The history of humankind is intimately tied to the history of agriculture: powerful societies rose, persisted and waned in parallel with their food supply systems. Describing what crops were grown, the constraints on their production and the foods that were obtained, this book traces the impact of cropping and food preparation in ten societies that were among the most powerful and influential in history, detailing how technology varied and developed as it related directly to agriculture and food production. The book covers the background of agricultural development, early agricultural societies, and the advancement of technology from the ancient Greeks and Romans to the present. It finishes by addressing the implications for the future of agriculture and food supply as grain production moves towards biofuels. A compelling text for all those interested in the history of society and civilisations, global agriculture, and what it means for the future, this text is also an essential reference for students of agriculture, food technology, history and anthropology.

Twenty per cent of the UK population - 12 million people - suffer IBS-related symptoms, but they may be unaware that the simple elimination of starch from their diet can bring dramatic relief from pain and discomfort. In this revised edition, Carol Sinclair, a sufferer who has successfully overcome IBS and arthritic pain, brings you a revolutionary programme for a pain-free future. This practical guide will help millions to reduce their arthritic symptoms, whose pain to date has been relieved only by regular medication, with sometimes dangerous side effects. The diet shows that a gradual reduction of starch in one's diet can dramatically reduce pain in days, to a point where drug usage is reduced and, in some cases, eliminated completely. Details of the discovery - along with case histories and a practical guide - make Carol Sinclair's book a first in the world. The IBS Low-Starch Diet also contains over 200 delicious starch- and gluten-free recipes, along with a comprehensive guide to eating out.