The Grain Brain Cookbook

October 1, 2014

Perlmutter (Grain Brain) is a proponent of the controversial theory that gluten and sugar cause an array of neurological disorders, including depression, Alzheimer's disease, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and that radically changing one's diet can reverse the development and progression of these and many other ailments. This companion to the author's best-selling Grain Brain provides more than 150 recipes that conform to the strict diet parameters he sets out in the introduction. The science behind Perlmutter's claims is questionable and the promises he makes about the effects of following his diet are hyperbolic. The book's arguments are also poorly cited, which doesn't serve those who haven't already read his previous volume. However, the recipes are mostly appealing and don't call for too many unusual or hard-to-find ingredients. Traditional medicine might question the health impact of a salad that contains roast beef, turkey, swiss cheese, cheddar cheese, and hard-boiled egg, but for those following a strict gluten-free diet, this cookbook would be a welcome addition to their collection. VERDICT Recommended only for libraries where Perlmutter's books are in high demand.--Laura Krier, Sonoma State Univ., Rohnert Park, CA

Copyright 2014 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 15, 2014
Perlmutter, a Florida-based neurologist, has made it his mission to persuade people that their brains will be healthier if they conscientiously eliminate gluten from their diets. In his earlier Grain Brain (2013), he presented evidence that going gluten free ensures that the brain remains healthy and vigorous throughout one's years. Here he briefly reiterates the basis for his conclusions and offers recipes that follow his dietary recommendations. In addition to eschewing gluten, he prescribes cutting back significantly on dietary sugars, not just ones from obvious sources, but also those hidden in other foods. The resulting regimen bears many parallels to other high-protein diets. Perlmutter offers breakfast recipes, including a version of eggs Benedict substituting zucchini pancakes for English muffins. Other recipes rely on nuts and unsweetened almond milk in lieu of dairy products. This new title will be in demand by those who prized Perlmutter's predecessor volume.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)