A natural weight loss drink can be made with a wide variety of different ingredients. Some of these include cucumber water, lemon water, Yerba Mate tea, Oolong tea, and cinnamon tea. All of these can help you lose weight by increasing the amount of nutrients your body receives each day.
Green tea
Green tea is considered a good drink for weight loss. It is packed with antioxidants and may help boost the body’s fat burning.
Green tea also helps with digestion. This is due to the active ingredient theanine. Theanine is a type of amino acid that provides a calming effect on the brain and has been shown to reduce stress.
Caffeine is another factor that has been shown to aid in weight loss. In addition to increasing the rate of calorie burn, caffeine is also a fat burner.
If you are considering drinking green tea for weight loss, it is important to drink it in moderation. Studies have found that it can cause adverse side effects if you drink too much. For instance, you should not drink green tea right after you have taken medicine.
One study suggests that green tea might increase the amount of fat burned during exercise. But, if you’re looking to lose weight, you should combine this with regular physical activity. Exercise boosts your metabolism, which means you’ll burn more calories overall.
Lemon water
There are many benefits of drinking lemon water for weight loss. Among these benefits is its ability to boost your metabolism. It can also help you feel full for a longer period of time. So, it is no wonder that it is a popular diet aid.
The vitamin C in lemon juice can also give your body the power to stave off diseases. Vitamin C can also be found in other fruits and vegetables, such as broccoli, peppers and oranges.
However, there are some drawbacks to drinking lemon water for weight loss. For one, it may upset your stomach. Likewise, you must take care not to drink too much of the beverage. Lemons contain citric acid, which may lead to indigestion and acid reflux. Also, if you drink it too often, it can damage your tooth enamel.
On the positive side, lemon water does have the ability to reduce water retention. In addition, it stimulates your liver and flushes out toxins in your system.
To really reap the benefits of lemon water, you must make sure to include it in your daily diet. It can be consumed either warm or cold.
Cucumber water
Cucumber water is a healthy beverage that can help you lose weight. The benefits of cucumber include its antioxidant properties, cooling effect, and high water content.
Cucumber water has almost zero calories. It also contains minerals and vitamins. These nutrients are good for your skin, bones, and health. You should drink at least eight glasses of water a day to prevent dehydration.
Cucumbers are a great source of potassium, which is known to lower blood pressure. They are also rich in vitamin C and manganese. Vitamin K is essential for forming healthy bones and tissues. In addition, the cucurbitacins in cucumbers can protect your gastrointestinal tract and liver.
If you are looking for a healthier alternative to sugary soft drinks, cucumber water may be a great choice for you. This drink is refreshing and can be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of add-ins.
Cucumbers also have a high water content, which helps to replenish lost fluids. By drinking cucumber water, you can stay hydrated and avoid unnecessary snacking.
Yerba Mate tea
Yerba Mate tea is a naturally caffeine-rich drink with a wide range of health benefits. It is also rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Several studies have shown that yerba mate can increase metabolism and promote weight loss. This is due to its choleretic effect, which means that it increases bile flow.
Yerba mate also has anti-inflammatory properties, which means that it can reduce inflammation and help your body burn fat. It can also improve the function of your kidneys, which can lead to improved bowel movement and elimination. In addition, yerba mate contains a wide variety of minerals, including calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and manganese.
Yerba mate is also a diuretic, which means it can help you lose water weight. However, it should not be used as a replacement for regular exercise. You still need to exercise regularly in order to reach your weight loss goals.
Yerba mate may also be a good choice for people who suffer from chronic diseases. According to some researchers, yerba mate can also help improve your body’s ability to control blood sugar levels.
Chamomile tea
Chamomile tea is not just good for your body – it is also a great way to lose weight. You can drink it right before meals and it is a healthy option for people on a diet.
Chamomile is a plant that has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. It is known for its ability to alleviate digestive problems and stress. In addition, it is rich in magnesium and potassium.
Chamomile can be consumed hot or cold. Drinking it right before a meal can reduce your appetite and help you feel full. While chamomile is safe for most people, it should be avoided if you have liver or kidney disease. If you are pregnant or nursing, talk to your doctor about its safety.
Studies have shown that chamomile tea may lower blood sugar levels. This may reduce the risk of heart disease in the long term. Also, it could boost your immune system.
Another potential benefit of chamomile is that it can improve your sleep. Research has found that sleeping well helps keep your body slim. Sleep regulates your metabolism and enables your body to produce serotonin, a chemical that regulates appetite and mood. Without adequate sleep, you are more likely to crave unhealthy foods.
Cinnamon tea
Cinnamon tea is a naturally caffeine-free drink that helps with weight loss and overall wellness. It may also lower cholesterol, reduce inflammation, and regulate blood sugar levels. The benefits of cinnamon are well known.
It is best used as a supplement to a balanced diet and exercise regimen. As a side note, you should always consult your physician before adding any new medication or supplement to your daily routine.
There are a number of studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of cinnamon in weight loss. These studies include human and animal research. For instance, a Japanese study showed that cinnamon helped fight visceral fat in mice.
In addition to a healthy diet and exercise, consuming cinnamon tea can boost your immunity, relax tired muscles, and help you consume fewer calories. Additionally, cinnamon can help improve your memory.
This is thanks to the fact that cinnamon helps the body process carbohydrates more efficiently. It can also help prevent the sugar from converting to fat.
There are a number of advantages to drinking cinnamon tea, and it is a great way to add a little flavor to your meals.
Oolong tea
Oolong tea is a natural drink that helps you lose weight. It is a caffeine-free beverage that can be consumed in several ways. You can make your own oolong tea by brewing the leaves in hot water for a few minutes, or you can buy it as a ready-made tea bag.
Many studies have shown that oolong tea has numerous health benefits. It has antioxidants, which help to metabolize sugars. Also, it has L-theanine, an amino acid that helps to reduce stress.
Another study found that oolong tea may lower your risk of heart disease. This is because it reduces fat absorption. In addition, oolong tea helps to maintain your blood glucose level.
Moreover, oolong tea contains polyphenols, which can slow the development of cancerous cells. It also improves the fatty liver and bone density.
Research suggests that oolong tea helps to increase mental alertness and energy levels. These are important qualities for weight loss.
oolong tea also has antioxidants, which can help to protect your body from diseases. Studies have found that oolong tea can help prevent osteoporosis, atherosclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Turmeric milk
Turmeric milk is a natural beverage that contains turmeric and milk. It is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, it can also promote weight loss.
Turmeric milk is generally made by heating milk and adding turmeric. If you like, you can add honey or spices for more flavor. Ideally, you should drink this beverage two or three times a day. However, you should consult your doctor before starting this diet.
Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory compounds. This is due to its ability to inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, curcumin works as an antidepressant. Moreover, it can also promote the production of digestive enzymes.
Aside from promoting weight loss, turmeric milk can also improve skin conditions. Research has shown that turmeric can help reduce inflammation, redness, and scarring. Another benefit of turmeric milk is that it can aid in the treatment of colds, coughs, and sinus congestion.
The antioxidants and nutrients in milk can boost your immune system. These antioxidants are important in preventing cell damage, which is a major cause of many diseases.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes holistic medicine superior?
Holistic healthcare focuses on the whole person and not just individual symptoms. This involves looking at the person’s feelings, food, lifestyle, stress levels, etc.
Holistic medicine considers all aspects of a patient’s life and treats them as a complete package. This may sound simple but it is not easy to practice. Most doctors are focused on the physical side.
What are the 5 Alternative Medical Systems?
These five alternative medicine systems are Ayurveda (acupuncture), Ayurveda (homeopathy), energy healing, aromatherapy, and homeopathy.
Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points of the body to stimulate the flow (qi) of energy throughout the entire body.
Ayurvedic medicines is an ancient system to balance the three senses of air, fire,, and water. It includes diet, exercise and herbal remedies. Massage is also included.
Homeopathic Medicine derives its name from the Greek homoios which means similarity and pathos which denotes disease. Homeopaths believe all diseases are caused by natural causes, but not always symptoms. Homeopaths prescribe tiny amounts of substances to cause symptoms that are similar to those experienced by patients when they are ill.
Energy Healing is also known as Reiki, EFT, Rolfing, Therapeutic Touch, and many others. This therapy is based on the belief that each person is connected to a universal life force called Ki. If this Ki flows freely though us, it makes us feel well. Energy healers work with touch and intention to restore harmony and balance between our mental, spiritual, and physical selves.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils extracted from plants for therapeutic purposes. Aromatherapists believe that certain smells can alter mood and behavior. Lavender is the most popular essential oil used for aromatherapy.
Is holistic medicine legitimate?
The answer is both yes and no. Yes. Because many medicines have been proved effective against different diseases. They don’t cure all ailments. It all depends on what you mean when you say “holistic.” It all depends on your definition of “holistic.” If you mean taking into consideration all aspects of a person’s health, then it is true. But if you only mean using natural remedies instead of chemical ones, then it is not.
Some claim holistic medicine was around since ancient times. But this is simply untrue. Even though natural remedies were used in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome by some healers, it was not scientifically proven.
Medical practitioners started to study anatomy and physiological science in the Middle Ages. This led to the development and practice of surgery, obstetrics and pharmacology. In the 19th Century, almost all Western countries had public hospitals that could be used by trained doctors to provide medical care.
Conventional medicine is still the most popular form of healthcare today. Many people still prefer to utilize complementary and alternate medicine. Many find that it works better for them than pharmaceutical drugs.
Some people find that they feel more relaxed when receiving massage therapy than tranquilizers. Others prefer healthy eating to prescription medication. Others still believe that regular exercise improves their bodies’ performance.
Which types of treatment should not be considered holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine is a holistic approach to healing. It focuses on the whole person and not just the symptoms. It promotes health and prevents disease.
Holistic medicine is a natural alternative to drugs and surgery.
Holistic medicine includes lifestyle changes such as exercise, diet, meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, massage, and bodywork techniques.
Holistic medicine is often called integrative medicine because it integrates all aspects of a patient’s physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual needs into one comprehensive care plan.
Holistic medicine emphasizes prevention as well as early detection of diseases and encourages healthy lifestyles.
Holistic doctors believe there is no one cause for every condition. They look at the whole picture and consider genetic, environmental, lifestyle, and personal factors.
Holistic practitioners place more emphasis on the mind, emotions and spirit than the body.
Holistic physicians consult with their patients to help them determine the best option for them.
What’s the difference between holistic medicine, traditional medicine, and holistic?
Traditional medicine is concerned with treating symptoms. Holistic medicine addresses the whole person. Holistic medicine is holistic and does not focus on any one aspect of the patient’s/her health.
Traditional medicine treats individual organs or systems (such as the brain), whereas holistic medicine considers all aspects of the body from the inside out. It also examines the effects of lifestyle choices on overall wellbeing.
What is holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine doctors are those who treat patients holistically. They may combine western medicine with traditional methods like acupuncture and herbs.
They are not interested in treating symptoms but rather a disease. The patient should feel better following treatment.
The doctor should not only treat the disease, but also prevent it from happening again.
“Holistic” is a term that refers all aspects of a person’s life.
Statistics
- 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)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- 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)
External Links
doi.org
liebertpub.com
cam.cancer.gov
webmd.com
How To
What are the four types of complementary and alternate medicine?
The main four categories of CAM include mind-body medicines, natural products and manipulative therapy. Mind-body medicine covers yoga, Tai Chi and Reiki, as well as chiropractic care, homeopathy (naturopathy), biofeedback, hypnosis and hypnosis. Natural products include herbs and vitamins, minerals as well as dietary supplements. Manipulative therapy includes physical manipulation, such as chiropractic and osteopathic care, acupuncture and therapeutic exercise. Energy healing involves techniques such as prayer and visualization.
CAM stands for a broad range of health practices that go beyond the Western medical system. These practices can be supported by scientific evidence, or they may involve surgery. They also vary in terms of the conditions they treat. Some CAM practitioners also perform diagnostic testing (e.g., blood tests) and prescribe medication. Others do both.
In addition to these four primary categories, there are many subcategories within each category. In mind-body medicine there are relaxation techniques. Natural products include nutritional supplements as well botanical medicines, homeopathic treatments, essential oils and herbal preparations. Manipulative therapies include manual, movement, traction, electrotherapies, cupping, stretching, soft tissue mobilization, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, orthopedics, and neurostimulation. There are also spiritual healing methods such as prayer, faith healing, and energy healing.
Many CAM therapies treat symptoms, but not the cause. Some chronic conditions may benefit from CAM. If used properly, CAM can be combined with conventional treatments.
There are many good reasons to use CAM.
- To improve their overall wellbeing.
- To manage a specific condition.
- To decrease pain or discomfort.
- To prevent illness.
- To promote wellness.
- To address a personal belief system.
People turn to CAM for greater control of their health than conventional medicine. Some may feel it has less side effects. Some people choose CAM to not take prescription drugs. Still, others prefer not to take pharmaceuticals if possible. Others still seek out CAM, even though they’ve had bad experiences in conventional medicine.
Some people who use CAM claim they want to be confident about what they’re doing before trying out new techniques. Many people who use CAM ask questions about its safety and effectiveness. Others rely on word of mouth from friends and family members.
Although CAM is sometimes viewed negatively in society, many users have positive feelings about it. People who use CAM are happier and healthier than those who don’t. This is true regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, income, education level, occupation, insurance status, or other factors.
A large majority of Americans practice some form or another of complementary and alternative medicines. 95% or more of adult Americans have used some type of CAM in their lives. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health(NCCIH), there were approximately 40 million visits to CAM providers between 2010 and 2010.
According to the NCCIH, 10 percent of Americans use chiropractors, massage therapists and acupuncturists.3 This compares with only 2 percent who use medical doctors.
The American Medical Association reiterated its support for integrative medical care in 2013. It recognized that physicians should “integrate scientifically valid complementary and alternative medicine into clinical practice…to meet patients ‘ needs and expectations.”5
The Institute of Medicine published a landmark study in 2007 titled “Releasing Constraints – Improving Access to Complementary and Alternative Healthcare” which concluded that “there is no credible evidence of any specific CAM intervention being effective in preventing, treating, and curing cancer.”
CAM is still gaining popularity despite this conclusion. The 2008 number of CAM practitioners increased 8 percent compared with 2007.
A recent survey found that almost half the respondents said they used CAM as part their primary healthcare plan.
CAM therapies include natural products, mind-body practices, manipulative techniques, energy healing modalities, exercise, dietary supplements, and other approaches.
Many CAM therapies are used primarily as pain relief. But, many offer additional benefits such relaxation, improved moods, better sleep, decreased stress and enhanced immunity.
Acupuncture is a treatment that can reduce chronic back pain, anxiety, depression and improve the immune system, promote weightloss, and improve menstrual symptoms.
Many CAM treatments have roots in Ayurvedic, Chinese, and Traditional Chinese medicine.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine, was first practiced in China over 5,000 year ago.
It was not until the mid-1800s when Western science began to gain prominence, but TCM remains an important element of health care today.
Today, it’s estimated that more than 70 percent of people in the United States rely on TCM for treatment.
Yoga is another popular CAM remedy. Yoga was first developed in India around 5000 B.C. and is now embraced worldwide.
Yoga has been gaining popularity with the general population because it provides many physical, mental, and spiritual benefits.
Yoga can relieve stress, improve flexibility, and increase strength.
Yoga has been shown to improve sleep33, even though there is not much scientific evidence. It may also be beneficial for insomnia sufferers.
Other CAM therapies like aromatherapy, homeopathy, meditation, and/or homeopathy are also becoming accepted in mainstream medicine.
One of the most used types of CAM is herbal medicine.
Herbal medicines include herbs, spices and flowers, seeds, fruits and mushrooms, bark, leaves roots, stems, and bark.
They are often considered safer alternatives to pharmaceutical drugs and are widely used by consumers.
The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health estimates that about 90 million Americans use some form of complementary/alternative medicine.
The American Cancer Society reports that 45% (or more) of those diagnosed with cancer have used alternative medicines during their illness.
The National Institutes of Health estimate that 60% of patients suffering from cancer use CAM. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that 50% of all cancer survivors have reported using CAM.
A recent study found that 51% of patients with cancer used at least one type or another of CAM.
Only 8% of these people discussed the use of this medication with their doctors.
Healthcare delivery suffers from a large gap because of the lack of communication between CAM users, conventional medical providers, and traditional medical providers.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes holistic medicine superior?
Holistic healthcare focuses on the whole person and not just individual symptoms. This involves looking at the person’s feelings, food, lifestyle, stress levels, etc.
Holistic medicine considers all aspects of a patient’s life and treats them as a complete package. This may sound simple but it is not easy to practice. Most doctors are focused on the physical side.
What are the 5 Alternative Medical Systems?
These five alternative medicine systems are Ayurveda (acupuncture), Ayurveda (homeopathy), energy healing, aromatherapy, and homeopathy.
Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points of the body to stimulate the flow (qi) of energy throughout the entire body.
Ayurvedic medicines is an ancient system to balance the three senses of air, fire,, and water. It includes diet, exercise and herbal remedies. Massage is also included.
Homeopathic Medicine derives its name from the Greek homoios which means similarity and pathos which denotes disease. Homeopaths believe all diseases are caused by natural causes, but not always symptoms. Homeopaths prescribe tiny amounts of substances to cause symptoms that are similar to those experienced by patients when they are ill.
Energy Healing is also known as Reiki, EFT, Rolfing, Therapeutic Touch, and many others. This therapy is based on the belief that each person is connected to a universal life force called Ki. If this Ki flows freely though us, it makes us feel well. Energy healers work with touch and intention to restore harmony and balance between our mental, spiritual, and physical selves.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils extracted from plants for therapeutic purposes. Aromatherapists believe that certain smells can alter mood and behavior. Lavender is the most popular essential oil used for aromatherapy.
Is holistic medicine legitimate?
The answer is both yes and no. Yes. Because many medicines have been proved effective against different diseases. They don’t cure all ailments. It all depends on what you mean when you say “holistic.” It all depends on your definition of “holistic.” If you mean taking into consideration all aspects of a person’s health, then it is true. But if you only mean using natural remedies instead of chemical ones, then it is not.
Some claim holistic medicine was around since ancient times. But this is simply untrue. Even though natural remedies were used in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome by some healers, it was not scientifically proven.
Medical practitioners started to study anatomy and physiological science in the Middle Ages. This led to the development and practice of surgery, obstetrics and pharmacology. In the 19th Century, almost all Western countries had public hospitals that could be used by trained doctors to provide medical care.
Conventional medicine is still the most popular form of healthcare today. Many people still prefer to utilize complementary and alternate medicine. Many find that it works better for them than pharmaceutical drugs.
Some people find that they feel more relaxed when receiving massage therapy than tranquilizers. Others prefer healthy eating to prescription medication. Others still believe that regular exercise improves their bodies’ performance.
Which types of treatment should not be considered holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine is a holistic approach to healing. It focuses on the whole person and not just the symptoms. It promotes health and prevents disease.
Holistic medicine is a natural alternative to drugs and surgery.
Holistic medicine includes lifestyle changes such as exercise, diet, meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, massage, and bodywork techniques.
Holistic medicine is often called integrative medicine because it integrates all aspects of a patient’s physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual needs into one comprehensive care plan.
Holistic medicine emphasizes prevention as well as early detection of diseases and encourages healthy lifestyles.
Holistic doctors believe there is no one cause for every condition. They look at the whole picture and consider genetic, environmental, lifestyle, and personal factors.
Holistic practitioners place more emphasis on the mind, emotions and spirit than the body.
Holistic physicians consult with their patients to help them determine the best option for them.
What’s the difference between holistic medicine, traditional medicine, and holistic?
Traditional medicine is concerned with treating symptoms. Holistic medicine addresses the whole person. Holistic medicine is holistic and does not focus on any one aspect of the patient’s/her health.
Traditional medicine treats individual organs or systems (such as the brain), whereas holistic medicine considers all aspects of the body from the inside out. It also examines the effects of lifestyle choices on overall wellbeing.
What is holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine doctors are those who treat patients holistically. They may combine western medicine with traditional methods like acupuncture and herbs.
They are not interested in treating symptoms but rather a disease. The patient should feel better following treatment.
The doctor should not only treat the disease, but also prevent it from happening again.
“Holistic” is a term that refers all aspects of a person’s life.
Statistics
- 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)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- 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)
External Links
doi.org
liebertpub.com
cam.cancer.gov
webmd.com
How To
What are the four types of complementary and alternate medicine?
The main four categories of CAM include mind-body medicines, natural products and manipulative therapy. Mind-body medicine covers yoga, Tai Chi and Reiki, as well as chiropractic care, homeopathy (naturopathy), biofeedback, hypnosis and hypnosis. Natural products include herbs and vitamins, minerals as well as dietary supplements. Manipulative therapy includes physical manipulation, such as chiropractic and osteopathic care, acupuncture and therapeutic exercise. Energy healing involves techniques such as prayer and visualization.
CAM stands for a broad range of health practices that go beyond the Western medical system. These practices can be supported by scientific evidence, or they may involve surgery. They also vary in terms of the conditions they treat. Some CAM practitioners also perform diagnostic testing (e.g., blood tests) and prescribe medication. Others do both.
In addition to these four primary categories, there are many subcategories within each category. In mind-body medicine there are relaxation techniques. Natural products include nutritional supplements as well botanical medicines, homeopathic treatments, essential oils and herbal preparations. Manipulative therapies include manual, movement, traction, electrotherapies, cupping, stretching, soft tissue mobilization, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, orthopedics, and neurostimulation. There are also spiritual healing methods such as prayer, faith healing, and energy healing.
Many CAM therapies treat symptoms, but not the cause. Some chronic conditions may benefit from CAM. If used properly, CAM can be combined with conventional treatments.
There are many good reasons to use CAM.
- To improve their overall wellbeing.
- To manage a specific condition.
- To decrease pain or discomfort.
- To prevent illness.
- To promote wellness.
- To address a personal belief system.
People turn to CAM for greater control of their health than conventional medicine. Some may feel it has less side effects. Some people choose CAM to not take prescription drugs. Still, others prefer not to take pharmaceuticals if possible. Others still seek out CAM, even though they’ve had bad experiences in conventional medicine.
Some people who use CAM claim they want to be confident about what they’re doing before trying out new techniques. Many people who use CAM ask questions about its safety and effectiveness. Others rely on word of mouth from friends and family members.
Although CAM is sometimes viewed negatively in society, many users have positive feelings about it. People who use CAM are happier and healthier than those who don’t. This is true regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, income, education level, occupation, insurance status, or other factors.
A large majority of Americans practice some form or another of complementary and alternative medicines. 95% or more of adult Americans have used some type of CAM in their lives. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health(NCCIH), there were approximately 40 million visits to CAM providers between 2010 and 2010.
According to the NCCIH, 10 percent of Americans use chiropractors, massage therapists and acupuncturists.3 This compares with only 2 percent who use medical doctors.
The American Medical Association reiterated its support for integrative medical care in 2013. It recognized that physicians should “integrate scientifically valid complementary and alternative medicine into clinical practice…to meet patients ‘ needs and expectations.”5
The Institute of Medicine published a landmark study in 2007 titled “Releasing Constraints – Improving Access to Complementary and Alternative Healthcare” which concluded that “there is no credible evidence of any specific CAM intervention being effective in preventing, treating, and curing cancer.”
CAM is still gaining popularity despite this conclusion. The 2008 number of CAM practitioners increased 8 percent compared with 2007.
A recent survey found that almost half the respondents said they used CAM as part their primary healthcare plan.
CAM therapies include natural products, mind-body practices, manipulative techniques, energy healing modalities, exercise, dietary supplements, and other approaches.
Many CAM therapies are used primarily as pain relief. But, many offer additional benefits such relaxation, improved moods, better sleep, decreased stress and enhanced immunity.
Acupuncture is a treatment that can reduce chronic back pain, anxiety, depression and improve the immune system, promote weightloss, and improve menstrual symptoms.
Many CAM treatments have roots in Ayurvedic, Chinese, and Traditional Chinese medicine.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine, was first practiced in China over 5,000 year ago.
It was not until the mid-1800s when Western science began to gain prominence, but TCM remains an important element of health care today.
Today, it’s estimated that more than 70 percent of people in the United States rely on TCM for treatment.
Yoga is another popular CAM remedy. Yoga was first developed in India around 5000 B.C. and is now embraced worldwide.
Yoga has been gaining popularity with the general population because it provides many physical, mental, and spiritual benefits.
Yoga can relieve stress, improve flexibility, and increase strength.
Yoga has been shown to improve sleep33, even though there is not much scientific evidence. It may also be beneficial for insomnia sufferers.
Other CAM therapies like aromatherapy, homeopathy, meditation, and/or homeopathy are also becoming accepted in mainstream medicine.
One of the most used types of CAM is herbal medicine.
Herbal medicines include herbs, spices and flowers, seeds, fruits and mushrooms, bark, leaves roots, stems, and bark.
They are often considered safer alternatives to pharmaceutical drugs and are widely used by consumers.
The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health estimates that about 90 million Americans use some form of complementary/alternative medicine.
The American Cancer Society reports that 45% (or more) of those diagnosed with cancer have used alternative medicines during their illness.
The National Institutes of Health estimate that 60% of patients suffering from cancer use CAM. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that 50% of all cancer survivors have reported using CAM.
A recent study found that 51% of patients with cancer used at least one type or another of CAM.
Only 8% of these people discussed the use of this medication with their doctors.
Healthcare delivery suffers from a large gap because of the lack of communication between CAM users, conventional medical providers, and traditional medical providers.
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