When my family and I needed to quickly come up to speed about Lyme disease several years ago, I looked for a book that would take me by the hand and explain all the complex stuff I needed to know. I never found one at the time. I wish I’d had a copy of The Lyme Disease Solution, by Kenneth Singleton, MD, MPH. (Brown Books, 2008). Dr. Singleton himself suffered from undiagnosed Lyme disease for eight years. Now, having recovered his own health, he works as a Lyme disease specialist in Maryland.

This book is a well-organized compendium of information about Lyme disease and co-infections. It starts with the basics: signs, symptoms, diagnostic tests, finding a Lyme-knowledgeable doctor. It moves on to different aspects of treatment: antibiotics, nutritional supplements and various alternative therapies.

He discusses the immune system at length—how it functions, how best to support it during treatment—along with related matters like the thyroid and adrenal glands. He explains complex issues in simple language and offers practical advice.

Something entirely new to me was Dr. Singleton’s suggestions for the Lyme Inflammation Diet. He calls it the most vital self-care step Lyme patients can take to reclaim their health. He says following these nutritional recommendations will help reverse chronic inflammation, boost the immune system, and reduce or eliminate both insulin resistance and leptin resistance.

It’s a four-phase eating plan. Phase One is a bit restrictive, but blessedly, only lasts a week. As you stay on the diet, you bring in more foods. By phase four, you are eating a wide variety of foods and might well be able to stay on the plan indefinitely.

The book also discusses GLANDS—an acronym for six factors that often cause problems for Lyme patients: gastrointestinal function, liver health, anxiety/depression, neurological issues, detoxification, and sleep. Again, he offers clear explanations and useful suggestions. More information about the book here.

Have another book to recommend? Email me at dleland@lymedisease.org.