Pharmacists and doctors have the same goal: to help patients. But there can be tension between the two professions when it comes to prescription drugs, especially those that don’t carry a risk of addiction or overdose. Some pharmacists don’t offer certain medications because they think their availability is too limited. On the other hand, some doctors hesitate in prescribing them, as they believe these drugs aren’t necessary or have fewer benefits than risks.
Vitamin B-12 and C
When it comes to vitamin B-12, only 2 percent of American adults are deficient. Researchers estimate that 80 percent of the population consumes enough of this vitamin, and another 10 percent have too much. And yet, when it comes to vitamin C, 30 percent of adults are deficient. Vitamin B-12 is essential to maintain metabolism and the health of the nervous system.
It also helps the body produce red blood cells, which are necessary for good cardiovascular health. Many groups, including the American Heart Association, recommend B-12 supplements for adults over the age of 50 and adults with certain health conditions, including diabetes and cancer, and for adults who are vegetarian or vegan.
B-12 also helps prevent anemia in people with chronic illnesses, like cancer, as well as in people who have had their stomachs removed. Vitamin B-12 supplements can be taken orally or sublingually, under the tongue.
Omega-3 Fish Oils
Fish oils, which are high in omega-3 fatty acids, have become something of a fad supplement among doctors. A small survey of primary care physicians found that most of them prescribed omega-3 supplements to just 5 percent of their patients.
Some doctors may not be prescribing these supplements because they aren’t convinced that they’re effective or necessary. Most experts recommend omega-3 as a supplement to help lower triglyceride levels and reduce blood pressure in people with high triglyceride levels and high blood pressure. They also recommend omega-3 to help prevent heart disease.
Home Canning and Fermentation
Home canning and fermentation are two age-old ways to preserve foods. Unlike commercial methods, which involve heat and chemicals, these two methods don’t alter the food or its nutritional value. Home canning is a low-risk way to store food for an extended period. This method involves filling clean, sterile jars with your favorite healthy foods, like vegetables, beans, meats, and grains.
You then cover them in water, machine, and seal them. You can then store these jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. To can vegetables, add them to a pot of water and place the pot in your canner. Boil the jars for 10 minutes. Then, remove the jars from the pot and cool them on a counter or in the fridge. You can eat these vegetables after several weeks. Another low-risk preservation method is fermentation.
Fermentation involves adding probiotics to your food, like lactobacillus bacteria, which aids in digestion. This method can be used to preserve vegetables and fruits, like sauerkraut and kimchi, and even dairy products, like yogurt and cheese.
Lactose-Free Drugs
Many drugs, such as many antibiotics, are not broken down in the body, but rather absorbed intact and sent directly to the liver to be broken down. This is why some people, even those who are lactose-intolerant, are able to consume these products.
Some doctors may hesitate to prescribe lactose-free drugs as they don’t know if you can digest them or not. But, it’s important to note that there are lactose-free drugs for a wide range of conditions, including asthma, bacterial infections, and diabetes.
Turmeric and Ginger Teas
Turmeric is a spice that’s been used in Asian dishes for years. It’s actually a root, which is why it’s been used as a natural remedy in Indian curries and in herbal teas. And yet, doctors are only just now beginning to prescribe it as a supplement.
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory with antioxidant properties that can help prevent and treat diseases, like heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer. A small survey of primary care physicians found that most of them prescribed this supplement to just 5 percent of their patients.
And yet, many herbal medicine experts and doctors have known about the potential of this herb for years. Ginger is another powerful spice that’s been used as a natural remedy for centuries in Asian dishes. Yet, doctors aren’t prescribing this herb as a supplement.
Conclusion
Health care is complicated, and it can be difficult to determine which treatments are worth it. As an important part of your health care, you can choose to try a natural treatment or supplement. There are many benefits to incorporating these products into your routine, even if they aren’t proven to work. With so many drugs available, and many that are risk-free, it can be difficult to figure out which ones may benefit you. Natural remedies are a good place to start when looking for ways to improve your health.
