The Mediterranean diet isn’t just famous for being heart-healthy. New research indicates there’s much more to the story, and embracing this diet might lower your risk of passing away from any cause by a significant 29%, according to studies on elderly adults.
Keep reading to learn what the science says about this eating plan’s ability to help you live longer. Plus, why the Mediterranean diet for seniors, in particular?
Does a Mediterranean diet help you live longer?
The University of Barcelona, in collaboration with the U.S. National Institute on Aging, has revealed new research suggesting a strong link between a Mediterranean-style diet and longevity, particularly for those above 65.
Over a span of 20 years, the study tracked 642 seniors–predominantly women–gauging their adherence to the Mediterranean diet via specific markers in their blood and urine, such as polyphenols and various vitamins. By the study’s end, 425 participants had passed on; 139 from heart complications and 89 from cancer.
Intriguingly, those whose markers indicated a strong adherence to the Mediterranean diet had a significantly lower risk of mortality. While it’s long been touted for heart health and potentially curbing diseases like Alzheimer’s, this study further solidifies the Mediterranean diet’s position as a key to a longer, healthier life.
How to adopt the Mediterranean diet for seniors
The Mediterranean diet is inspired by what people have been eating for years in places like Greece, Italy, and nearby Mediterranean regions. It emphasizes whole, natural foods and healthy, balanced meals.
Here’s a snapshot of what to fill your plate with:
- Whole grains like quinoa, bulgar, and whole wheat bread and pasta
- Vegetables, such as spinach, kale, broccoli, and sweet potatoes
- Legumes like kidney beans and chickpeas
- Fruits like apples, melons, and berries
- Nuts, such as almonds, pistachios, and walnuts
- Seeds like sunflower, chia, and pumpkin
- Herbs and spices, such as garlic, basil, coriander, and oregano
- Heart-healthy fats like olive oil and avocado
- Seafood, such as salmon, tuna, and shellfish in small to moderate amount
- Poultry like chicken and turkey in small to moderate amounts
- Dairy products like cheese and unsweetened yogurt
- Eggs
And you’ll be avoiding or limiting these foods to special occasions:
- Red meat like beef and lamb
- Processed meats, such as sausages, hot dogs, and deli meats
- Highly processed foods like fast food, packaged meals, and snacks
- Added sugars, found in sodas, cookies, candies, and packaged snacks
- Refined grains like white bread, white pasta, tortilla chips, and crackers
- Trans fats, found in margarine and fried foods
- You can also enjoy wine in moderation on this diet. Just limit yourself to two glasses a day for men, and one glass for women.
More benefits of the Mediterranean diet for seniors
Here are a few more reasons the Mediterranean diet is a great choice for seniors, as well as health-conscious people of all ages.
Improves heart health: Research shows the Mediterranean diet can reduce your risk of heart disease by up to 24%. This finding emerged from a comprehensive review of 16 studies with over 722,000 women.
These heart-healthy benefits are largely due to three important staples of the diet:
- Olive oil. Rich in heart-friendly monounsaturated fats, olive oil can reduce blood pressure and “bad” LDL cholesterol. This is crucial if you’re over 65, given the higher risk of heart issues. Nuts and seeds help out, too, providing more of these beneficial fats.
- Fatty fish. Seafood like salmon, herring, and mackerel are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which combat inflammation, cut down triglycerides, and reduce risks of stroke and heart failure.
- Antioxidants. Antioxidants play a pivotal role in curbing the damaging effects of oxidized LDL, a contributor in plaque build-up. Eating lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, legumes, and nuts provides these protective compounds.
Helps maintain cognitive health: Research suggests the Mediterranean diet may act as a shield against neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and dementia.
One standout study from the University of Newcastle, Australia, even revealed those who followed this diet had a 23% reduced risk of developing dementia compared to those on standard diets. This is likely due to the Mediterranean diet’s richness in vitamins, omega-3s, and antioxidants, which reduce cognitive impairment and damage from oxidative stress.
Embracing the Mediterranean way of eating might not only add years to your life, but also enhance the quality of those years.
Fights cancer: Since the Mediterranean diet provides a powerhouse of antioxidants, polyphenols, and essential nutrients, it can help combat harmful cell growth.
Antioxidants are protective agents that shield the body from harm caused by free radicals (natural by-products of our body’s chemical activities that can damage cells and lead to tumor growth).
Studies also show omega-3 fatty acids, abundant in the Mediterranean diet, help prevent certain cancers like breast and colon. These beneficial fats fight inflammation, slow the growth and spread of cancer cells, and hinder the creation of new blood vessels by these cells.
Supports a healthy weight: The Mediterranean diet can promote weight loss, due to its emphasis on lean proteins like fish and chicken, complemented by complex carbs like whole grains and sweet potatoes. These foods help keep hunger at bay.
Healthy fats like olive oil and avocado also keep you satiated between meals, reducing snack cravings often triggered by the refined carbs like salty and sweet snacks prevalent in a typical Western diet.
Improves sleep quality; The Mediterranean diet might enhance sleep quality, especially for older adults experiencing sleep issues.
One key reason is the diet’s richness in omega-3s. Omega-3s help regulate norepinephrine, a stress hormone. Overly high levels of this hormone can disrupt REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, making omega-3s crucial for restful slumber.
Try the Mediterranean diet for longevity: The Mediterranean diet is more than just a trend; it’s a ticket to better health, especially for seniors. This simple, yet deeply nourishing eating plan supports everything from heart health to sleep quality, and offers protection from serious illnesses. So if you’re looking to add more golden years to your life and more life to your years, the Mediterranean diet might just be your best bet.
References:
https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-021-02154-7
https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(23)00305-1/fulltext
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2434738
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2684076/
https://www.michaeljfox.org/sites/default/files/media/document/041819_MJFF_DIET_GUIDE_0_1.pdf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6466433/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6466433/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6723598/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25207479/#:~:text=This%20healthy%20diet%20pattern%20involves,and%20one%20glass%20for%20women).
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/heart-health-and-aging
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6616540/
https://heart.bmj.com/content/109/16/1208
https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.114.015176
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3257651/
https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-023-02772-3
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6770822/#:~:text=The%20positive%20relationship%20(beneficial%20effects,oil)%2C%20which%20have%20a%20protective
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5736071/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32436489/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5916888/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7551612/
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/1/248
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4263155/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6111235/
The post Mediterranean Diet for Seniors: Does a Mediterranean Diet Help You Live Longer? appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the importance of alternative medicine?
Alternative treatments are becoming more popular as they’re cheaper and more effective than traditional therapies. Unfortunately, many patients have died as a result of side effects like allergic reactions. You may also find that alternative therapies are not as effective.
If you don’t have enough knowledge about alternative medicines, they can pose a danger. For example, vitamin supplements aren’t regulated like pharmaceuticals, so it’s easy to overdose on vitamins. Even worse, some alternative remedies contain toxic chemicals.
How safe can holistic medicine be?
Holistic medicine is safe because it does not contain harmful drugs. It is a natural treatment for people who have been using it for centuries.
They have been shown in many cases to treat conditions such as arthritis and chronic pain, asthma.
Millions of people worldwide suffer from various diseases and can also use holistic medicines. They include homeopathy. acupuncture. chiropractic care. herbal treatments. massage therapy. Yoga, meditation. biofeedback. Nutrition, counseling. Physical fitness. exercise. These therapies address the whole person, not just the symptoms.
What is Alternative Medicine, and how can it help you?
It is an approach to healing that focuses on prevention rather than cure. It encourages consumers to become educated and active in improving their well-being.
Alternative medicine refers any treatment or diagnosis that does not use allopathic (conventional), medical practices.
Who uses alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine is available for many reasons.
- They want to avoid the use of harmful drugs or surgery.
- They believe natural remedies work more effectively.
- They prefer non-invasive therapies.
- They want to spend less money.
- They feel more secure using natural products
- They desire more control over their healthcare decisions.
- They want to take control of their health.
- They want a healthier world.
- They seek less stress in daily life.
- They want greater freedom to choose their doctors and healthcare plans.
- They want their children to receive a better education.
- They desire healthy food for their families and themselves.
- They seek safe, effective medicines.
What is another name for alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine can be described as any method of healing that is different from traditional 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 may include acupuncture, homeopathy or herbalism, naturopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, osteopathic manipulation, traditional Chinese medicine and reflexology.
Alternative practitioners often claim that they have better outcomes for patients, with fewer side effects and lower costs. These claims cannot be proven scientifically because the mainstream medical system has largely ignored evidence-based alternatives to medicine.
What are the health benefits of complementary and alternate medicine?
Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) refers to medical practices that are used by patients who do not feel they are receiving adequate care from allopathic medicine. These include herbal medicines and mind-body therapies, such as acupuncture or massage therapy, homeopathy (traditional Chinese medicine), chiropractic care, biofeedback and hypnosis. Because they don’t fit within the traditional medical system of diagnosis or treatment, CAM practitioners often choose to use “alternative” treatments. Many CAM treatments also include elements of traditional medicine. For example, some forms of acupuncture are performed with needles, while others involve acupressure or moxibustion with heat.
Some CAM therapies can help with anxiety, stress management, pain relief, relaxation, sleep disorders, insomnia, and stress management. These CAM therapies can also increase your overall well-being and decrease fatigue. Some CAM therapies treat specific conditions, such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and diabetes. Other CAM therapies might be more enjoyable.
There is no definitive definition of CAM. However, most definitions include at a minimum one of the following:
- A holistic approach that includes both the body, mind, spirit, environment, and everything in between
- The belief that mind and body interact with each other and have an influence on one another
- An individual’s belief that illness is due to an imbalance in his/her environment.
- Treatments that focus on the whole person rather than just symptoms
- Combination of Western science and Eastern philosophy
- The best treatment methods integrate mind, spirit, and body
- Use natural products over synthetic chemicals
- Healing touch
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
Certain CAM therapies may not offer all the benefits. There are also risks. Incorrectly used, certain CAM therapies could cause serious harm and even death. Some may have side effects that should be weighed against the potential benefits. If you are considering using any CAM, discuss these issues with your doctor before deciding whether to try them.
What does holistic mean?
Holistic means whole-based. It means looking at the whole picture rather than just part of it. This can be difficult because we have become accustomed to seeing things in their entirety.
Our default mentality is to see things in black and white. There are many shades and shades of grey.
So, when working on a project, try to see everything from different angles. Take a look at it from every angle.
Try to understand how it fits together as a whole. How does each of its components interact with one another?
And if you find a problem, ask yourself why this particular element is causing trouble. Also, consider the impact of any changes that you make.
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)
- 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)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (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)
- 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)
External Links
webmd.com
cam.cancer.gov
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- A sociological perspective on the rise and fall of complementary and alternate medicine – PubMed
- PubMed – Holistic medicine
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine: Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials on Acupuncture to Treat Insomnia
How To
What products can be used in holistic medicines?
This product can be described as “natural” without necessarily being organic. These products may have been grown with natural pesticides and fertilizers, but were also processed in a way that is less harmful to the human body. Some herbs can cause allergic reactions and may need to have different preparations depending on the individual. The herbs sold in health food stores are more standard than those found at grocery stores. These herbs often have higher levels of herbicides than those sold at grocery stores.
Herbal supplements are often made from dried herbs. Some people prefer buying them in liquid form, which tends to be cheaper. They are still safer, however. Liquid herbs can lose nutrients during processing. It is not possible to guarantee the product’s original potency. Also, most herbal supplements do not undergo quality control testing before going on sale shelves.
After cooking, herbs and spices can be added to foods. They are often found in condiments such ketchup or mustard, salad dressings and soup mixes.
Supplements are generally taken orally (by taking them by mouth). Most vitamins and minerals come in tablet form. Some are also available as capsules.
Homeopathic remedies are highly concentrated substances made from plants, animals, minerals, or synthetics. They stimulate the body’s healing processes. They are not considered “homeopathic” but they work in the same way as regular medication. They activate the immune system of the body to restore balance and promote well-being. Homeopathic remedies may be safe and not toxic. They are widely used in Europe, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Acupuncture involves inserting needles at specific points on the meridians of your bodies. The practice is based upon a traditional Chinese medical theory, which states that there are energy channels through the body through which life force flows. The theory states that illness occurs when blockages occur in these channels. It is believed that energy flow can be restored by stimulating specific points along the meridian lines using fine needles. The body then returns to normal operation.
Chiropractors can manipulate the spine to correct misalignments. This technique was developed in 1895 by Daniel David Palmer, an American doctor. He claimed he could diagnose and treat diseases by manipulating vertebrae. His methods involved spinal adjustments, muscle tests, and percussion.
Chiropractic has seen a lot of popularity in recent years. Many believe that it works better for back pain than conventional medicine.
Massage therapy can be described as rubbing, tapping, tapping, or stroking muscle, joints, and other parts of the body. Massage is a great way to relax tight muscles and reduce tension. Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, sports, reflexology or myofascial release are all methods used by massage therapists.
Reflexology is an alternative medicine involving pressure applied to specific areas of the feet and hands using thumb pads, fingers, and toes. Reflexologists claim this stimulates the body’s natural healing process.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils from plants to reduce stress, increase well-being and improve moods. The chemical composition of essential oils can help with a wide range of conditions, including headache relief and arthritis treatment. Aromatherapy can be used in many ways, including:
Craniosacral Therapist uses gentle touch and pressure to alleviate discomfort and pain. Cranial refers to the skull; sacrum means “sac” in Latin, and cranial sacral therapy combines both. The therapist uses light pressure to the head, neck, shoulders and arms of the patient while moving her/his fingers across their body.
Cupping therapy works by placing cups on the skin to create a vacuum and draw out toxins. Cupping can be combined with acupuncture and moxibustion (burning herbal remedies) to aid in detoxification.
Supplements are either oral or topical products that contain vitamins and minerals, herbs extracts, enzymes, probiotics. antioxidants, and other fatty acids. Dietary Supplements Health and Education Act of 1992 regulates dietary supplements. To be legally sold, a dietary supplement must meet two requirements. To be legally sold, a dietary supplement must meet two requirements. First, it must contain a “dietary element,” which is a supplement that contains more than one percent of a Vitamin, Mineral, Herb, or Other Botanical listed on the Food and Drug Administration’s Generally Recognized AS Safe List. It must also have adhered to Good Manufacturing Practices. This means that its ingredients were properly handled during production.
Electrotherapy uses electricity to stimulate the nerves and muscles. The most widely used form is transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation (TENS). Low-level electrical pulses are delivered by TENS devices using electrodes that are placed on the skin. These pulses activate receptors in the brain that block pain signals. Electrotherapy can also be used in interferencential current therapy (MFT), magnetic field therapy, or ultrasound therapy.
Energy healing is based on belief that each person has natural healing abilities. Additionally, our thoughts, feelings, and intentions have an effect on our physical and mental health. Although energy healing has existed since ancient times, modern practitioners generally accept that there are multiple layers of energy within and around us. One layer of energy is called emotional. Another layer of energy is called mental. Others include psychic, spiritual and chakras. Vital, life force, prana. Kundalini, biofield. Aura, quantum fields, and prana. Some believe that these energies are connected to the universe at large. Some believe they are able to heal others by using their minds. There is not much scientific evidence supporting energy medicine.
Energy psychology studies how human emotions impact physiological functions. Sometimes, it’s considered an alternative therapy to psychotherapy. It focuses less upon past events and more on helping clients alter their present behavior. Energy psychology does require no specific theoretical framework. Instead, it draws upon many disciplines like cognitive behavioral therapy, transactional psychoanalysis, interpersonal psychoanalysis as well as attachment theory and developmental psychology.
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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: Mediterranean Diet for Seniors: Does a Mediterranean Diet Help You Live Longer?
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/nutrition/mediterranean-diet-for-seniors-does-a-mediterranean-diet-help-you-live-longer/
Published Date: Thu, 14 Sep 2023 20:56:30 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the importance of alternative medicine?
Alternative treatments are becoming more popular as they’re cheaper and more effective than traditional therapies. Unfortunately, many patients have died as a result of side effects like allergic reactions. You may also find that alternative therapies are not as effective.
If you don’t have enough knowledge about alternative medicines, they can pose a danger. For example, vitamin supplements aren’t regulated like pharmaceuticals, so it’s easy to overdose on vitamins. Even worse, some alternative remedies contain toxic chemicals.
How safe can holistic medicine be?
Holistic medicine is safe because it does not contain harmful drugs. It is a natural treatment for people who have been using it for centuries.
They have been shown in many cases to treat conditions such as arthritis and chronic pain, asthma.
Millions of people worldwide suffer from various diseases and can also use holistic medicines. They include homeopathy. acupuncture. chiropractic care. herbal treatments. massage therapy. Yoga, meditation. biofeedback. Nutrition, counseling. Physical fitness. exercise. These therapies address the whole person, not just the symptoms.
What is Alternative Medicine, and how can it help you?
It is an approach to healing that focuses on prevention rather than cure. It encourages consumers to become educated and active in improving their well-being.
Alternative medicine refers any treatment or diagnosis that does not use allopathic (conventional), medical practices.
Who uses alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine is available for many reasons.
- They want to avoid the use of harmful drugs or surgery.
- They believe natural remedies work more effectively.
- They prefer non-invasive therapies.
- They want to spend less money.
- They feel more secure using natural products
- They desire more control over their healthcare decisions.
- They want to take control of their health.
- They want a healthier world.
- They seek less stress in daily life.
- They want greater freedom to choose their doctors and healthcare plans.
- They want their children to receive a better education.
- They desire healthy food for their families and themselves.
- They seek safe, effective medicines.
What is another name for alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine can be described as any method of healing that is different from traditional 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 may include acupuncture, homeopathy or herbalism, naturopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, osteopathic manipulation, traditional Chinese medicine and reflexology.
Alternative practitioners often claim that they have better outcomes for patients, with fewer side effects and lower costs. These claims cannot be proven scientifically because the mainstream medical system has largely ignored evidence-based alternatives to medicine.
What are the health benefits of complementary and alternate medicine?
Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) refers to medical practices that are used by patients who do not feel they are receiving adequate care from allopathic medicine. These include herbal medicines and mind-body therapies, such as acupuncture or massage therapy, homeopathy (traditional Chinese medicine), chiropractic care, biofeedback and hypnosis. Because they don’t fit within the traditional medical system of diagnosis or treatment, CAM practitioners often choose to use “alternative” treatments. Many CAM treatments also include elements of traditional medicine. For example, some forms of acupuncture are performed with needles, while others involve acupressure or moxibustion with heat.
Some CAM therapies can help with anxiety, stress management, pain relief, relaxation, sleep disorders, insomnia, and stress management. These CAM therapies can also increase your overall well-being and decrease fatigue. Some CAM therapies treat specific conditions, such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and diabetes. Other CAM therapies might be more enjoyable.
There is no definitive definition of CAM. However, most definitions include at a minimum one of the following:
- A holistic approach that includes both the body, mind, spirit, environment, and everything in between
- The belief that mind and body interact with each other and have an influence on one another
- An individual’s belief that illness is due to an imbalance in his/her environment.
- Treatments that focus on the whole person rather than just symptoms
- Combination of Western science and Eastern philosophy
- The best treatment methods integrate mind, spirit, and body
- Use natural products over synthetic chemicals
- Healing touch
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
Certain CAM therapies may not offer all the benefits. There are also risks. Incorrectly used, certain CAM therapies could cause serious harm and even death. Some may have side effects that should be weighed against the potential benefits. If you are considering using any CAM, discuss these issues with your doctor before deciding whether to try them.
What does holistic mean?
Holistic means whole-based. It means looking at the whole picture rather than just part of it. This can be difficult because we have become accustomed to seeing things in their entirety.
Our default mentality is to see things in black and white. There are many shades and shades of grey.
So, when working on a project, try to see everything from different angles. Take a look at it from every angle.
Try to understand how it fits together as a whole. How does each of its components interact with one another?
And if you find a problem, ask yourself why this particular element is causing trouble. Also, consider the impact of any changes that you make.
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)
- 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)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (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)
- 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)
External Links
webmd.com
cam.cancer.gov
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- A sociological perspective on the rise and fall of complementary and alternate medicine – PubMed
- PubMed – Holistic medicine
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine: Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials on Acupuncture to Treat Insomnia
How To
What products can be used in holistic medicines?
This product can be described as “natural” without necessarily being organic. These products may have been grown with natural pesticides and fertilizers, but were also processed in a way that is less harmful to the human body. Some herbs can cause allergic reactions and may need to have different preparations depending on the individual. The herbs sold in health food stores are more standard than those found at grocery stores. These herbs often have higher levels of herbicides than those sold at grocery stores.
Herbal supplements are often made from dried herbs. Some people prefer buying them in liquid form, which tends to be cheaper. They are still safer, however. Liquid herbs can lose nutrients during processing. It is not possible to guarantee the product’s original potency. Also, most herbal supplements do not undergo quality control testing before going on sale shelves.
After cooking, herbs and spices can be added to foods. They are often found in condiments such ketchup or mustard, salad dressings and soup mixes.
Supplements are generally taken orally (by taking them by mouth). Most vitamins and minerals come in tablet form. Some are also available as capsules.
Homeopathic remedies are highly concentrated substances made from plants, animals, minerals, or synthetics. They stimulate the body’s healing processes. They are not considered “homeopathic” but they work in the same way as regular medication. They activate the immune system of the body to restore balance and promote well-being. Homeopathic remedies may be safe and not toxic. They are widely used in Europe, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Acupuncture involves inserting needles at specific points on the meridians of your bodies. The practice is based upon a traditional Chinese medical theory, which states that there are energy channels through the body through which life force flows. The theory states that illness occurs when blockages occur in these channels. It is believed that energy flow can be restored by stimulating specific points along the meridian lines using fine needles. The body then returns to normal operation.
Chiropractors can manipulate the spine to correct misalignments. This technique was developed in 1895 by Daniel David Palmer, an American doctor. He claimed he could diagnose and treat diseases by manipulating vertebrae. His methods involved spinal adjustments, muscle tests, and percussion.
Chiropractic has seen a lot of popularity in recent years. Many believe that it works better for back pain than conventional medicine.
Massage therapy can be described as rubbing, tapping, tapping, or stroking muscle, joints, and other parts of the body. Massage is a great way to relax tight muscles and reduce tension. Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, sports, reflexology or myofascial release are all methods used by massage therapists.
Reflexology is an alternative medicine involving pressure applied to specific areas of the feet and hands using thumb pads, fingers, and toes. Reflexologists claim this stimulates the body’s natural healing process.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils from plants to reduce stress, increase well-being and improve moods. The chemical composition of essential oils can help with a wide range of conditions, including headache relief and arthritis treatment. Aromatherapy can be used in many ways, including:
Craniosacral Therapist uses gentle touch and pressure to alleviate discomfort and pain. Cranial refers to the skull; sacrum means “sac” in Latin, and cranial sacral therapy combines both. The therapist uses light pressure to the head, neck, shoulders and arms of the patient while moving her/his fingers across their body.
Cupping therapy works by placing cups on the skin to create a vacuum and draw out toxins. Cupping can be combined with acupuncture and moxibustion (burning herbal remedies) to aid in detoxification.
Supplements are either oral or topical products that contain vitamins and minerals, herbs extracts, enzymes, probiotics. antioxidants, and other fatty acids. Dietary Supplements Health and Education Act of 1992 regulates dietary supplements. To be legally sold, a dietary supplement must meet two requirements. To be legally sold, a dietary supplement must meet two requirements. First, it must contain a “dietary element,” which is a supplement that contains more than one percent of a Vitamin, Mineral, Herb, or Other Botanical listed on the Food and Drug Administration’s Generally Recognized AS Safe List. It must also have adhered to Good Manufacturing Practices. This means that its ingredients were properly handled during production.
Electrotherapy uses electricity to stimulate the nerves and muscles. The most widely used form is transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation (TENS). Low-level electrical pulses are delivered by TENS devices using electrodes that are placed on the skin. These pulses activate receptors in the brain that block pain signals. Electrotherapy can also be used in interferencential current therapy (MFT), magnetic field therapy, or ultrasound therapy.
Energy healing is based on belief that each person has natural healing abilities. Additionally, our thoughts, feelings, and intentions have an effect on our physical and mental health. Although energy healing has existed since ancient times, modern practitioners generally accept that there are multiple layers of energy within and around us. One layer of energy is called emotional. Another layer of energy is called mental. Others include psychic, spiritual and chakras. Vital, life force, prana. Kundalini, biofield. Aura, quantum fields, and prana. Some believe that these energies are connected to the universe at large. Some believe they are able to heal others by using their minds. There is not much scientific evidence supporting energy medicine.
Energy psychology studies how human emotions impact physiological functions. Sometimes, it’s considered an alternative therapy to psychotherapy. It focuses less upon past events and more on helping clients alter their present behavior. Energy psychology does require no specific theoretical framework. Instead, it draws upon many disciplines like cognitive behavioral therapy, transactional psychoanalysis, interpersonal psychoanalysis as well as attachment theory and developmental psychology.
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