According to the September 2017 Consumer Reports cover story, Americans take more pills today than at any other time in history and more than any other country, confounding their health results and costing a lot of money. Many people are taking too many drugs prematurely that aren’t needed according to the article, frequently in response to online and television advertisements that sell sickness. The cover story suggests that patients give their drugs a check up. October 21 2017 is national ‘check your meds day’and is a good opportunity to answer the following questions: how many doctors prescribe your meds, do you also regularly take over the counter drugs or dietary supplements, do you take more than one drug to treat the same health problem, do you need a drug to control the side effects of another drug, have you been taking your medication for more than three months, and do you struggle to pay for your medications?
Apparently 35% of people taking prescription drugs say that a healthcare provider has never reviewed their medications to see if they can stop any. The article suggests that for the following 12 health problems, it is important to try lifestyle changes before drugs: ADHD, back and joint pain, dementia, mild depression, heartburn, insomnia, low testosterone, osteopenia, overactive bladder or, prediabetes, pre-hypertension, and obesity. Work with a non-drug practitioner such as a licensed chiropractor or acupuncturist to help you make lifestyle changes that will achieve results.
Yours in good health,
Acupractic* Natural Healing Center