Page 21 - Forest Hill Lifestyle Magazine March 2022

The Benefits of Working with a Naturopathic Doctor
Continued from Page 20
Naturopathic doctors must successfully complete standardized North American licensing exams and maintain ongoing continuing education. This rigorous training and regulation differentiates naturopathic doctors from other naturopaths or natural medicine doctors.
Furthermore, naturopathic medical training uniquely integrates scientific studies of natural medicine efficacy and safety, with knowledge of pharmacology and drug interactions. This allows naturopathic doctors to create safe and effective treatment protocols suitable for all patients, including those who may be currently taking prescription medications.
Who should see a
Naturopathic Doctor ?
Naturopathic medicine is beneficial for individuals of all ages and can help treat a variety of health concerns. Conditions that can be treated by naturopathic doctors include, but are not limited to: digestive issues, anxiety, depression, fatigue and stress, sleep problems, hormone imbalances, women’s health concerns (PMS; menopause), thyroid conditions, fertility and pre-natal care, weight loss, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, allergies, skin conditions, arthritis, sports injuries, headaches, disorders of the immune system, infections, and more!
It is the approach, philosophy, and training of naturopathic doctors that sets them apart from other kinds of health care practitioners. They are not only doctors, they are also healthcare educators, empowering their patients with the knowledge and tools to make informed choices and reclaim responsibility for their health. Additionally, naturopathic
doctors are able to spend more time with their patients and appointments are typically longer in duration. This allows them to provide patients with a greater understanding of the disease process, answer all your burning health questions, as well as explain diagnostic testing and treatment options.
There are many times people will seek out a naturopathic doctor when all other avenues have failed to provide relief and restore health. Naturopathic medicine is often successful at treating chronic conditions that do not respond to conventional medicine, including fatigue, pain, sleep disturbances, and digestive disorders. Naturopathic medicine can also complement and support conventional medicine, by minimizing side effects of drugs or surgery, and replenishing nutrient deficiencies caused by certain medications. In fact, many naturopathic doctors work closely with medical doctors to provide integrative care to their patients so they can get the best of both worlds.
Some individuals specifically seek out naturopathic doctors for access to advanced laboratory and diagnostic tests, some of which are not available through conventional medical doctors. As primary health care providers, naturopathic doctors are able to provide an array of tests from routine blood work, to food sensitivity and hormone testing. These laboratory measures help identify the root causes of illness and establish effective treatment protocols.
And finally, anyone who is looking to prevent disease and wants to feel their best can benefit from seeing a naturopathic doctor. One is never too old or too young to enjoy optimal health, be at the peak of their performance, and be full of energy.
is article was written by Dr. Jacqui Zins, Naturopathic Doctor at Higher Health Naturopathic Centre & IV Lounge in North Toronto. She also practices at the Markham Village Naturopathic Clinic in Markham. Dr. Jacqui has a general family practice and accepts patients with many different health concerns. She has a special interest in digestive issues and mental health including stress, anxiety, mood disorders, sleep problems, and fatigue or low energy.
By combining the latest in evidence-based research, clinical expertise, and compassionate patient care, Dr. Jacqui strives to maximize your health and overall wellbeing.
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