When it comes to diets like Keto, Atkins, Mediterranean, Vegan, Carnivore, and Paleo, the debate over what humans should eat can be overwhelming. With conflicting information bombarding us from all directions, it’s no wonder that diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity are on the rise. So, what is the best approach to nutrition for optimal health and wellness?
The Myth of a One-Size-Fits-All Diet
Contrary to popular belief, there is no single, definitive diet that our ancestors followed. Research has shown that hunter-gatherers consumed a wide range of macronutrients from both plant and animal sources, depending on their environment and seasonal availability. This diversity in diet allowed them to thrive in various landscapes, from rainforests to deserts.
Unlocking the Secrets of Ancestral Diets
Our ancestors’ diets varied significantly in terms of macronutrient ratios, with protein ranging from 19% to 35%, fat from 28% to 58%, and carbs from 22% to 44%. Some populations consumed more plants than animals, while others had the opposite preference. Despite these differences, our ancestors were generally free from modern diseases, regardless of their dietary choices.
Adapting to Dietary Challenges
Human intelligence and cultural adaptations played a crucial role in acquiring and processing diverse foods. Additionally, our bodies have the ability to convert nutrients to compensate for any deficiencies in our diets. While essential nutrients must be obtained from food, our bodies have evolved mechanisms to utilize different nutrients efficiently.
The Role of Epigenetics and Nutrigenetics
Genetic adaptations over thousands of years have enabled certain populations to thrive on specific diets. However, the field of nutrigenetics is still in its early stages, with limited evidence to support its claims. Understanding how our genes interact with our diet is a complex and fascinating area of study.
Optimizing Your Nutrition
To align with our genetic design, we should focus on eliminating ultra-processed foods from our diet and consuming natural, nutrient-rich foods. Whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, meats, and nuts, provide essential micronutrients and promote overall health.
By listening to our bodies, understanding our nutritional needs, and choosing foods that make us feel good, we can optimize our health and wellness. Trusting our evolutionary instincts and focusing on whole, natural foods can lead to long-term benefits for our overall well-being.
Remember, our bodies are finely tuned machines that have evolved over millions of years. By nourishing them with the right foods and paying attention to their signals, we can unlock the secrets to a healthier life.
References:
Connor, T. 2022. “Forget the Macronutrient Ratios. Here’s Why.” The Paleo Diet. Accessed April 7, 2022. thepaleodiet.com.
Lee, R.B. DeVore, I. Wenner-Gren Foundation. 1966. Man the Hunter. Chicago: Aldine Pub. Co.
Cordain, L. Miller, J.B. Eaton, S.B. Mann, N. Holt, S.H. Speth, J.D. 2000. “Plant-animal subsistence ratios and macronutrient energy estimations in worldwide hunter-gatherer diets.” Am J Clin Nutr 71 (3): 682-692.
Ulijaszek, S.J. Mann, N. Elton, S. 2012. “Evolving Human Nutrition: implications for public health.” New York: Cambridge University Press.
Crittenden, A.N. Schnorr, S.L. 2017. “Current views on hunter-gatherer nutrition and the evolution of the human diet.” Am J Phys Anthropol 162 (S63): 84-109.
Milton, K. 2000. “Hunter-gatherer diets—a different perspective.” Am J Clin Nutr 71 (3): 665-667.
Wu, G. 2016. “Dietary protein intake and human health.” Food Funct 7 (3): 1251-1265.
The post There Is No One Paleo Diet appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is another name of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine can be described as any method of healing that is different from traditional medical practice. There are many types of alternative medicine. However, they all share the same premise: health care should be grounded in natural substances and practices, not chemical medicines.
Alternative medicine may include acupuncture, homeopathy or herbalism, naturopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, osteopathic manipulation, traditional Chinese medicine and reflexology.
Many alternative doctors claim that their therapies have improved patient satisfaction and reduced side effects. However, these assertions cannot be scientifically proven because mainstream medical authorities have largely ignored the evidence-based benefits of alternative medicine.
Is holistic health care the same as alternative medicine?
Holistic Health Care is different than Alternative Medicine because it addresses the whole person rather than just symptoms.
Holistic Health Care addresses all aspects of an individual’s life: mental, physical, psychological, spiritual, occupational, cultural and family.
Alternative Medicine doesn’t address such issues. Alternative Medicine focuses on the body, mind and emotions.
What is the Difference between Naturopathic and Holistic Medicines?
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine is based on drugs and surgery. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM is not meant to replace conventional treatment, but to help patients who are able to choose what is best for them.
Naturopathy, on the other hand is used to supplement conventional medical practices. It focuses on treating the whole body, mind, and spirit. There are many types of naturopathy. These include Ayurveda (Chinese Medicine), Traditional Native American Medicine (TNAM) and Functional Medicine.
It is important to note that some CAM modalities overlap with conventional medicine. For example, herbal remedies can be prescribed by doctors and naturopaths alike. However, naturopaths prefer lifestyle changes to prescription medications.
Naturopathy can be called “complementary” when it is used in combination with conventional medicine. Naturopaths could prescribe medication, if needed.
There are some differences in naturopathic medicine from other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths do not usually prescribe medication or diagnose illnesses.
- Naturopaths can refer patients to specialists and work with their family physician.
- The provincial licensing boards for Naturopathic physicians regulate Naturopathic physicians, while CAM practitioners can be self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and well-being while also educating about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths place a strong emphasis on lifestyle factors. These include nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep, nutrition, and mental well being.
- Naturopharmacists can use botanicals and mineral to treat specific conditions.
- Naturopodists are trained to provide individualized care based on each patient’s unique needs.
- Regulators such as the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario license Naturopaths.
- Provincial regulatory bodies license naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians are registered with the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia licenses Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners licenses Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency licenses homeopaths.
- The term “holistic” refers to the belief that all aspects of life – physical, emotional, spiritual, and social – should be considered when making decisions about one’s health. Holistic doctors will look at all of these aspects rather than just one.
What is the difference between alternative medicine and complementary medicine?
Alternative medicine refers to treatments not considered conventional by mainstream medical professionals but have been shown to provide benefits for certain conditions. You can find examples of acupuncture as homeopathy, aromatherapy or reflexology, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and even naturopathy. Complementary therapies are those treatments that go beyond conventional treatment. They can also be used with conventional medicine. These include vitamins, minerals and herbs, as well as amino acids, enzymes and probiotics.
Both types of medicine are used frequently, but many conventional doctors won’t recommend them due insufficient evidence or safety concerns.
There is no consensus among health care providers regarding the best approach to integrating CAM into patient care.
Many CAM techniques are based in theories that have been around since thousands of years. However, clinical trials over the past 20 years suggest that some of these therapies might work.
A number of studies suggest that acupuncture may be able to relieve pain. Preliminary data also show that acupuncture may help to reduce nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. Some studies have shown that acupuncture may be beneficial for irritable bowel syndrome (FBS), fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple Sclerosis, migraines, tension headaches as well as anxiety and depression.
Some CAM methods also appear to have potential therapeutic effects on diseases like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, asthma, heart disease, hypertension, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Although there is still much to learn about the effectiveness and safety of CAM, experts are unanimous in their belief that it can be used to treat various conditions.
People are increasingly turning to CAM practitioners to find relief from common ailments.
Despite its popularity, many are still confused about what “alternative” and “complementary medicine is.
Statistics
- 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)
- 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)
- 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)
- 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)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal by Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The rise and rise in complementary and alternative medicine: A sociological perspective
- PubMed: Holistic Medicine – PubMed
cam.cancer.gov
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING & TENSION-TYPE HEADADACHE – 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
How To
What are the advances and drawbacks of holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine emphasizes mind, body, spirit, environment and social factors in healing. It was created by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), whose first book, The Doctor’s Book of Mind Cure (1924), describes the process. He relied on simple techniques like visualization, meditation, and hypnosis. This treatment helped people suffering from stress, anxiety, depression, pain, insomnia, and many other diseases. This therapy can also help patients deal with their problems and improve their quality life.
Although holistic therapies are still practiced today, they have lost popularity because of the lack of evidence supporting their effectiveness. However, some studies show that these treatments can help reduce symptoms associated with chronic conditions such as asthma, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, migraine, obesity, osteoporosis, and others.
These are the highlights and pitfalls of holistic medicine:
- Lack of scientific evidence. A small number of well-designed randomized controlled trials, (RCTs), evaluate the health benefits of holistic treatments. Positive results are found in the majority of observational studies.
- Traditional medicine has a higher cost. Alternative medicines may be more affordable than traditional medicines, especially if the patient eats a healthy diet.
- Patients do not feel pressured to comply with the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors recommend complementary therapies without prescribing them.
- Holistic treatments are often combined with conventional medicine. For example, acupuncture can be used in conjunction with surgery or medication.
- Many people believe alternative therapies work better than traditional medicine.
- Alternative medicines can be considered more natural than conventional drugs.
- Many patients take complementary treatments to supplement their lifestyle changes. They not only want to live a healthy life but also want to be happy.
- Holistic treatments are more beneficial for patients.
- Holistic treatments are becoming popular among older adults.
- More research needs to be conducted on complementary treatments.
- Research has shown that many people would prefer to explore alternative treatment options before visiting a doctor.
- Doctors must understand that not everyone will benefit from alternative treatments.
- Holistic treatments should be a part of our culture, education system and society.
- Holistic treatments might not be for everyone.
- To help patients make informed decisions about treatment options, it is essential that we learn how to do so.
- Holistic therapies are not only for hippies.
- Certain diseases are not cured by holistic therapies.
- Sometimes holistic treatments can prove dangerous.
- For specific conditions, holistic treatments can be helpful.
- Holistic treatments are effective.
- Holistic treatments are based on ancient knowledge.
- Holistic treatments are easy to learn.
- Holistic treatments are difficult to learn.
- It can be hard to learn holistic therapies.
- Holistic treatments can be too costly.
- Holistic treatments are very expensive.
- Holistic therapies are more affordable than traditional medicine.
- Holistic therapies are more costly than traditional medicine.
****
Holistic Medicine–A Brief History
Holistic medicine is a method of healing that treats the whole person, not just the symptoms. Holistic medicine includes all aspects of a person’s life, including their physical, emotional, psychological, spiritual, occupational and cultural influences. Prevention is more important than treatment and it focuses on preventing disease through diet, exercise and relaxation.
Bastyr University was founded in Seattle, in 1972. Holistic medicine was born after Dr. Andrew Weil published “Spontaneous Healing” 1996. Dr. David Williams and Michael Murray established the American Holistic Medical Association (AHMA). 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.
2013 was the year holistic medicine was declared one of the five main trends in healthcare by the World Health Organization. This trend involves integrating conventional medicine with complementary therapies such acupuncture (homeopathy), herbalism, massage treatment, reiki and yoga. This integration seeks to provide safe, efficient, patient-centered care, while minimizing side effects.
Holistic medicine is based on the interconnectedness and harmony of the body, mind, spirit. Illness can occur when any one of these three components is out of balance. Here are some examples:
When your mind is anxious or stressed, you can become tense and out-of-balance. Cortisol, which is a hormone that promotes inflammation throughout the body, is what your body produces. This causes you to feel weak and tired.
Anxiety and negative emotions can lead to anxiety, fear, grief, sadness, and other unpleasant feelings. These feelings cause stress in your brain. If you don’t treat this stress, your body can produce adrenaline (and cortisol) if it isn’t addressed. Adrenaline stimulates your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate. Cortisol impacts your immune system as well as your digestive tract and nervous system. Both hormones can cause fatigue, muscle tension and headaches, as well as anxiety, depression, anxiety, dizziness, insomnia, sleeplessness, headaches, dizziness and other health problems.
When your spirit is depressed, you lose hope and faith in life. A lack of self-esteem and confidence can also lead to low self-esteem. This could result in poor eating habits, unhealthy relationships and low energy. Healthy spirits make you happy, positive, joyful, peaceful, and optimistic.
There is a difference between alternative and allopathic medicine
Allopathic medicine uses scientific methods. To diagnose patients, doctors use x-rays and MRIs as well as CAT scans and other technologies. They prescribe medications for treatment and surgery when needed. Allopathic doctors believe they are able to diagnose and treat illness. Alternative medicine can be used for vitamins, minerals, diet and exercise. There is no one standard definition for alternative medicine. People call it natural or integrative medicine. Other names include traditional medicine and naturopathic medicines.
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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: Understanding the Truth Behind the Paleo Diet
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/nutrition/there-is-no-one-paleo-diet/
Published Date: Sun, 27 Oct 2024 15:34:34 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is another name of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine can be described as any method of healing that is different from traditional medical practice. There are many types of alternative medicine. However, they all share the same premise: health care should be grounded in natural substances and practices, not chemical medicines.
Alternative medicine may include acupuncture, homeopathy or herbalism, naturopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, osteopathic manipulation, traditional Chinese medicine and reflexology.
Many alternative doctors claim that their therapies have improved patient satisfaction and reduced side effects. However, these assertions cannot be scientifically proven because mainstream medical authorities have largely ignored the evidence-based benefits of alternative medicine.
Is holistic health care the same as alternative medicine?
Holistic Health Care is different than Alternative Medicine because it addresses the whole person rather than just symptoms.
Holistic Health Care addresses all aspects of an individual’s life: mental, physical, psychological, spiritual, occupational, cultural and family.
Alternative Medicine doesn’t address such issues. Alternative Medicine focuses on the body, mind and emotions.
What is the Difference between Naturopathic and Holistic Medicines?
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine is based on drugs and surgery. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM is not meant to replace conventional treatment, but to help patients who are able to choose what is best for them.
Naturopathy, on the other hand is used to supplement conventional medical practices. It focuses on treating the whole body, mind, and spirit. There are many types of naturopathy. These include Ayurveda (Chinese Medicine), Traditional Native American Medicine (TNAM) and Functional Medicine.
It is important to note that some CAM modalities overlap with conventional medicine. For example, herbal remedies can be prescribed by doctors and naturopaths alike. However, naturopaths prefer lifestyle changes to prescription medications.
Naturopathy can be called “complementary” when it is used in combination with conventional medicine. Naturopaths could prescribe medication, if needed.
There are some differences in naturopathic medicine from other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths do not usually prescribe medication or diagnose illnesses.
- Naturopaths can refer patients to specialists and work with their family physician.
- The provincial licensing boards for Naturopathic physicians regulate Naturopathic physicians, while CAM practitioners can be self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and well-being while also educating about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths place a strong emphasis on lifestyle factors. These include nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep, nutrition, and mental well being.
- Naturopharmacists can use botanicals and mineral to treat specific conditions.
- Naturopodists are trained to provide individualized care based on each patient’s unique needs.
- Regulators such as the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario license Naturopaths.
- Provincial regulatory bodies license naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians are registered with the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia licenses Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners licenses Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency licenses homeopaths.
- The term “holistic” refers to the belief that all aspects of life – physical, emotional, spiritual, and social – should be considered when making decisions about one’s health. Holistic doctors will look at all of these aspects rather than just one.
What is the difference between alternative medicine and complementary medicine?
Alternative medicine refers to treatments not considered conventional by mainstream medical professionals but have been shown to provide benefits for certain conditions. You can find examples of acupuncture as homeopathy, aromatherapy or reflexology, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and even naturopathy. Complementary therapies are those treatments that go beyond conventional treatment. They can also be used with conventional medicine. These include vitamins, minerals and herbs, as well as amino acids, enzymes and probiotics.
Both types of medicine are used frequently, but many conventional doctors won’t recommend them due insufficient evidence or safety concerns.
There is no consensus among health care providers regarding the best approach to integrating CAM into patient care.
Many CAM techniques are based in theories that have been around since thousands of years. However, clinical trials over the past 20 years suggest that some of these therapies might work.
A number of studies suggest that acupuncture may be able to relieve pain. Preliminary data also show that acupuncture may help to reduce nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. Some studies have shown that acupuncture may be beneficial for irritable bowel syndrome (FBS), fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple Sclerosis, migraines, tension headaches as well as anxiety and depression.
Some CAM methods also appear to have potential therapeutic effects on diseases like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, asthma, heart disease, hypertension, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Although there is still much to learn about the effectiveness and safety of CAM, experts are unanimous in their belief that it can be used to treat various conditions.
People are increasingly turning to CAM practitioners to find relief from common ailments.
Despite its popularity, many are still confused about what “alternative” and “complementary medicine is.
Statistics
- 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)
- 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)
- 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)
- 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)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal by Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The rise and rise in complementary and alternative medicine: A sociological perspective
- PubMed: Holistic Medicine – PubMed
cam.cancer.gov
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING & TENSION-TYPE HEADADACHE – 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
How To
What are the advances and drawbacks of holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine emphasizes mind, body, spirit, environment and social factors in healing. It was created by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), whose first book, The Doctor’s Book of Mind Cure (1924), describes the process. He relied on simple techniques like visualization, meditation, and hypnosis. This treatment helped people suffering from stress, anxiety, depression, pain, insomnia, and many other diseases. This therapy can also help patients deal with their problems and improve their quality life.
Although holistic therapies are still practiced today, they have lost popularity because of the lack of evidence supporting their effectiveness. However, some studies show that these treatments can help reduce symptoms associated with chronic conditions such as asthma, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, migraine, obesity, osteoporosis, and others.
These are the highlights and pitfalls of holistic medicine:
- Lack of scientific evidence. A small number of well-designed randomized controlled trials, (RCTs), evaluate the health benefits of holistic treatments. Positive results are found in the majority of observational studies.
- Traditional medicine has a higher cost. Alternative medicines may be more affordable than traditional medicines, especially if the patient eats a healthy diet.
- Patients do not feel pressured to comply with the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors recommend complementary therapies without prescribing them.
- Holistic treatments are often combined with conventional medicine. For example, acupuncture can be used in conjunction with surgery or medication.
- Many people believe alternative therapies work better than traditional medicine.
- Alternative medicines can be considered more natural than conventional drugs.
- Many patients take complementary treatments to supplement their lifestyle changes. They not only want to live a healthy life but also want to be happy.
- Holistic treatments are more beneficial for patients.
- Holistic treatments are becoming popular among older adults.
- More research needs to be conducted on complementary treatments.
- Research has shown that many people would prefer to explore alternative treatment options before visiting a doctor.
- Doctors must understand that not everyone will benefit from alternative treatments.
- Holistic treatments should be a part of our culture, education system and society.
- Holistic treatments might not be for everyone.
- To help patients make informed decisions about treatment options, it is essential that we learn how to do so.
- Holistic therapies are not only for hippies.
- Certain diseases are not cured by holistic therapies.
- Sometimes holistic treatments can prove dangerous.
- For specific conditions, holistic treatments can be helpful.
- Holistic treatments are effective.
- Holistic treatments are based on ancient knowledge.
- Holistic treatments are easy to learn.
- Holistic treatments are difficult to learn.
- It can be hard to learn holistic therapies.
- Holistic treatments can be too costly.
- Holistic treatments are very expensive.
- Holistic therapies are more affordable than traditional medicine.
- Holistic therapies are more costly than traditional medicine.
****
Holistic Medicine–A Brief History
Holistic medicine is a method of healing that treats the whole person, not just the symptoms. Holistic medicine includes all aspects of a person’s life, including their physical, emotional, psychological, spiritual, occupational and cultural influences. Prevention is more important than treatment and it focuses on preventing disease through diet, exercise and relaxation.
Bastyr University was founded in Seattle, in 1972. Holistic medicine was born after Dr. Andrew Weil published “Spontaneous Healing” 1996. Dr. David Williams and Michael Murray established the American Holistic Medical Association (AHMA). 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.
2013 was the year holistic medicine was declared one of the five main trends in healthcare by the World Health Organization. This trend involves integrating conventional medicine with complementary therapies such acupuncture (homeopathy), herbalism, massage treatment, reiki and yoga. This integration seeks to provide safe, efficient, patient-centered care, while minimizing side effects.
Holistic medicine is based on the interconnectedness and harmony of the body, mind, spirit. Illness can occur when any one of these three components is out of balance. Here are some examples:
When your mind is anxious or stressed, you can become tense and out-of-balance. Cortisol, which is a hormone that promotes inflammation throughout the body, is what your body produces. This causes you to feel weak and tired.
Anxiety and negative emotions can lead to anxiety, fear, grief, sadness, and other unpleasant feelings. These feelings cause stress in your brain. If you don’t treat this stress, your body can produce adrenaline (and cortisol) if it isn’t addressed. Adrenaline stimulates your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate. Cortisol impacts your immune system as well as your digestive tract and nervous system. Both hormones can cause fatigue, muscle tension and headaches, as well as anxiety, depression, anxiety, dizziness, insomnia, sleeplessness, headaches, dizziness and other health problems.
When your spirit is depressed, you lose hope and faith in life. A lack of self-esteem and confidence can also lead to low self-esteem. This could result in poor eating habits, unhealthy relationships and low energy. Healthy spirits make you happy, positive, joyful, peaceful, and optimistic.
There is a difference between alternative and allopathic medicine
Allopathic medicine uses scientific methods. To diagnose patients, doctors use x-rays and MRIs as well as CAT scans and other technologies. They prescribe medications for treatment and surgery when needed. Allopathic doctors believe they are able to diagnose and treat illness. Alternative medicine can be used for vitamins, minerals, diet and exercise. There is no one standard definition for alternative medicine. People call it natural or integrative medicine. Other names include traditional medicine and naturopathic medicines.
