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Rating: 
Summary: Current and educational without a know-it-all attitude
Review: It is very seldom that I read a book and then decide to start a second reading of it. This book is so good I felt the need to read it twice, to better absorb the information. Of course, having read the description of the maturation stages of the brain, I knew that I would need that second reading to hope to retain as much as a 16 year old would on a first reading.Dr. Victoroff gives you current information on a vital subject. This book was published in July of 2002 and it draws upon over 14,000 studies in the last five years - some from early 2002. He even refers to the impact of the September 11, 2001 tragedy. I especially liked his technique of presenting both point and counterpoint studies for the impact of most of the herbs, hormones, diseases, exercises and general lifestyle factors he describes. He makes it clear when a statement is based on solid facts, when it seems likely based on some but not all studies, and when he is speculating - giving his personal opinion. This type of honesty is sometimes lacking from the medical profession. One of my favorite sections contains a quote from the head of a medical school who tells the incoming students that half of what they are about to learn is false; but that unfortunately, we don't know which half. I came away from this book with a much clearer understanding of how my brain works, what can happen to keep it from working optimally, and what I can do to help protect it. Since the research on herbs and drugs is changing so rapidly, much of this book will be out-of-date within a couple of years. It's my hope that Dr. Victoroff will write frequent revisions to keep us informed about these changes. In 2002, this book is a must-read for anybody with a brain, who wishes to keep it functioning.
Rating: 
Summary: Disappointing
Review: Professor Victoroff has given us a wonderful gift of useful information in his new book about health and the human brain. Anyone who has one, should honor their own brain. This book tells us why, and how to do it. The human brain is a supremely fascinating organ that Victoroff likens, in outward structure, to a Tootsie Pop. There are so many connections in a human brain that the number of possible, "Brain states," exceeds all the atoms in the Universe! Victoroff explains why our brains evolved so complexly, in accordance with the rest of our evolving human form. Even those readers, however, who reject the tenets of scientific biology, will eagerly read Victoroff's book for the practical advice it offers about caring for their brains. Victoroff illuminates the aging of the brain, in both normal and abnormal development. Certain brain fuctions improve with age, while others naturally deteriorate. Certain substances have detrimental, and others have beneficial, effects. Victoroff follows the up-to-date science, even when it takes him into politically incorrect territory, such as the possible benefits of certain known intoxicants and herbal supplements. He discusses the influence of diet, stress, activity, and thinking on the actual structure of the brain, and comes to conclusions about what we can do to keep our brains fit, useful, happy, and healthy longer. Best of all, Victoroff follows the stylistic traditions of premier popular science writers. He is chatty, personable, self-revealing, friendly, and boundlessly enthusiastic about his topic. Reading this book is like having a friend, a brother even, come visit you and tell what he's been up to. In this case he has a great adventure to narrate - the exciting and important discoveries he's made while exploring what is known about our brains.
Rating: 
Summary: Keeping your mind in shape
Review: The pace of neuro-scientific discovery is rapidly increasing, bringing good news. Among other subjects, this book deals with memory loss and provides 10 practical steps to counteract it. It also provides physical activities to boost brainpower. Part I discusses the brain, memory and diseases like Alzheimer's. Part II provides the various remedies. These include stress management and the use of substances like Growth Hormone, Melatonin and DHEA. The avoidance of Aluminium is discussed here. The section titled Food For Thought includes the Brain Saving Diet and discusses vitamin B12, Folate, Iron, Calcium, Phytochemicals, Essential Fatty Acids, Anti-Oxidants, Smart Drugs (Nootropics) and the benefits of chocolate and tea, which are very real. There are selected references arranged by chapter, an index and black and white illustrations of neurons and synapses. This valuable book complements other informative titles on this subject, like Khalsa's Brain Longevity and Ray Sahelian's Mind Boosters.
Rating:
Summary: Amazing Book!
Review: This book has been written in two parts. I part deals with the brain, memory and diseases like Alzheimer's and the second part deals with various remedies. This useful book has references arranged by chapter. It also has an index and black and white illustrations of neurons and synapses. Food for thought section includes brain saving diets. Vitamins, minerals and other supplements are discussed in detail.
I read the book and I thought, this doesn't sound too bad, but I found myself miserable. I just was frustrated after a week....it was very regimented. I did benefit by eliminating my coffee habit with the help of a wonderful coffee substitute called soyffee (www.s o y c o f f e e .com) Its made from soybeans which is a godsend for those troubled with hot flashes like myself. Another book I bought was the South Beach Diet book. I read that book and found the plan to be made up of things I would eat and the items were normal grocery store items so no hunting at the health food stores or buying online.
Rating:
Summary: A Wonderful Book
Review: This book is full of excellent, useful information. Surprisingly, it is also clearly written and fun to read! A must for anybody with a brain.
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