Focus Magazine Review

Written by Dee Collins, September 9, 2026 – Focus Magazine

Wellbeing Books Worth Putting on Your Reading List

There’s no shortage of books promising to make us healthier, happier, slimmer and more energetic – but which ones are actually worth reading? We’ve taken a look at five recent wellbeing and nutrition books covering everything from recovery after surgery and the fascinating world of gut health to inflammation and everyday nutrition. Some are packed with science, others are wonderfully practical, and a couple might even make you laugh about subjects you’d normally rather not discuss! Here’s our take on five books that could give you plenty of food for thought – quite literally in some cases.

Heal Better, Heal Faster: Using Food to Flourish After Surgery by Lynn Slovak

This newly released book immediately caught my attention, and I was keen to include it in this round-up. Once I started reading, I quickly became absorbed in its message. When you’re recovering from surgery, there’s a lot to think about – medication, appointments, rest, getting mobile again and simply trying to feel like yourself. But one important part of recovery can easily be overlooked: what you eat.

That’s the idea at the heart of Heal Better, Heal Faster, a just-released book by holistic nutritionist Lynn Slovak. Written following the author’s own experience of a serious injury and two major surgeries, the book explores how food can help support the body during what can be a physically and emotionally demanding time.

Rather than presenting recovery as something that simply happens while we wait for our bodies to mend, Lynn encourages readers to think of food as part of their recovery toolkit. The book looks at the nutrients the body needs to repair wounds, support the immune system, manage inflammation and rebuild strength, while also discussing foods that may work against the healing process.

What makes the book particularly appealing is its practical approach. This isn’t just a list of nutrients or a crash course in nutrition. It includes meal ideas, restorative recipes and strategies for making good food choices when you’re tired, lacking energy or simply not in the mood to spend hours in the kitchen.

And that feels particularly relevant. When we’re well, preparing a nutritious meal can feel like a normal part of the day. When we’re recovering from surgery, even deciding what to eat can feel like a major undertaking. Having simple, nourishing ideas on hand could make eating well feel much more manageable.

Lynn brings together her experience as a holistic nutritionist with nutritional science and traditional wisdom, creating a guide that is intended not only for people already recovering from surgery, but also for those preparing for an operation or supporting a loved one through recovery.