Many individuals strive to optimize their diet and lifestyle for overall well-being. While it is widely acknowledged that a nutritious diet forms the foundation of good health, there is a growing body of research that shows the role of dietary supplements as an adjunct to achieving optimal nutrition. As a holistic pharmacist with a passion for promoting a balanced approach to health, I firmly recommend dietary supplements as a complement to a wholesome diet, though they cannot replace it. Let’s delve into specific examples where supplements play a crucial role in meeting the nutritional of a healthy lifestyle needs that food alone cannot satisfy.
Shortcomings of a Nutritious Diet
While a nutrient-dense diet should always be the primary focus, dietary supplements can play a valuable role in filling potential nutritional gaps. These gaps can arise due to individual dietary preferences, limited food availability, or specific health conditions that may increase nutrient requirements. Dietary supplements can provide a convenient and effective way to ensure an adequate intake of certain nutrients.
There are instances where even the most balanced diet may fall short in meeting specific nutritional needs. For example, individuals following a strict vegetarian or vegan diet may have difficulty obtaining sufficient amounts of vitamin B12, which is predominantly found in animal-based foods. In such cases, a B12 supplement can be crucial to prevent deficiencies and support optimal nerve function and red blood cell production.
Antioxidants, which are primarily obtained from consuming fruit, may also be lacking in the diet. Berries are particularly high in antioxidants and offer specific benefits for the brain, heart, and bladder. Yet, consuming enough berries to get the benefits can be costly and inconvenient. One example of a berry that offers specific therapeutic benefits is cranberry. Several studies have shown that the proanthocyanidins (PACs) in cranberries can help support bladder health and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections, making cranberries a good choice for preventative measures.
Getting enough PACs from consuming cranberries is challenging. Consuming large quantities of cranberry juice is calorie-intensive and can be inconvenient. Moreover, many cranberry products, such as juices and dried cranberries, are laden with added sugars and preservatives, diluting their health benefits. This is where a supplement can be helpful by providing a standardized amount of these beneficial antioxidants to support bladder health.
Garlic is another example of a food that offers numerous health benefits, however difficult to get sufficient quantities through diet alone. Garlic is widely revered for its benefits for the heart, and immune system, and the prevention of many chronic health conditions. The challenge with garlic, however, is that eating a lot of fresh garlic can leave you with garlic breath, gas, and an upset stomach.
The majority of the clinical research on garlic has been conducted on a garlic supplement that is made from aged garlic extract (AGE). In fact, AGE has been the subject of more than 900 published scientific papers supporting its efficacy. This particular type of garlic is made from a unique aging process that enhances its bioavailability and bioactivity, making it a superior option to obtain the full spectrum of garlic’s health-promoting compounds. The aging process also eliminates the harsh garlic compounds, which are responsible for the odor and side effects.
AGE contains potent antioxidants, such as S-allyl cysteine (SAC), S-allylmercaptocysteine (SAMC), and other compounds which are not as readily available in fresh garlic. Incorporating AGE supplements into one’s routine offers a convenient and effective way to harness the diverse benefits of garlic for cardiovascular support, immune function, and overall well-being, particularly for those who may not enjoy the pungent taste of raw garlic or have difficulty incorporating garlic into their daily diet.
Combination Supplements Boost Nutrition Gaps
Combination supplements offer a comprehensive approach to nutrition by integrating a variety of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals into a single formula. These supplements are designed to address multiple health issues simultaneously, offering convenience, cost-effectiveness, and targeted support for specific concerns.
One example of a combination supplement is a daily multivitamin. These products typically contain a blend of essential vitamins and minerals, tailored to support overall health and fill potential gaps in the diet. A daily multivitamin can be especially beneficial for individuals with busy lifestyles or those who may have difficulty consistently meeting their nutritional needs through food alone.
One of my favorite combination supplements, especially for women, is found in Kyo-Dophilus Cran+ Probiotic. This combination supplement contains The Friendly Trio, a blend of three biocompatible human strain probiotics along with the extensively researched Cran-Max cranberry extract. Together in one capsule, this supplement offers a powerful solution for enhancing both gut and urinary tract health. These probiotics and cranberry ingredients synergistically support urinary tract health by promoting a balanced gut microbiome and preventing bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall. Clinical studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of cranberry and probiotics in supporting bladder and digestive health, making Kyo-Dophilus Cran+ Probiotic a comprehensive solution for those seeking holistic support for both their gut and urinary wellness.
Rounding out my recommendations for combination supplements that pack the most punch for your health brings me back to our discussion on aged garlic extract (AGE) and vitamin B12. Renowned for supporting immune function, cardiovascular health, and providing antioxidant properties, garlic is an essential addition to any health-conscious individual’s routine, but not so practical to eat every day. Plus, garlic used in cooking will not give you the same benefits as an AGE supplement. To harness the full potential of garlic’s benefits, I frequently recommend Wakunaga’s Kyolic supplement line, which offers extensively researched and scientifically-backed AGE combination formulas. For example, Kyolic’s Formula 101 Stress & Fatigue Relief is a powerful supplement that contains AGE, along with essential nutrients like GABA and vitamins B1, B6, and B12. Vitamin B12, in particular, plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and neurological health, while AGE has long been celebrated for its immune-boosting properties and overall wellness benefits. This combination supplement helps reduce fatigue and stress but also strengthens your immune system, supporting your body’s natural balance and vitality.
Supplementation is Key
As a holistic pharmacist, my aim is to promote a holistic approach to health, where diet, lifestyle, and supplements work together to create a foundation for well-being. By understanding the unique advantages of supplements and identifying specific areas where dietary intake may be insufficient, individuals can make informed choices and improve their overall health and vitality.
While dietary supplements should never be seen as a substitute for a nutrient-rich diet, they can certainly serve as a valuable addition to one’s nutritional approach. Combination supplements, in particular, offer a convenient and targeted means of addressing multiple health issues. By providing concentrated doses of essential nutrients, they can help bridge potential nutritional gaps and enhance overall well-being.
Vitamin B12, cranberries, and aged garlic extract (AGE) highlight situations where even the most well-planned diet may fall short. By incorporating supplements wisely, health-conscious individuals can optimize their nutritional intake and embark on a path towards optimal health and vitality.
The post Combining Supplements with a Nutritious Diet for Optimal Health appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an alternative form of medicine?
Alternative medicine is a broad term that describes any alternative approach to healing. Alternative medicine can take many forms, but most of them are rooted in the belief that healthcare should be rooted more in natural remedies and practices than in chemical medicines.
Alternative medicine includes acupuncture, homeopathy, herbalism, naturopathy, osteopathic manipulation, traditional Chinese medicine, reflexology, shamanic healing, spiritual healing, prayer, energy healing, aromatherapy, meditation, yoga, chiropractic, massage therapy, Reiki, and various types of psychotherapy.
Alternative practitioners claim their treatments have improved health outcomes. They also claim they are more cost-effective and provide better patient satisfaction. These claims can not be supported scientifically as the evidence supporting alternative medicine has been largely ignored by mainstream medical authorities.
What does holistic refer to?
Holistic simply means holistic. It means looking at the whole picture rather than just part of it. This isn’t always possible because we tend not to see things as a whole.
Our default mentality is to see things in black and white. In reality, there are infinite shades of grey.
So, when working on a project, try to see everything from different angles. Look at it from all sides.
Take the time to look at it as a whole. How does each of its components interact with one another?
If you do find a problem, try to figure out why. Remember to think about the consequences of any changes you make.
Is holistic health care the same as alternative medicine?
Holistic Health Care stands out from Alternative Medicine as it focuses on the whole person and not just the symptoms.
Holistic Health Care looks at all aspects of an individual’s life, including mental, physical, emotional, spiritual, social, environmental, occupational, cultural, and family factors.
Alternative Medicine doesn’t address these problems. Alternative Medicine focuses on the body, mind and emotions.
What are some examples of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine refers to treatments other than those considered by mainstream medicine to be useful for treating disease. These include traditional Chinese medicine as well homeopathy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, nutritional therapy and reiki.
Alternative medicine could also refer to any practice that has not been supported by scientific evidence but is used in clinical practice. These include yoga, meditation, aromatherapy, reflexology and flower essences.
Is there any way to find out more about holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that treats the whole person and not just one body part. Holistic medicine takes into account all aspects of a patient’s life, including his or her spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being.
Holistic medicine treats the whole person and not individual symptoms. The focus of holistic medicine is not on curing the disease but on promoting healing.
Holistic medicine includes preventive measures such as exercise and nutrition and treatments for chronic conditions such as arthritis and diabetes.
There are many forms of holistic medicine.
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Chiropractic medicine
- Homeopathy
- Herbalism
- Naturopathy
- Nutrition
- Osteopathic medicine
- Vedic medicine
- Yoga
How safe is holistic medicine?
Holistic medicines are safe as they aren’t harmful drugs, but natural remedies that have been used for centuries by people who use them.
They have been shown in many cases to treat conditions such as arthritis and chronic pain, asthma.
Millions of people suffer from various illnesses use holistic medicines. They include homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal treatments, massage therapy, yoga, meditation, biofeedback, hypnosis, nutrition, counseling, physical fitness, exercise, and other complementary therapies. These therapies treat the whole person rather than just treating the symptoms.
Statistics
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
cam.cancer.gov
liebertpub.com
- Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine – A systematic review of randomized controlled trials involving acupuncture for insomnia treatment
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- The rise and rise of complementary and alternative medicine: a sociological perspective – PubMed
- Holistic medicine – PubMed
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING & TENSION-TYPE HEADADACHE – PubMed
- A Randomized controlled trial to determine the effect of foot reflexology on depression and anxiety in older women: PubMed
How To
What are the Shortcomings and Advances in Holistic Medicine?
Holistic medicine is a medical practice that emphasizes the importance of mind, body, spirit, environment, and social factors in the healing process. It was developed during the late 19th century by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), who published his first book, The Doctor’s Book of Mind Cure, in 1924. He used simple techniques like meditation and visualization. People with stress, anxiety, depression or pain experienced this treatment. This therapy can also help patients deal with their problems and improve their quality life.
Although holistic therapies are still popular, evidence is lacking to support their effectiveness. However, some studies show that these treatments can help reduce symptoms associated with chronic conditions such as asthma, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, migraine, obesity, osteoporosis, and others.
Holistic medicine has both its strengths and its weaknesses.
- We lack scientific evidence. A small number of well-designed randomized controlled trials, (RCTs), evaluate the health benefits of holistic treatments. The majority of researches show positive results.
- Low cost compared to conventional medicine. Alternative medicines are more affordable than traditional medicine, especially if the patient follows natural eating habits.
- Patients do not feel pressured to comply with the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors will recommend complementary treatments, even if they are not prescribed.
- Holistic treatments are often combined with conventional medicine. For example, acupuncture can be used in conjunction with surgery or medication.
- Many people believe alternative therapies work better than traditional medicine.
- Alternative drugs are considered more natural and less harmful than traditional drugs.
- Many patients choose complementary treatments to enhance their lifestyle changes. They not only want their health to be good, but they also want to have fun with their lives.
- Patients who follow holistic treatments tend to be healthier.
- Older adults are increasingly turning to holistic treatments.
- More research needs to be conducted on complementary treatments.
- Studies have shown that the majority of people would rather try alternative treatments than see a doctor.
- It is important for doctors to realize that not all patients will benefit equally from alternate treatments.
- Holistic therapies should be part our culture and education system.
- Holistic treatments may not always be safe for everyone.
- To help patients make informed decisions about treatment options, it is essential that we learn how to do so.
- Holistic therapies are not only for hippies.
- Certain diseases cannot be treated with holistic treatments.
- Sometimes holistic treatments can prove dangerous.
- Holistic therapies can be beneficial for certain conditions.
- Holistic treatments are effective.
- Holistic treatments are based off ancient wisdom.
- Holistic treatments can be easy to learn.
- It is difficult to learn holistic treatments.
- Holistic treatments are hard to learn.
- Holistic treatments can be too costly.
- Holistic treatments are expensive.
- Holistic treatment is less costly than conventional medicine.
- Holistic therapies are more costly than traditional medicine.
****
Holistic Medicine–A Brief Historical Overview
Holistic medicine is a system of healing that focuses on treating the whole person instead of just their symptoms. It encompasses all aspects of the person, such as their mental, physical, spiritual, occupational, cultural, and social influences. It emphasizes prevention rather than cure and aims to prevent disease through diet, exercise, relaxation, stress management, etc.
Bastyr University was founded in Seattle, in 1972. After Dr. Andrew Weil’s 1996 book, “Spontaneous Healing”, holistic medicine started to flourish. Dr. David Williams, and Dr. Michael Murray founded the American Holistic Medical Association in 1997. There are hundreds of holistic medicine schools all over the world, including Bastyr University in Columbia, Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons and Maharishi Ayurveda Institute.
2013 was the year holistic medicine was declared one of the five main trends in healthcare by the World Health Organization. This trend integrates conventional care with complementary therapies like homeopathy, acupuncture or herbalism, massage, therapy, reiki, yoga and meditation. This integration is designed to deliver safe, effective, patient-centered healthcare while minimising side effects and costs.
Holistic medicine works as a result of an interconnected mind-body-spirit. Instability can result in illness if any of these parts is not in balance. Let’s take, for instance:
Anxiety and stress can make you anxious, causing you to feel tense or out of balance. Your body reacts by making cortisol. This hormone increases inflammation throughout your body. You feel weak, tired, and sick as a result.
Anxiety and negative emotions can lead to anxiety, fear, grief, sadness, and other unpleasant feelings. These feelings can lead to stress in the brain. If untreated, these stress hormones can trigger adrenaline and cortisol production. Adrenaline is a stimulant of your heart beat, blood pressure, as well as breathing rate. Cortisol can affect your nervous system, immune system, and digestive tract. Both hormones can cause muscle tension, fatigue, headaches (dizziness), insomnia, anxiety and depression, among other health problems.
Your spirit can become depressed and you may lose your faith in the world. It is possible to lack self-esteem or confidence. This can lead you to poor eating habits and unhealthy relationships. It can also cause low energy. When your spirit is healthy, you feel happy, joyous, peaceful, and optimistic.
There are differences between alternative and traditional medicine.
Allopathic medicine is founded on science. Doctors use laboratory tests, x-rays, MRIs, CAT scans, and other technologies to diagnose patients. They prescribe medications for treatment and surgery when needed. Allopathic doctors believe they know what is happening inside the human body and how to treat illnesses. Alternative medicine involves herbs, vitamins minerals, diet, exercise and spiritual healing. Alternative medicine does not have a defined definition. Alternative medicine is also known as natural medicine or integrative medicine. Some refer to it as traditional, naturopathic, or CAM.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you’re experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Dick Benson
Title: Combining Supplements with a Nutritious Diet for Optimal Health
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/nutrition/combining-supplements-with-a-nutritious-diet-for-optimal-health/
Published Date: Fri, 25 Aug 2023 14:23:56 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an alternative form of medicine?
Alternative medicine is a broad term that describes any alternative approach to healing. Alternative medicine can take many forms, but most of them are rooted in the belief that healthcare should be rooted more in natural remedies and practices than in chemical medicines.
Alternative medicine includes acupuncture, homeopathy, herbalism, naturopathy, osteopathic manipulation, traditional Chinese medicine, reflexology, shamanic healing, spiritual healing, prayer, energy healing, aromatherapy, meditation, yoga, chiropractic, massage therapy, Reiki, and various types of psychotherapy.
Alternative practitioners claim their treatments have improved health outcomes. They also claim they are more cost-effective and provide better patient satisfaction. These claims can not be supported scientifically as the evidence supporting alternative medicine has been largely ignored by mainstream medical authorities.
What does holistic refer to?
Holistic simply means holistic. It means looking at the whole picture rather than just part of it. This isn’t always possible because we tend not to see things as a whole.
Our default mentality is to see things in black and white. In reality, there are infinite shades of grey.
So, when working on a project, try to see everything from different angles. Look at it from all sides.
Take the time to look at it as a whole. How does each of its components interact with one another?
If you do find a problem, try to figure out why. Remember to think about the consequences of any changes you make.
Is holistic health care the same as alternative medicine?
Holistic Health Care stands out from Alternative Medicine as it focuses on the whole person and not just the symptoms.
Holistic Health Care looks at all aspects of an individual’s life, including mental, physical, emotional, spiritual, social, environmental, occupational, cultural, and family factors.
Alternative Medicine doesn’t address these problems. Alternative Medicine focuses on the body, mind and emotions.
What are some examples of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine refers to treatments other than those considered by mainstream medicine to be useful for treating disease. These include traditional Chinese medicine as well homeopathy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, nutritional therapy and reiki.
Alternative medicine could also refer to any practice that has not been supported by scientific evidence but is used in clinical practice. These include yoga, meditation, aromatherapy, reflexology and flower essences.
Is there any way to find out more about holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that treats the whole person and not just one body part. Holistic medicine takes into account all aspects of a patient’s life, including his or her spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being.
Holistic medicine treats the whole person and not individual symptoms. The focus of holistic medicine is not on curing the disease but on promoting healing.
Holistic medicine includes preventive measures such as exercise and nutrition and treatments for chronic conditions such as arthritis and diabetes.
There are many forms of holistic medicine.
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Chiropractic medicine
- Homeopathy
- Herbalism
- Naturopathy
- Nutrition
- Osteopathic medicine
- Vedic medicine
- Yoga
How safe is holistic medicine?
Holistic medicines are safe as they aren’t harmful drugs, but natural remedies that have been used for centuries by people who use them.
They have been shown in many cases to treat conditions such as arthritis and chronic pain, asthma.
Millions of people suffer from various illnesses use holistic medicines. They include homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal treatments, massage therapy, yoga, meditation, biofeedback, hypnosis, nutrition, counseling, physical fitness, exercise, and other complementary therapies. These therapies treat the whole person rather than just treating the symptoms.
Statistics
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
cam.cancer.gov
liebertpub.com
- Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine – A systematic review of randomized controlled trials involving acupuncture for insomnia treatment
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- The rise and rise of complementary and alternative medicine: a sociological perspective – PubMed
- Holistic medicine – PubMed
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING & TENSION-TYPE HEADADACHE – PubMed
- A Randomized controlled trial to determine the effect of foot reflexology on depression and anxiety in older women: PubMed
How To
What are the Shortcomings and Advances in Holistic Medicine?
Holistic medicine is a medical practice that emphasizes the importance of mind, body, spirit, environment, and social factors in the healing process. It was developed during the late 19th century by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), who published his first book, The Doctor’s Book of Mind Cure, in 1924. He used simple techniques like meditation and visualization. People with stress, anxiety, depression or pain experienced this treatment. This therapy can also help patients deal with their problems and improve their quality life.
Although holistic therapies are still popular, evidence is lacking to support their effectiveness. However, some studies show that these treatments can help reduce symptoms associated with chronic conditions such as asthma, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, migraine, obesity, osteoporosis, and others.
Holistic medicine has both its strengths and its weaknesses.
- We lack scientific evidence. A small number of well-designed randomized controlled trials, (RCTs), evaluate the health benefits of holistic treatments. The majority of researches show positive results.
- Low cost compared to conventional medicine. Alternative medicines are more affordable than traditional medicine, especially if the patient follows natural eating habits.
- Patients do not feel pressured to comply with the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors will recommend complementary treatments, even if they are not prescribed.
- Holistic treatments are often combined with conventional medicine. For example, acupuncture can be used in conjunction with surgery or medication.
- Many people believe alternative therapies work better than traditional medicine.
- Alternative drugs are considered more natural and less harmful than traditional drugs.
- Many patients choose complementary treatments to enhance their lifestyle changes. They not only want their health to be good, but they also want to have fun with their lives.
- Patients who follow holistic treatments tend to be healthier.
- Older adults are increasingly turning to holistic treatments.
- More research needs to be conducted on complementary treatments.
- Studies have shown that the majority of people would rather try alternative treatments than see a doctor.
- It is important for doctors to realize that not all patients will benefit equally from alternate treatments.
- Holistic therapies should be part our culture and education system.
- Holistic treatments may not always be safe for everyone.
- To help patients make informed decisions about treatment options, it is essential that we learn how to do so.
- Holistic therapies are not only for hippies.
- Certain diseases cannot be treated with holistic treatments.
- Sometimes holistic treatments can prove dangerous.
- Holistic therapies can be beneficial for certain conditions.
- Holistic treatments are effective.
- Holistic treatments are based off ancient wisdom.
- Holistic treatments can be easy to learn.
- It is difficult to learn holistic treatments.
- Holistic treatments are hard to learn.
- Holistic treatments can be too costly.
- Holistic treatments are expensive.
- Holistic treatment is less costly than conventional medicine.
- Holistic therapies are more costly than traditional medicine.
****
Holistic Medicine–A Brief Historical Overview
Holistic medicine is a system of healing that focuses on treating the whole person instead of just their symptoms. It encompasses all aspects of the person, such as their mental, physical, spiritual, occupational, cultural, and social influences. It emphasizes prevention rather than cure and aims to prevent disease through diet, exercise, relaxation, stress management, etc.
Bastyr University was founded in Seattle, in 1972. After Dr. Andrew Weil’s 1996 book, “Spontaneous Healing”, holistic medicine started to flourish. Dr. David Williams, and Dr. Michael Murray founded the American Holistic Medical Association in 1997. There are hundreds of holistic medicine schools all over the world, including Bastyr University in Columbia, Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons and Maharishi Ayurveda Institute.
2013 was the year holistic medicine was declared one of the five main trends in healthcare by the World Health Organization. This trend integrates conventional care with complementary therapies like homeopathy, acupuncture or herbalism, massage, therapy, reiki, yoga and meditation. This integration is designed to deliver safe, effective, patient-centered healthcare while minimising side effects and costs.
Holistic medicine works as a result of an interconnected mind-body-spirit. Instability can result in illness if any of these parts is not in balance. Let’s take, for instance:
Anxiety and stress can make you anxious, causing you to feel tense or out of balance. Your body reacts by making cortisol. This hormone increases inflammation throughout your body. You feel weak, tired, and sick as a result.
Anxiety and negative emotions can lead to anxiety, fear, grief, sadness, and other unpleasant feelings. These feelings can lead to stress in the brain. If untreated, these stress hormones can trigger adrenaline and cortisol production. Adrenaline is a stimulant of your heart beat, blood pressure, as well as breathing rate. Cortisol can affect your nervous system, immune system, and digestive tract. Both hormones can cause muscle tension, fatigue, headaches (dizziness), insomnia, anxiety and depression, among other health problems.
Your spirit can become depressed and you may lose your faith in the world. It is possible to lack self-esteem or confidence. This can lead you to poor eating habits and unhealthy relationships. It can also cause low energy. When your spirit is healthy, you feel happy, joyous, peaceful, and optimistic.
There are differences between alternative and traditional medicine.
Allopathic medicine is founded on science. Doctors use laboratory tests, x-rays, MRIs, CAT scans, and other technologies to diagnose patients. They prescribe medications for treatment and surgery when needed. Allopathic doctors believe they know what is happening inside the human body and how to treat illnesses. Alternative medicine involves herbs, vitamins minerals, diet, exercise and spiritual healing. Alternative medicine does not have a defined definition. Alternative medicine is also known as natural medicine or integrative medicine. Some refer to it as traditional, naturopathic, or CAM.
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