By Stephen T. Sinatra, M.D., F.A.C.C., F.A.C.N., C.N.S., C.B.T.
Pharmaceutical drugs, advertised everywhere on television and in print media, are widely overprescribed in the U.S. Cholesterol-lowering drugs used by men ages 20 to 44 rose by 80% over the past seven years, and almost half of all women in the same age bracket now manage a chronic condition with pharmaceutical means.1
While some individuals with acute or life-threatening conditions truly need pharmaceutical treatment, others could manage less serious conditions, like mild hypertension, cholesterol, or depression, through lifestyle changes and appropriate nutritional supplementation.
Pharmaceutical drugs relieve symptoms, not underlying causes, of diseases, and can result in secondary illnesses due to nutritional deficiencies. Appropriate supplementation can help protect against negative drug side effects.
Pharmaceutical drugs, only when necessary, should top the pyramid for health improvement and maintenance. A commitment to health-promoting lifestyle practices should comprise the foundation.
1. Jackson, W. “New Report Calls U.S. ‘Chronic Medication Nation,’” Chicago, Northwestern University Medill Reports. May 14, 2008.
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