THE REASONS TO CHOOSE NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE:

What is Naturopathic Medicine exactly?

The term 'Naturopathic Medicine' refers to a distinct system of health care that utilizes natural methods and substances to support and stimulate the body's inherent self-healing process. As Hippocrates once stated, "The natural healing force within each one of us is the greatest force in getting well". The naturopathic practitioner views the individual as an integral whole. The symptoms of disease (i.e. low energy, headaches, etc.) are seen as warning signals of improper function and unfavorable lifestyle habits.

The primary goal is to treat the underlying cause of the disease.

Over the past decade, there has been a dramatic revival of interest in natural medicine and preventative health care. The body is designed to return to health, and by assessing diet, lifestyle, and nutritional supplementation, you can regain your energy and optimal health.

Why would you choose a Naturopathic Doctor?

People are sick and tired of being 'sick and tired'. They are becoming increasingly aware that although drugs and surgery are valuable tools, they are not always the answer. Many individuals do not feel well and yet after seeing their medical doctors, are told that the physical exams and blood tests indicate they are in perfect health. They are frustrated by health concerns that are not easily answered and are told they have to live with them. A naturopathic doctor sees an individual's symptoms as the body's way of expressing imbalances. The overall goal is to remove the cause of the illness, and thus not only alleviate the symptoms, but address why those symptoms arose initially. In supporting rather than over-riding the body's natural mechanisms, often the body will return to a healthy state if given the opportunity.

What is a Naturopathic Doctors Education?

Naturopathic doctors are registered health care professionals. Their training consists of at least three years in a science based pre-med program followed by a four-year doctorate degree from an accredited Naturopathic Medical College. Naturopathic doctors are required to complete 2 years of clinical experience and then pass extensive board exams before being granted a license to practice. They are regulated by a provincial and national association and are required to complete continuing education hours yearly to ensure they remain current. They are competent in evaluating standard medical bloodwork and diagnostic tests and although they do not use pharmaceuticals, they are trained in how they function and what the side effects are.

What can I expect in the visit?

The initial assessment consists of an in depth interview process where information such as current and prior health concerns, diet, stress, lifestyle, exercise, past illness, and environmental exposure are all integrated to identify the cause of the current symptoms being presented. Following this the patient will undergo a quick physical exam (without an internal) followed by additional testing to detect underlying causes and imbalances. The patient is the educated as to what is causing the imbalance and what is required to bring them back to a state of health. The patient's understanding and compliance are the most important components in the healing process, therefore, the visits are designed to create an atmosphere of trust and interaction to ensure the patient fully reaches their optimum potential.

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