Paul Insel

Dr. Paul Insel is Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine. He has been Principal Investigator on a number of key NIH nutrition projects, and has authored 14 books and more than 100 articles. His best-selling US college health textbook, Core Concepts in Health, is now in its 16th edition and was recognized in 2020 with a McGuffey Longevity Award from The Textbook and Academic Authors Association; his other college textbooks, Nutrition and Fit & Well are in their 6th and 14th editions, respectively.

Years ago, Paul and a Stanford colleague decided to write their first health textbook when they discovered that existing ones said nothing about behavior. This felt wrong. Health is greatly affected by daily behaviors related to things like diet, exercise, and sleep. Since then, more than two million college students have used Paul’s textbooks in their health studies. His first children’s book, The Fantastic Adventures of Alex in the Broccoli Forest, is the result of another important realization. While it’s important to explain nutrition to college students, isn’t it better to begin the learning process earlier in people’s lives? This book, written for young children, explains the basics of the five food groups, taking them on a fun adventure while teaching them useful, actionable facts about healthy eating. Paul knows how tough it can be for parents to get their kids to eat healthy foods. This book will help.