You Belong Here

Naturopathic medicine and the world of wellness can seem exclusive in the eyes of some people. It can feel intimidating or like it’s only for people who look a certain way, speak a certain way or have specific beliefs. 

What do you picture when you think of the type of person who sees a naturopathic doctor? Do you imagine that they’re young, super thin, wearing fancy matching athletic clothes, sipping on kale smoothies throughout the day? Do you imagine that they are spending their days at yoga retreats, wearing handmade skirts and rejecting all modern science? I hope in this short article I can assure you that these stereotypes aren’t true and that naturopathic medicine is for everyone.

Most of the women I see are regular people from right here in the Greater Toronto Area. They’re moms, professionals and/or students just living normal lives. They’re interested in feeling better and getting healthier but they’re busy and need plans that are practical and can fit into their lives. I see anxious moms, overworked teachers, burnt out masters students, perimenopausal professionals - all kinds of people. I don’t want any of them to feel like they don’t belong because they do. 

Sometimes, culture comes into play and people feel like naturopathic medicine is only for certain cultures. They might think something along the lines of “our people don’t do all this wellness stuff.” I’ve heard that from people in my own culture. That’s also an incorrect stereotype. Whether your ancestors are from Europe, Asia, Africa, Latin America - anywhere - all humans have ancestors who valued nature and used food and herbs as medicine. All cultures belong. Medicine is part of the human experience - and this is especially true for natural medicine.

So the next time you feel like you don’t belong at that gym or in that health food store or at that naturopathic doctor’s office, please think again. You belong here.

Why I Became a Naturopathic Doctor

I think it all started with reality TV. Weird right? But it’s true. I actually think the concept of holistic health was first introduced to me through makeover shows on TV that I would watch as a kid and teen. I especially liked the shows that worked on a full inside-out transformation. You know, the ones that gave the lucky person new clothes, new hair and makeup and also a new diet plan, exercise routine, new daily habits and coaching for an improved mindset. I don’t even remember watching a lot of these shows but I guess the ones that I did watch left a lasting impression. They made me passionate about the idea of transformation.

In late elementary school and throughout high school I would create little “wellness” programs for myself. I never called them that at the time. It was just something fun to do for myself. I would write down goals about what healthy foods I would eat, what daily habits I wanted to incorporate, what herbal remedies I’d have and how I would exercise.

In high school and during my undergrad at the University of Toronto, I became fascinated with traditional medicine. I learned about traditional Indian (Ayurvedic) medicine on my own and I took history of medicine courses where I learned about ancient Greek and other traditional European medical systems. There was something that all of these old systems had in common: they were all holistic. They all treated “the whole person”. It wasn’t only about a single pill or formula. Although single remedies played an important role, they were incorporated into a broader plan. Dietary changes were prescribed. Daily habits and routines were organized for patients carefully. Special attention was given to optimizing sleep, improving the surrounding environment and cultivating inner tranquility. Adjustments in diet and routines were even made based on the seasons of the year. It all seemed so comforting, so soothing, healing and restorative.

But for the most part, my interest was just a hobby for me. It was just interesting stuff for me to read about, experiment with and talk about with my parents and sister. My family found these things interesting and were always supportive. My mom would let me make little health programs for her. My dad brewed up herbal concoctions and was always trying new natural remedies (and still is). My sister’s work in public health was a reminder that health and wellness is a multifaceted thing that needs to be addressed at all levels. All of their support and interest kept the passion for this field alive for me.

Then finally, during my undergrad, I was given the key to my profession. An MD with a passion for integrative medicine did a guest lecture and a course on integrative medicine at the university. Integrative medicine involves different types of health care providers working together. He mentioned naturopathic medicine a couple of times. I did some research about naturopathic medicine and quickly came to the realization that my passion wouldn’t have to remain a hobby. There was actually a profession where I could put my passion into practice. And the rest was history.

I guess the qualities of a naturopathic doctor have been wired into me for a long time. There always has been (and I think always will be) controversy surrounding the field of “complementary and alternative medicine.” As someone who loathes conflict and controversy this can make it hard at times for me to stand tall in this field. But when I remind myself of everything that pointed me in this direction, I don’t think there could be any other profession more suited for me than a naturopathic doctor.

Naturopath Insurance Coverage: Why You Should Not Waste It

Did you know that naturopathic medicine is covered by most insurance companies? Too many times my patients have found out that they have coverage just before it expires. Many wish they started making use of their coverage years ago. Before you say to yourself “I don’t need to use my naturopath coverage” read this article. I’ll give you 5 reasons why you should not let your naturopath coverage go to waste.

1. You have a health condition

Here’s an obvious reason to make use of your coverage. Naturopathic medicine has so much to offer for so many health conditions. Even if you’re already being treated, I still suggest adding a naturopath to your health care team. We can improve results and minimize side effects. With the approval of your family doctor you may even be able to come off some medications.

2. You have no health issues but want to optimize your health

Maybe you have no official health diagnosis but you still want things to be running in top form. The body is constantly giving signs that it could use a tune up. Does your energy drop more often than you like? Do you have PMS, period cramps or irregular periods? Are your bowel movements irregular or do they look unhealthy? Are you a little bloated? How’s your skin or hair? How’s your mood? Pay attention to these signs your body is giving you and reach for the best health possible.

3. You want to prevent a health condition

Prevention is the best medicine. Does something run in your family? Be proactive and use naturopathic medicine to prevent disease. If a rough season is coming up for you (like allergy season, cold/flu season, a stressful time etc.) work with a naturopath to prepare yourself for it. This will save you from needing time off work and will maximize your productivity.

4. You want to learn about your body

I find it fun to learn about my own health. It’s nice to try new things like cosmetic acupuncture, regular acupuncture or herbs. It's also good to double check that your diet is healthy according to the latest research. If you're curious about testing for certain things, we can do that too. Patients especially enjoy testing for food sensitivities and hormonal imbalances. If you love learning, use your coverage to learn as much about yourself as you can.

5. Free Consults

You may want to use your coverage, but you feel hesitant because you don’t understand what on earth naturopathic medicine is. The solution to this is simple. Book a free 15-minute consult and ask all the questions you need. A consult is not a “sales pitch” – it’s simply a question and answer period.

Many people wish they could have naturopathic medicine coverage. If you have it, don’t let it go to waste. Trust me, there is so much you can gain from it.

How can naturopathic medicine help me if I’m already on medication?

Are you taking medication? Are you wondering how natural medicine can fit into your health care? Maybe you feel that you have to choose between the non-natural way or the natural way. It does not have to be so black and white. I work with many patients who are taking medications. Below I’ll talk about the different ways I can help you even if you’re on medication.

Treating Side Effects of Medications

Sometimes medications lead to side effects. Instead of taking another medication to treat those side effects, you might want to try a natural alternative instead. For example, your medications may be causing dry mouth, migraines, nausea or bloating. Side effects like these could be treated with naturopathic medicine. Often medications deplete nutrients. This may lead to a whole range of symptoms from fatigue to mood swings. Nutrient depletion is definitely something I would take into consideration for your case.

Enhance the Good Effects of Medications

Are you experiencing some improvement with your medications but not complete relief? You may want to speak to me about natural options that can work alongside your medications to improve results. For example, I do this with patients on thyroid, blood pressure, anxiety and depression medications. I’m always careful to ensure that there are no harmful interactions with any medications.

Gradually Replace Medications (with the help of the prescribing doctor)

This option can only be done with the help of the doctor who prescribed the medication. I’ve had patients tell their family doctor that they want to wean off their medication. If their doctor feels that this is a wise choice they will work with them to gradually reduce their dose at a safe rate. I work with these patients to make the transition off medications easier. I aim to increase the chances that you'll stay healthy as you transition off.

In my mind, naturopathic medicine and conventional medicine are perfect partners. I don’t believe you have to choose one or the other. There is a place for everything. Both systems of medicine can work together to help you reach your health goals. If you have more questions about naturopathic medicine book a free 15-minute consult today.