Trigger warning! The Grain Brain cookbook is not for anyone who is a friend of wheat and dislikes gluten-free recipes. What do I mean by that? Well, before I begin with the actual review, let me tell you that Dr David Perlmutter, a neurologist by training, advocates leaving gluten completely out of your diet even if you are gluten-intolerant or have Celiac’s disease. “The essence of all degenerative conditions, including brain disorders, is inflammation,” he writes, explaining that gluten (found in wheat, barley and rye) and a high-carbohydrate diet are among the most prominent stimulators or inflammatory pathways that reach the brain and worsen, or even trigger conditions including diabetes and Alzheimer’s.
That takes a while to digest, doesn’t it? Especially if wheat is an essential part of your diet and you are a strong advocate of how it contains minerals and vitamins that are essential to human health. That is true – wheat has protein (gluten, obviously, that triggers the worst health problems for some of us), iron, and B vitamins including Thiamin, Riboflavin and Niacin, all of which are extremely important to human health. Despite its nutritional qualities, Perlmutter quotes research that very strongly points towards the role of wheat in creating inflammation in the body and consequently potentially triggering diseases like cancer, diabetes, heart conditions, obesity and so on.
In short, this book is not only meant for readers who are gluten-free because of health concerns. Rather, it makes you look critically at your food choices and choose a new way of eating. The cookbook is a sequel to Perlmutter’s groundbreaking “Grain Brain,” and as in his initial work, the neurologist continues his exploration of the relationship between nutrition and brain health, this time focusing on practical applications with a collection of wholesome, gluten-free recipes.
What sets “The Grain Brain Cookbook” apart is Perlmutter’s emphasis on the interconnectedness of dietary choices and cognitive function. Each recipe has ingredients that promote brain health and taste great. From hearty breakfast options to satisfying main courses and decadent desserts, the cookbook offers a diverse array of dishes that prioritize nutrient density and flavor. This book, by the way, is also not for vegans – Perlmutter has several recipes that use organic grass-fed meat.
While the book’s primary focus is on gluten-free recipes, Perlmutter goes beyond mere exclusion, incorporating a variety of wholesome ingredients known for their brain-boosting properties. From antioxidant-rich berries to omega-3 fatty acid-packed fish, each recipe is thoughtfully curated to support cognitive function and overall well-being.
For those seeking not only to adopt a gluten-free lifestyle but a brain-healthy one, “The Grain Brain Cookbook” serves as an invaluable resource. By combining cutting-edge research with practical culinary advice, David Perlmutter equips readers with the tools they need to nourish both body and mind. Whether you’re looking to improve cognitive function, enhance energy levels, or simply enjoy delicious, wholesome meals, this cookbook offers something for everyone.
I absolutely loved making the gluten-free recipes in this book. My favorites include:
- Blueberry-Almond Breakfast Quinoa: This nutritious and flavorful breakfast option combines protein-rich quinoa with antioxidant-packed blueberries and almonds for a satisfying start to your day.
- Salmon with Lemon-Herb Quinoa: Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids from salmon and fiber-rich quinoa, this savory dish is not only delicious but also supports brain health and overall well-being.
- Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken: Packed with vitamin-rich spinach and savory mushrooms, this hearty chicken dish is a nutrient-dense meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Indulge your sweet tooth with this decadent dessert that harnesses the creamy goodness of avocado and the rich flavor of dark chocolate, all while providing essential nutrients for brain health.
This is a great book if you cook gluten-free recipes and need to get your family to support you. My family completely changed their minds about gluten-free cooking when they had some of the recipes. I’ve managed to bring them on board too with my diet.
Interested in checking out some gluten-free recipes? Click here.