The Enzyme Cure : How Plant Enzymes Can Help You Relieve 36 Health Problems 

by Lita Lee, Lisa Turner, Burton Goldberg

The Enzyme Cure:, February 28, 2001 Reviewer: sismith from Yuma, AZ "The fact is, without enzymes, nothing works in the body," Lita Lee, Ph.D. states in her book, The Enzyme Cure: How Plant Enzymes Can Help You Relieve 36 Health Problems. Enzymes are "necessary for every chemical reaction in your body and the normal activity of your cells, tissues, fluids, and organs."

The human body contains three types of enzymes: metabolic, which are necessary for all body processes, such as breathing; pancreatic, which are required for digestion; and plant, which also aid in digestion. While the pancreas produces some enzymes, the body gets most of its enzymes from fresh, raw foods. A diet based on unprocessed foods is essential for good health.

Symptoms of enzyme-deficient diets include "allergies, fatigue, bloating, gas, indigestion, or any symptoms of undigested food," including "rashes, hives, nausea, headaches, diarrhea, or constipation."

Dr. Lee includes samples of the questionnaires and charts she uses to help diagnose enzyme deficiencies. She also discusses the various kinds of tests that can be used, with information on how to obtain them. All medical terms are explained with "quick definition" boxes on the same page, making it easy to follow her discussion.

The first part of the book explains enzyme deficiencies and therapy in general terms. The second, and largest, section delves into 36 specific health problems, with "success stories" drawn from her clinical practice. The causes of each condition are explained, along with preventative measures. Dr. Lee details the recommended enzyme therapies and dietary changes needed for each disorder. When appropriate, she recommends additional alternative therapies.

Included in the 36 health problems she discusses are arthritis, diabetes, headaches, heart disease, and weight problems.

Extensive appendices go into detail about hormonal balancing, especially as it relates to hypothyroidism; commercial enzyme formulations for those who cannot obtain adequate enzymes from diet; a list a enzyme practitioners; and product contact information.

Originally a chemist, Dr. Lee spent over 30 years in chemical and medical research before training as a clinical nutritionist in 1980. She has practiced as an enzyme therapist since 1987 and writes extensively in the fields of nutrition, medicine, and the environment. Readers will find the recommendations in The Enzyme Cure useful in achieving and maintaining good health.

24 of 25 people found the following review helpful:

New Paths to Health, April 3, 2000
Reviewer: Shana L. Kuehn from Madison, WI
When I first found this book I had heard of enzymes but wasn't sure what they were, what they did or how they could help me and my family. I bought this book because it was from the Burton Goldburg group and I trust this line of books and information. The book is set up very precisely so not only is it very easy to read and understand but there are little side-bar notes defining things the average person would have not clue on. I never once got bored or found it hard to finish. It is packed full of wonderful information and success stories and broken into condition-specific chapters. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about natural treatments for common conditions or anyone who just wants to learn more. There is also a very helpful index to help you find an enzyme therapist in your area.