by Katka Novakova, MD, (Europe), ND
The human body is an amazing dance of complex synergistic events between billions of cells, where millions of intricate reactions all happen at the same time to ensure the well being of the whole. At each moment, nutrients are being shuttled into every single cell, while toxins and byproducts of metabolism are being carried out and eliminated. When this multifarious process slows down or gets interrupted, whether by lack of important nutrients, overload of toxins, cellular dehydration, or stress, the development of disease begins.
The answer of conventional medicine is often to treat the symptoms of disease with drugs. However, adding powerful chemical compounds to an already complex system changes the rules, as the body must adjust its functions according to the effects of each drug added. Decrease in symptoms often follows. Unfortunately, this temporary relief occurs at the expense of long term healing if the underlying cause of illness has not been addressed. On top of that, many drugs deplete essential nutrients and create more toxic burden on the liver, thus deepening the original problem.
The naturopathic approach to disease is to treat the human body as a whole – for example: joint pain or asthma may be related to a sluggish digestive system or food sensitivities, heart disease is often connected with decreased liver metabolism or mineral imbalance, and allergies can be rooted in a deficiency of the adrenal glands. A naturopathic doctor will thoroughly review your medical history and also use blood work as an important diagnostic tool, since low or high normal levels often indicate subtle dysfunctions which do not allow the body to perform at 100%. Your naturopath will create an individual plan to target the underlying causes of your “dis-ease,” including the support of proper elimination and metabolic functions, as well as supplying much needed nutrients via supplements, herbs, and/or IV therapies.
If you are one of the many people who struggle to find the right medicine, experience side effects from the drugs you are prescribed, or feel an overall lack of energy, stamina, and sexual function, consider working with a naturopathic physician to help find and treat whatever is keeping you from optimal health!
This article was published in the Natural Awakenings Conscious Living Resource Directory 2011-2012