Iron Balance

Library Journal

According to Lauffer, an expert on the use of minerals in medical diagnosis and therapy, iron is a ``double-edged nutrient''--too much of it is as harmful as too little. As an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School and director of a research laboratory at Massachusetts General Hospital, he has become aware that greater amounts of available iron increase the possibility of infection and the development of cancer, heart disease, arthritis, and other illnesses. So he debunks the common myths about iron by citing case studies of patients with hemochromatosis or iron overload disease and of those with only moderately elevated iron levels. Lauffer then provides concerned readers with an iron-risk-level self-test and a health plan consisting of moderate exercise, a low-fat, low-iron diet, and regular blood donations to remove excess iron from their systems. Well organized and well documented, this provocative challenge to the widespread belief that most people need more iron should stir up the health conscious in many communities.-- Linda Chopra, Cleveland Heights-University Heights P.L., Ohio

Booknews

Contrary to the claims made for the benefits of iron fortification Lauffer (Harvard Medical School) reveals that Americans are likely to possess too much rather than too little of the metal--a condition that can lead to serious health problems. He offers practical advice on how to achieve good health and iron balance through diet and exercise. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)