Sleep is often put on the backburner in our busy society. It’s not a luxury and its negative effects cannot be ignored. Let’s explore its negative effects and discover the many reasons that sleep is essential for your health.
Negative Effects of Lack of Sleep
Sleep deprivation has many effects on your health. Common symptoms include:
-
Fatigue
-
Cognitive impairment, memory and performance
-
Poor mood and/or emotional distress
-
Behavior disorders in otherwise healthy people, including impulsiveness or outbursts
-
Stress increases sensitivity and reactivity
-
New or increased physical pain
-
Lower quality of life
Lack of sleep is a major contributor to these issues. It can also increase your risk of mental, digestive and cardiovascular illnesses, as well as other chronic, serious diseases. Prioritizing good sleep habits is essential to your health.
Long-term effects of sleep deprivation
You need at least seven hours sleep per night for optimal performance. Here are some consequences that you might experience if you sleep less than seven hours per night.
Immune deficiency
Lack of sleep can lead to a weak immune system. Your immune system releases substances known as cytokines while you sleep. These substances play a vital role in combating bacteria, viruses and other pathogens. These proteins are also important in reducing inflammation, which helps you stay healthy.
During sleep the body redirects its energy from brain and muscular work to support the immunity system. Immune cells leave the bloodstream to settle in lymph nodes and prepare for the day ahead. A lack of sleep for a long time can cause a decline in immune-boosting functions. This leaves your body vulnerable to infection. You may also recover from illness more slowly.
Recent research conducted at the Icahn School of Medicine in Mount Sinai, New York, revealed that chronic sleep loss can harm immune cells and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and inflammatory disorders. Even a modest sleep loss of one and a quarter hours per night can have an impact on your health.
Changes to appetite, weight and blood sugar
Certain hormones play an important role in controlling your hunger and satiety. These include ghrelin (which stimulates appetite) and leptin (which signals fullness). These hormones can become unbalanced and lead to weight-related illnesses or disordered eating.
When you are sleep deprived, studies show that your brain signals a rise in ghrelin and a decrease in leptin. You may feel hungrier at night, especially if you don’t get enough sleep. This can lead to weight gain.
Insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar, is also negatively affected by sleep deprivation. A chronic lack of sleep can increase insulin levels and increase your risk of type 2 diabetes.
Sleep is essential for maintaining hormonal balance, promoting healthy eating habits and reducing the risk of obesity-related diseases.
Poor cardiovascular health
Sleep is vital for a healthy cardiovascular system. Sleep deprivation is linked to an increased cardiovascular disease risk, regardless of age, weight or smoking habits.
When you sleep, the blood pressure naturally drops, and your body repairs damaged blood vessels. This helps to maintain cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation and repairing damaged blood vessel walls.
You can damage your heart’s ability to function properly if you don’t get enough sleep. This will cause you to have higher blood pressure and increase the strain on it. This increases your risk of stroke and heart attack over time.
Sleep is essential for your health and well-being. It also helps to keep your heart strong.
Endocrine system dysfunction
The endocrine is a complex network of glands and other organs which produce and release hormones. These act as chemical messengers within the body. The endocrine system is vital in regulating metabolism and energy levels. It also regulates growth, mood and the ability to respond to injury and stress.
The endocrine and hormone systems are closely linked to quality sleep. A healthy production of the hormone testosterone, for example, requires three uninterrupted hours of sleep. Growth hormone is also essential for the growth of children and adolescents, as well as cell repair and muscle development. The body requires adequate sleep in order to produce enough.
Adequate sleep is essential for a healthy endocrine and metabolic system.
Compromise in brain health
The brain is also affected by sleep deprivation. Not getting enough sleep can have a serious impact on your mental health over time.
-
Disorientation
-
Paranoia
-
Hallucinations
-
Mental health disorders
This phenomenon is attributed to the brain’s remarkable ability to adapt to new situations, known as “neural plasticity.” A report in The Guardian on sleep-deprivation in students highlighted this. This phenomenon can be attributed to brain’s ability to adapt to different situations.
One study also found that people who consistently slept less than six hours per night in their 50s or 60s are more likely to develop dementia later on. These findings highlight the possible link between insufficient sleep and serious conditions such as Alzheimer’s.
Sleep deprivation is harmful to your health. Rest is vital to protect your body’s vital organs. Make it a priority and you will enjoy a healthier, happier life.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5449130/#:~:text=have%20been%20reported.-,Short%2Dterm%20consequences%20of%20sleep%20disruption%20include%20increased%20stress%20responsivity,problems%20in%20otherwise%20healthy%20individuals.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532253/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK19961/
https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/how_much_sleep.html
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16983057/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16466124/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2082964/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3900610/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3256323/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2692603/#:~:text=Cytokines%20such%20as%20IL1%2C%20TNF,the%20sleep%20biochemical%20regulatory%20network.
https://rupress.org/jem/article/219/11/e20220081/213487/Sleep-exerts-lasting-effects-on-hematopoietic-stem
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK555906/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC535701/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9031614/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7553667/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2845795/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6761896/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3955336/#:~:text=The%20increase%20in%20testosterone%20is,sleep%20with%20a%20normal%20architecture.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526128/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8627466/#:~:text=Sleep%2Drelated%20secretion%20of%20GH,decrease%20wakefulness%20and%20increase%20SWS.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3132857/#:~:text=Sleep%20deprivation%20has%20been%20associated,levels%20and%20impaired%20glucose%20metabolism.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4688585/#:~:text=Sleep%20deprivation%20seems%20to%20be,deleterious%20effects%20on%20the%20body.
https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/lack-sleep-middle-age-may-increase-dementia-risk
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29632177/
https://www.theguardian.com/education/2019/jan/13/school-deprived-pupils-extra-hour-classes
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-021-22354-2
The article Sleep Deprivation: Negative Effects Of Lack Of Sleep appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alternative Medicine, and how can it help you?
It is a healing approach that focuses on prevention instead of treating. It encourages people be educated consumers, actively participating in their own health and well being.
Alternative medicine is any method of diagnosis and treatment that doesn’t use conventional (allopathic) medical methods.
What is another name of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine is an umbrella term used to describe any approach to healing that differs significantly from conventional 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.
Many alternative practitioners claim that their therapies result in better health outcomes, including improved quality of life, fewer side effects, reduced costs, and greater patient satisfaction. These claims cannot be proven scientifically because the mainstream medical system has largely ignored evidence-based alternatives to medicine.
How safe are holistic medicines?
Holistic medicines are safe as they aren’t harmful drugs, but natural remedies that have been used for centuries by people who use them.
They have been proven to be effective in treating many diseases, including asthma, arthritis, chronic pain, diabetes, high blood sugar, heart disease and obesity, as well as anxiety, stress.
Holistic medicines are also used by millions of people around the world who suffer from various kinds of diseases. They include homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal treatments, massage therapy, yoga, meditation, biofeedback, hypnosis, nutrition, counseling, physical fitness, exercise, and other complementary therapies. These therapies treat the whole person rather than just treating the symptoms.
Is holistic medicine legal?
Both yes and no. Yes. Because many medicines have been proved effective against different diseases. They don’t cure all ailments. It all depends upon what you mean with “holistic.” It all depends on what you mean by “holistic.”
Many people believe holistic medicine has existed since ancient times. This is false. Although there were some natural remedies used by healers in ancient Egypt or Rome, these practitioners did not have scientific knowledge.
It wasn’t until after the Middle Ages that medical doctors began to study anatomy. Most Western countries have developed public hospitals, where doctors can provide medical care, by the end of the 19th-century.
Conventional medicine is today the dominant type of healthcare. However, many people still prefer to use complementary and alternative medicine. Many people find that it is more beneficial than taking pharmaceutical drugs.
Some people find that they feel more relaxed when receiving massage therapy than tranquilizers. Others prefer healthy eating to prescription medication. Some people find that exercising regularly is beneficial for their bodies.
Who uses holistic medicine
Holistic medicine refers health care that addresses the whole person instead of just treating symptoms. It considers both the mental, and physical aspects.
Holistic medicine is acupuncture as well massage therapy, chiropractic, nutritional counseling, Yoga, and other complementary therapies.
People who practice holistic medicine include people with cancer, heart issues, diabetes and arthritis.
What is the Difference Between Naturopathic & Holistic Medicine?
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 is not meant to replace conventional treatment, but to help patients who are able to choose what is best for them.
Naturopathy, on one hand, can be used to complement traditional medical practices. The whole person, mind and spirit are treated by naturopathy. There are many types of naturopathy. These include Ayurveda (Chinese Medicine), Traditional Native American Medicine (TNAM) and Functional Medicine.
It is important to remember that some CAM modalities overlap slightly with conventional medicine. Doctors and naturopaths can both prescribe herbal remedies. But, naturopaths are more concerned with lifestyle changes than prescribing medications.
Naturopathy can be called “complementary” when it is used in combination with conventional medicine. Naturopaths can prescribe medication when necessary.
There are many differences between naturopathic medicine, CAM, and other modalities.
- Naturopaths are not qualified to prescribe or diagnose medication.
- Naturopaths can refer patients to specialists and work with their family physician.
- Naturopathic physicians must be licensed by their provinces. CAM practitioners need to be self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and wellness while providing education about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths stress the importance of lifestyle factors. This includes nutrition, exercise and stress management.
- Naturopharmacists focus on the use of minerals and botanicals to treat certain conditions.
- Naturopodists are skilled in providing personalized care that meets the needs of each patient.
- Naturopaths are licensed by regulatory bodies like the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario.
- The provincial regulatory bodies issue licenses to naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians may be registered with Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- Naturotherapists are licensed by the College of Naturopaths of British Columbia.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners is authorized to license Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency grants licenses to homeopaths.
- The belief that all aspects should be considered in making health decisions is called “holistic”. Holistic doctors will examine all aspects of your health, not just one.
Who uses alternative medicine instead of traditional medicine?
Alternative medicine is often used for many reasons.
- They want to avoid the use of harmful drugs or surgery.
- They believe natural remedies work better.
- They prefer non-invasive treatment.
- They are looking to spend less.
- They feel more secure using natural products
- They desire more control over their healthcare decisions.
- They are ready to take charge of their health.
- They want a healthier world.
- They desire less stress in the lives of others.
- They want greater freedom in choosing their doctors and their healthcare plans.
- They want their child to receive a better educational experience.
- They desire healthy food for their families and themselves.
- They are looking for safe and effective medication.
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)
- 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)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- 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)
External Links
doi.org
cam.cancer.gov
webmd.com
nccih.nih.gov
How To
What are the Pros and Cons of Holistic Medical?
Holistic medicine refers to a medical approach that stresses the importance of the mind, body and spirit in healing. The concept was developed by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), in the late 19th century. His first book, The Doctor’s Book of Mind Cure (in 1924), is his first. Simple techniques like meditation, visualization, hypnosis, and visualization were used by him. People with stress, anxiety, depression or pain experienced this treatment. This therapy is also helpful for patients who want to improve their lives and cope with their issues.
Although holistic therapies have been around for a while, the lack of scientific evidence has made them less popular. Some studies have shown that holistic therapies can reduce the symptoms of chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, arthritis, headaches, heart disease, hypertension and migraines, as well as other diseases such as cancer, heart disease, hypertension, stroke, bone fractures, and obesity.
The advancements and the shortcomings of holistic medicine can be seen in:
- Lack of scientific evidence. Only a few well-designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluate the benefits of holistic therapies. Positive results are found in the majority of observational studies.
- Alternative medicine is less expensive than conventional medicine. Alternative medicines can be cheaper than traditional ones, particularly if the patient follows a healthy diet.
- Patients do not feel pressured into following the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors recommend complementary therapies without prescribing them.
- Holistic therapies are often used in combination with conventional medicine. For example acupuncture is commonly combined with medication and surgery.
- People believe that alternative treatments work better than conventional medicine.
- Alternative medicines are considered more “natural” than conventional drugs.
- Many patients choose complementary treatments to enhance their lifestyle changes. They want to feel healthy and enjoy life.
- Patients who practice holistic therapies are healthier.
- An increasing number of older adults are turning to holistic treatment.
- Complementary treatments require more research.
- Studies show that most people prefer alternative treatments to going to the doctor.
- Doctors need to be able to see that not all patients are candidates for alternative treatments.
- Holistic treatments should be part of our culture and education system.
- Holistic therapies may not be right for everyone.
- It is important to learn how to educate patients about the different treatments so they can make informed choices.
- Holistic treatments aren’t only for hippies.
- Holistic treatments cannot cure certain diseases.
- Holistic treatments can sometimes be dangerous.
- Specific conditions may benefit from holistic treatment.
- Holistic therapies are highly effective.
- Holistic treatments are based in ancient knowledge.
- Holistic treatments can be easy to learn.
- It is difficult to learn holistic treatments.
- Holistic treatments can be difficult to master.
- Holistic therapies are too expensive.
- Holistic treatments are expensive.
- Holistic treatments are less expensive than conventional medicine.
- Holistic therapies are more costly than traditional medicine.
****
Holistic Medicine – A Short History
Holistic medicine treats the whole person. It is not about treating their symptoms. It includes physical, emotional, mental, social, spiritual, occupational, environmental, cultural, and lifestyle influences. Prevention is more important than treatment and it focuses on preventing disease through diet, exercise and relaxation.
Bastyr University established the first holistic school of medicine in Seattle in 1972. After the 1996 publication of “Spontaneous Healing,” Dr. Andrew Weil’s book, holistic medicine began to take root. Dr. David Williams founded the American Holistic Medical Association, Dr. Michael Murray co-founded it in 1997. There are hundreds of holistic medicine schools all over the world, including Bastyr University in Columbia, Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons and Maharishi Ayurveda Institute.
The World Health Organization designated holistic medicine as one the five top trends in healthcare in 2013. This trend integrates conventional care with complementary therapies like homeopathy, acupuncture or herbalism, massage, therapy, reiki, yoga and meditation. This integration aims at providing safe, effective, patient centered care while minimizing costs and side effects.
Holistic medicine is based on the interconnectedness and harmony of the body, mind, spirit. An imbalance in any of these components can lead to illness. Let’s take, for instance:
Anxiety and stress can make you anxious, causing you to feel tense or out of balance. Cortisol is a hormone which increases inflammation. As a result, you feel tired, weak, and sick.
Anxiety and negative emotions can lead to anxiety, fear, grief, sadness, and other unpleasant feelings. These emotions can cause stress in the brain. If you don’t treat this stress, your body can produce adrenaline (and cortisol) if it isn’t addressed. Adrenaline increases your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and heart rate. Cortisol is a hormone that affects your immune, digestive, and nervous systems. Both hormones cause fatigue, muscle tension, headaches, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and other health problems.
You can lose your faith and hope in life if you feel depressed. You may also lack self-esteem and confidence. This could result in poor eating habits, unhealthy relationships and low energy. You feel happy, joyful, peaceful, and optimistic when your spirit is healthy.
There is a difference between alternative and allopathic medicine
Allopathic medicine is based on the scientific method. To diagnose patients, doctors use xrays, MRIs and CAT scans. If needed, they may prescribe medication or perform surgery. Allopathic doctors believe that they have a complete understanding of the human body and can treat any illnesses. Alternative medicine can be used for vitamins, minerals, diet and exercise. Alternative medicine does not have a defined definition. Alternative medicine is also known as natural medicine or integrative medicine. Others refer to it as traditional medicine, naturopathic medicine, and CAM.
–
——————————————————————————————————————————————
This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you’re experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
——————————————————————————————————————————————
By: Dick Benson
Title: Sleep Deprivation Symptoms: Negative Effects of Lack of Sleep
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/immunity/how-your-sleep-impacts-your-health/
Published Date: Sat, 10 Jun 2023 17:06:09 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alternative Medicine, and how can it help you?
It is a healing approach that focuses on prevention instead of treating. It encourages people be educated consumers, actively participating in their own health and well being.
Alternative medicine is any method of diagnosis and treatment that doesn’t use conventional (allopathic) medical methods.
What is another name of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine is an umbrella term used to describe any approach to healing that differs significantly from conventional 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.
Many alternative practitioners claim that their therapies result in better health outcomes, including improved quality of life, fewer side effects, reduced costs, and greater patient satisfaction. These claims cannot be proven scientifically because the mainstream medical system has largely ignored evidence-based alternatives to medicine.
How safe are holistic medicines?
Holistic medicines are safe as they aren’t harmful drugs, but natural remedies that have been used for centuries by people who use them.
They have been proven to be effective in treating many diseases, including asthma, arthritis, chronic pain, diabetes, high blood sugar, heart disease and obesity, as well as anxiety, stress.
Holistic medicines are also used by millions of people around the world who suffer from various kinds of diseases. They include homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal treatments, massage therapy, yoga, meditation, biofeedback, hypnosis, nutrition, counseling, physical fitness, exercise, and other complementary therapies. These therapies treat the whole person rather than just treating the symptoms.
Is holistic medicine legal?
Both yes and no. Yes. Because many medicines have been proved effective against different diseases. They don’t cure all ailments. It all depends upon what you mean with “holistic.” It all depends on what you mean by “holistic.”
Many people believe holistic medicine has existed since ancient times. This is false. Although there were some natural remedies used by healers in ancient Egypt or Rome, these practitioners did not have scientific knowledge.
It wasn’t until after the Middle Ages that medical doctors began to study anatomy. Most Western countries have developed public hospitals, where doctors can provide medical care, by the end of the 19th-century.
Conventional medicine is today the dominant type of healthcare. However, many people still prefer to use complementary and alternative medicine. Many people find that it is more beneficial than taking pharmaceutical drugs.
Some people find that they feel more relaxed when receiving massage therapy than tranquilizers. Others prefer healthy eating to prescription medication. Some people find that exercising regularly is beneficial for their bodies.
Who uses holistic medicine
Holistic medicine refers health care that addresses the whole person instead of just treating symptoms. It considers both the mental, and physical aspects.
Holistic medicine is acupuncture as well massage therapy, chiropractic, nutritional counseling, Yoga, and other complementary therapies.
People who practice holistic medicine include people with cancer, heart issues, diabetes and arthritis.
What is the Difference Between Naturopathic & Holistic Medicine?
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 is not meant to replace conventional treatment, but to help patients who are able to choose what is best for them.
Naturopathy, on one hand, can be used to complement traditional medical practices. The whole person, mind and spirit are treated by naturopathy. There are many types of naturopathy. These include Ayurveda (Chinese Medicine), Traditional Native American Medicine (TNAM) and Functional Medicine.
It is important to remember that some CAM modalities overlap slightly with conventional medicine. Doctors and naturopaths can both prescribe herbal remedies. But, naturopaths are more concerned with lifestyle changes than prescribing medications.
Naturopathy can be called “complementary” when it is used in combination with conventional medicine. Naturopaths can prescribe medication when necessary.
There are many differences between naturopathic medicine, CAM, and other modalities.
- Naturopaths are not qualified to prescribe or diagnose medication.
- Naturopaths can refer patients to specialists and work with their family physician.
- Naturopathic physicians must be licensed by their provinces. CAM practitioners need to be self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and wellness while providing education about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths stress the importance of lifestyle factors. This includes nutrition, exercise and stress management.
- Naturopharmacists focus on the use of minerals and botanicals to treat certain conditions.
- Naturopodists are skilled in providing personalized care that meets the needs of each patient.
- Naturopaths are licensed by regulatory bodies like the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario.
- The provincial regulatory bodies issue licenses to naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians may be registered with Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- Naturotherapists are licensed by the College of Naturopaths of British Columbia.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners is authorized to license Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency grants licenses to homeopaths.
- The belief that all aspects should be considered in making health decisions is called “holistic”. Holistic doctors will examine all aspects of your health, not just one.
Who uses alternative medicine instead of traditional medicine?
Alternative medicine is often used for many reasons.
- They want to avoid the use of harmful drugs or surgery.
- They believe natural remedies work better.
- They prefer non-invasive treatment.
- They are looking to spend less.
- They feel more secure using natural products
- They desire more control over their healthcare decisions.
- They are ready to take charge of their health.
- They want a healthier world.
- They desire less stress in the lives of others.
- They want greater freedom in choosing their doctors and their healthcare plans.
- They want their child to receive a better educational experience.
- They desire healthy food for their families and themselves.
- They are looking for safe and effective medication.
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)
- 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)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- 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)
External Links
doi.org
cam.cancer.gov
webmd.com
nccih.nih.gov
How To
What are the Pros and Cons of Holistic Medical?
Holistic medicine refers to a medical approach that stresses the importance of the mind, body and spirit in healing. The concept was developed by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), in the late 19th century. His first book, The Doctor’s Book of Mind Cure (in 1924), is his first. Simple techniques like meditation, visualization, hypnosis, and visualization were used by him. People with stress, anxiety, depression or pain experienced this treatment. This therapy is also helpful for patients who want to improve their lives and cope with their issues.
Although holistic therapies have been around for a while, the lack of scientific evidence has made them less popular. Some studies have shown that holistic therapies can reduce the symptoms of chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, arthritis, headaches, heart disease, hypertension and migraines, as well as other diseases such as cancer, heart disease, hypertension, stroke, bone fractures, and obesity.
The advancements and the shortcomings of holistic medicine can be seen in:
- Lack of scientific evidence. Only a few well-designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluate the benefits of holistic therapies. Positive results are found in the majority of observational studies.
- Alternative medicine is less expensive than conventional medicine. Alternative medicines can be cheaper than traditional ones, particularly if the patient follows a healthy diet.
- Patients do not feel pressured into following the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors recommend complementary therapies without prescribing them.
- Holistic therapies are often used in combination with conventional medicine. For example acupuncture is commonly combined with medication and surgery.
- People believe that alternative treatments work better than conventional medicine.
- Alternative medicines are considered more “natural” than conventional drugs.
- Many patients choose complementary treatments to enhance their lifestyle changes. They want to feel healthy and enjoy life.
- Patients who practice holistic therapies are healthier.
- An increasing number of older adults are turning to holistic treatment.
- Complementary treatments require more research.
- Studies show that most people prefer alternative treatments to going to the doctor.
- Doctors need to be able to see that not all patients are candidates for alternative treatments.
- Holistic treatments should be part of our culture and education system.
- Holistic therapies may not be right for everyone.
- It is important to learn how to educate patients about the different treatments so they can make informed choices.
- Holistic treatments aren’t only for hippies.
- Holistic treatments cannot cure certain diseases.
- Holistic treatments can sometimes be dangerous.
- Specific conditions may benefit from holistic treatment.
- Holistic therapies are highly effective.
- Holistic treatments are based in ancient knowledge.
- Holistic treatments can be easy to learn.
- It is difficult to learn holistic treatments.
- Holistic treatments can be difficult to master.
- Holistic therapies are too expensive.
- Holistic treatments are expensive.
- Holistic treatments are less expensive than conventional medicine.
- Holistic therapies are more costly than traditional medicine.
****
Holistic Medicine – A Short History
Holistic medicine treats the whole person. It is not about treating their symptoms. It includes physical, emotional, mental, social, spiritual, occupational, environmental, cultural, and lifestyle influences. Prevention is more important than treatment and it focuses on preventing disease through diet, exercise and relaxation.
Bastyr University established the first holistic school of medicine in Seattle in 1972. After the 1996 publication of “Spontaneous Healing,” Dr. Andrew Weil’s book, holistic medicine began to take root. Dr. David Williams founded the American Holistic Medical Association, Dr. Michael Murray co-founded it in 1997. There are hundreds of holistic medicine schools all over the world, including Bastyr University in Columbia, Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons and Maharishi Ayurveda Institute.
The World Health Organization designated holistic medicine as one the five top trends in healthcare in 2013. This trend integrates conventional care with complementary therapies like homeopathy, acupuncture or herbalism, massage, therapy, reiki, yoga and meditation. This integration aims at providing safe, effective, patient centered care while minimizing costs and side effects.
Holistic medicine is based on the interconnectedness and harmony of the body, mind, spirit. An imbalance in any of these components can lead to illness. Let’s take, for instance:
Anxiety and stress can make you anxious, causing you to feel tense or out of balance. Cortisol is a hormone which increases inflammation. As a result, you feel tired, weak, and sick.
Anxiety and negative emotions can lead to anxiety, fear, grief, sadness, and other unpleasant feelings. These emotions can cause stress in the brain. If you don’t treat this stress, your body can produce adrenaline (and cortisol) if it isn’t addressed. Adrenaline increases your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and heart rate. Cortisol is a hormone that affects your immune, digestive, and nervous systems. Both hormones cause fatigue, muscle tension, headaches, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and other health problems.
You can lose your faith and hope in life if you feel depressed. You may also lack self-esteem and confidence. This could result in poor eating habits, unhealthy relationships and low energy. You feel happy, joyful, peaceful, and optimistic when your spirit is healthy.
There is a difference between alternative and allopathic medicine
Allopathic medicine is based on the scientific method. To diagnose patients, doctors use xrays, MRIs and CAT scans. If needed, they may prescribe medication or perform surgery. Allopathic doctors believe that they have a complete understanding of the human body and can treat any illnesses. Alternative medicine can be used for vitamins, minerals, diet and exercise. Alternative medicine does not have a defined definition. Alternative medicine is also known as natural medicine or integrative medicine. Others refer to it as traditional medicine, naturopathic medicine, and CAM.
Leave a Reply