Book Review: Principles and Practices of Naturopathic Clinical Nutrition
Stacie Deyglio, ND
Principles & Practices of Naturopathic Clinical Nutrition by Dr. Prousky has been developed as a medical textbook and clinical reference guide intended for students and practitioners of naturopathic, complementary, integrative, and conventional medicines. The book supplies a full and logically organized course of instruction. Within the study of clinical nutrition that has been written from a naturopathic medical perspective, “naturopathic clinical nutrition is defined as the therapeutic use of nutrient rich foods and nutritional supplements to improve health and prevent disease” (pg. 10).
Developed into two main parts, Dr. Prousky begins the course of study by evaluating the principles of naturopathic clinical nutrition. Included are the concepts of biochemical individuality, nutritional status, energy balance, and toxicology of common nutrients. Part two describes nutritional interventions for common medical conditions most likely met daily with the general naturopathic medical practice. Part two evaluates the pathophysiology of each specific disorder discussed in the book, including the appropriate methods used to diagnose the disorder, and ends with the nutritional therapies prescribed to restore the disorder to bring the body back to health.
Dr. Prousky provides complete illustrations and over 1,000 up-to-date references, case studies, and review questions to support the development of clinical reasoning skills, as well as to promote lifelong learning. Especially important to note are the clinical reference features, which encompass quick reference tables, clinical evidence reviews, patient care guides, treatment charts, and toxicology of common nutrients. These features supply quick access to relevant data that ensures safe and effective patient care. This book excellently lays the foundation as a standard text and medical reference within the study of clinical medicine that may exist successfully both in naturopathic and in conventional medical establishments. Allied healthcare professionals will also find Dr. Prousky’s book to be a practical clinical reference for evaluating patients from a clinical nutritional perspective.
Stacie Deyglio, ND received her baccalaureate degree in biology with a minor in chemistry from the College of Mt. St. Vincent in New York. Her personal health issues paved the way to discovering naturopathic medicine in 1999. Resonating with the philosophy and principles of naturopathic medicine, Dr. Deyglio graduated from the University of Bridgeport, College of Naturopathic Medicine in 2003. As a medical student, she was involved in student government, fundraising and the generation of two successful student-run health fairs. Dr. Deyglio’s interests include relating integrative therapeutics to the health of pediatric and geriatric populations. Currently residing in Phoenix, Dr. Deyglio is an avid bookworm, and is actively creating her practice.
