GenoPalate, a pioneering US nutrigenomic platform, has introduced GenoBlend, an innovative plant-based protein and fiber powder customized to align with the distinct genetic nutritional requirements of each individual. Crafted with top-tier ingredients such as organic pea protein, organic brown rice protein, organic citrus fiber, and oat fiber, GenoBlend offers a personalized approach to dietary supplements.
Advancements in Nutritional Genetics
Recent progress in nutritional genetics has empowered GenoPalate to create GenoBlend, leveraging an individual’s genetic profile to optimize their protein and fiber intake, thereby enhancing overall well-being. This tailored approach aims to bolster digestive health, aid in weight management, and boost energy levels.
Personalized Nutrition for Optimal Wellness
“Personalized nutrition represents the future of well-being,” stated Dr. Asif Naseem, CEO of GenoPalate. “With GenoBlend, we are delivering a high-quality product tailored to each customer’s genetic composition, ensuring they receive the precise blend of nutrients their bodies require.”
Game-Changer in Personalized Nutrition
Marie Molde, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist at Datassential, views GenoBlend by GenoPalate as a transformative product in personalized nutrition. She emphasized, “Today’s consumers prioritize convenience and time-efficiency, and a solution like GenoBlend, offering essential nutrients in a customized supplement, caters to these needs while paving the way for everyone to strive towards optimal wellness through personalized solutions.”
Organic and All-Natural Ingredients
Each serving of GenoBlend delivers a rich source of plant-based proteins and fibers crucial for a well-rounded diet. The utilization of organic and all-natural ingredients guarantees customers receive a pure product devoid of additives and preservatives.
Exclusive Offers and Smoothie Recipes
GenoPalate is introducing introductory pricing and a complimentary welcome kit for initial customers who purchase and subscribe to GenoBlend. Furthermore, each purchase includes exclusive smoothie recipes meticulously crafted by GenoPalate’s team of registered dietitians to complement the nutritional profiles present in GenoBlend.
For those interested in purchasing GenoBlend or learning more about how GenoPalate harnesses genetics to personalize nutrition according to individual needs, we welcome you to explore www.genopalate.com.
The post Personalized Protein & Fiber Supplement Tailored to Your DNA appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Complementary and Alternative Healthcare – Are they Evidence-based?
The evidence base supporting complementary and alternate medicine is still developing, but there are many factors that people choose to use these therapies. You might have tried traditional treatments and found them ineffective. Or you may be looking for an alternative treatment because it has more benefits than conventional care. Alternatively, they might seek complementary and alternative medicines as part of a holistic approach to health. Always verify with your doctor that the scientific backing of any complementary or alternative medicines you use is supported. If you aren’t sure if a particular treatment is safe or effective, consult your doctor. It may save you money and time over the long term.
Why is holistic healing better?
Holistic health care focuses on treating the whole person rather than on individual symptoms. This involves looking at how someone feels about their body, their diet, where they live, and how much stress they have.
Holistic medicine considers all aspects of a patient’s life and treats them as a complete package. Although it may sound easy, in practice this is difficult because doctors tend to focus only on the physical aspect of patients.
What are the benefits of complementary and alternative medicine?
Complementary or alternative medicine (CAM), is a general term that covers medical practices that people use when they feel they don’t get enough from allopathic medicines. These include herbal medicines, mind-body therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, homeopathy, chiropractic care, traditional Chinese medicine, biofeedback, hypnosis, and spiritual healing. Many CAM practitioners use treatment methods that aren’t part of conventional medicine’s standard system of diagnosis and treatment. However, many CAM therapies also incorporate elements of conventional medicine. One example is acupuncture that uses needles. Others use heat or acupressure.
Some CAM therapies are effective in pain relief, stress management and relaxation. They may also improve your general sense of well-being and reduce fatigue. Some CAM therapies can treat certain conditions such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel disorder, rheumatoidarthritis, cancer, diabetes, and irritable bowel syndrome. Some CAM therapies can be fun.
There is no definitive definition of CAM. However, most definitions include at a minimum one of the following:
- A holistic perspective which considers both body and mind, as well the environment.
- The belief that the mind, body and soul interact and influence one another
- It is believed that illness is caused by an imbalance between the environment and the person.
- A treatment that focuses on the whole person instead of just the symptoms
- Combination of Western science and Eastern philosophy
- Treatment methods that integrate mind, body, and spirit
- Use of natural products rather than synthetic chemicals
- Touch of healing
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
There are potential risks to certain CAM therapies, in addition to the potential benefits. If they are not used correctly, some therapies may cause death or serious harm. Some may have side effects that should be weighed against the potential benefits. Discuss these concerns with your doctor before you decide to use any CAM.
Where can I find out more information about holistic healing?
Holistic medicine refers to a way of treating the whole person, rather than just one area. Holistic medicine is a holistic approach to health care that considers all aspects, including the spiritual, emotional and mental well-being of the patient.
Holistic medicine seeks to treat the person as a whole, rather than treating specific symptoms. Holistic medicine does not focus on treating the disease, but rather on healing.
Holistic medicine encompasses preventive measures, nutrition, and treatment for chronic conditions such arthritis and diabetes.
There are many different types of holistic medicine:
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Chiropractic medicine
- Homeopathy
- Herbalism
- Naturopathy
- Nutrition
- Osteopathic medicine
- Vedic medicine
- Yoga
What is the Difference between Naturopathic and Holistic Medicines?
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies heavily on drugs and surgery to treat its patients. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM should not be considered as a replacement for traditional treatment. Instead, CAM can help patients take control of their health by helping them choose the best option.
Naturopathy, on one hand, can be used to complement traditional medical practices. It treats the whole person, including mind and soul. There are many kinds of naturopathy.
It is important that you note that some CAM modalities may overlap with traditional medicine. Naturopaths and doctors can prescribe herbal remedies. But, naturopaths are more concerned with lifestyle changes than prescribing medications.
Naturopathy is often called “complementary” or “complementary”, because it works with traditional medicine rather than replacing it. Naturopaths may prescribe medication when needed.
There are differences between naturopathic medicine and other CAM modalities:
- Naturopaths do not usually prescribe medication or diagnose illnesses.
- Naturopaths will work with the patient’s family medicine and may refer patients outpatients to specialists, if necessary.
- Naturopathic physicians are regulated by provincial licensing boards, whereas CAM practitioners are self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and well-being while also educating about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths are very conscious of lifestyle factors. They emphasize nutrition, sleep and stress management as well as exercise and mental health.
- Naturopharmacists specialize in the use of botanicals and minerals to treat specific conditions.
- Naturopodists have the ability to offer individualized care that is tailored to each patient’s needs.
- Regulation bodies such as the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issue licenses to Naturopaths.
- Provincial regulatory bodies grant licenses to naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians have been registered with The Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia is responsible for licensing Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners is authorized to license Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency licenses 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.
Statistics
- 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)
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING AND TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed: A Randomized Controlled Trial to Determine the Effects of Foot Reflexology on Depression and Hospital Anxiety in Older Females: A Randomized Controlled Study – PubMed
doi.org
webmd.com
nccih.nih.gov
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 includes yoga, meditation, Tai Chi, Reiki, acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic care, homeopathy, aromatherapy, reflexology, naturopathy, biofeedback, hypnosis, and herbalism. Natural products are herbs, vitamins, minerals and dietary supplements. Manipulative therapies can include physical manipulations such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and osteopathic/chiropractic care. Praying and visualization are two of the methods used to heal energy.
CAM can be used to describe a range of alternative health practices, which are not part of the traditional Western medical model. There are many differences in the scientific support for these practices, including whether they involve drugs and surgery, as well as which conditions they treat. Some CAM professionals also perform diagnostic testing, such as blood tests, and prescribe medication. Others do both.
Each category has many subcategories in addition to the four main categories. Mind-body medicine includes relaxation techniques, mindfulness training and guided imagery. It also includes self-hypnosis, meditation, qigong and Tai chi. Natural products include nutritional supplements, botanical remedies, homeopathic remedies and essential oils. Manual, movement, traction and electrotherapies are all forms of manipulative therapy. They include cupping, stretching and myofascial release. Trigger point therapy, orthotics, neurostimulation, trigger point therapy, manuals, trigger points, trigger point therapy, orthopedics. There are also spiritual healing methods such as prayer, faith healing, and energy healing.
Many CAM treatments help symptoms without addressing the cause of the disease. Some chronic diseases can be helped by CAM. When used appropriately, CAM could complement traditional treatment options.
There are many different reasons people use the CAM.
- To improve their overall wellness.
- To manage a condition.
- To relieve pain or discomfort.
- To prevent illness.
- To promote wellness.
- To address a personal belief system.
Some people prefer CAM over conventional medicine because they feel it provides more control over the health of their bodies. It may have fewer side effects. Others choose CAM to avoid taking prescription medications. Some prefer not taking prescription medications if at all possible. And still, others seek out CAM because they have had bad experiences with conventional medicine.
Some people who use CAM say they want to be sure about what they are doing before trying something new. Many CAM users have questions about safety and effectiveness. Others rely more on word of mouth recommendations from their family members and friends.
Although CAM is sometimes viewed negatively in society, many users have positive feelings about it. People who use CAM are healthier and happier than those that don’t. This holds true regardless if you are of any gender, race or ethnicity.
A majority of Americans have used some type of alternative or complementary medicine. 95% of adults have used CAM at some point in their lives. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), approximately 40 million visits were made to CAM providers in 2010 alone.
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 has reaffirmed its support to integrative medicine in 2013, It recognized that physicians should “integrate scientifically valid complementary and alternative medicine into clinical practice…to meet patients ‘ needs and expectations.”5
In 2007, the Institute of Medicine published a landmark report called “Relaxing Constraints: Improving Access to Complementary and Alternative Healthcare.” The report concluded that “there is no credible evidence that any specific CAM intervention is effective for preventing, treating, or curing cancer.”
CAM is still gaining popularity despite this conclusion. 2008 saw a 8 percent increase in the number of CAM professionals compared to 2007.
Recent research found that nearly half of respondents used CAM in their primary healthcare routine.
CAM therapies include natural products, mind-body practices, manipulative techniques, energy healing modalities, exercise, dietary supplements, and other approaches.
Many CAM therapies can be used for pain relief, but many have other benefits such as improved mood, reduced stress and increased immunity.
For example, acupuncture can help relieve chronic back pain, reduce anxiety and depression, improve immune function, promote weight loss and improve menstrual symptoms.
Many CAM treatments have roots in Ayurvedic, Chinese, and Traditional Chinese medicine.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), for example, was developed 5,000 years ago. It has been used in China since ancient times.
TCM has remained an important component in health care even though it was not until the middle of 1800s that Western science became popular.
TCM has become a popular treatment option for more than 70% of the population in the United States.
Yoga is another CAM therapy that is very popular. Around 5000 B.C., yoga was born in India. It is now accepted all over the world.
Yoga is gaining popularity because of its many benefits, including spiritual, mental and physical.
Yoga can ease stress, improve flexibility and increase strength.
Even though there are limited scientific studies, yoga appears to have positive effects upon sleep33. This may make it useful for people suffering from insomnia.
Other CAM therapies, such as meditation, homeopathy, aromatherapy, are also becoming more mainstream.
One of the most common types of CAM used today is herbal medicine.
Herbal medicines include herbs, spices and flowers, seeds, fruits and mushrooms, bark, leaves roots, stems, and bark.
They are commonly used as safer alternatives to prescription drugs and are often preferred 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.
According to the American Cancer Society 45% of adults with cancer used alternative medicine during their illness.
According to the National Institutes of Health, 60% of cancer patients use CAM. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that approximately 50% of cancer survivors have used 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.
This communication gap between conventional medical providers, CAM users and traditional doctors is a major problem in healthcare delivery.
–
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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: Revolutionary Personalized Protein & Fiber Supplement Aligned with Your DNA
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/choice-products/personalized-protein-fiber-supplement-tailored-to-your-dna/
Published Date: Tue, 11 Jun 2024 21:47:00 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
Complementary and Alternative Healthcare – Are they Evidence-based?
The evidence base supporting complementary and alternate medicine is still developing, but there are many factors that people choose to use these therapies. You might have tried traditional treatments and found them ineffective. Or you may be looking for an alternative treatment because it has more benefits than conventional care. Alternatively, they might seek complementary and alternative medicines as part of a holistic approach to health. Always verify with your doctor that the scientific backing of any complementary or alternative medicines you use is supported. If you aren’t sure if a particular treatment is safe or effective, consult your doctor. It may save you money and time over the long term.
Why is holistic healing better?
Holistic health care focuses on treating the whole person rather than on individual symptoms. This involves looking at how someone feels about their body, their diet, where they live, and how much stress they have.
Holistic medicine considers all aspects of a patient’s life and treats them as a complete package. Although it may sound easy, in practice this is difficult because doctors tend to focus only on the physical aspect of patients.
What are the benefits of complementary and alternative medicine?
Complementary or alternative medicine (CAM), is a general term that covers medical practices that people use when they feel they don’t get enough from allopathic medicines. These include herbal medicines, mind-body therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, homeopathy, chiropractic care, traditional Chinese medicine, biofeedback, hypnosis, and spiritual healing. Many CAM practitioners use treatment methods that aren’t part of conventional medicine’s standard system of diagnosis and treatment. However, many CAM therapies also incorporate elements of conventional medicine. One example is acupuncture that uses needles. Others use heat or acupressure.
Some CAM therapies are effective in pain relief, stress management and relaxation. They may also improve your general sense of well-being and reduce fatigue. Some CAM therapies can treat certain conditions such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel disorder, rheumatoidarthritis, cancer, diabetes, and irritable bowel syndrome. Some CAM therapies can be fun.
There is no definitive definition of CAM. However, most definitions include at a minimum one of the following:
- A holistic perspective which considers both body and mind, as well the environment.
- The belief that the mind, body and soul interact and influence one another
- It is believed that illness is caused by an imbalance between the environment and the person.
- A treatment that focuses on the whole person instead of just the symptoms
- Combination of Western science and Eastern philosophy
- Treatment methods that integrate mind, body, and spirit
- Use of natural products rather than synthetic chemicals
- Touch of healing
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
There are potential risks to certain CAM therapies, in addition to the potential benefits. If they are not used correctly, some therapies may cause death or serious harm. Some may have side effects that should be weighed against the potential benefits. Discuss these concerns with your doctor before you decide to use any CAM.
Where can I find out more information about holistic healing?
Holistic medicine refers to a way of treating the whole person, rather than just one area. Holistic medicine is a holistic approach to health care that considers all aspects, including the spiritual, emotional and mental well-being of the patient.
Holistic medicine seeks to treat the person as a whole, rather than treating specific symptoms. Holistic medicine does not focus on treating the disease, but rather on healing.
Holistic medicine encompasses preventive measures, nutrition, and treatment for chronic conditions such arthritis and diabetes.
There are many different types of holistic medicine:
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Chiropractic medicine
- Homeopathy
- Herbalism
- Naturopathy
- Nutrition
- Osteopathic medicine
- Vedic medicine
- Yoga
What is the Difference between Naturopathic and Holistic Medicines?
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies heavily on drugs and surgery to treat its patients. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM should not be considered as a replacement for traditional treatment. Instead, CAM can help patients take control of their health by helping them choose the best option.
Naturopathy, on one hand, can be used to complement traditional medical practices. It treats the whole person, including mind and soul. There are many kinds of naturopathy.
It is important that you note that some CAM modalities may overlap with traditional medicine. Naturopaths and doctors can prescribe herbal remedies. But, naturopaths are more concerned with lifestyle changes than prescribing medications.
Naturopathy is often called “complementary” or “complementary”, because it works with traditional medicine rather than replacing it. Naturopaths may prescribe medication when needed.
There are differences between naturopathic medicine and other CAM modalities:
- Naturopaths do not usually prescribe medication or diagnose illnesses.
- Naturopaths will work with the patient’s family medicine and may refer patients outpatients to specialists, if necessary.
- Naturopathic physicians are regulated by provincial licensing boards, whereas CAM practitioners are self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and well-being while also educating about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths are very conscious of lifestyle factors. They emphasize nutrition, sleep and stress management as well as exercise and mental health.
- Naturopharmacists specialize in the use of botanicals and minerals to treat specific conditions.
- Naturopodists have the ability to offer individualized care that is tailored to each patient’s needs.
- Regulation bodies such as the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issue licenses to Naturopaths.
- Provincial regulatory bodies grant licenses to naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians have been registered with The Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia is responsible for licensing Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners is authorized to license Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency licenses 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.
Statistics
- 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)
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING AND TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed: A Randomized Controlled Trial to Determine the Effects of Foot Reflexology on Depression and Hospital Anxiety in Older Females: A Randomized Controlled Study – PubMed
doi.org
webmd.com
nccih.nih.gov
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 includes yoga, meditation, Tai Chi, Reiki, acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic care, homeopathy, aromatherapy, reflexology, naturopathy, biofeedback, hypnosis, and herbalism. Natural products are herbs, vitamins, minerals and dietary supplements. Manipulative therapies can include physical manipulations such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and osteopathic/chiropractic care. Praying and visualization are two of the methods used to heal energy.
CAM can be used to describe a range of alternative health practices, which are not part of the traditional Western medical model. There are many differences in the scientific support for these practices, including whether they involve drugs and surgery, as well as which conditions they treat. Some CAM professionals also perform diagnostic testing, such as blood tests, and prescribe medication. Others do both.
Each category has many subcategories in addition to the four main categories. Mind-body medicine includes relaxation techniques, mindfulness training and guided imagery. It also includes self-hypnosis, meditation, qigong and Tai chi. Natural products include nutritional supplements, botanical remedies, homeopathic remedies and essential oils. Manual, movement, traction and electrotherapies are all forms of manipulative therapy. They include cupping, stretching and myofascial release. Trigger point therapy, orthotics, neurostimulation, trigger point therapy, manuals, trigger points, trigger point therapy, orthopedics. There are also spiritual healing methods such as prayer, faith healing, and energy healing.
Many CAM treatments help symptoms without addressing the cause of the disease. Some chronic diseases can be helped by CAM. When used appropriately, CAM could complement traditional treatment options.
There are many different reasons people use the CAM.
- To improve their overall wellness.
- To manage a condition.
- To relieve pain or discomfort.
- To prevent illness.
- To promote wellness.
- To address a personal belief system.
Some people prefer CAM over conventional medicine because they feel it provides more control over the health of their bodies. It may have fewer side effects. Others choose CAM to avoid taking prescription medications. Some prefer not taking prescription medications if at all possible. And still, others seek out CAM because they have had bad experiences with conventional medicine.
Some people who use CAM say they want to be sure about what they are doing before trying something new. Many CAM users have questions about safety and effectiveness. Others rely more on word of mouth recommendations from their family members and friends.
Although CAM is sometimes viewed negatively in society, many users have positive feelings about it. People who use CAM are healthier and happier than those that don’t. This holds true regardless if you are of any gender, race or ethnicity.
A majority of Americans have used some type of alternative or complementary medicine. 95% of adults have used CAM at some point in their lives. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), approximately 40 million visits were made to CAM providers in 2010 alone.
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 has reaffirmed its support to integrative medicine in 2013, It recognized that physicians should “integrate scientifically valid complementary and alternative medicine into clinical practice…to meet patients ‘ needs and expectations.”5
In 2007, the Institute of Medicine published a landmark report called “Relaxing Constraints: Improving Access to Complementary and Alternative Healthcare.” The report concluded that “there is no credible evidence that any specific CAM intervention is effective for preventing, treating, or curing cancer.”
CAM is still gaining popularity despite this conclusion. 2008 saw a 8 percent increase in the number of CAM professionals compared to 2007.
Recent research found that nearly half of respondents used CAM in their primary healthcare routine.
CAM therapies include natural products, mind-body practices, manipulative techniques, energy healing modalities, exercise, dietary supplements, and other approaches.
Many CAM therapies can be used for pain relief, but many have other benefits such as improved mood, reduced stress and increased immunity.
For example, acupuncture can help relieve chronic back pain, reduce anxiety and depression, improve immune function, promote weight loss and improve menstrual symptoms.
Many CAM treatments have roots in Ayurvedic, Chinese, and Traditional Chinese medicine.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), for example, was developed 5,000 years ago. It has been used in China since ancient times.
TCM has remained an important component in health care even though it was not until the middle of 1800s that Western science became popular.
TCM has become a popular treatment option for more than 70% of the population in the United States.
Yoga is another CAM therapy that is very popular. Around 5000 B.C., yoga was born in India. It is now accepted all over the world.
Yoga is gaining popularity because of its many benefits, including spiritual, mental and physical.
Yoga can ease stress, improve flexibility and increase strength.
Even though there are limited scientific studies, yoga appears to have positive effects upon sleep33. This may make it useful for people suffering from insomnia.
Other CAM therapies, such as meditation, homeopathy, aromatherapy, are also becoming more mainstream.
One of the most common types of CAM used today is herbal medicine.
Herbal medicines include herbs, spices and flowers, seeds, fruits and mushrooms, bark, leaves roots, stems, and bark.
They are commonly used as safer alternatives to prescription drugs and are often preferred 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.
According to the American Cancer Society 45% of adults with cancer used alternative medicine during their illness.
According to the National Institutes of Health, 60% of cancer patients use CAM. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that approximately 50% of cancer survivors have used 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.
This communication gap between conventional medical providers, CAM users and traditional doctors is a major problem in healthcare delivery.