Healthy No Matter What by Alex Jadad

“If you care about your health or the well-being of others, read this book.” 
– Ethan Kross, author of ’Chatter’

In a world where health and well-being have been narrowly defined by the absence of disease, ‘Healthy No Matter What’ by Alex Jadad and Tamen Jadad-Garcia emerges as a powerful beacon of change. This transformative book challenges the conventional notions of health.

As we dive into this review, we will explore how the authors present a fresh perspective on health, one that empowers individuals to thrive and find contentment regardless of their circumstances.

He has played a pioneering role in evidence-based medicine and digital health, having created the widely utilised Jadad scale for assessing clinical trial quality on a global scale. Alex is deeply involved in shaping the future of health and medicine, advising heads of state and multinational corporations. He has an extensive literary portfolio, having authored twelve books and numerous scientific articles. Additionally, he has earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Balliol College, University of Oxford.

She obtained her honours degree in business management from King’s College London.

‘Healthy No Matter What’ challenges conventional health beliefs and empowers readers to take charge of their well-being, regardless of their age or circumstances.

The book expands the notion of health beyond medical norms, exploring the impact of personal networks, environments, and social comparisons. Drawing from data and experiences from millions of people worldwide, the book reveals that achieving a healthy life is possible even in the presence of complex chronic conditions. The authors stress the dangers of considering oneself as unhealthy, underscoring the severe outcomes such perceptions may lead to. Instead, they advocate for embracing one’s inherent adaptability and providing practical guidance on monitoring and improving overall health in any situation.

By combining scientific evidence from various fields, the book presents a comprehensive guide for achieving well-being. It encourages readers to rely less on medical interventions and highlights the significance of factors outside the medical system.

Throughout the book, the Jadads provide tools to address health challenges effectively and offer insights into the risks associated with traditional medical approaches.

• Introduction

The first chapter of the book delves into the flaws of the conventional definition of health, which requires complete freedom from disease and perfect physical, mental, and social well-being. This unrealistic definition makes it almost impossible for anyone to be considered healthy. The book introduces a fresh perspective, suggesting that health should be seen as an ability and adaptability to various situations and times. By redefining health in this way, the book empowers individuals to make better choices and navigate the complexities of healthcare effectively. It encourages us to embrace a more practical and inclusive approach to well-being, regardless of our health conditions or circumstances. Ultimately, it is a call to revolutionise how we perceive and pursue health in the modern world.

The book emphasises that despite facing insurmountable challenges, it is possible to thrive and maintain positive health. Drawing from diverse examples, including survivors of war, natural disasters, and pandemics, the authors demonstrate the extraordinary adaptability inherent in humans. They reveal that adaptability is a powerful tool in dealing with adversity and that our ability to respond effectively to change is a key factor in maintaining overall well-being. The book encourages us to recognize our innate adaptability and use it to navigate life’s challenges, thereby fostering a sense of control and resilience in any situation.

The role of a ‘good patient’ has evolved over time, moving from a passive, compliant approach to a more active and collaborative role. Patients who actively participate in their healthcare decisions, ask questions, seek second opinions, and maintain good communication with healthcare providers tend to experience better outcomes. Being proactive in managing one’s health and treatment, as well as engaging in deprescribing when necessary, can lead to improved overall well-being and a higher quality of life. Additionally, focusing on end-of-life care and embracing a holistic approach to health can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life until the very end. By taking charge of our health, making informed decisions, and fostering open communication with healthcare professionals, we can enhance our experiences within the medical system and improve our chances of leading a healthy and fulfilling life.

Strengths

Weaknesses

“The ability of individuals or communities to adapt to the inevitable physical, mental, and social challenges faced throughout life.”

“What research on forest bathing tells us, consistently, is that this practice offers benefits that align with the reduction of our toxic stress load. Although the ideal amount of time appears to be 2 hours per month with expert guidance, it has been found that just standing in a forest setting for 15 minutes is enough to produce a significant reduction in anxiety when compared with the same amount of time spent watching a cityscape.”

“…90 percent of what people need to achieve or maintain positive health does not include medical interventions. However, on this occasion, lack of access to the healthcare system, even for those who did not have a medical problem, made it to the top five reasons given for negative levels of health.”

Where to buy

You may purchase ‘Healthy No Matter What’ on Amazon at the best price. It is available in hardcover, audio and Kindle versions, so you may choose an option that appeals to you the most.

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