The Internal Flame - by Roderick Mulgan (Paperback)

About the Book

Book Synopsis

All the health-conscious seek insights that will lead to a long life...... so if you want to know what is going to kill you, I can tell you. Perhaps not literally--all rules have exceptions, but if you are in reasonable health and live in the Western world, you are unlikely to die of infection. Malnutrition, almost certainly not. A car crash is possible, but unlikely. If you fulfil the destiny of most affluent humans in this epoch, you will die of your immune system.

You may be lucky enough to enjoy good health until the very end of your days, but the odds are against it. As you get older, the chances go up that something big, like a stroke or cancer, will drag down your quality of life.

Well known healthy options, like eating coloured plants, and exercising, suppress big diseases. In large part they work by keeping the immune system in balance. A further option in the longevity, anti-inflammatory tool kit, and a major theme of this book, is the developing science of 'functional food'. Functional foods, also known as nutraceuticals (and bioactives, and super foods) are foods, and edible novelties, like leaves and seeds, that are almost drug-like in their capacity to suppress inflammation. Seeking them out is indispensable for a maximum longevity strategy.

If you're already leading a conventionally healthy lifestyle, there's still more you can you do. This is the story of inflammation and health--what goes wrong as we age, and what you can do about it.

--Dr R Mulgan, www.lifeguard.health

Review Quotes

Books like Dr Mulgan's help ordinary people understand some of the science that will in turn help them make informed health choices for themselves and their families. He has done an exceptional job of clarifying the issues. No matter which of the various diet 'tribes' you currently adhere to, you will learn something from The Internal Flame. --Ian Wishart, author

Dr Mulgan has managed to translate years of research and practical medical experience into a well written, easy to understand, and above all--a scientifically based description and solution to one of the greatest issues affecting our health, fitness and longevity. The Internal Flame will surely soon become the definitive text for not only health professionals, but more importantly, the general public who will follow his advice and guidelines, improving their general health through the inevitable ageing process. A most compelling read, thought provoking, insightful and inspiring. -- Dr Robert Jones, B.D.S (U. Lond.) L.D.S, R.C.S. Oral, Dental and Cosmetic Surgeon

Dr Mulgan has written an enticing text in this book. It addresses front-on the health issues faced by a human race living longer than ever before. He then offers explanations and reasons for making diet-based choices that could help us all feel more in control. He has an open and engaging style that also makes you think before you eat. --Dr Anna Sandiford, BSc(Hons) MSc PhD

An entertaining and informative read--Dr Mulgan has the ability to make complex medical concepts accessible to the general reader. Thought provoking, it has the potential to encourage necessary lifestyle changes. With our population aging there will never be adequate resources to optimally treat all established diseases. Understanding your health and taking preventative and protective measures against the diseases that come with aging has never been more important. I would recommend this book as a resource for all health professionals and any reader with an interest in health and longevity. --Dr Lawrie Herd MB, ChB MRCGP FRNZCGP DCH

If you want tips on how to age better, feel healthier, live longer and thrive--then read this book. The Internal Flame is an easy-to-read guide on how plants and mindful living can power your health. Certain foods and smart thinking - and living - really can help you to live better. My favourite quote from this book: 'Inheritance is the Hand you are Dealt. Behaviour is How you Play it.' -- Rachel Grunwell, wellness expert and author of Balance, columnist for Good and Indulge magazines

The Internal Flame is an insightful and practical book that anyone wanting longevity and good health for their life should read. It is packed with scientific information that has been diligently researched but written in a way that is engaging and relatable to real life, with advice that can be incorporated into a person's lifestyle with relative ease. -- Karen McMillan, author of Everyday Strength and Unbreakable Spirit