How Many Servings of Fruits and Vegetables Should I Eat? Why Fruits and Vegetables Are Important

We often talk about how diets rich in fresh produce are good for you. But how much do you need to eat each day to reap real rewards?

Keep reading to learn how many servings of fruits and vegetables you need to feel your best and keep your body strong and healthy. But first, let’s touch on why fruits and vegetables are important for health and longevity in the first place.

Why fruits and vegetables are important

Fruits and vegetables are powerhouses of essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, folate, and potassium. We need these nutrients to support numerous important bodily functions, such as resisting infections, wound healing, and muscle function.

These plant foods are also packed with dietary fiber, which promotes a healthy digestive system, supports a strong immune response, and can even help prevent serious conditions like bowel cancer.

Incorporating a generous amount of fruits and vegetables in your diet can:

• Help regulate blood pressure
• Reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease
• Help prevent certain cancers
• Mitigate the development of eye problems
• Reduce your risk of develping digestive disorders
• Regulate blood sugar levels, potentially helping with appetite control and decreasing diabetes risk

How many fruits and vegetables should I eat?

Recommendations on how many servings of fruits and vegetables you should eat can vary depending on which health organization you ask. But a recent study from the scholarly journal, Circulation, indicates that a total of five servings per day offers the strongest health benefits.

Compared to people who ate only two servings a day, those who ate five servings had a:

• 13% lower risk of death from any cause
• 12% lower risk of death from heart disease or stroke
• 10% lower risk of death from cancer
• 35% lower risk of death from respiratory disease like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Among the study’s participants, the most beneficial combination of fruits and veggies observed was two servings of fruit and three servings of vegetables.

Researchers found the foods that provided the biggest health benefits were leafy greens (such as kale, spinach, and chard) and foods rich in vitamin C and beta carotene (citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits, as well as berries and carrots). These foods are potent sources of antioxidants, which can help prevent cancer, among other conditions.

Interestingly, consuming more than five servings daily didn’t offer extra mortality risk reduction. Starchy vegetables like peas, corn, and potatoes, as well as fruit juices, also lacked this protective effect.

What is considered a serving of fruits and vegetables?

One serving of fruit or veggies is about 4 to 6 ounces. While the volume measurement of one serving can differ based on the type of food, for many fruits and vegetables, it’s equivalent to 1 cup, whether raw or cooked. So aim for 1 ½ to 2 cups of fruit and 2 to 3 cups of vegetables each day.

The American Heart Association recommends filling at least half your plate with fruits and veggies to get the recommended five servings per day.

How to make sure you’re getting 5 servings of fruits and vegetables

Most Americans don’t eat enough of these nutrient-dense foods. Here are some tips for incorporating more into your routine.

Breakfast

• Enjoy fruit like melon, grapefruit, or apples.
• Top cereal or oatmeal with bananas, raisins, or berries.
• Mix veggies like onions, spinach, or bell peppers into eggs or potatoes.
• Make a berry and banana smoothie with probiotic yogurt, or a green smoothie with spinach, kale, and arugula.

Lunch

• Eat a leafy green salad topped with onions, carrots, and cucumber.
• Enhance sandwiches with veggies like sprouts, tomato, and/or avocado.
• Make a hearty vegetable soup, or try a low-sodium store-bought variety.
• Swap chips or fries for fruit or raw veggie sticks.

Snacks

• Munch on raw veggie sticks such as celery or carrots.
• Keep dried fruits like raisins or dates in your pantry.
• Enjoy fresh fruits like bananas or kiwis.
• Make veggie chips out of fresh kale or thin slices of other veggies like carrots and zucchini.

Dinner

• Eat a green salad as your main course, topped with protein like chicken and/or hard-boiled eggs.
• Add a side of steamed or baked veggies, drizzled with olive oil. Frozen veggies are okay, and, according to some studies, retain as much or more nutritional value as their fresh counterparts.
• Instead of pasta, turn veggies like zucchini, turnips, or beets into noodles and top with homemade or low-sodium tomato sauce.
• Enrich sauces, stews, and other dishes with extra veggies like onions, garlic, and bell peppers.

Keep in mind that these guidelines are a general target, and missing a day’s quota of fruits or vegetables isn’t catastrophic. The emphasis is on sustained balance over time. By consistently aiming for five servings daily, on average, you’re proactively paving the path to a healthier future.

References:

https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.120.048996

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3649719/

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Potassium-HealthProfessional/#:~:text=Observational%20studies%20suggest%20that%20increased,potassium%20may%20improve%20bone%20health.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3783921/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9268622/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6560290/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12088522/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3419346/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9099655/#:~:text=The%20combination%20diet%20reduced%20systolic,diet%20(P%3D0.07).

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5837313/#:~:text=Results%3A%20For%20fruits%20and%20vegetables,%25%20CI%3A%200.95%E2%80%930.99%2C

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5852712/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC526387/#:~:text=A%20joint%20report%20by%20the,found%20for%20cancers%20of%20the

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7190379/

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41433-023-02498-9#:~:text=Most%20previous%20studies%20demonstrated%20an,cataract%20%5B29%2C%2030%5D.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4644575/

https://www.myplate.gov/eat-healthy/what-is-myplate#:~:text=Start%20Simple%20with%20MyPlate.&text=Make%20half%20your%20plate%20fruits%20and%20vegetables%3A%20focus%20on%20whole%20fruits.&text=Make%20half%20your%20plate%20fruits%20and%20vegetables%3A%20vary%20your%20veggies.&text=Make%20half%20your%20grains%20whole%20grains.

https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/suggested-servings-from-each-food-group

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8308725/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6395719/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5374383/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25526594/

The post How Many Servings of Fruits and Vegetables Should I Eat? Why Fruits and Vegetables Are Important appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an alternative form of medicine?

Alternative medicine is a general term to describe any healing approach that differs from standard medical practice. While there are many alternative medical approaches, the majority are based on a belief that health care should be rooted primarily in natural substances and practices.

Alternative medicine includes acupuncture. Homeopathy, herbalism. naturopathy. osteopathic manipul. Traditional Chinese medicine. Reflexology. Shamanic healing. Prayer. Energy healing. Aromatherapy. Meditation. Chiropractic. Massage therapy. Reiki.

Many alternative practitioners claim that their therapies result in better health outcomes, including improved quality of life, fewer side effects, reduced costs, and greater patient satisfaction. These claims can’t be supported scientifically, as mainstream medical authorities have mostly ignored the evidence-based advantages of alternative medicine.

What is the Difference Between Naturopathic & Holistic Medicine?

The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine is based on drugs and surgery. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM is not meant to replace conventional treatment, but to help patients who are able to choose what is best for them.

On the other hand, naturopathy is used to complement conventional medical practices. It treats the whole person, including mind and soul. There are many forms of naturopathy: Ayurveda and Traditional Native American Medicine as well as Functional Medicine.

It is important to remember that some CAM modalities overlap slightly with conventional medicine. Both doctors and naturopaths may prescribe herbal remedies. However, naturopaths tend to emphasize lifestyle changes over prescription medications.

Naturopathy is often called “complementary” because it complements conventional medicine, not supplants it. Naturopaths may prescribe medication when needed.

There are differences between naturopathic medicines and other CAM modalities.

• Naturopaths are not qualified to prescribe or diagnose medication.
• Naturopaths may work alongside the patient’s family doctor and may refer patients to specialists if needed.
• Naturopathic doctors are licensed by the provincial licensing boards. CAM practitioners, however, are self-regulated.
• Naturopathy focuses on prevention and wellness and offers education about diet, exercise, and nutrition.
• Naturopaths emphasize the importance of lifestyle factors such as nutrition, sleep, stress management and exercise.
• Naturopharmacists specialize on the treatment of certain conditions with botanicals or minerals.
• Naturopodists are skilled in providing personalized care that meets the needs of each patient.
• Naturopaths are licensed by regulatory bodies like the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario.
• Naturopatrists are licensed by provincial regulatory bodies.
• Naturopaticians have been registered with The Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
• The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia licenses Naturotherapists.
• The United States National Board of Medical Examiners licenses Naturobiotic therapists.
• The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency grants licenses to homeopaths.
• The belief that all aspects should be considered in making health decisions is called “holistic”. Holistic doctors will examine all aspects of your health, not just one.

Is holistic medicine legitimate?

Yes, and no. Yes, because many medicines have been proven effective against various ailments. They can’t treat all conditions. It all depends on your definition of “holistic.” If holistic means taking into account all aspects a person’s well-being, then yes. However, if it simply means that natural remedies are preferred to chemical ones, then no.

Some people believe holistic medicine dates back to ancient times. This is simply not true. Even though natural remedies were used in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome by some healers, it was not scientifically proven.

The Middle Ages was the first time that medical professionals began to study anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology. The majority of Western countries had built public hospitals by the 19th century that allowed trained doctors to offer medical care.

Conventional medicine is today the dominant type of healthcare. But, many people still prefer complementary and alternative medicine. Many people find that it is more beneficial than taking pharmaceutical drugs.

People may feel more relaxed after having massage therapy than they do when taking tranquilizers. Others enjoy eating healthy foods instead of taking prescription medications. Others still believe that regular exercise improves their bodies’ performance.

What is Alternative Medicine?

It’s a method of healing that focuses more on prevention than treatment. It encourages people be educated consumers, actively participating in their own health and well being.

Alternative medicine refers to any system of diagnosis and treatment that does not employ allopathic (conventional) medical practices.

Where can you find more information on holistic medicine and other holistic therapies?

Holistic medicine is an approach to health care that focuses on treating the whole person rather than just focusing on one part of the body. Holistic medicine considers all aspects a patient’s lives, including their spiritual, emotional, and mental well-being.

Holistic medicine’s goal is to treat the whole person rather than just individual symptoms. Holistic medicine is not about curing the disease. It promotes healing.

Holistic medicine covers preventive measures like nutrition and exercise, as well treatment for chronic conditions like diabetes and arthritis.

There are many different types of holistic medicine:

• Acupuncture
• Aromatherapy
• Ayurveda
• Chiropractic medicine
• Homeopathy
• Herbalism
• Naturopathy
• Nutrition
• Osteopathic medicine
• Vedic medicine
• Yoga

What are the benefits of alternative treatment methods for cancer patients?

Cancer patients are often faced with many challenges when they try to find ways to cope with their illnesses. Many patients feel defeated and hopeless. Patients might experience nausea, pain or fatigue, as well as loss of strength and appetite.

Additionally, most traditional treatments do not work against cancer cells. Patients with cancer should look into alternative treatments, such as complementary medicine. Studies have shown that half of all cancer patients have tried alternative treatments at least once.

Some cancer patients choose complementary medicine over chemotherapy, believing it will be easier for them to manage side effects. They may also prefer it because it is less expensive.

There are also other reasons.

Some patients believe natural remedies could prevent a return of the disease.

Many believe natural remedies can improve quality of life.

Others believe that natural remedies may reduce the chance of getting cancer.

Concerned about side effects, people who have received chemotherapy may choose to use natural remedies as their first line therapy.

What is holistic medicine?

A holistic doctor is one who treats patients holistically. They may use traditional methods such as herbs and acupuncture but integrate these into western medicine.

They treat the illness, not just the symptoms. Patients should feel better after treatment.

Doctors must not only treat the illness but also look out for ways to prevent it from returning.

The term “holistic” refers to considering all aspects of one’s life.

Statistics

• An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
• A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
• 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)
• 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)
• These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)

External Links

nccih.nih.gov

• Statistics on Complementary Health Approaches and Integrative Healthcare
  
• What’s in the Name of Complementary and Alternative Health? NCCIH
  

cam.cancer.gov

• Office of Cancer Complementary and Alternative Medicine – OCCAM
  

doi.org

• Complementary health care and alternative care in Israel
  

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

• PubMed: The Rise and Rise of Complementary and Alternative Medicine: A Sociological Perspective – PubMed
  
• PubMed: Holistic medicine.
  

How To

What should I look for when looking for a qualified holistic doctor

How do you find a holistic doctor?

Specialists are the best doctors. In this case, we talk about holistic medicine. This means that doctors must know how to treat their patients holistically, which includes treating them as a whole person rather than just their symptoms. They should understand holistic health and why you want to see a holistic doctor.

In addition to knowing about holistic health, the doctor should have a strong understanding of complementary and alternative therapies (CAM), such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, massage therapy, and yoga.

Holistic health practitioners should also be able to diagnose your condition and explain the different treatments available to make an informed decision about your treatment options.

You should also ask if the doctor has certifications from professional organizations like the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork or the American Holistic Medical Association. NBOHMCA certifies in many areas such as naturopathic medicine (naturopathy), acupuncture and homeopathy, clinical nutrition (herbalalism), and aromatherapy.

Our directory can help you find holistic practitioners in your area. If you don’t see a practitioner listed, you might be able to look online for one.

To confirm if holistic healthcare is offered, contact your local hospital.

You can also visit your local library for books and resources on holistic health.

–

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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.

——————————————————————————————————————————————

By: Dick Benson
Title: How Many Servings of Fruits and Vegetables Should I Eat? Why Fruits and Vegetables Are Important
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/nutrition/how-many-fruits-and-vegetables-do-we-really-need/
Published Date: Fri, 15 Sep 2023 21:06:03 +0000

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an alternative form of medicine?

Alternative medicine is a general term to describe any healing approach that differs from standard medical practice. While there are many alternative medical approaches, the majority are based on a belief that health care should be rooted primarily in natural substances and practices.

Alternative medicine includes acupuncture. Homeopathy, herbalism. naturopathy. osteopathic manipul. Traditional Chinese medicine. Reflexology. Shamanic healing. Prayer. Energy healing. Aromatherapy. Meditation. Chiropractic. Massage therapy. Reiki.

Many alternative practitioners claim that their therapies result in better health outcomes, including improved quality of life, fewer side effects, reduced costs, and greater patient satisfaction. These claims can’t be supported scientifically, as mainstream medical authorities have mostly ignored the evidence-based advantages of alternative medicine.

What is the Difference Between Naturopathic & Holistic Medicine?

The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine is based on drugs and surgery. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM is not meant to replace conventional treatment, but to help patients who are able to choose what is best for them.

On the other hand, naturopathy is used to complement conventional medical practices. It treats the whole person, including mind and soul. There are many forms of naturopathy: Ayurveda and Traditional Native American Medicine as well as Functional Medicine.

It is important to remember that some CAM modalities overlap slightly with conventional medicine. Both doctors and naturopaths may prescribe herbal remedies. However, naturopaths tend to emphasize lifestyle changes over prescription medications.

Naturopathy is often called “complementary” because it complements conventional medicine, not supplants it. Naturopaths may prescribe medication when needed.

There are differences between naturopathic medicines and other CAM modalities.

• Naturopaths are not qualified to prescribe or diagnose medication.
• Naturopaths may work alongside the patient’s family doctor and may refer patients to specialists if needed.
• Naturopathic doctors are licensed by the provincial licensing boards. CAM practitioners, however, are self-regulated.
• Naturopathy focuses on prevention and wellness and offers education about diet, exercise, and nutrition.
• Naturopaths emphasize the importance of lifestyle factors such as nutrition, sleep, stress management and exercise.
• Naturopharmacists specialize on the treatment of certain conditions with botanicals or minerals.
• Naturopodists are skilled in providing personalized care that meets the needs of each patient.
• Naturopaths are licensed by regulatory bodies like the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario.
• Naturopatrists are licensed by provincial regulatory bodies.
• Naturopaticians have been registered with The Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
• The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia licenses Naturotherapists.
• The United States National Board of Medical Examiners licenses Naturobiotic therapists.
• The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency grants licenses to homeopaths.
• The belief that all aspects should be considered in making health decisions is called “holistic”. Holistic doctors will examine all aspects of your health, not just one.

Is holistic medicine legitimate?

Yes, and no. Yes, because many medicines have been proven effective against various ailments. They can’t treat all conditions. It all depends on your definition of “holistic.” If holistic means taking into account all aspects a person’s well-being, then yes. However, if it simply means that natural remedies are preferred to chemical ones, then no.

Some people believe holistic medicine dates back to ancient times. This is simply not true. Even though natural remedies were used in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome by some healers, it was not scientifically proven.

The Middle Ages was the first time that medical professionals began to study anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology. The majority of Western countries had built public hospitals by the 19th century that allowed trained doctors to offer medical care.

Conventional medicine is today the dominant type of healthcare. But, many people still prefer complementary and alternative medicine. Many people find that it is more beneficial than taking pharmaceutical drugs.

People may feel more relaxed after having massage therapy than they do when taking tranquilizers. Others enjoy eating healthy foods instead of taking prescription medications. Others still believe that regular exercise improves their bodies’ performance.

What is Alternative Medicine?

It’s a method of healing that focuses more on prevention than treatment. It encourages people be educated consumers, actively participating in their own health and well being.

Alternative medicine refers to any system of diagnosis and treatment that does not employ allopathic (conventional) medical practices.

Where can you find more information on holistic medicine and other holistic therapies?

Holistic medicine is an approach to health care that focuses on treating the whole person rather than just focusing on one part of the body. Holistic medicine considers all aspects a patient’s lives, including their spiritual, emotional, and mental well-being.

Holistic medicine’s goal is to treat the whole person rather than just individual symptoms. Holistic medicine is not about curing the disease. It promotes healing.

Holistic medicine covers preventive measures like nutrition and exercise, as well treatment for chronic conditions like diabetes and arthritis.

There are many different types of holistic medicine:

• Acupuncture
• Aromatherapy
• Ayurveda
• Chiropractic medicine
• Homeopathy
• Herbalism
• Naturopathy
• Nutrition
• Osteopathic medicine
• Vedic medicine
• Yoga

What are the benefits of alternative treatment methods for cancer patients?

Cancer patients are often faced with many challenges when they try to find ways to cope with their illnesses. Many patients feel defeated and hopeless. Patients might experience nausea, pain or fatigue, as well as loss of strength and appetite.

Additionally, most traditional treatments do not work against cancer cells. Patients with cancer should look into alternative treatments, such as complementary medicine. Studies have shown that half of all cancer patients have tried alternative treatments at least once.

Some cancer patients choose complementary medicine over chemotherapy, believing it will be easier for them to manage side effects. They may also prefer it because it is less expensive.

There are also other reasons.

Some patients believe natural remedies could prevent a return of the disease.

Many believe natural remedies can improve quality of life.

Others believe that natural remedies may reduce the chance of getting cancer.

Concerned about side effects, people who have received chemotherapy may choose to use natural remedies as their first line therapy.

What is holistic medicine?

A holistic doctor is one who treats patients holistically. They may use traditional methods such as herbs and acupuncture but integrate these into western medicine.

They treat the illness, not just the symptoms. Patients should feel better after treatment.

Doctors must not only treat the illness but also look out for ways to prevent it from returning.

The term “holistic” refers to considering all aspects of one’s life.

Statistics

• An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
• A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
• 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)
• 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)
• These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)

External Links

nccih.nih.gov

• Statistics on Complementary Health Approaches and Integrative Healthcare
  
• What’s in the Name of Complementary and Alternative Health? NCCIH
  

cam.cancer.gov

• Office of Cancer Complementary and Alternative Medicine – OCCAM
  

doi.org

• Complementary health care and alternative care in Israel
  

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

• PubMed: The Rise and Rise of Complementary and Alternative Medicine: A Sociological Perspective – PubMed
  
• PubMed: Holistic medicine.
  

How To

What should I look for when looking for a qualified holistic doctor

How do you find a holistic doctor?

Specialists are the best doctors. In this case, we talk about holistic medicine. This means that doctors must know how to treat their patients holistically, which includes treating them as a whole person rather than just their symptoms. They should understand holistic health and why you want to see a holistic doctor.

In addition to knowing about holistic health, the doctor should have a strong understanding of complementary and alternative therapies (CAM), such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, massage therapy, and yoga.

Holistic health practitioners should also be able to diagnose your condition and explain the different treatments available to make an informed decision about your treatment options.

You should also ask if the doctor has certifications from professional organizations like the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork or the American Holistic Medical Association. NBOHMCA certifies in many areas such as naturopathic medicine (naturopathy), acupuncture and homeopathy, clinical nutrition (herbalalism), and aromatherapy.

Our directory can help you find holistic practitioners in your area. If you don’t see a practitioner listed, you might be able to look online for one.

To confirm if holistic healthcare is offered, contact your local hospital.

You can also visit your local library for books and resources on holistic health.