The bestselling popular science author of A Grain of Salt serves up "interesting factoids about the way that science has helped shape our everyday lives" (Joe Culotti, PhD, professor of molecular and medical genetics, University of Toronto).
In Let Them Eat Flax , award-winning author Dr. Joe Schwarcz continues his crusade against purveyors of poppycock as he investigates the surprising and sometimes sinister science of everyday food and life. What difference does an atom make? It could mean life or death! Get the lowdown on oxygenated water, the healing powers of prayer, and the health benefits of chocolate. Could there be a link between McGill University and Jack the Ripper? Find out how cinnamon helps to counter high cholesterol, and learn just how sweet sugar alternatives can be.
In the tradition of Schwarcz's five previous bestsellers, Let Them Eat Flax fries scientific baloney with humor, wit, and information. From food poisoning to the secret of the Stradivarius violin, fertilizers to spontaneous human combustion, Schwarcz investigates explosive subjects and delivers the unbiased, scientific facts readers need to make informed decisions in their everyday lives.
"Dr. Schwarcz . . . has a knack for translating science into a language that anyone can understand and actually enjoy." - Toronto Sun
"Joe Schwarcz's magic is in convincing us that there is verve and value in real chemistry." -Roald Hoffman, Nobel Laureate
"Dr. Joe blends intelligence, scientific expertise, critical thinking, humor, and a healthy dose of skepticism in a prescription for good reading." -Leon Jaroff, former senior editor, Time magazine, and founder of Discover magazine
