A person buys a book like Gut and Psychology Syndrome (GAPS) because you have a compelling reason. I bought this book because of several children I know from different families who are on the autism spectrum. I was curious about what this author had to say. Reading the book has other benefits as well. If you or someone you know has stomach issues, this is a good book to read. Behavior issues often are related to nutritional deficits. Years ago when I was a young mother I was given an Adelle Davis book, Let’s Have Healthy Children. She made a good point then about the need to feed children right by staying away from processed foods and over-prescribed drugs (and antibiotics) so they will grow in healthy ways with strong physical bodies. I took it to heart and consciously chose the foods I would feed my children, even disregarding some of the popular fads and low fat recommendations.

This book, as well, has lots to say about eating healthy foods in order to maintain a correct gut ecology which, basically, affects all other areas of the body. Some children and adults have a toxic gut which allows toxins to secrete into the body and eventually into their brains which causes adverse reactions. When this happens, it becomes difficult to maintain an ability to eat a healthy diet (the food doesn’t break down properly) or to absorb the nutritional benefits from the food they do eat. The stomach hurts so they eat a limited variety of foods, mainly carbohydrates. In time, with poor digestion and without a proper bacteria balance, the body’s systems become inflamed. From there, things go from bad to worse causing some of the illnesses mentioned in the title. The child may be born already having these deficiencies. Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride MD runs a clinic for children and adults who have autism, dyslexia, depression, schizophrenia, A.D.H.D, AD.D., eating disorders and such. She comments that people who suffer with these illnesses always have a digestion problem. The vegan diet is taken to task for depriving children of necessary nutrition that the body needs. The body becomes starved for what it needs (some animal protein) and then illnesses begin to occur, some quite severe. A special diet plus the ingesting of probiotics and nutritional supplements are recommended as a solution that will help the gut and then the whole body to return to optimum health.  She makes a good point.

Dealing with the effects of Alzheimer disease or related symptoms on a daily basis is exhausting. Caregiving for a person suffering with some form of dementia can be overwhelming. It is a help to the caregiver to know what to expect and how to address it during the time of transition as their family member settles into declining health. Knowing how to deal with the challenging issues as a loved one sinks into serious mental decline can be like a lifesaver in a drowning sea of angst and uncertainty. I’ve watched it from afar and also have some up close observations of families, usually adult children, seeking to cope in a good fashion with the many effects caused by fading memories, Alzheimer’s or dementia in their loved one. It starts with the little things; not remembering the name of something or someone, confusion, angry outbursts. In time, the family member is no longer the person they used to be. They may become angry and upset with no provocation. They may have ever increasing physical limitations. They may be confused as to who you are and suspicious of your intentions. They may no longer be able to articulate their needs nor able to advocate for themselves. What the caregiver needs–besides respite–are some tools, support, and information. That is what this book is about. The 36-Hour Day is a resource and guide written to help the caregiver understand their loved one–who is losing the person they used to be–as they slip away from them. This book is informative and practical for anyone who has an aging parent or relative who may need assistance in the future or is already in that place. It is a book that will provide support and encouragement for the caregiver who cares. It is worth the read.