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Gut Renovation: Unlock the Age-Defying Power of the Microbiome to Remodel Your Health from the Inside Out
Combining the latest developments and research discoveries, board-certified gastroenterologist and medical host on CNN and Fox News, Dr. Roshini Raj shows the ways in which the microbiome impacts overall well-being, and helps readers reset their biological clocks by improving their gut health. With one in four Americans suffering from digestive health issues every day, gut health has become an increasingly important part of wellness. With the human body, so many issues can be improved upon, or cured, by balancing the microbiome. But the microbiome—a community of bacteria, viruses, and yeasts that dwell in the body—has long been something that the average person can find baffling—and maybe a little bit gross. By offering simple and straightforward answers to questions like what one should be eating, what probiotics are, which vitamins and medicines really work, Dr. Raj demystifies the gut. She uses the idea of a home renovation to show how different organs and parts of the body can be “renovated” in order to optimize the microbiome. After all, balancing one’s microbiome improves digestive health, brain function, emotional stability, the body’s response to inflammation, immunity, and lessens premature aging. Melding the latest developments and discoveries in microbiome research, along with Dr. Raj’s practical tips developed from her years of clinical experience, Gut Renovation shows readers how to turn back the biological clock and revamp the way they live forever.
288 pages, Hardcover
Published March 1, 2022
133 people are currently reading
2475 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
July 2, 2022
Don’t let the name “Gut Renovation” fool you . It’s about so much more than just your gut. It explains in easy to understand language (and occasional humor) how your body systems interact. It explains some simple changes you can make to help them work at optimal levels so that you can live your best life. The best part is that the book doesn’t read like a lecture or a science book, instead it felt like I had my very own cheerleader coaching me through making positive changes. I loved the “Gut Toolbox” tips at the end of each chapter and the recipes at the end of the book. Thank you, Dr. Raj for sharing your expertise!
December 13, 2024
It's a very well-written book, I enjoyed reading it!
January 28, 2023
Note: I won this book as a Goodreads giveaway.
I really enjoyed Gut Renovation! Dr Raj writes in a very approachable way and never comes across as a scold. I feel like she backs her findings up with research but keeps the book moving with great summaries at the end.
I was particularly impressed by her recipes at the end as I am a terrible cook and most of these seem doable to me.
I would absolutely recommend this to anyone who wants to have better gut health or who is interested improving their general physical well-being.
I really enjoyed Gut Renovation! Dr Raj writes in a very approachable way and never comes across as a scold. I feel like she backs her findings up with research but keeps the book moving with great summaries at the end.
I was particularly impressed by her recipes at the end as I am a terrible cook and most of these seem doable to me.
I would absolutely recommend this to anyone who wants to have better gut health or who is interested improving their general physical well-being.
May 18, 2024
Not lots of new information but lots of good information if you find yourself developing bad habits.
I read it to motivate me to take better care of myself.
I read it to motivate me to take better care of myself.
July 12, 2022
I received this book as a Goodreads Giveaway and was excited to read it because I love learning about health and nutrition. I was not disappointed! Gut Renovation was simple to understand and gave practical steps that anyone can apply to their lives to improve their health.
December 31, 2021
Let me start out by mentioning an important bodily function that can be renovated without a great deal of fuss. First, pull up a stool. Literally. I want to begin here because this is most likely an innovation that you may have not thought about, which is going to the potty. Did you know that the posture we Americans use when having a bowel movement is inefficient and puts a strain on the rectum? The proper position for defecating is to actually squat. Since we were not taught to perch on top of the toilet seat, the toilet stool was invented. It’s placed at the base of the toilet and your feet are placed on top of the stool which raises the knees putting you more in a semi-squatting position. This not only reduces straining but allows you to empty your bowels quicker and more completely. Sorry about starting this review out with some unpleasant information about the body but that’s the kind of straightforward news you must hear from the author, Dr. Roshini Raj. Gut microbiome, a community of bacteria, viruses, and yeasts residing in your gut, affect your well-being and your gut health is tied to how you age. If you have an interest in living a longer and better life, and how to do it, take this book to heart.
May 10, 2023
I saw this author on television and she seemed very knowledgeable with the credentials to write well about health. I was very interested when she addressed bacteria and the microbiome and its contribution to overall health. However, when addressing actions one may take to improve overall health, there were too many assumptions or hopeful recommendations. Too many times the author relies on words such as "results are promising", "shows a lot of promise", and "early evidence suggests". I'm sorry, but I don't want to make significant changes to my health routines based on "promising". I found some ideas such as "use sunscreen 365 days a year" puzzling. Imagine if someone takes that advice literally? Another suggestion of using a "probiotic air purifier" without providing more research or insight seems reckless. Eat more fiber, exercise, reduce stress, and realize this book could have been half the size without puzzling health filler.
November 7, 2023
‘Gut Renovation’ is a practical and approachable guide to improving gut health for a happier and healthier life.
Conventional ideas often suggest that our genes alone determine how healthy we are and how long we live. However, recent discoveries show that genes only play a small part – around 25 to 30 per cent – in how long we live. This actually means we have more control over our health and ageing than we might think. And a key way to take charge of this is by looking after our gut health.
Now, let’s dive into an exciting book that explores the important topic of gut health and how it affects our overall well-being. Dr. Roshini Raj’s book, ‘Gut Renovation,’ is a fantastic blend of the latest scientific findings and practical tips that we can easily use in our daily lives.
Author’s background
Roshini Raj, MD, is a Harvard College and NYU School of Medicine graduate.
She’s a board-certified gastroenterologist and associate professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Alongside her medical career, she’s a TV personality and medical journalist. In 2015, she founded TULA Skincare. Dr. Raj is a regular health contributor on shows like The Dr. Oz Show, CNN, and Fox News. She’s also a contributing medical editor for Health magazine and has authored ‘What the Yuck?’
What is the book about?
‘Gut Renovation’ by Roshini Raj introduces a plan to improve your microbiome and overall health. Dr. Raj combines her extensive clinical experience with cutting-edge microbiome research to present a comprehensive guide for improving digestion, immunity, mood, and vitality.
The author emphasises the crucial role of the microbiome in every aspect of well-being and reveals how our modern diet and lifestyle have jeopardised the balance of our gut. Through a combination of practical strategies, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes, she guides readers toward protecting their cells from damage, kick-starting the cellular repair process, and fostering a healthier inner ecosystem.
The book offers straightforward guidance on different aspects of the body’s functions to enhance the microbiome. This change leads to improved digestion, better brain function, emotional well-being, less inflammation, stronger immunity, and even a slowdown of ageing.
Key takeaways from ‘Gut Renovation’
1. Diet plays a crucial role in gut health
Dr. Raj highlights diet’s significant impact on gut health, emphasising how dietary choices mold the gut microbiome, a complex community of microorganisms in our digestive tract. The Mediterranean diet stands out, praised for its mix of plant-based foods, healthy fats, and proteins that support heart health and potentially reduce Alzheimer’s risk and inflammation.
Dr. Raj introduces the ‘Gut Reno’ plan that combines elements of a Mediterranean diet and various gut-friendly components like prebiotics, probiotics, and antioxidants. The book showcases the central role of fibre, in promoting microbiome health, digestion, and disease prevention. Dr. Raj urges surpassing recommended fibre intake, endorsing a plant-forward Mediterranean-style diet.
2. Exercising regularly improves all aspects of your health, including your gut
Dr. Raj delivers a compelling message about the transformative impact of exercise on all health aspects, including gut health. Regular exercise, even in short bursts, unlocks longevity, cognitive sharpness, and numerous health benefits. Dr. Raj, a respected gastroenterologist, underscores exercise’s importance for gut health, spotlighting its positive influence on microbiome diversity and beneficial fatty acid production.
The author guides readers through varied workout types, revealing that even fifteen minutes of high-intensity interval training can yield thirty-minute workout benefits. The symbiotic relationship between exercise, gut health, muscle strength, bone density, and joint health is explored, culminating in a fusion of science and practicality that asserts exercise as the key to vitality and resilience throughout ageing.
3. Gut health depends on mental well-being
In ‘Gut Renovation,’ Dr. Raj highlights the vital connection between mental well-being and optimal health. Stress, whether short-term or chronic, profoundly affects both gut health and overall physical wellness, impacting digestion, inducing symptoms like nausea, and influencing unhealthy food cravings. The intricate gut-brain axis reveals the bidirectional relationship between emotions, stress, and gut microbiome composition.
Dr. Raj introduces the Zen Corner, a simple yet powerful concept, as a space dedicated to mental health within homes. This corner serves as a sanctuary for stress relief and mindfulness practices, offering tools like calming teas, deep breathing, and meditation. By embracing mindfulness, the practice of being present, readers can reduce stress hormones, restore gut barrier function, and maintain a balanced microbiome for improved well-being. Through practical strategies and real-world examples, ‘Gut Renovation’ underscores the interconnectedness of mind and body, equipping readers to nurture a harmonious relationship between the two through the transformative Zen Corner and mindful techniques.
Strengths and weaknesses, according to readers’ reviews
Strengths:
• Presents well-researched information in a reader-friendly manner, steering away from a lecture or overly scientific tone.
• Offers practical steps and recipes that can be easily applied to improve health and nutrition.
• An approachable writing style with a mix of humour, and practical advice makes the book enjoyable to read.
Weaknesses:
• The content of the book may be too general for readers well-versed in the subject and lacks depth in certain areas.
Best quotes from ‘Gut Renovation’
“Amazingly, the microscopic bacteria in your gut can have a powerful impact on your brain: your thinking, your mood, your mental health, and your risk of cognitive decline are all linked to the microbiome. And the converse is also true.”
“Discomfort from a digestive condition, combined with anxiety about it, can really impact sleep and take a toll on the microbiome.”
“The more cats and dogs in the household when a kid is a baby, the lower the chances that they’ll develop eczema, hay fever, or asthma later on in childhood. The effect is dose dependent: the more animals, the lower the risk. As part of your Gut Renovation, add a dog bed and a cat scratching post!”
Final takeaway
‘Gut Renovation,’ Dr. Roshini Raj presents a comprehensive roadmap to achieving optimal health by prioritising gut health and overall well-being. Dr. Raj offers practical strategies, dietary insights, and lifestyle adjustments to empower readers in safeguarding their inner ecosystem. The book underscores the profound impacts of diet, exercise, and mental well-being on our microbiome, revealing their intricate interplay in digestion, immunity, cognitive function, and vitality.
This book is a must-read for those seeking insights into how gut health influences overall well-being, and individuals interested in practical strategies to enhance their digestion, immunity, mood, and vitality.
Conventional ideas often suggest that our genes alone determine how healthy we are and how long we live. However, recent discoveries show that genes only play a small part – around 25 to 30 per cent – in how long we live. This actually means we have more control over our health and ageing than we might think. And a key way to take charge of this is by looking after our gut health.
Now, let’s dive into an exciting book that explores the important topic of gut health and how it affects our overall well-being. Dr. Roshini Raj’s book, ‘Gut Renovation,’ is a fantastic blend of the latest scientific findings and practical tips that we can easily use in our daily lives.
Author’s background
Roshini Raj, MD, is a Harvard College and NYU School of Medicine graduate.
She’s a board-certified gastroenterologist and associate professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Alongside her medical career, she’s a TV personality and medical journalist. In 2015, she founded TULA Skincare. Dr. Raj is a regular health contributor on shows like The Dr. Oz Show, CNN, and Fox News. She’s also a contributing medical editor for Health magazine and has authored ‘What the Yuck?’
What is the book about?
‘Gut Renovation’ by Roshini Raj introduces a plan to improve your microbiome and overall health. Dr. Raj combines her extensive clinical experience with cutting-edge microbiome research to present a comprehensive guide for improving digestion, immunity, mood, and vitality.
The author emphasises the crucial role of the microbiome in every aspect of well-being and reveals how our modern diet and lifestyle have jeopardised the balance of our gut. Through a combination of practical strategies, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes, she guides readers toward protecting their cells from damage, kick-starting the cellular repair process, and fostering a healthier inner ecosystem.
The book offers straightforward guidance on different aspects of the body’s functions to enhance the microbiome. This change leads to improved digestion, better brain function, emotional well-being, less inflammation, stronger immunity, and even a slowdown of ageing.
Key takeaways from ‘Gut Renovation’
1. Diet plays a crucial role in gut health
Dr. Raj highlights diet’s significant impact on gut health, emphasising how dietary choices mold the gut microbiome, a complex community of microorganisms in our digestive tract. The Mediterranean diet stands out, praised for its mix of plant-based foods, healthy fats, and proteins that support heart health and potentially reduce Alzheimer’s risk and inflammation.
Dr. Raj introduces the ‘Gut Reno’ plan that combines elements of a Mediterranean diet and various gut-friendly components like prebiotics, probiotics, and antioxidants. The book showcases the central role of fibre, in promoting microbiome health, digestion, and disease prevention. Dr. Raj urges surpassing recommended fibre intake, endorsing a plant-forward Mediterranean-style diet.
2. Exercising regularly improves all aspects of your health, including your gut
Dr. Raj delivers a compelling message about the transformative impact of exercise on all health aspects, including gut health. Regular exercise, even in short bursts, unlocks longevity, cognitive sharpness, and numerous health benefits. Dr. Raj, a respected gastroenterologist, underscores exercise’s importance for gut health, spotlighting its positive influence on microbiome diversity and beneficial fatty acid production.
The author guides readers through varied workout types, revealing that even fifteen minutes of high-intensity interval training can yield thirty-minute workout benefits. The symbiotic relationship between exercise, gut health, muscle strength, bone density, and joint health is explored, culminating in a fusion of science and practicality that asserts exercise as the key to vitality and resilience throughout ageing.
3. Gut health depends on mental well-being
In ‘Gut Renovation,’ Dr. Raj highlights the vital connection between mental well-being and optimal health. Stress, whether short-term or chronic, profoundly affects both gut health and overall physical wellness, impacting digestion, inducing symptoms like nausea, and influencing unhealthy food cravings. The intricate gut-brain axis reveals the bidirectional relationship between emotions, stress, and gut microbiome composition.
Dr. Raj introduces the Zen Corner, a simple yet powerful concept, as a space dedicated to mental health within homes. This corner serves as a sanctuary for stress relief and mindfulness practices, offering tools like calming teas, deep breathing, and meditation. By embracing mindfulness, the practice of being present, readers can reduce stress hormones, restore gut barrier function, and maintain a balanced microbiome for improved well-being. Through practical strategies and real-world examples, ‘Gut Renovation’ underscores the interconnectedness of mind and body, equipping readers to nurture a harmonious relationship between the two through the transformative Zen Corner and mindful techniques.
Strengths and weaknesses, according to readers’ reviews
Strengths:
• Presents well-researched information in a reader-friendly manner, steering away from a lecture or overly scientific tone.
• Offers practical steps and recipes that can be easily applied to improve health and nutrition.
• An approachable writing style with a mix of humour, and practical advice makes the book enjoyable to read.
Weaknesses:
• The content of the book may be too general for readers well-versed in the subject and lacks depth in certain areas.
Best quotes from ‘Gut Renovation’
“Amazingly, the microscopic bacteria in your gut can have a powerful impact on your brain: your thinking, your mood, your mental health, and your risk of cognitive decline are all linked to the microbiome. And the converse is also true.”
“Discomfort from a digestive condition, combined with anxiety about it, can really impact sleep and take a toll on the microbiome.”
“The more cats and dogs in the household when a kid is a baby, the lower the chances that they’ll develop eczema, hay fever, or asthma later on in childhood. The effect is dose dependent: the more animals, the lower the risk. As part of your Gut Renovation, add a dog bed and a cat scratching post!”
Final takeaway
‘Gut Renovation,’ Dr. Roshini Raj presents a comprehensive roadmap to achieving optimal health by prioritising gut health and overall well-being. Dr. Raj offers practical strategies, dietary insights, and lifestyle adjustments to empower readers in safeguarding their inner ecosystem. The book underscores the profound impacts of diet, exercise, and mental well-being on our microbiome, revealing their intricate interplay in digestion, immunity, cognitive function, and vitality.
This book is a must-read for those seeking insights into how gut health influences overall well-being, and individuals interested in practical strategies to enhance their digestion, immunity, mood, and vitality.
April 1, 2022
Listened to the Audible and was the best wealth of information on the gut, menopause, overall health, diet and exercise. Such an easy listen and great info!
April 17, 2022
way too generic - yawn
July 23, 2022
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via Goodreads giveaway.
Dr. Raj did an amazing job writing this book. I learned so much without ever feeling like I was getting bogged down in complicated medical terminology. Dr. Raj explains things in simple terms so that anyone will be able to grasp the concepts she discusses even if they've never heard of them before.
I learned so much helpful information that I was able to start incorporating in my life as I was reading the book. Dr. Raj laying out the benefits of certain foods gave me the background knowledge I needed to make me want to make positive changes in my diet. Knowing about the benefits that eating certain foods will have on my gut microbiome encourages me to reach for them more. On the other hand, learning about how certain foods can disrupt the microbiome and cause negative shift of bacteria makes me not want to consume those foods.
There's a week-long workout plan in the back of the book that is really helpful if you're not sure about where to start in terms of an exercise plan. I also enjoyed flipping through some of the recipes at the end of the book. I haven't tried any of them yet, but I definitely plan to!
Before I received my copy, I didn't realize that Dr. Raj is the founder of TULA skincare. I was familiar with the brand, but I have some products in my Amazon cart currently. And trust me, this book is not just an advertisement for her skin care line. She mentions TULA only once in the whole book, and that's just when she's explaining that probiotics and prebiotics are beneficial for your skin.
Overall, there's a lot of information in this book for anyone looking to make positive changes in their lives, whether it's through diet, exercise, mindfulness, or getting better sleep. I think there's probably something that every person could take away from this book. Dr. Raj's writing style is pleasing, and she does not bore you with useless information. She also incorporates her sense of humor into her writing, which is always beneficial. If you're thinking of getting this book, I'd say go for it!
Dr. Raj did an amazing job writing this book. I learned so much without ever feeling like I was getting bogged down in complicated medical terminology. Dr. Raj explains things in simple terms so that anyone will be able to grasp the concepts she discusses even if they've never heard of them before.
I learned so much helpful information that I was able to start incorporating in my life as I was reading the book. Dr. Raj laying out the benefits of certain foods gave me the background knowledge I needed to make me want to make positive changes in my diet. Knowing about the benefits that eating certain foods will have on my gut microbiome encourages me to reach for them more. On the other hand, learning about how certain foods can disrupt the microbiome and cause negative shift of bacteria makes me not want to consume those foods.
There's a week-long workout plan in the back of the book that is really helpful if you're not sure about where to start in terms of an exercise plan. I also enjoyed flipping through some of the recipes at the end of the book. I haven't tried any of them yet, but I definitely plan to!
Before I received my copy, I didn't realize that Dr. Raj is the founder of TULA skincare. I was familiar with the brand, but I have some products in my Amazon cart currently. And trust me, this book is not just an advertisement for her skin care line. She mentions TULA only once in the whole book, and that's just when she's explaining that probiotics and prebiotics are beneficial for your skin.
Overall, there's a lot of information in this book for anyone looking to make positive changes in their lives, whether it's through diet, exercise, mindfulness, or getting better sleep. I think there's probably something that every person could take away from this book. Dr. Raj's writing style is pleasing, and she does not bore you with useless information. She also incorporates her sense of humor into her writing, which is always beneficial. If you're thinking of getting this book, I'd say go for it!
March 16, 2024
A book that focuses on microbiome ... including kinds, nature, balance, distribution, nurture, effects etc. The author presented this information in different chapters as in renovating a home's different rooms ... kitchen, bathroom, powder room, home gym, Zen corner, bedroom, laundry room and living room.
For each room's renovation, microbiome relating to our health functions are covered including why and how one needs to understand their effects in order to benefit our health.
Subjects touched upon that associate with microbiome include the following ...
• Gut brain connection relating to depression, migraines, neurodegenerative disease.
• (Kitchen) Diet and kinds of food ... fiber, prebiotic, probiotic, phytonutrients, processed meats, fats, protein, sugar.
• (Bathroom) Constipation, diarrhea, burp & bloat, irritable bowel syndrome, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, hemorrhoids, diverticulosis, colon cancer.
• (Powder Room) Skin aging and UV, dandruff, armpits.
• (Home Gym) Exercise, muscles, bones, joints.
• (Zen Corner) Stress, mood, meditate, self-talk.
• (Bedroom) Sleep, melatonin, gut circadian cycle, insomnia, dreams.
• (Laundry Room) Cleaning products, environmental chemicals.
• (Living Room) Gut Reno Plans ... Eating Plan (with detailed recipes for breakfasts, lunches, meals, snacks, desserts). Fitness Plan (with detailed workout exercises for Monday to Saturday). Mind Plan. Sleep Plan. Beauty Regimen.
For each room's renovation, microbiome relating to our health functions are covered including why and how one needs to understand their effects in order to benefit our health.
Subjects touched upon that associate with microbiome include the following ...
• Gut brain connection relating to depression, migraines, neurodegenerative disease.
• (Kitchen) Diet and kinds of food ... fiber, prebiotic, probiotic, phytonutrients, processed meats, fats, protein, sugar.
• (Bathroom) Constipation, diarrhea, burp & bloat, irritable bowel syndrome, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, hemorrhoids, diverticulosis, colon cancer.
• (Powder Room) Skin aging and UV, dandruff, armpits.
• (Home Gym) Exercise, muscles, bones, joints.
• (Zen Corner) Stress, mood, meditate, self-talk.
• (Bedroom) Sleep, melatonin, gut circadian cycle, insomnia, dreams.
• (Laundry Room) Cleaning products, environmental chemicals.
• (Living Room) Gut Reno Plans ... Eating Plan (with detailed recipes for breakfasts, lunches, meals, snacks, desserts). Fitness Plan (with detailed workout exercises for Monday to Saturday). Mind Plan. Sleep Plan. Beauty Regimen.
February 12, 2024
I just had an endoscopy + colonoscopy for fun (prevention!) and am reading more on gut health!
Notable points:
-chronic inflammation accelerates the aging process, and can lead to frailty, muscle loss, and wrinkles
-you need a diverse microbiome
-avoid highly processed and manufactured foods, which aren’t really food
-get strong muscles. When your thigh and butt muscles are strong, you’re less likely to develop painful knee arthritis. Strong muscles can also help prevent falls or broken bones
-need lots of fiber: oatmeal, a bowl of vegetarian chili, salad, etc. can also add 2 tablespoons of chia seeds into your smoothie/yogurt
-eat avocados, but gradually since it can upset your stomach if you start out with too much
-probiotic food: with live and active cultures
-get protein from plants: quinoa, kale, beans
-no sugar!
-to control acid reflux: avoid fries, spicy food, caffeine, tomatoes and citrus fruits
-drink more water
-lower your usage of antibiotics
Notable points:
-chronic inflammation accelerates the aging process, and can lead to frailty, muscle loss, and wrinkles
-you need a diverse microbiome
-avoid highly processed and manufactured foods, which aren’t really food
-get strong muscles. When your thigh and butt muscles are strong, you’re less likely to develop painful knee arthritis. Strong muscles can also help prevent falls or broken bones
-need lots of fiber: oatmeal, a bowl of vegetarian chili, salad, etc. can also add 2 tablespoons of chia seeds into your smoothie/yogurt
-eat avocados, but gradually since it can upset your stomach if you start out with too much
-probiotic food: with live and active cultures
-get protein from plants: quinoa, kale, beans
-no sugar!
-to control acid reflux: avoid fries, spicy food, caffeine, tomatoes and citrus fruits
-drink more water
-lower your usage of antibiotics
July 13, 2022
I very much enjoyed reading Dr Raj's book Gut Renovation; especially since I have horrible stomach issues. It's fun to read and educational at the same time. Dr. Raj strikes a good balance between presenting a lot of interesting information and facts about the importance of maintaining a healthy microbiome (without being overly scientific). There's practical advice on how to achieve this, including dietary and lifestyle advice which are easy to follow. It's written in a very approachable style for readers with basic knowledge of the subject. Several really good recipes are included as well. I definitely recommend this book!
Thanks to Goodreads Giveaways, William Morrow Publisher, and Author Roshini Raj, MD for this gifted copy.
Thanks to Goodreads Giveaways, William Morrow Publisher, and Author Roshini Raj, MD for this gifted copy.
February 17, 2025
This is a well researched and thorough book about how our gut microbiome affects everything from skin to mood to life span and all the ways to help it. Raj writes conversationally and makes everything easy to understand, while still having her medical background and experience to back it up. I read a lot about this topic so I already knew a lot but I was reminded about the importance of not just the right foods (lots of colorful fruits and vegetables, fiber, probiotic and prebiotic foods, protein, etc) but also exercise and lifestyle changes. I appreciated the simple exercise suggestions, the easy recipes, and the takeaways at the end of each chapter.
I read a digital arc of this book for review.
I read a digital arc of this book for review.
September 1, 2025
I read all of this until the exercise and recipe section. I don't need help with my exercise, so I'll probably skip it. I might try a few recipes, but I mainly just wanted the information from the GI doctor. It was a little dry at times, but I liked reading about the different items she recommends that we eat and the ones she recommends that we avoid. I wish there had been more set lists of food items, rather than just mentioning them in the middle of the book. She basically pushed the Mediterranean diet, as well as tons of fiber, and very little meat.
August 20, 2022
I found this book at Blossom's used book shop and decided to pick it up on a whim. It's a quick read and not only fascinating - it's very helpful too. I love how she combines so many aspects of health - meditation, exercise, diet, sleep, skin - and shows how keeping your microbiome healthy is linked to all of these elements. There are some good recipes in the book too, although I wish it were more vegetarian or vegan friendly.
December 6, 2023
This wasn't as bogged down with numbers and paragraphs detailing studies as similar books. It has citations and information but doesn't try to explain the studies. I think it's a no nonsense basic guide for someone just looking to improve their gut and digestion.
Easy to read and understand, basic advice. Some of it seems a little far fetched (like the benefits of her probiotic skin care) but mostly it's simple solutions.
Easy to read and understand, basic advice. Some of it seems a little far fetched (like the benefits of her probiotic skin care) but mostly it's simple solutions.
January 21, 2024
While there is a lot of good advice in this book, my main takeaway is “do the things you know are good for you and stop doing the things you know are bad for you.” I’ve heard all of the advice before, but I appreciated the science of the gut being explained and connected to the advice we should all be following. There was some biased language that triggered my anti-diet mindset radar, but overall I was glad to learn the connections between gut health and overall health.
August 9, 2022
This book has such great information about nutrition and how everything we consume and are exposed to effects our guts! I devoured this book. I highlighted so much of it and added tabs to help me find specific information easily. I have already started applying what I learned in this book to my daily routines and am looking forward to my overall health improving as I fix my gut microbiome!
August 21, 2023
Valdkonna tugev spetsialist, kuid ootasin teema sügavuti katmist, kuid selles teoses olid kokku pandud kõik tervislikud soovitused, mis minu meelest lahendasid teemat. Jah, ka neid tervise elemente tuleb parandada tervislikuks eluviisiks, kuid enamus raamatut sellele pühendada, oli minu jaoks pettumus.
October 6, 2023
I enjoy any book that is helpful with helping me understand more about the convoluted issues with my digestive tract! I felt like this book had some great tips and some considerations I will add to my daily eating plan and I will check out the prebiotics/probiotics and Vitamin C hopefully help and see what happens :-)
January 14, 2025
Gut Renovation is a super insightful read on how gut health affects everything from your mood to your skin. It breaks down the importance of what you eat in a way that's easy to understand and practical. If you're curious about improving your health from the inside out, this book is definitely worth a read!
April 30, 2025
Great book with a lot of information and advice on how important gut health is and how it affects every other body system. However, there are a few things I didn’t quite agree with based upon reading of many other types of books on the subject and health in general (such as eating edamame-soy, a hormone disrupter/mimicry).
October 27, 2025
This book is great for anyone wanting to improve their overall health by focusing on the health of their gut. I learned a lot of good information in addition to knowing a lot of info she presented already. She does a great job of making it interesting and paralleling gut health to home renovation which made it more fun to listen to. ANYONE would benefit from reading this!
June 20, 2022
Read this a little bit each morning to really get in depth information about our gut and how easily it can be affected by our day to day choices. This is a great read to figure out steps on how to balance your gut bacteria and live a happier, healthier life!
September 19, 2022
Well let's see. Listen to first week during harvest 2022. Absolutely loved it. Learned so much. Made a lot of changes to diet while listening to this. Came up with some recipes. It was a lot of fun. Bacteria are cool. It was also easy to understand and just info loaded.
Unto the next one.
Unto the next one.
Read
August 31, 2023A good read for anyone interested in a thorough 'room' by 'room' review of how to improve your health inside out. It is a good non-technical read. Informational and filled with exercise tips and recipes.
March 20, 2024
I received this book in a Goodreads giveaway and finally got around to reading it. I might try a few recipes but overall I don’t think I got a ton of information out of it. If anything, it sparked my interest in a few topics that I’ll research further.
July 5, 2024
I may not have remembered all details from this book, but one thing that stays with me is a preference for red wine when going out with friends :))
Overall, the advice is the same as in other nutrition books - eat as much unprocessed food as possible, which I do my best to adhere to.
Overall, the advice is the same as in other nutrition books - eat as much unprocessed food as possible, which I do my best to adhere to.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews