WHAT we should and should not be consuming has come under scrutiny in a new myth-busting book by a man in the know.

‘Healthy Eating: The Big Mistake’ explores how, through research, food scientist Dr Verner Wheelock believes ‘modern medicine has got it wrong about diabetes, cholesterol, cancer, Alzheimer’s and obesity.’

The former head of the University of Bradford’s Food Policy and Research Unit, who now runs a food training and consultancy service in Skipton, believes he has the evidence to prove it.

Showcasing studies from around the world, the book by Dr Wheelock with journalist, Marika Sboros, aims to dismantle the current ‘pro-carbohydrate’ ‘healthy eating’ advice for life-threatening conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, dementia and obesity.

Dr Wheelock also focuses on the conflicts in what he believes we should and shouldn’t be eating and how, through research, he believes ‘modern medicine has got it wrong about diabetes, cholesterol, cancer, Alzheimer’s and obesity.’

Published by Columbus Publishing Ltd, the book proves why carbohydrates are 'one of our worst nutritional enemies.'

Those with Type 2 diabetes will be particularly interested to read Dr Wheelock's views in relation to how, he believes, adopting the low carb approach could actually reverse the condition.

Type 1 diabetes is, of course, different as it is often inherited and cannot be cured but Dr Wheelock argues there is also plenty of evidence to demonstrate that Type 1 glucose levels can also be swiftly reduced by low carb eating.

Dr Wheelock also profiles experts who share his views, and proving how a low carb/healthy fats diet can bring life-saving hope to millions.

The NHS is already struggling under the strain but maybe, just maybe, adopting a different approach to our diet can help us to help ourselves - for the sake of our long-term health.

According to Dr Wheelock, reducing the consumption of the glucose-driving carbohydrates such as bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, and all the obvious sugary foods, and replacing them with healthy fats such as full fat dairy foods, eggs and lots of leafy green vegetables, meat and fish and other ‘goodies’ such as nuts, avocados and berries, will contribute greatly to keeping ourselves healthy.

Described as a ‘powerful book making a strong case for reducing sugar and carbohydrates in the diet,’ Dr Wheelock focuses on the conflicts that exist and ‘makes the case for an obvious and simple solution: stop eating foods that research shows are at the heart of these serious health issues. That means eating less of what you’ve been told to eat and more of what you’ve been told to avoid.’

The contribution by the journalist Marika Sboros, in which she describes the “trial” of Professor Tim Noakes who was prosecuted by the medical hierarchy in South Africa, provides real insight into the battles currently being raged.

Noakes has persistently advocated a change in dietary advice in order to save the lives of thousands of people by turning to a low sugar, low carbohydrate diet.

As he was eventually vindicated, his ‘not guilty’ verdict may be the watershed needed to trigger an about turn in official thinking.

‘Healthy Eating: The Big Mistake’ certainly gives readers food for thought - especially those who are dealing with conditions such as diabetes and those looking to live a healthier lifestyle.

We all should be helping ourselves when it comes to looking after our long-term health and this book will certainly make us more mindful of the changes we can make by concentrating more on what we consume.

Healthy Eating: The Big Mistake is priced at £12.99 and is published by Columbus Publishing Ltd. A Kindle version is also available.