Clinical Nutrition
Nutrition and the therapeutic use of foods is the cornerstone of Naturopathic medicine. The naturopathic approach to diet and nutrition has been validated in many scientifically based professional journals on nutrition and dietary sciences. Many medical conditions can be treated effectively with expanded foods consciousness, and with fewer complications or side effects. While most medical doctors receive fewer than 20 classroom hours in clinical nutrition, Naturopathic Physicians receive more than 140 hours. In the words of Hippocrates (the father of modern medicine), “Let thy food be thy medicine and thy medicine be thy food.”
Botanical Medicine
Many plant substances can act as powerful medicines with many advantages over conventional drugs. They are highly effective in the right dosage, when used correctly with other herbs and treatments. Herbs can be prepared in many forms teas, tinctures, capsules. Scientific research is demonstrating that some plant substances have comparable effects to synthetic drugs in clinical situations. They are attractive treatment strategies for many conditions because of their benign nature offering few, if any side effects. Naturopathic doctors are extensively trained in the art and science of botanical medicine, as well they are experts in herb-drug interactions.
Nutraceutical Supplementation
Nutraceuticals are nutritional supplements primarily consisting of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, plants and sometimes animal derived substances. They are researched, developed and recommended to affect physiological shifts in many health conditions. At carefully measured therapeutic doses, these substances are potent “natural drugs” and can be administered in capsule, tablet, liquid or powder form. Many patients take randomly selected supplements that are harmful if combined inappropriately, resulting in preventable health problems and side effects, especially if accompanied with pharmaceutical drugs. It is highly advisable that anyone taking supplements consult a naturopathic doctor trained in the art of nutraceutical dosing and vitamin-drug interactions. IMS works in close collaboration with the highest quality, bioavailable and evidence-based product companies developed for our patients.
Detoxification
All detoxification choices have the same aim – providing the body with a natural way to restore a state of well-being. Over time the body builds up a large number of toxins which naturally accumulate due to eating habits, too much stress – and now more than ever – increased levels of environmental pollution, especially in metropolitan areas. Imagine painting your walls each year, applying the new color on top of last year’s old coat. Detoxification is much like clearing the paint off the walls before adding this year’s fresh and vibrant shade. It is a simple process that naturally eliminates built up poisons from your body. Please Learn More.
Counseling
Mental attitudes and emotional states are important elements in healing and disease. Naturopathic Doctors are trained in various techniques that include short-term situational counseling, couples counseling, mind-body techniques, stress management and hypnosis. Attention to this aspect of ourselves is an essential part of our overall health and well-being. Our Doctor is trained in a variety of psychological models that accommodate personal therapy through open discussion, safe emotional exploration and psychological exercises geared to resolve fear based health issues.