Vitamins And Supplements
Three out of four people who go to a medical doctor have also seen an alternative health expert. Vitamins and supplements are here to stay. The majority of Americans believe diet and nutrition, vitamins and natural supplements have a positive impact on health.
Proponents of alternative medicine accuse medical doctors of knowing too little about the impact of diet and nutrition on a person's health. Only 25% of approximate eighty medical schools in America require courses in nutrition to be a licensed MD. The few schools that do, only require a few hours (less than 15) in diet and nutrition studies. The receptionist who sets appointments may know more about nutrition and its effects on health than the doctor who employs her.
*If you use supplements and/or vitamins while you are undergoing chemotherapy—keep your doctors in the loop.
We kept our daughter on a diet of organic fruits and vegetables as much as possible and I'm sure that was a factor in the healing process. We also gave her vitamins and supplements. Later we realized we should have made our doctors aware of her diet and daily supplements. Here's why:
In rare cases, certain natural herbs, vitamins and certain foods can be in conflict and inhibit the effect of drugs used in cancer therapy. Adverse reactions could occur.
One of the best sources of nutritional information is http://holisticonline.com/. Founded by Drs. Jacob and Shila Mathew, the site has a complete nutrition database. The largest herbal database on the Internet, it provides safety aspects of herbs and vitamins and their possible conflict with certain FDA drugs. Jacob Mathew holds an MBA and a PH D. His wife is an MD. The Mathews embrace natural remedies along with drugs.
Here is a sample of the information available:
"Many people have the mistaken notion that, being natural, all herbs are safe. This is not so. Very often, herbs and foods may interact with medications you normally take that result in serious side reactions. It is always a good practice to tell your doctor or health practitioners what you are taking so they can advise you of possible complications. You should also keep an eye (out) for unusual symptoms. Very often this may foretell the symptoms of a drug interaction." This Website further suggests, "Some dietary components increase the risk of side effects. Theophylline, a medication administered to treat asthma, contains xanthines, which are also found in tea, coffee, chocolate, and other sources of caffiene. Consuming large amounts of these substances while taking theophylline increases the risk of drug toxity. Certain vitamins and minerals impact on medications too. Large amounts of broccoli, spinach, and other green leafy vegetables are high in vitamin K, which promotes the formation of blood clots, can counteract the effects of heparin, warfarin, and other drugs given to prevent clotting. Dietary fiber also affects drug absorption. Pectin and other soluble fibers have a similar effect on digoxin, a major heart medication."
After my stroke, I took prescribed anticoagulant drugs. My doctor (correctly) advised me to avoid foods high in vitamin K. It is important to work closely with your doctor in these matters. The above Website will be a valuable source of information. Another great Website is hacres.com. It is dedicated to natural health, organic diets and supplements. When Rev. Malkmus learned he had colon cancer, he went on a diet of raw fruits, herbs and vegetables and completely recovered. His story is worth reading.
♦ Next, learn your parental rights when dealing with Child Protective Services and social workers.
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Updated May 29, 2010
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