AI platforms have been serving as virtual therapists and health advisors for the last few years. And given the shortage of mental health care providers and primary care providers, there has undoubtely been some benefit, for many, to these faceless stand-ins. News of the release of a health and wellness version of ChatGPT was the talk of the medical community last week. The platform’s landing page states that this more secure version of the original is not intended to replace medical care and should not be used to diagnose or treat medical conditions. In a medical system driven by insurance and insurance company profits, online inquiries, posed by those who are confused and overwhelmed by their health, will no doubt sometimes be interpreted as diagnosis and a plan for treatment
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Choosing a good quality multivitamin can be somewhat crazy-making! Standing in CVS or Whole Foods or Costco, staring at row upon row of bottles claiming to contain good and healthy nutrients can make anyone confused about which one to pick, how much to spend, or even if any of them are necessary!
I do not think that everyone needs to be taking a multivitamin. But, if a patient is feeling chronically fatigued, starting with a multivitamin recommendation to fill in nutritional gaps is a good first step.
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While naturopathic medicine has always had critics, evidence for and interest in holistic approaches continue to mount. In the midst of a devastating pandemic this continues to be the case. While naturopathic naysayers have previously argued that attempts to strengthen the immune system were nonsensical, recent research coming out of the University of Washington supports what NDs have long practiced – evidence based immune support, in the form of certain foods, vitamins and dietary practices – can and does make a difference in how your body resists pathogenic invaders.
As we enter flu season, with COVID-19 continuing to be a daily concern, there has never been a more important time to take immune strengthening precautions. What exactly does fortifying your immune system mean? A number of things actually.
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If you’ve left some of your holiday shopping to the last minute, here are some health inspired ideas!
One of my favorite healthy gifts is tea. There are so many different herbal combinations that can support a calm mind, a restful night of sleep or any other health concern for which your friend or family member might appreciate some botanical support. When choosing a medicinal tea, it is important to choose ones that are responsibly sourced. I recommend checking out Mountain Rose Herbs and, for a more local option, Harney and Sons. If you’re looking for a tea tasting outing, a trip to Harney and Sons’
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As we prepare for a new school year, you may be looking at your family’s supplement regimen and wondering if it needs a re-boot. This can be a great time to see your local naturopathic doctor since NDs are experts at optimizing your neutraceutical and lifestyle routines to help you prevent and treat diseases you are most at risk for. But, until you take the most personalized approach, here are some supplements you may want to consider.
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When I went through treatment for cancer almost 20 years ago, we did not have the genetic insights we do now. And, complementary care was not what it is today.
I recall a casual mention of an acupuncturist that was available to me through the cancer center. But there was no clear information about how to access her care and in the midst of feeling overwhelmed by all my other appointments, I never managed to seek out her services.
Fast forward ten years…
I am serving as one of a team of Naturopathic Doctors in an Indiana University Cancer Center as part of my residency.
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You’re considering seeing a naturopathic doctor…
But what IS naturopathic medicine?
How does it work?
What can you expect from it?
Naturopathic medicine blends centuries-old natural, non-toxic therapies with current advances in the study of health. Things like lab testing, genetics, the amazing microbiology in your gut, and how each body system affects the others in a delicate balance.
And the truth is, often people see someone like a Naturopathic Doctor when they’ve run out of options and can’t find a solution to a chronic problem.
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Let’s face it….being healthy in our world is not easy.
Then when you go see your doctor once a year you feel like you’re spending most of the time with a medical assistant.
And then maybe fifteen minutes, if you’re lucky, to ask a year’s worth of your questions about tests, hormones and dietary recommendations.
Talk about stressful!
What if you could have more support to ask your questions, understand how your body works and take charge of your health in a preventive, rather than a reactionary, approach?
What if you left the doctor’s office with a plan outlining how to address all your health cares and concerns?
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In my practice since residency, I work with patients on a variety of concerns.
But regardless of the diagnosis, with most of my patients we’re working towards empowered health and balanced wellness.
During my fellowship, I worked with a woman named Carol.* Carol had been clinically depressed for most of her life.
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