Politics trumps science - again

This book was written out of a sense of public duty, to inform about what alcohol is, how it affects us physically, psychologically, socially. It is a message from someone whom Government has tasked to address the problems alcohol poses to us individually and collectively, and whose scientific findings were then dismissed as unwelcome. It is another example of short-sighted politicians deciding that we have heard quite enough from experts. As such it is definitely worth reading.

However much of the book reads like a public information brochure. No question about the quality and integrity of the data, with chapters addressing the whole range of people who are at greater or lesser risk. No-one who drinks alcohol is in the risk-free category, as there is always a downside to consumption. The most interesting chapters are the first - How Drinking Affects your Body and Brain - looking at the level of neuronal responses, and the last one - Is there a Solution to the Booze Crisis? - looking at what would constitute best practice based on the experiences of different countries. The tone is not preachy or didactic, but is simply the reflection of a highly qualified scientist presenting his findings.

I would suggest spending time on those 2 chapters and selecting what is of personal interest in the middle chapters rather than necessarily reading from start to finish.

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2 people found this helpful

great book for expert advice

Educational for Drs too! also with latest wide ranging information well digested and I will definitely listen to again. Thanks

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A Sensible Non-Preaching Book

Good to have a book that doesn't lecture you, but sets out the facts about booze. You're then left to make your own mind up as to what to do now you're armed with the medical facts. Well worth a read/listen.

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Very informative

Brilliant run down on the current picture of alcohol consumption in the UK, and just how powerful the drinks lobby actually is.

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best book so far for those wanting to quit or cut down

best book so far for those wanting to quit or cut down

why?

because he talks in straight facts .
unlike other authors who use emotion to convey their message / convince the reader. Best book so far for those seeking self improvement.

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Helpful if you want to control your drinking

This book makes you think about what alcohol is and what it does. I now look at a bottle of wine in a different way.

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8 people found this helpful

Eye opening

A fascinating, insightful and scary study on how alcohol affects the body and mind. Really interesting and ultimately, life changing.

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Great information but wrong choice of reader

David Nutt definitely knows his stuff. His book is incredibly informative and I learned so much I didn’t know, including about the government’s “safe alcohol levels” guidance and what it really means.

But he’s not a professional performer or reader and it shows. He keeps losing breath support for his voice at the end of his sentences and it makes what he’s saying difficult to hear at times. For that reason, it would have been much more impactful to have an actor read his book - the actual content of which is excellent.

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As soon as someone who 'drinks a bit'

This is sage advice in a non preachy manner. Ironically I listened to most of it on the way to or from the pub but it has informed greatly amd I have already conciously started cutting down without reducing the pleasure derived.

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Very informative

This guy knows his stuff. I trust anything Prof. David Nutt says about drugs and alcohol. He has enough experience in both fields to know what he is talking about it.

The book is not preachy, which is good. Its very much about telling the truth and you do with it what you will. It can come across as alot of information, but isn't overwhelming.

It also has very useful information if you or someone you know is struggling with alchohol.

Everyone should know the dangers that the drinks industry don't want you to know.

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