Alternative medicine is a growing field for those fed up with drug-heavy, symptom-masking treatment. According to a recent survey by the CDC, about a third of Americans use alternative medicine, spending $34 billion on treatment per year. Some of these methods are unsupportable, but there is significant proof that diet, exercise and mental health can greatly affect even the deadliest diseases and allow for longer, healthier lives. This is true even for genetically influenced diseases; the field of epigenomics studies how environmental changes can change gene expression for the better, and there are even cancer treatment alternatives. Here is some basic information to get you started.
Alzheimer’s Treatment Alternatives
About 5 million Americans are currently suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. But there seems to be an epidemic getting steadily worse: Recent research shows that by 2050, almost 14 million Americans will be living with Alzheimer’s.
Heavy metals like mercury and lead have been shown to be neurotoxins associated with Alzheimer’s. Other toxins, such as pesticides, can also affect genes. Therefore, memory loss may be reduced by testing for and eliminating these toxins.
Diabetes Treatment Alternatives
One in 10 U.S. adults suffers from Type 2 diabetes. People whose diabetes is severe may depend on insulin to regulate their blood sugar levels. But less serious cases, and nearly all prediabetes, can be managed through diet and exercise. Plant foods high in fiber are known to decrease blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes can try to increase their intake of buckwheat, broccoli, fenugreek, okra and dark greens.
Some alternative medicine practitioners may also recommend supplements such as chromium or magnesium. Just be sure that you work with a doctor who is licensed and reputable.
Cancer Treatment Alternatives
Alternative therapy for cancer at alternative cancer clinics may or may not be a treatment option depending on the progression of the cancer. However, making healthier choices almost certainly has an impact on preventing the disease. There is quite a bit of evidence that a low-fat, plant-based diet reduces the risk of cancer, as does choosing organic products and cleansing the body of toxins found in pesticides.
Additionally, there are several foods cancer patients should avoid. Since most people battling cancer have acidic body chemistry, using an alkalizer such as wheatgrass (which also provides other nutrients) can be an important part of a food therapy program.
If you’re unsure about cancer treatment alternatives, alternative cancer treatment centers or any holistic medicine methods, you can always ask yourself: Even without cancer, would this increase or decrease my overall health? Improving your bodily and mental health can never hurt, and it just might save your life.
Have you used alternative treatments? Share your experience in the comments.