailment out there, so my choice is endless. However, we have noticed a new interest in some of our doctors for monitering the Magnesium levels on their patients. Magnesium is a mineral that got very little attention. I wanted to know why and this book just happened to be one of the selective readings I could choose from.
All I can say is what a fabulous choice! I am willing to bet that anyone reading this book will feel they are reading about themselves. It is astounding the effect magnesium deficiency has on our bodies. As I look at my patients now- it all makes sense.
This book is simple to read and understand. You do not need a medical background. It explains how magnesium deficiencies cause or contribute to certain conditions that we all have experienced, such as: fatigue, muscle cramps, heart palpitations, headaches, sleeping problems and so much more. Then it gives you directions on how you can prevent or solve it before it gets worse. It also shows how magnesium has an important role in heart disease, strokes, Alzheimers, and more.
Dr. Carolyn Dean's book is a very inexpensive investment in your health and will save you not only your money in the long run!

My husband was rushed to the hospital with all of the symptoms of a heart attack. He was in the hospital for two days and had many tests performed , but one test he did not have was the ion magnesium test. The hospital could find nothing wrong with him and sent him home. I was not satisfied with this(what if another attack happened) and I started doing my own reasearch. I knew that magnesium was a relaxant so I looked up magnesium and the heart. I came across Dr. Deans new book, THE MIRACLE OF MAGNESIUM. I figured that my husband was having arterial spasms and when my husband took this information to his doctor, the doctor agreed that yes, most likely this was the problem. My husband is now on magnesium therapy and has not had anymore spasms to date. Thank God for this book, as it is a wealth of information! The word needs to get out on the many benefits of taking magnesium. I too am taking magnesium now. I suffered from PMS and had a tendency to feel kind of blue or down at times. Well I am happy to say that I no longer feel this way! I highly recommend this book to everyone! In good health, Lynn

The New Family Cookbook is a thoroughly engaging compendium of tips, facts, and recipes for flavorful, exciting dishes drawn from cultures and cuisines worldwide and eminently suited for the family table. From hors d'oeuvres such as Deviled Eggs and Marinated Mushrooms, to Vegetable dishes ranging from Spinach and Portobello Mushroom Stir-Fry and Green Pepper Vegetable Au Gratin, to Fish And Meat entrees like Grilled Tuna Steaks and Roasted Chicken, to mouth-watering desserts like Pumpkin-Pecan Spice Cake and Raspberry Sherbet, The New Family Cookbook offers palate pleasing, appetite satisfying, kitchen-cook friendly dishes for every occasion.

This is the first cookbook I've read that's a page-turner--I found myself flipping ahead to the comments and reflections by Dr. Eichner and many members of his family: a family drama is revealed through recipes and the memories they inspire. Eichner's encouraging tone and unpretentious style are really appealing. His recipes are simple and his appreciation for home-cooked food is inspiring. I'm making soup again these days, and have fallen in love with the chocolate cake and semolina cake.

This is a cookbook I want to give everyone in my family, some new cooks, some not so new. Dr. Eichner's simple but sound nutritional advice, along with playful recipes, uncomplicated cooking and eating philosophy makes cooking well seem easier, and eating right more fun. The addition of personal thoughts on food, eating and cooking from Dr. Eichner's family gives this cookbook an intimate and thoughtful touch. It is an easy going but helpful hand in the kitchen.

Bought this book as part of prep for application for ssdi. (also bought how to get ssi and ssdi by mike davis and dis workbook for ss applicants by doug. smith). Each book explained a diff part of the ssdi process. This book told what each med diagnosis needed to establish to qualify for perm. disability. And it goes on to explain how to keep your ssdi once you get your award. I did win my case the first try using the info in the 3 books. Having them made all the diff in the world in understanding the ssdi process. Best $[money]. (all 3 books) I ever spent...

As a lawyer I recommend three books to individuals who ask for help in getting their Social Security disability benefits. First is our Disability Workbook for Social Security Applicants. Everyone tells me that this book greatly simplifies getting disability benefits. I can testify that interviewing a client is much easier when he or she has used the Disability Workbook. Second, the book How to Get SSI and Social Security Disability, by Mike Davis, is insightful and easy to read. Mr. Davis is a former disability examiner. His clear explanations of common bureaucratic problems make his book one of my favorites. Finally, I use Dr. David Morton's Nolo's Guide to Social Security Disability. Dr. Morton is a former disability determination services staff physician who describes Social Security medical decision making better than anyone else I know. Every doctor who communicates with Social Security about patients should have Dr, Morton's book on the shelf - and every disability lawyer. I give all three books the highest rating.

This book contains valuable information for the professional and layman seeking to obtain and keep SSI/SSDI benefits. It is an easily read road map, taking the reader through a maze of bureaucratic terminology and procedures. Glossaries explaining terms and "government speak" are strategically placed throughout. Samples of all major forms used by the system are presented with guidance on how to complete them. Most importantly, Dr. Morton cautions the reader about impending laws being contemplated by SSA which would severely complicate matters, and possibly invite fraud, by having non-medical personnel review claims for benefits--which by definition, are medical/psychological documents. This warning and the data presented make for a valuable reading event.

The book is probably the best Ophthalmology text ever written. It has a very broad content and the information results very useful. It`s also incredibly well ilustrated and the print is of the highest quality. It`s a pleasure to read this masterwork.

This is currently the preferred general text-book in Melbourne, Australia for studying for our equivalent of the board examinations. It is comprehensive, up-to-date and lucid. There is minimal extraneous information, but sufficient detail for the purposes of most general ophthalmologists. It is liberally illustrated, and the quality of photographs is generally very high indeed. There are a few photographs of difficult to photograph conditions that are not up to the generally excellent quality.

My main complaints at present are the too common typographical errors and variations in format across chapters.

Congratulations to the books'editors and contributors for having produced the new standard reference one volume textbook in Ophth.Terrific layout,generous and outstanding illustrations and tables,text from some of the worlds' best clinicians and researchers and on top of that a joy for the eye!That's how medical books will look in the new millenium.It's a pity it only came out a few months before finishing my residency.

This is the best book I have ever read on digestive disorders. It covers every situation imaginable. I consider this a "must read" for anyone with inflammatory bowel disease or bowel disorders associated with autism. It also covers Irritable Bowel, parasites, and other difficult to treat situations. This is a well-written, intelligent, insightful book. I highly recommend it as my new favorite.

This has to be one of the most extensive and enlightening books on digestive health available. It covers all things digestive and is authored by a wide variety of healthcare professionals who represent a healthy balance of traditional and alternative thinking. It is the most informative (and enjoyable) book on digestive health I've purchased - and I've got quite a few.

It even provides contact information for most of the authors, should you decide to make personal contact or seek treatment. Definitely a worthwhile purchase!

Of all of the book I have read to try to understand food sensitivities (which is about 15 by now) this one is the best. I have more faith in this one because it is written by doctors. But I could understand most of it. It also lists several doctors who deal with these issues. That was worth the 12 bucks.

Here's a book with real substance written by a doctor who has M.D.There are too many books on the marketthat appear to be written by doctors who are looking over someones shoulderin an attempt to write authoritively onthe subject. I was very impressed by the dept of knowledge of this doctor who writes with true in depth investigative knowledge, he truly understands because he has the problem.A lot of good advice regarding diet which is of major importance, and life style, (Smoking), etc.Careful reading will show at least how to stop the progression and he also tells what kind of research is being done to find , if not a cure, at leastpossible major help.I'll buy anything this guy writes !

This book on macular degeneration is by far the best one published to date.There are numerous other publications available by other doctors that don't come close to the quality and depth of information contained in this book. I even gave a copy to my eye doctor who was not aware of it's availability.I must add that this doctor really speaks from personal experience with Macular Degeneration and it shows in the quality and quantity of great information.I thank God for this mans bookand highly recommend it to anyone who has MD or a friend or relative with the problem.Sincere thanks,Lee CarlsonSpring Hill, Fl

I have a parent with macular degeneration and this book gave my father and our family new hope and inspiration. Particularly compelling was the fact that the author himself suffers from this affliction. The information provided was extremely useful and written in an informal, personal and non-technical manner. I highly recommend this book for anyone who has or knows someone with macular degeneration.

This is an excellent book that includes 100 diagnoses in brain imaging. The text is perfectly organized for quick reference and really allows one to rapidly find answers to common questions about the diasease entity ie- key facts, CT/MRI/PET/DWI imaging features, pathology, ddx, clinical features. PERFECT! A very valuable book for interns, residents and fellows who at times find themselves in quick need of a short imaging synopsis of a disease process ie- at the viewbox or on the wards.

I think it would be safe to say that one would be unlikely to get a case at the radiology Boards (both north and south of the border) that is not in this book. I think it would be nice to have around for a quick review the night before your oral exam. However, this is NOT a substitute for reading through a more traditional brain imaging text (ie- Mosby Handbook Series) during one's residency.

This is an excellent review of the important brain diagnoses. Great job with getting all important info in one small package. This is certainly one of the best general review books ever written for neuro. all radiology, neuro and neurosurgery departments should have a copy of this book around. and at a great price! much less than giant hardback books, that are harder to find relevent information quickly in!

This series is a very good idea. Get the top people in a radiology subspecialty to write a small pocketbook on the most common conditions seen. Perfect for the resident in almost any medical field, the beginning radiology resident, and of course, the medical student.

Then they ruin it all by charging US$50.00 for a it. It's a good book - but for the love of God, it IS a pocketbook, you know.

This is a reference we use on our psych unit because it provides information in a quick and easy-to-use format for nurses who do not deal with medical issues on a regular basis. It has logical cross references and recommendations for further investigation.

I felt that this was the most complete and EASY to use Lab book for nursing students, such as I. It even suggests what abnormals can mean clinically.

Honestly, I don't give many books 5 stars, nor do I give many glowing reviews, but Mosby really did an outstanding job putting this book together. The format is friendly, the data is accurate, and the tests are all relevant in hospital or clinical settings. Great book and an invaluable reference for nurses and laboratorians alike!

Superb handbook on medicine. Would recommend losing the drug section (there is many pocketbooks on this area) or condense it as it is much too spread out compared to other text in the book. Much better than Washington's or Gomella's. Go get it.

If you need a quick, authoratative review of internal medicine, and approaches to diagnosis and treatment, this is the one book to have. It not only gets you through the night, it also helps you present and discuss the case on rounds. Handy size. Not too much. Not too little. This will definitely give the Washington Manual a run for the money. My advice. Get both.

For a first edition this book is amazing. As a medicine intern going on to second year, I too find it more useful than the Washington Manual, though the two books clearly have different purposes. As I said in the title, I wish this book were more pocketable (it fits, but is heavy). The first thing I would get rid of would be the formulary. I understand that the formulary is part of what has made the Harriet Lane book so successful, but it is a waste of space to put a formulary in a handbook of Internal Medicine.

*Amin Sabet

Never having had any experience or knowledge on the basis of this disease, I got the book to help me understand my father's disease. I have gotten a fuller understanding of the causes of the disease, the symptoms, the treatments (and making decisions regarding the selections of the treatments), and the progression of the disease. I feel much better informed and feel I can support my father better because of it. It was definitely written to help support the patient and family supporting that patient.

The author of this book did a great job in explaining what Parkinson's Disease is and giving information for the patient and the caregiver. I am a dental hygienist and I learned just an overview of the disease in school. After having my first patient with the disease I decided to learn more about it. I learned alot from this book that I should of already known for my patient. The book tells you the symptoms and the side effects of the disease and advice on drug therapy, diet, and exercise. Some people don't even know that they have the disease for a couple of months or even years. They think it is just old age or arthritis. The book also states what kind of medical advice to seek.
I have never met a patient with Parkinson's Disease until a couple of months ago. I didn't know what to expect. When the patient walked in I was shocked. She looked normal and wasn't shaking. She was the sweetest patient I had met. She explained to me her life and how she lives with the disease. She said that she sometimes gets embarrased to be seen in public when she has her tremors because she thinks that everyone is staring at her. But she said she is the same person as all of us. She just has to take medication and she gets tired alot more than you and me. When I was cleaning her teeth she only had mild tremors so it wasn't that difficult to work on her. But one day I will probably get a patient who has severe tremors but I am ready thanks to this book in guiding me with the knowledge of what I needed to know. I think that if you know someone who has Parkinson's disease or if you would like to learn more about the disease buy this book and you will be filled with all the information you need to know about Parkinson's disease.

Very informative. This books explains in PLAIN ENGLISH what the Dr's look for when making a diagnosis. Also it explains what the average PD. patient goes through in stages. I give it 5 stars!