NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTATION

I often advise supplementation as part of my treatment plan.  There are several reasons I may recommend a regimen of vitamins, minerals, and herbs.  Many health problems are related to a deficiency in one or more nutrients that should be found in our customary diets but may not be.  Unfortunately, because of modern farming practices, our soils have  become depleted of valuable nutrients or our fruits and vegetables may not be allowed to ripen properly; therefore our food may not contain their optimal nutritional value.  In addition, cigarettes, alcohol, white sugar, and emotional stress, as well as pesticides, additives, and hormones can create stress on the body and deplete it of valuable nutrients.  The first organ system that emotional stress affects is the digestive tract, meaning a person may not be effectively absorbing the foods he or she eats.  The aging process also has an effect on the digestive tract, especially the HCL in the stomach.  The organs of elimination, such as the liver and kidneys may also need some assistance in their detoxification process.

I may also recommend nutritional supplementation as a natural alternative or adjunct to medication.  For example, Vit. B 5 has been shown to have a soothing effect on allergic responses.  Anti-oxidants, such as Vit. C, can be used to decrease allergic reactions as well as promote healing and act as anti-inflammatories.  Vit. B6 may be recommended for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.  Vit. E  can benefit the heart and circulatory system.  It is recommended by most medical practitioners that women over 40 supplement their diets with calcium and other nutrients to prevent osteoporosis.  Many medical practitioners also recommend Glucosamine and/or Chondroitin ( often with MSM ) for arthritis.

You may or may not experience an immediate effect with recommended supplements.  These supplements are supporting the body to heal itself, and this may be subtle and may take time.  You should, however, experience results within 2-3 months.  Herbs and other specific nutrients I may suggest are usually recommended for a limited amount of time.  Please inform me of any untoward effects you may experience taking the nutrients suggested.  Also please keep me informed if you wish to continue any of these supplements on a long term basis.  Some herbs, such as echinacea, are designed for only short term use.  I never suggest that my patients discontinue their prescribed medications.  If you are taking any medications,  I suggest that you take any supplements or herbs that I recommend two hours separately from your allopathic medications.  I recommend that if you are beginning a regimen of Chinese herbs, that you start with a third of the recommended dose and gradually build it up.  Please let your doctor know what you are taking.

I  do recommend to my patients that they take a good multi-vitamin/mineral supplement on a regular basis. 

I also usually recommend  bone building and hormone balancing programs for post menopausal women.  

            
  Bonnie McLean D.O.M., A.P.