Integrated medicine, medical and natural

 

Maybe you’ve come across the term ‘integrated medicine.’ This approach addresses the whole person – the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and environmental influences that affect the individual. Essentially it’s taking the best of both worlds; combining the latest and most appropriate conventional treatments with complementary therapies and personalising the protocols for each patient. Who wouldn’t want this?

A common and simple example of this scenario is applied to digestive complaints; a side effect of prescribed medication is affecting the gut, it’s flora, digestion and absorption. If gut function is compromised we may not be able to utilise nutrients supplied through diet. This may lead to lack of appetite, keeping us from eating healthy foods – or any food at all – leading to further serious detrimental health conditions. 

After treatment or surgery it is especially important to rebalance gut flora and get the ‘good guys’ back in, crucial for the function of the immune system long term. An estimated 80 percent of our immune cells reside in the gut so unless we support this the immune system is unlikely to cope or recover. Studies show how gut flora can enhance the effect of chemotherapy, proving that a healthy gut microbiome enhances the immune response to chemotherapy keeping pathogenic bacteria at bay.

Benefits of nutritional counselling
While many complementary therapies are shown to be helpful with medical conditions and supporting the immune system, there is united agreement that nutrition is the cornerstone of every complementary programme. 
In 2007, the World Cancer Research Fund published their second report. More than 200 scientists and experts from around the world who were involved in the project made the clear recommendation that “(all) cancer survivors (before, during and after active treatment) should receive nutritional care from an appropriate trained professional.” There are many studies clearly supporting well-nourished patients with any health challenge who have good nutritional status respond better to medical treatment. 

Choosing a therapist
A qualified nutritionist will be experienced working alongside allopathic treatment. Choose a therapist who has received a minimum of two years tertiary training at an approved institution and belongs to a nutrition association. A holistic approach and years of clinical practice experience is also recommended. A good nutritionist will tailor a programme that is right for you, on a case-by-case basis.
*This article supports the use of both medical and natural treatments for the better of the patient.

 Jan van der Lee is a Clinical Nutritionist based at Waipu Natural Health, phone 09 432 1325, or visit waipunaturalhealth.co.nz