David Reuben (author)

Everythingsex

Flip Wilson Geraldine 1971

David Reuben is an American author, best known for his book The Save Your Life Diet, and for his controversial work, Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex* (*But Were Afraid to Ask), which was published in 1969. Reuben's approach to discussing sexuality and nutrition has sparked significant discussion and debate, making him a notable figure in these fields.

Biography

David Reuben graduated as a physician, specializing in psychiatry. His interest in the impact of diet on health led him to explore the relationship between nutrition and well-being, culminating in the publication of The Save Your Life Diet, which emphasizes the importance of high-fiber diets for preventing diseases.

However, it is his work on sexuality, Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex* (*But Were Afraid to Ask), that catapulted him into the limelight. The book, which covers a wide range of topics related to human sexuality, was groundbreaking at the time of its publication for its frank discussion of subjects that were considered taboo. Despite its controversial reception, the book became a bestseller and was later adapted into a comedy film directed by Woody Allen in 1972.

Works

Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex* (*But Were Afraid to Ask)

This book is structured as a series of questions and answers, covering various aspects of human sexuality. Its straightforward and sometimes humorous approach made it accessible to a broad audience, contributing to its widespread popularity. The book's success reflects a growing societal openness to discussing sexual health and education during the late 20th century.

The Save Your Life Diet

In this work, Reuben focuses on the role of dietary fiber in preventing diseases such as colon cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. He advocates for a diet rich in plant-based foods, arguing that such a diet can significantly reduce the risk of chronic illnesses. The book was part of a larger movement towards recognizing the importance of nutrition in maintaining overall health and preventing disease.

Legacy

David Reuben's contributions to discussions on sexuality and nutrition have had a lasting impact. His work on sexuality, in particular, is credited with helping to break down societal taboos and promoting a more open dialogue about sexual health. Meanwhile, his advocacy for high-fiber diets has been absorbed into broader nutritional guidelines and recommendations.

Criticism

Reuben's works, especially on sexuality, have faced criticism for their accuracy and for perpetuating stereotypes. Critics argue that some of the information in Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex* (*But Were Afraid to Ask) is outdated or oversimplified. Despite this, the book's role in fostering conversation about sexual health and education is widely acknowledged.

See Also

• Sex education
• Nutritional science
• Dietary fiber