If we had known that this book was mostly conventional medical opinion vs a more natural holistic approach, we would have never bothered with it. Also, it doesn't really offer the reader an actual solution to their digestive problems; unless you count taking various prescription medications or over the counter drugs like Imodium & Pepto-Bismol. Our problem with this is taking a drug merely covers up a problem; it is not a cure. Aside from that, the author even lists all the possible side effects from taking these drugs. Some drugs she mentions are no longer available to the public - probably pulled for safety issues! We know it is just our opinion, but we want to find out what causes individual digestive problems & make the necessary changes to get better! We am not interested in loading our bodies up with drugs that will cause a whole host of brand new health problems.
To our surprise the author does mention the SCD aka Specific Carbohydrate Diet, as well as recommending enteric coated peppermint oil capsules.
We know that everything cannot be solved the holistic way. For these issues where surgery or extreme measures are likely the only solution, we feel that this book touches on topics to give the reader a general idea of what to expect when they go to the Dr. for treatment.
Most of the book is based on the authors experiences with her patients conditions & what she did to treat the patient. What she usually did was listen (rare for a Dr.), & then prescribe something to see how it goes. If it didn't work she would prescribe something else, repeat. She would also recommend particular tests depending on what her patient described. Is it a food allergy? Celiac? Crones? Helicobacter pylori((H. pylori)- the bacteria responsible for most ulcers and stomach inflammation.) causing acid reflux? Stress? Endometriosis? Some patients had life improvements from surgery & prescriptions combinations. We say improvements - they are not 100% - just better than they were. This is hardly a success in our minds! Some patients were a bit easier to treat. Example if they have Celiac & the correct diet is followed they don't suffer anymore.
The author also listed various foods that we humans don't digest well. What causes gas, what to eat to help constipation, what Doctors believe causes excess acid in the stomach (though we don't fully agree.. & no, we are not Doctors however, they don't know everything!).
So overall we would say that this book is okay. It does have some helpful information that we feel wont cause harm. It can be useful if you have unexplored digestive issues & you are looking for some answers. We strongly suggest looking into a holistic approach to improving your health before you start popping drugs. For those of you who think we're crazy & drugs are the answer, then you will probably love this book. Those looking for a natural approach you should look elsewhere.