Health Diseases and Conditions

The most common health diseases and conditions in the United States are reported on a yearly basis by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Almost all of these health conditions can be treated or reversed naturally and many can be prevented altogether, with the right foresight.

Let’s look at some examples.

The CDC reports on health diseases and conditions that limit an individual’s activities. Two of the most common causes of “activity limitation” among school age children are asthma and allergies. Both of these health conditions are abnormal immune system responses to substances that normally people can tolerate.

Doctors most often prescribe steroids (cortisone, prednisone, etc.) to treat asthma. But, according to Dr. John Mills, chief of infectious diseases at San Francisco General Hospital, new research shows that steroids can do “permanent damage that is immediate and devastating”. They actually do more damage to an immune system that is already functioning poorly.

The bright side, in my opinion, is that alternative and complementary treatments can reduce or eliminate allergic reactions and asthma attacks entirely.

If you or your children suffer from either of these health conditions, you should heed your physician’s advice, but you may also want to consult a doctor of naturopathic medicine, such as myself, to get an entirely different perspective than that which is presented by orthodox medicine.

Arthritis and other health conditions that affect the joints and bones are the leading causes of limited activity among adults ages 18-64.

There are many lifestyle and dietary factors that can engender inflammation, which is at the root of arthritis. But unbeknownst to many is the fact that certain food, vitamins, botanicals, and other natural remedies that can counteract inflammation.

Ginger, garlic, turmeric, fish oil, a number of fruits and vegetables, and aloe are just some of nature's potent anti-inflammatories. Regular physical activity can also be beneficial.

The three most common health diseases and conditions among adults aged 45-74 are hypertension, high cholesterol and diabetes. Any of the three increases a person’s risk of heart and vascular disease. And like so many other conditions, they can all be controlled with proper diet, exercise, lifestyle, and well selected supplementation.

The average American diet is too high in bad or unnatural fats, like the deadly trans-fats. At the same time, the vast majority of Americans consume far too less of the good fats that they need. These latter kinds of fats come from certain plants, vegetables and fish. The bad fats raise serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels, while the good ones reduce them.

Eating salty foods is the dietary habit that most adversely influences hypertension, but other things, like drinking too much caffeine or alcohol, can also elevate one's blood pressure.

Losing weight through proper diet and increased physical activity lowers blood pressure. Massage therapy, stress management, and meditation may also prove highly beneficial.

Health conditions like diabetes also respond well to dietary and lifestyle changes. A naturopathic doctor would usually recommend a diet that is low in fat and simple carbohydrates, high in fiber, fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as specific herbs or botanicals that increase the body’s natural ability to use insulin.

Of course, there is no one dietary and lifestyle regimen that fits everyone since we are not only all biologically different, but at different levels of fitness and overall health. A good naturopathic doctor can take into account your individual circumstances and tailor an effective program.

Of the health diseases and conditions reported by adults 18 and over, lower back pain, headaches and migraines are most common. These three health conditions are often chronic and rarely respond well to medication alone.

Many things can cause lower back pain. Poorly fitted shoes, bad posture, an old or cheap mattress and excessive sitting or driving are just some examples. Headaches may be caused by stress, food sensitivities, and sinus problems, among other culprits.

Migraines are often caused by food sensitivities, but there is almost always a trigger of some sort. Identifying the causes or triggers is the most important part of treatment.

Finding the cause of health conditions, rather than just treating the symptoms, is the specialty of naturopathic doctors. Indeed, it undergirds our philosophy.

A good naturopathic doctor, in conclusion, provides advice and education about the most common health diseases and conditions so you can add years to your life, and life to your years.

Please contact me below if you are interested in the services of a naturopathic doctor. I currently practice in East Lansing and Ann Arbor, MI.

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