Just as there are physiological needs like food, movement, sleep and nerve supply, there are also mental requirements like a philosophy, self-esteem, vision, purpose and strategy.

We know thought is required for an optimal life because, in order to thrive in this world, we must learn. Take, for example, our physiology: though much of the body runs automatically, we must ensure the required needs are met in order for the “autopilot” to optimize its expression – it’s thinking that delivers.  Food added into the body will be broken down and utilized as nutrients to the best of the body’s ability – but it is thought that brings it to the mouth.

In order to survive in the world you must learn, and to gain knowledge you must think. This makes thinking a primary human necessity for life and a fundamental By Design concept.

This time of year is fraught with resolutions that never actualize or worse – the steps that would lead towards them are never taken. Are you tired of looking in the mirror and asking yourself the same questions you have for the past many?

Why can’t I lose 10 pounds? Why am I tired? Why don’t I have any time? These questions and many more fill the minds of most – at least for the next month, after which time they drift away deep into the abyss of our busy lives only to resurrect themselves next January 1st.

The past fifteen years have been filled with news stories about the “miracle– like” benefits of fish oil, and 2010 saw U.S. sales of the product top $1 Billion! Is this supplement snake oil, or are you truly getting bang for your buck?

Essential fats are required fats we cannot make and therefore must consume from an outside source. One category of these fats found in fish oil – Omega 3 fats – are vital to many of the cellular process that help our body operate and maintain great health.

These fats are predominately found in the foods our food eats. Plants, algae and seaweed are veritable stores of Omega 3s and, when consumed by animals including cows and fish, the plant version is perfectly converted to another form of Omega 3 for our use.

Following last week’s Eat By Design Seminar several Practice Members have asked me to offer up a list of my favourite nutrition books.

And as I mentioned at the seminar, I too find it frustrating that there are so many diet and health books that continue to come out on a regular basis many of which completely contradict one another all written by seemingly intelligent and experienced “experts” in the field.  Unfortunately, this will always be true no matter what, which is why I thought it would be important for me to post this list to help you cut through all of the hype.

In no particular order, here are 9 of the best books about nutrition and health that have helped to shape Eat By Design in one way or another.