When do you try different approaches to problems and when do you rely on a doctor only? Being fiercely independent, I always like to think that I can manage my own health without a doctor. I have, in the past, managed to try a large number of what are called “alternative” therapies. Some have worked, some have tasted just awful, and some have not worked at all.
While I do not recommend doing anything unusual for you or your loved one, I would like to encourage some low-risk ideas to take more control of health outside the doctor’s office.
One idea relates to nutrition. Unless your loved one has some kind of reaction, drug interaction, or a certain rare disease (it is important to ask before making major dietary or exercise changes), an increase of fruits and vegetables and a decrease in highly processed foods and baked goods likely does improve overall immunity and health. Exercise, within reason and with the blessing of a doctor, is known to release natural painkillers called “endorphins,” and improve circulation and range of motion. Physical things like massage, heat or cold therapy, or even getting outside for natural light have also shown some promise for certain issues.