As one of the leading causes of pain and discomfort across all age groups, migraine headaches can lead to debilitating effects that may impact your day-to-day activities. These headaches are typically associated with abnormal sensitivity to pain, impaired regulation of blood vessels, and inflammation. Although many, the wide selection of allopathic treatment options available only provide temporary relief and may come with a hefty amount of side effects that will put your overall health at risk. This wide variety may put you in a dilemma on which medication is most effective in relieving your symptoms, diverting focus away from the main issue: over-the-counter and prescription medications only relieve your discomfort temporarily and do not target the root cause of the problem. Owing to such uncertainty, it is crucial to explore a different approach that is effective, cost-efficient, and without added risks to long-term health. Butterbur (Petasites hybridus), feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium), and ginger (Zingiber officinale), are a handful of herbs proven and tested throughout history to manage and prevent migraine headaches.
Understanding Migraines
Migraine attacks are long-term and recurrent causes of moderate to severe headaches typically occurring on one side of the head, which has been attributed to reduced productivity and well-being. Migraines are believed to have been caused by the activation of the trigeminovascular pathway, which sends signals to the brain. When activated, peptides which dilate blood vessels, cause inflammation to the outer covering of your brain, and modulate pain are released, ultimately triggering a migraine attack. Allopathic treatment options are set to provide quick relief from pain and other migraine-related symptoms, restore functional capability, and prevent recurrence of your migraine attacks. Despite such claims, this treatment approach may impose detrimental effects on your overall health in the long run as its use has been associated with vision changes, cognitive decline, organ damage, and relapse within 48 hours after experiencing relief!
Herbs in History
Botanical medicine has been used for centuries across cultures to manage mild and severe forms of ailments, relying on the healing power of nature for optimal health. Various plants with healing properties have been used by the oldest civilizations to effectively manage different conditions and symptoms. Various Asian traditional medicine systems have used ginger for over 5000 years to manage disease! When properly integrated with the identification and elimination of your personal triggers, butterbur, ginger, and feverfew are effective in not only preventing and managing acute attacks, but also in totally relieving your burden of migraine headaches.
Mechanism of Action
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Helps Reduce Cravings |
GLP-1 Boosting Probiotic |
Healthy Glucose Levels |
The Naturopathic Approach
Rather than limiting yourself to taking GLP-1 agonists for weight loss and experiencing its adverse health effects just to achieve your weight goals, naturopathic care offers a natural and holistic approach that nurtures your health without forcing the body past its own healthy, desired weight. Intuitive eating practices offer a revolutionary change towards your eating habits by helping you listen to your body’s natural cues on when to eat and stop eating. Herbs like ginger (Zingiber officinale), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), and bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.), can help naturally increase GLP-1 secretion, so our team will work with these natural remedies to manage blood sugar and increase insulin sensitivity.
At Natural Path to Wellness, we will help you explore herbal medications, supplementations, and mind-body practices that will not only help you achieve a healthy body weight, but also promote healthier eating and lifestyle habits for long-term stability. Talk to us today!
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Collins L, Costello RA. Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; February 29, 2024.
- Popoviciu MS, Păduraru L, Yahya G, Metwally K, Cavalu S. Emerging Role of GLP-1 Agonists in Obesity: A Comprehensive Review of Randomised Controlled Trials. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(13):10449. Published 2023 Jun 21. doi:10.3390/ijms241310449
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a neurological problem that affects your muscles, causing them to be frail and weak. This is caused by a reduced number of acetylcholine receptors that receive signals in your neuromuscular junction due to damage caused by an impaired immune system, where your very own immune response attacks these fundamental structures instead of protecting them from harm.4 Because this disease targets the control center of your body, it is important to incorporate natural and holistic care that will not only help you achieve remission, but also nurture your optimal health.
Understanding Myasthenia Gravis
Acetylcholine, a vital hormone in transmitting responses throughout your nervous system, is constantly being synthesized and stored at special sites in your neuromuscular junction (the area where your neurons communicate and interact with your muscles to deliver signals towards and from the brain). Acetylcholine binds with its receptors to open up channels within the cell, facilitating the entry of essential minerals, such as sodium, to trigger a series of action potentials leading to muscle contraction. In people with myasthenia gravis, the number of acetylcholine receptors are not substantial enough to efficiently regulate these processes, thereby causing weakness due to impaired muscle contractions.4
Signs and Symptoms
Myasthenia gravis typically affects women more than men, especially those in their twenties and thirties. People with MG experience weakness and fatigue which worsens with persistent muscle use throughout the day. However, these symptoms are relieved with sleep or rest. Your eye muscles are typically affected first, causing you to experience double vision (diplopia) or droopy eyelids (ptosis). As the condition progresses, you may have facial weakness that will show up as an aggressive or snarling expression every time you try to smile. You may also have problems with chewing for longer periods of time or have difficulty swallowing due to weak oral muscles. Once your speech muscles become affected, your voice quality may change and become mushy. Limb muscles may be affected in some people with myasthenia gravis, leading to proximal and symmetric weakness. Severe cases of myasthenia gravis may lead to a crisis, where your weakness can cause difficulty breathing and even lead to respiratory failure.
Allopathic Options
Myasthenia gravis is conventionally managed with steroids to suppress your immune system and anticholinesterase medications to inhibit acetylcholinesterase, which is an enzyme that degrades acetylcholine. Steroids are used to depress your immune system, thereby preventing its activation and attack on your brain. Myasthenia gravis may also be secondary to a thymoma, which is a tumor in the thymus that produces antibodies attacking acetylcholine receptors in the brain.1 Removal of the thymus may be beneficial in people with tumors present in this organ.
The Naturopathic Approach
Naturopathic care for myasthenia gravis focuses on regulating your immune response by addressing the root cause behind why your immune system attacks your own body. These may include holistic counseling sessions, lifestyle modifications, herbal medications, and nutrient supplementation.
Holistic Counseling
The reason behind autoimmune dysfunction is not only limited to the physical domain of health, an imbalance in your emotional, mental, spiritual, or environmental health can also trigger an autoimmune reaction that precipitates the development of myasthenia gravis. This means that your immune system can attack your body because of a psychological strain! As optimal health is a state of holistic well-being and not just the absence of physical disease, holistic counselling can be beneficial in determining and targeting different phenomena that may affect your overall health.
Regular Exercise and Physical Activity
Since myasthenia gravis primarily causes fatigability in your muscles, exercise is an effective way to nurture muscle strength and endurance.1 Exercise also helps improve your work of breathing by improving the strength of your respiratory muscles.
Botanical Medicine
Remedies from nature may be safe and effective adjuncts to your current medication regimens. In fact, the medication you are currently using today may have been developed through studying how medicinal plants work! Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is especially beneficial when you have myasthenia gravis because it protects your brain from degeneration.2 This herb is rich in antioxidants and immunomodulating properties which help maintain a healthy and protective environment within the brain! Aside from ginseng, our team at Natural Path to Wellness will help you discover the best herbal remedies for your case and preferences, talk to us to learn more!
Holistic Counseling
The reason behind autoimmune dysfunction is not only limited to the physical domain of health, an imbalance in your emotional, mental, spiritual, or environmental health can also trigger an autoimmune reaction that precipitates the development of myasthenia gravis. This means that your immune system can attack your body because of a psychological strain! As optimal health is a state of holistic well-being and not just the absence of physical disease, holistic counselling can be beneficial in determining and targeting different phenomena that may affect your overall health.
Regular Exercise and Physical Activity
Since myasthenia gravis primarily causes fatigability in your muscles, exercise is an effective way to nurture muscle strength and endurance.1 Exercise also helps improve your work of breathing by improving the strength of your respiratory muscles.
Botanical Medicine
Remedies from nature may be safe and effective adjuncts to your current medication regimens. In fact, the medication you are currently using today may have been developed through studying how medicinal plants work! Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is especially beneficial when you have myasthenia gravis because it protects your brain from degeneration.2 This herb is rich in antioxidants and immunomodulating properties which help maintain a healthy and protective environment within the brain! Aside from ginseng, our team at Natural Path to Wellness will help you discover the best herbal remedies for your case and preferences, talk to us to learn more!
Nutrient Supplementation
Supplementing your diet with essential vitamins and minerals can help nurture your body’s natural abilities to heal and protect itself. Vitamin D, in particular, can have powerful benefits in people with myasthenia gravis by exerting immunomodulatory effects and nurturing muscle function.3 On the other hand, vitamin B12 supplementation can help nurture healthy nerves! Nutrient supplementation, however, can only work when needed and when combined with supportive therapies that address the root cause of autoimmune dysfunction.
Supplementing your diet with essential vitamins and minerals can help nurture your body’s natural abilities to heal and protect itself. Vitamin D, in particular, can have powerful benefits in people with myasthenia gravis by exerting immunomodulatory effects and nurturing muscle function.3 On the other hand, vitamin B12 supplementation can help nurture healthy nerves! Nutrient supplementation, however, can only work when needed and when combined with supportive therapies that address the root cause of autoimmune dysfunction.
Nurturing Your Brain Health
Myasthenia gravis can cause debilitating effects when not adequately managed. Since the disease targets the neuromuscular junction, which is responsible for maintaining the connection between your brain and muscles, its progression can affect your everyday activities, senses, and breathing (in worst cases). Therefore, managing myasthenia gravis through holistic integrative care is important. This type of approach does not rely on conventional medications for symptom management. Instead, it targets the root cause of autoimmune dysfunction to help your body regain and nurture its inherent ability to heal itself.
Curious to learn more? Talk to us today!
Curious to learn more? Talk to us today!
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Huang EJ, Wu MH, Wang TJ, Huang TJ, Li YR, Lee CY. Myasthenia Gravis: Novel Findings and Perspectives on Traditional to Regenerative Therapeutic Interventions. Aging Dis. 2023;14(4):1070-1092. Published 2023 Aug 1. doi:10.14336/AD.2022.1215
- Kim KH, Lee D, Lee HL, Kim CE, Jung K, Kang KS. Beneficial effects of Panax ginseng for the treatment and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases: past findings and future directions. J Ginseng Res. 2018;42(3):239-247. doi:10.1016/j.jgr.2017.03.011
- Zhang T, Zhong J, Ji X, Sun J, Cui Y, Wang S. Vitamin D add on the standard treatment for myasthenia gravis symptoms following total gastrectomy: a case report. BMC Neurol. 2024;24(1):188. Published 2024 Jun 5. doi:10.1186/s12883-024-03687-z
- Dresser L, Wlodarski R, Rezania K, Soliven B. Myasthenia Gravis: Epidemiology, Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations. J Clin Med. 2021;10(11):2235. Published 2021 May 21. doi:10.3390/jcm10112235
Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland is unable to sufficiently produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormones that are needed to regulate different processes within the body. The most famous culprit behind hypothyroidism all over the world is iodine deficiency, which can be preventable through proper supplementation of this vital mineral in the diet. However, the most common causes of an underactive thyroid gland in the United States, as well as most industrialized nations, are autoimmune disorders and treatments of hyperthyroidism.5
Understanding Hypothyroidism
Your thyroid gland plays a vital role in producing hormones that regulate your body’s metabolic rate, energy, growth, and tissue development. To make sure it produces adequate amount of hormones (thyroxine and triiodothyronine), your hypothalamus regulates the thyroid gland’s activity through releasing thyrotrophin-releasing hormone (TRH) which activates thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in the pituitary gland to kickstart thyroid hormone production.6 Once sufficient hormone levels are produced, your thyroid gland actually inhibits the production of TRH in the hypothalamus!6 This is one of the wonderful mechanisms present in the body to make sure optimal amounts of hormones are present and prevent excess or deficient hormone levels, which can do more harm than good. In order to create thyroid hormones, your thyroid gland needs tyrosine and iodine. This is precisely why iodine deficiency can also lead to hypothyroidism, since your thyroid gland lacks a vital element it needs to create thyroid hormones.
Types of Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs due to different factors and can affect anyone, even newborns! The most common types of hypothyroidism include:
Congenital Hypothyroidism
Newborns and infants are not immune to hypothyroidism, especially when their mothers were previously diagnosed with hyperthyroidism or were able to receive antithyroid medications during pregnancy. Problems with the connection between the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis or hormones that are regulated by this pathway can cause hypothyroidism in children. Abnormal development of the thyroid gland while in the mother’s womb or impaired abilities of the baby to synthesize and process thyroid hormones may also lead to hypothyroidism.7 Babies with hypothyroidism may have feeding problems, delayed bone growth and development, yellowing of the skin (jaundice), neurodevelopmental delays, and enlarged tongue.7 Additionally, children with hypothyroidism are at risk of developing heart problems and malformations. This serves as a reminder to women with thyroid problems who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant to take care of their health, regulate their thyroid hormones, and talk to their healthcare providers and naturopathic doctors on the best holistic practices to nurture their health and baby’s well-being.
Autoimmune Hypothyroidism
Autoimmune hypothyroidism has two subtypes: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and atrophic thyroiditis. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the more common type and is typically associated with a goiter (neck mass). Autoimmune hypothyroidism occurs when white blood cells, especially lymphocytes, attack the thyroid gland and destroy thyroid follicles that produce your very own thyroid hormones.5 This eventually leads to the formation of scar tissue (fibrosis) and decreased thyroid hormone levels. Take note: this doesn’t happen overnight! Your body has wonderful abilities to fight off this imbalance and attempt to compensate through increasing the levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in the pituitary gland! To learn more about Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, signs and symptoms you should take note of, and the best natural approaches to manage it, we have the perfect blog post for you!
Newborns and infants are not immune to hypothyroidism, especially when their mothers were previously diagnosed with hyperthyroidism or were able to receive antithyroid medications during pregnancy. Problems with the connection between the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis or hormones that are regulated by this pathway can cause hypothyroidism in children. Abnormal development of the thyroid gland while in the mother’s womb or impaired abilities of the baby to synthesize and process thyroid hormones may also lead to hypothyroidism.7 Babies with hypothyroidism may have feeding problems, delayed bone growth and development, yellowing of the skin (jaundice), neurodevelopmental delays, and enlarged tongue.7 Additionally, children with hypothyroidism are at risk of developing heart problems and malformations. This serves as a reminder to women with thyroid problems who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant to take care of their health, regulate their thyroid hormones, and talk to their healthcare providers and naturopathic doctors on the best holistic practices to nurture their health and baby’s well-being.
Autoimmune Hypothyroidism
Autoimmune hypothyroidism has two subtypes: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and atrophic thyroiditis. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the more common type and is typically associated with a goiter (neck mass). Autoimmune hypothyroidism occurs when white blood cells, especially lymphocytes, attack the thyroid gland and destroy thyroid follicles that produce your very own thyroid hormones.5 This eventually leads to the formation of scar tissue (fibrosis) and decreased thyroid hormone levels. Take note: this doesn’t happen overnight! Your body has wonderful abilities to fight off this imbalance and attempt to compensate through increasing the levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in the pituitary gland! To learn more about Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, signs and symptoms you should take note of, and the best natural approaches to manage it, we have the perfect blog post for you!
Signs and Symptoms
People with hypothyroidism may experience fatigue, weakness, unintentional weight gain, constipation, dry skin, and intolerance to cold.1 However, symptoms may vary depending on your age, thyroid hormone levels, and sex. In fact, older people with hypothyroidism can have fewer symptoms or experience no symptoms at all!1
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Risk Factors
Stress
Stress triggers the release of noradrenaline and cortisol, which are hormones that help your body cope up with the increasing demand to maintain balance within. Unfortunately, these hormones can suppress the secretion of your TSH, thereby causing dysfunction in the thyroid gland.3
Iodine Deficiency
The food you eat everyday can actually affect your risks of developing hypothyroidism. Particularly, iodine deficiency has been the leading culprit of hypothyroidism worldwide since millions of people do not get sufficient amounts of iodine in the diet.1 As previously mentioned, iodine is an important element in thyroid hormone synthesis. Hence, lack of this essential element disrupts the essential process in creating thyroid hormones.
One important source of dietary iodine is seaweed and seafood. In the U.S., many people became iodine-deficient due to lacking a diverse diet that included these foods. Because of this, our regular table salt is supplemented with iodine. This means that, more than likely, if you are cooking with standard table salt, or eat a lot of restaurant or processed food, you will not need additional iodine. If, however, most of your foods are cooked at home with mineral-rich sea salt or Himalayan salt, and you are not eating seaweed and seafood regularly, you should ask your health team if you need to supplement since iodine is typically not added to these kinds of salt.
Selenium
Aside from iodine, selenium is another important element that helps convert thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3), which is the active form of thyroid hormone that is used up by your cells.2 Once selenium levels in the body are low, this process cannot be facilitated effectively, and your cells will not be able to receive adequate levels of active thyroid hormones for growth and energy.
One natural source of selenium is the Brazil nut!4 Traditionally, just 3 Brazil nuts per day was sufficient to supplement your needed selenium; however, mono-cropping and other big-food-industry changes have led to the soil being stripped of much of the selenium the tree needs to create selenium-rich nuts. Because of this, your naturopathic doctor may make a recommendation to use a selenium supplement with a standardized dose, rather than relying on Brazil nuts with unstable levels. However, for many people, especially those without autoimmunity, the Brazil nut is still a wonderful source and will typically provide sufficient selenium.
Medications
Certain medications can affect your thyroid hormone levels and increase your risks of developing hypothyroidism. Amiodarone, which is a medication used to regulate heart rate in people with cardiac problems, can cause damage to your thyroid gland. This medication can cause iodine overload, which can block the synthesis of your thyroid hormones.1 You might be wondering why this can happen knowing iodine is needed to synthesize thyroid hormones. The answer is: your body also cuts off thyroid hormone production when too much iodine is present to maintain optimal thyroid hormone levels!1 This helps nurture balance within. Additionally, medications used to manage epilepsy, such as carbamazepine and valproate, can decrease thyroid hormone levels and eventually cause hypothyroidism.8
Stress triggers the release of noradrenaline and cortisol, which are hormones that help your body cope up with the increasing demand to maintain balance within. Unfortunately, these hormones can suppress the secretion of your TSH, thereby causing dysfunction in the thyroid gland.3
Iodine Deficiency
The food you eat everyday can actually affect your risks of developing hypothyroidism. Particularly, iodine deficiency has been the leading culprit of hypothyroidism worldwide since millions of people do not get sufficient amounts of iodine in the diet.1 As previously mentioned, iodine is an important element in thyroid hormone synthesis. Hence, lack of this essential element disrupts the essential process in creating thyroid hormones.
One important source of dietary iodine is seaweed and seafood. In the U.S., many people became iodine-deficient due to lacking a diverse diet that included these foods. Because of this, our regular table salt is supplemented with iodine. This means that, more than likely, if you are cooking with standard table salt, or eat a lot of restaurant or processed food, you will not need additional iodine. If, however, most of your foods are cooked at home with mineral-rich sea salt or Himalayan salt, and you are not eating seaweed and seafood regularly, you should ask your health team if you need to supplement since iodine is typically not added to these kinds of salt.
Selenium
Aside from iodine, selenium is another important element that helps convert thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3), which is the active form of thyroid hormone that is used up by your cells.2 Once selenium levels in the body are low, this process cannot be facilitated effectively, and your cells will not be able to receive adequate levels of active thyroid hormones for growth and energy.
One natural source of selenium is the Brazil nut!4 Traditionally, just 3 Brazil nuts per day was sufficient to supplement your needed selenium; however, mono-cropping and other big-food-industry changes have led to the soil being stripped of much of the selenium the tree needs to create selenium-rich nuts. Because of this, your naturopathic doctor may make a recommendation to use a selenium supplement with a standardized dose, rather than relying on Brazil nuts with unstable levels. However, for many people, especially those without autoimmunity, the Brazil nut is still a wonderful source and will typically provide sufficient selenium.
Medications
Certain medications can affect your thyroid hormone levels and increase your risks of developing hypothyroidism. Amiodarone, which is a medication used to regulate heart rate in people with cardiac problems, can cause damage to your thyroid gland. This medication can cause iodine overload, which can block the synthesis of your thyroid hormones.1 You might be wondering why this can happen knowing iodine is needed to synthesize thyroid hormones. The answer is: your body also cuts off thyroid hormone production when too much iodine is present to maintain optimal thyroid hormone levels!1 This helps nurture balance within. Additionally, medications used to manage epilepsy, such as carbamazepine and valproate, can decrease thyroid hormone levels and eventually cause hypothyroidism.8
The Naturopathic Approach
Regulating your thyroid hormone levels through holistic and multidisciplinary care is important to achieve remission and prevent complications of hypothyroidism. It is important to remember that your body has the natural ability to heal itself and it is your responsibility to help it regain and nurture this ability. At Natural Path to Wellness, we are committed to helping you in your journey to wellness through discovering the best natural solutions for your case and preferences. Talk to us today!
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Chaker L, Bianco AC, Jonklaas J, Peeters RP. Hypothyroidism. Lancet. 2017;390(10101):1550-1562. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(17)30703-1
- Wang F, Li C, Li S, Cui L, Zhao J, Liao L. Selenium and thyroid diseases. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2023;14:1133000. Published 2023 Mar 24. doi:10.3389/fendo.2023.1133000
- Singh M, Narayan J, Thakur R, Bhattacharya S, Sonkar SK, Ali W. Association of stress and primary hypothyroidism. J Family Med Prim Care. 2024;13(3):1073-1078. doi:10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_845_23
- Godos J, Giampieri F, Micek A, et al. Effect of Brazil Nuts on Selenium Status, Blood Lipids, and Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Antioxidants (Basel). 2022;11(2):403. Published 2022 Feb 16. doi:10.3390/antiox11020403
- Kaur J, Jialal I. Hashimoto Thyroiditis. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; February 9, 2025.
- Shahid MA, Ashraf MA, Sharma S. Physiology, Thyroid Hormone. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; June 5, 2023.
- Bowden SA, Goldis M. Congenital Hypothyroidism. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; June 5, 2023.
- Adhimoolam M, Arulmozhi R. Effect of antiepileptic drug therapy on thyroid hormones among adult epileptic patients: An analytical cross-sectional study. J Res Pharm Pract. 2016;5(3):171-174. doi:10.4103/2279-042X.185717
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a metabolic problem that occurs when you have prolonged high levels of glucose in the blood due to problems with insulin resistance. This means that although your pancreas is actively working to secrete insulin and regulate sugar levels in the blood, organs that are supposed to benefit from the wonders of insulin are resistant to its effects!
Understanding Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that occurs when there is prolonged high levels of sugar within the blood due to problems with insulin metabolism and balance.1 Insulin is a special hormone secreted mainly in the pancreas that is responsible in regulating blood sugar levels, thereby helping to produce energy that your body needs to function and at the same time regulate the consumption of this energy. Over time, this metabolic imbalance can damage your blood vessels, leading to long-term (and possibly irreversible) problems with your heart, eyes, kidneys, and brain.
The Role of Insulin
You may have wondered what exactly insulin does and why it is a very important hormone in the body. To answer your question, insulin is the primary control that directs tissues in the body to store and replenish its own fuel (also known as glucose), making sure your cells have adequate amounts of energy to function properly. As insulin effectively regulates the use and storage of the body’s fuels, it also helps maintain adequate levels of glucose in the blood. Maintaining these levels are important in regularly providing your brain with glucose to fuel its day-to-day activities. Once this balance is disrupted, your central nervous system cannot function properly. This is why people with low blood glucose levels (hypoglycemia) experience confusion, seizures, or coma (in severe cases). Prolonged high levels of blood glucose (hyperglycemia), on the other hand, can impair the abilities of your kidneys to reabsorb glucose. Once this happens, the unabsorbed glucose draws water out of the body along with it, causing you to urinate more than usual! This can lead to dehydration in the long run.
Allopathic Options
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is initially managed with anti-hyperglycemic oral medications, such as metformin. These anti-hyperglycemic drugs effectively reduce your blood sugar levels to reach their normal numbers, helping to maintain homeostasis and effective delivery of energy to body tissues. However, the right anti-hyperglycemic drug varies per person and may cause different side effects, such as stomach problems, unintentional weight gain or weight loss, headaches, increased risks of infections, and vitamin deficiencies.2 Additionally, the efficacy of these medications in regulating your blood sugar levels diminishes overtime, especially when nutrition and lifestyle changes are not incorporated in these regimens. Eventually, many people with type 2 diabetes mellitus are prescribed lifelong insulin injections, where monitoring of blood sugar levels every day is required to prevent low blood sugar levels (a common side effect of insulin that primarily affects fuel delivery into the brain).
The Naturopathic Approach
Naturopathic care for type 2 diabetes mellitus follows a holistic approach that targets the root causes of your health problems, thereby promoting healing from within. It aims to establish a personalized and structured approach that considers lifestyle, nutrition, nutrient supplementation, herbal medications, and whole-body therapies, that are all aimed at nurturing your body’s natural abilities to heal itself.
With naturopathic medicine, total remission from type 2 diabetes is possible!
With naturopathic medicine, total remission from type 2 diabetes is possible!
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Intuitive Eating
Being aware of what you eat every day and understanding the different impacts of food on your blood glucose levels is important in effectively managing type 2 diabetes mellitus. Rather than restricting yourself to a specific diet, intuitive eating practices help you choose the best and accessible food choices for your optimal health without having to feel guilty of what you actually eat. This may sound a bit tricky! Your naturopathic doctors will help you recognize your body’s natural hunger signals and discover ways on how you can indulge in your favorite foods and take care of your health at the same time.
Nutrient Supplementation
Supplementing your diet with vitamins and minerals is an effective approach to help your body fight off the imbalance associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
- Vitamin C. Vitamin C is important in stimulating the release of insulin after eating glucose. Taking vitamin C supplements every day is helpful in supporting this regulatory process. Additionally, vitamin C contains antioxidant properties that can help regulate your blood pressure levels and protect your blood vessels from damage that may occur after prolonged hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels).
- Chromium. Chromium is a mineral that enhances insulin activity and promotes its uptake, thereby allowing the entry of glucose into the cells. Hence, chromium helps cells receive their fuel for them to function optimally! Additionally, chromium helps prevent the build-up of glucose in the blood and manage hyperglycemia.
- Zinc. Zinc is another essential nutrient that is important in preventing the complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Supplementing your diet with zinc helps metabolize insulin and nurtures your cells’ abilities to produce their own antioxidants.
And many more!
With different supplements available for type 2 diabetes mellitus, finding the best types for your health and preference is important! Not to worry, your naturopathic team at Natural Path to Wellness will help you discover the best supplements for your optimal health and well-being.
Botanical Medicine
- Galega (Galega officinalis). This powerful herb helps promote insulin secretion and nurtures your pancreas at the same time. Galega protects your pancreas by preventing the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and prevent the formation of inflammatory products, both of which cause unwanted cell damage.3 Galegine, its active ingredient, was actually used as a prototype for metformin!3
- Cow's Paw (Bauhinia forficata). Also known as vegetable insulin, this herb has been used in Brazilian folk medicine to manage diabetes mellitus. It contains anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperglycemic, and antioxidant properties that help maintain balance within.4
- Gurmar (Gymnema sylvestre). Commonly considered a sugar destroyer, gumar is an effective herbal remedy to help improve your glycemic control by increasing the sensitivity of your body tissues to insulin.5 Additionally, this plant helps lower lipid levels in the blood, preventing health risks associated with cholesterol build-up.
And many more!
Nurturing Your Metabolic Health
Achieving optimal blood sugar levels and long-term glycemic control requires a whole-person commitment that involves modifications in lifestyle and nutrition, as well as supplementation, effective medications, herbal remedies, and physical movement, all of which impart positive effects on your overall health. You are not alone in fighting against type 2 diabetes mellitus. At Natural Path to Wellness, your naturopathic medicine advisors will help you discover the best solutions for your long-term well-being. Talk to us today!
It is important to remember that the use of certain herbal medications is contraindicated in special populations, especially in pregnant and lactating women. Additionally, incorporating herbal remedies into your daily regimen should be monitored and regulated to ensure that you are able to receive the full benefits of their natural healing properties. Discovering the right herbal remedies for your case and preferences is done with the guidance of your naturopathic doctors, who are experts in the field of natural and holistic healing.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Yedjou CG, Grigsby J, Mbemi A, et al. The Management of Diabetes Mellitus Using Medicinal Plants and Vitamins. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(10):9085. Published 2023 May 22. doi:10.3390/ijms24109085
- Ganesan K, Rana MBM, Sultan S. Oral Hypoglycemic Medications. [Updated 2023 May 1]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482386/
- Hachkova H, Nagalievska M, Soliljak Z, et al. Medicinal Plants Galega officinalis L. and Yacon Leaves as Potential Sources of Antidiabetic Drugs. Antioxidants (Basel). 2021;10(9):1362. Published 2021 Aug 26. doi:10.3390/antiox10091362
- Tonelli CA, de Oliveira SQ, Silva Vieira AAD, et al. Clinical efficacy of capsules containing standardized extract of Bauhinia forficata Link (pata-de-vaca) as adjuvant treatment in type 2 diabetes patients: A randomized, double blind clinical trial. J Ethnopharmacol. 2022;282:114616. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2021.114616
Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the lining of the large intestine, while sparing the deeper layers of its walls. Although the exact cause of ulcerative colitis is still yet to be discovered, several factors play a role in its development, namely, genetics, environmental factors, and autoimmunity that cause defects in the protective function of the intestinal barrier. These impairments eventually trigger the normal intestinal flora to constantly and inappropriately activate the immune system, creating an endless cycle of inflammation that can be eradicated with holistic long-term solutions that nurture the body’s natural abilities to heal itself.
Understanding Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis, together with Crohn’s disease, are the two main classifications of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). While Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus (end part of the large intestine), ulcerative colitis only affects the lining of the large intestine and rectum. The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, but various genetic and environmental factors can trigger its development, such as gastrointestinal infections, use of antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like good old Advil or Celebrex), and smoking.1 These changes alter your healthy gut microbiota, eventually causing dysregulation of the immune system within the gastrointestinal tract and fostering an endless cycle of inflammatory responses.
Signs and Symptoms
People with ulcerative colitis typically experience diarrhea and notice the presence of blood in the stool. Additionally, you may feel abdominal pain, have yellowish (mucus) discharges from your anus, and have the frequent urge to go to the bathroom without actually being able to poop (tenesmus).1 Ulcerative colitis may also have extraintestinal signs and symptoms, such as joint inflammation and erythematous (red and swollen) skin lesions.1
Allopathic Options
Ulcerative colitis is conventionally managed through a combination of anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive medications that aim to help those with the condition achieve and maintain remission. Despite being effective to some extent, not all people with ulcerative colitis can experience promising results with currently available treatment options. Additionally, medications for ulcerative colitis are associated with severe adverse effects that can cause impairments to your quality of life more than the disease itself.
The Naturopathic Approach
Naturopathic medicine aims to help you restore your normal gut microbiota by correcting dysbiosis, regulating intestinal inflammation, and nurturing a healthy immune response. These are achieved through a combination of effective herbal remedies and nutrient supplementation, both of which nurture healthy intestinal microbiota.
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Botanical Medicine
- Curcumin (Curcuma longa). With rich historical roots in managing inflammatory, infectious, and digestive problems, curcumin helps regulate the factors that activate inflammatory processes in the body, while nurturing healthy intestinal microbiota and structure. Curcumin does this by targeting inflammatory enzymes in the body, effectively decreasing the progression of ulcerative colitis.2
- Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller). This herb doesn’t just give you smooth and silky hair! It has actually been used for centuries to manage stomach ulcers, burns, wounds, and inflammation. Its wonders in managing ulcerative colitis comes from its abilities to inhibit the secretion of inflammatory markers and exert antimicrobial effects that promote a healthy, normal intestinal flora.3
- Indian frankincense (Boswellia serrata). The extract of this wonderful herb helps prevent diarrhea and regulate the movement of food in the intestines. Its ability to improve tissue repair and healing helps restore damaged intestinal barrier integrity associated with ulcerative colitis.4
- Pomegranate (Punica granatum). This fruit is not only delicious, but also contains wonderful health benefits that nurtures your optimal well-being and prevents the development of diseases. Its wonders in managing ulcerative colitis comes from ellagitannins, which are active ingredients found in different parts of the plant that exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, in addition to preventing the development of intestinal inflammation.5
And many more!
Probiotics
The role that the normal microbiota in your intestines play is complex. This generally protects your body from infections and maintains balance that regulates the processes keeping the body healthy and strong. However, your intestinal microbiota can also induce and maintain inflammation once dysbiosis occurs, so it is very important to nurture the balance between these inhabitants to prevent dysregulation of key body processes. Simply put, any problems in the intestinal microbiota that can alter the balance between the amount of protective and harmful bacteria play a significant role in the development of ulcerative colitis. Probiotics prevent this from happening by nurturing intestinal microbial balance, ultimately nurturing a healthy gut barrier and immune system.
Nurturing Your Intestinal Health
Your gastrointestinal tract, especially the intestines, are considered gateways that not only provide a protective barrier from the outside environment, but also digest and absorb nutrients that allow your body to function. Hence, reducing inflammation and nurturing a healthy intestinal microbiota protect your body from dysregulation and disease conditions. To discover natural options that help your body heal itself and nurture the balance within, talk to your naturopathic medicine advisors at Natural Path to Wellness today!
Before using herbal remedies for your optimal health, it is important to consult with your primary care providers and naturopathic doctors to prevent any unwanted or adverse effects that may cause more harm than good to your body. Additionally, most herbs are contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation, so it is vital to check whether your choice of herbs could not cause harm to you and your baby.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Feuerstein JD, Moss AC, Farraye FA. Ulcerative Colitis [published correction appears in Mayo Clin Proc. 2019 Oct;94(10):2149. doi: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2019.08.008]. Mayo Clin Proc. 2019;94(7):1357-1373. doi:10.1016/j.mayocp.2019.01.018
- Lin Y, Liu H, Bu L, Chen C, Ye X. Review of the Effects and Mechanism of Curcumin in the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Front Pharmacol. 2022;13:908077. Published 2022 Jun 20. doi:10.3389/fphar.2022.908077
- Kweon DY, Song HJ, Kim JE, et al. Therapeutic Effects of Aloe saponaria against Ulcerative Colitis Induced by Dextran Sulfate Sodium. Curr Issues Mol Biol. 2023;45(2):1483-1499. Published 2023 Feb 9. doi:10.3390/cimb45020096
- Laudadio I, Leter B, Palone F, et al. Inhibition of intestinal inflammation and fibrosis by Scutellaria Baicalensis georgi and Boswellia serrata in human epithelial cells and fibroblasts. Immun Inflamm Dis. 2024;12(10):e70036. doi:10.1002/iid3.70036
- Li H, Ruan J, Huang J, et al. Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) and Its Rich Ellagitannins as Potential Inhibitors in Ulcerative Colitis. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(24):17538. Published 2023 Dec 16. doi:10.3390/ijms242417538
Probiotics are live microorganisms found in your gut and fermented treats, such as yogurts or kimchi, as well as supplements, that can deliver a wider array of benefits to your health when taken in adequate amounts. You may be thinking about the irony of ingesting bacteria to promote health when most bacteria you have been acquainted with are known to cause disease. However, it is important to know that not all bacteria are pathogenic. This means that good bacteria exist, and these wonderful microorganisms help strengthen your body’s natural abilities to protect itself.
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are microorganisms, such as yeast or bacteria, that are harmless and able to survive in the body to help prevent and manage diseases caused by pathogenic foreign invaders and immune dysfunction. These microorganisms help nurture the growth of your body’s natural flora and inhibits the growth of bad microbes in the body, thereby promoting optimal balance within.1 Additionally, probiotics strengthen your body’s abilities to synthesize antimicrobial factors that prevent pathogens from binding to cells and causing disease!
Did you know?
Probiotics are actually found in many areas of the body! These essential microorganisms do not only inhabit your stomach and intestines.
Probiotics are actually found in many areas of the body! These essential microorganisms do not only inhabit your stomach and intestines.
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Supporting Gut Health
The secret to optimal gut health is maintaining the innate balance of your gut’s natural microbiota. However, with antibiotic use and misuse, unhealthy lifestyle, and frequent bacterial infections, this balance may be difficult to maintain. Antibiotics, although helpful in fighting off infections caused by pathogenic bacteria, can be toxic to your gut’s natural microbiota. A very concerning phenomenon today is antibiotic resistance due to the improper use of these medications, making certain types of antibiotics useless for people with resistant strains. Similarly, unhealthy lifestyle choices can affect the stability of your gut’s microbiota. Eating foods rich in saturated and trans-fat can trigger inflammation that can disrupt the integrity of your intestinal lining.2
Dysbiosis happens when balance in your gut’s microbiota is disrupted, contributing to gastrointestinal conditions and immune dysfunction such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or celiac disease.1 Probiotics fight off this imbalance by acting competitively – fighting for space and resources, preventing pathogenic microorganisms from proliferating and infiltrating the bloodstream and surrounding tissues.1 Interestingly, probiotics have been widely used to reestablish the body’s healthy amount of good microbiota, preventing further infections in people who recently used antibiotics.1
Dysbiosis happens when balance in your gut’s microbiota is disrupted, contributing to gastrointestinal conditions and immune dysfunction such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or celiac disease.1 Probiotics fight off this imbalance by acting competitively – fighting for space and resources, preventing pathogenic microorganisms from proliferating and infiltrating the bloodstream and surrounding tissues.1 Interestingly, probiotics have been widely used to reestablish the body’s healthy amount of good microbiota, preventing further infections in people who recently used antibiotics.1
Strengthening Oral Health
Probiotics can help strengthen your oral health by preventing the development of dental carries (cavities) which can harbor microorganisms that cause decay and disease! Dental carries occur when the outer layer of your teeth has been decalcified because of too much acid produced by pathogenic bacteria that adheres to your dentin and enamel (a.k.a. the outer layers of your teeth). This can cause pain, discomfort, and even increases your risks of developing infections and complications when not adequately addressed. Probiotics can help prevent these risks from happening by attaching to the outer coatings of your teeth and fighting off the bacteria that cause dental carries!1 Additionally, probiotics can help nurture your gum health by fighting off pathogenic bacteria that trigger inflammation and strengthen your gum’s protective barrier.1
Nurturing Immunity
Your intestines are filled with lymphoid tissues, which are areas in the body where immune cells (white blood cells) that trigger and promote inflammation are found. To maintain immune balance, your immune cells and natural microbiota work together in a stable environment. Supplementing your diet with probiotics allows good bacteria to maintain this balance. Probiotics are effective in boosting your body’s protective abilities against infections and nurtures its innate potential to maintain balance within. Simply put, probiotics help stimulate the secretion of antibodies and anti-inflammatory mediators that help regulate your immune response.3
The Naturopathic Approach
The benefits of probiotics for your health cannot be understated. Its abundance in your body helps protect it from infections and unwanted inflammation that may cause more harm than good. Nurturing the number of these microorganisms through nutrition and supplementation is an effective and natural way to achieve and nurture optimal health. At Natural Path to Wellness, our team of naturopathic medicine advisors are committed to helping you discover the best natural and holistic strategies for your health needs and preferences.
To learn more about the benefits of probiotics for your health and wellness journey, talk to us today!
To learn more about the benefits of probiotics for your health and wellness journey, talk to us today!
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Bodke H, Jogdand S. Role of Probiotics in Human Health. Cureus. 2022;14(11):e31313. Published 2022 Nov 9. doi:10.7759/cureus.31313
- Martinez JE, Kahana DD, Ghuman S, et al. Unhealthy Lifestyle and Gut Dysbiosis: A Better Understanding of the Effects of Poor Diet and Nicotine on the Intestinal Microbiome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2021;12:667066. Published 2021 Jun 8. doi:10.3389/fendo.2021.667066
- Mazziotta C, Tognon M, Martini F, Torreggiani E, Rotondo JC. Probiotics Mechanism of Action on Immune Cells and Beneficial Effects on Human Health. Cells. 2023;12(1):184. Published 2023 Jan 2. doi:10.3390/cells12010184
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has affected the lives of many, eventually becoming a health issue that brought an ongoing stigma against those infected. The revolutionary discovery of HIV in the United States paved the way for its awareness, diagnosis, and management, thereby helping those with the condition prevent complications and opportunistic infections that can harm their well-being.
Understanding HIV
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a type of retrovirus that was first discovered in Africa from primates, where it was thought to be transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animal blood. Its destructive nature comes from its abilities to directly attack your immune system, thereby causing damage to the cells that are supposed to protect your body from harm.1 Particularly, HIV affects your CD4+ helper T cells, which are a type of white blood cells that help regulate your immune response and activate other immune cells to successfully fight off infections.1
Did you know? Your helper T cells also undergo self-destruction to prevent the virus from replicating and causing further damage to the body. The effects of this sacrifice, although effective in reducing viral replication, is short-lived and eventually puts you at risk of infections due to an impaired immune protection.
Did you know? Your helper T cells also undergo self-destruction to prevent the virus from replicating and causing further damage to the body. The effects of this sacrifice, although effective in reducing viral replication, is short-lived and eventually puts you at risk of infections due to an impaired immune protection.
How is HIV transmitted?
HIV is primarily transmitted through sexual activity, where breaks or trauma in the mucosa exposes cells underneath it to seminal or vaginal fluids that contain the virus. Other forms of transmission include sharing injectables (or straws, dollar bills, or other devices for intranasal drug use), transfusion with blood and blood products infected with HIV, and exposure to potentially infectious body fluids, such as breastmilk or amniotic fluid from a mother (who is not undergoing treatment and still considered infectious) to her fetus. It is important to remember that HIV cannot be transmitted through saliva, tears, sweat, or even discharges from your nose, unless these secretions are visibly bloody! This means that it is safe to interact with, hug, hold hands, comfort, and exchange other forms of non-sexual contact with a person who is HIV-positive.
Allopathic Options
HIV infection is primarily managed with antiretroviral drugs, such as zidovudine, with specific type and dose depending on your unique case. Although unable to completely clear the infection, antiretroviral therapy can effectively suppress viral activity by attacking different stages of the virus’ development and replication. This has paved the way for people with HIV to live longer and help prevent them from transmitting the disease to other people. Presently, anti-retroviral drugs also help prevent HIV infection when taken before or after sexual acts or exposure to blood and fluids infected with HIV.1 Presently, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PREP) is readily available to prevent HIV infection in people belonging to high-risk groups, such as various healthcare teams working with HIV-positive patients, community care workers, bisexuals, transgenders, gays, and people engaging in occupational intercourse (sex workers).5 In people with high risks of acquiring HIV due to sexual practices, including their partners in the treatment regimen is important.
One of the most pressing concerns behind the use of antiretroviral drugs is non-compliance that may be attributed to the number of tablets that should be taken everyday, as well as the wide array of side effects and adverse reactions, such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, rash, fatigue, and even mouth sores or blisters, all of which can affect your daily activities. This is one vital part where naturopathic care can help! At Natural Path to Wellness, we will help you explore holistic, natural options that can effectively reduce unwanted side effects from medication use and nurture your quality of life throughout your treatment regimen at the same time.
One of the most pressing concerns behind the use of antiretroviral drugs is non-compliance that may be attributed to the number of tablets that should be taken everyday, as well as the wide array of side effects and adverse reactions, such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, rash, fatigue, and even mouth sores or blisters, all of which can affect your daily activities. This is one vital part where naturopathic care can help! At Natural Path to Wellness, we will help you explore holistic, natural options that can effectively reduce unwanted side effects from medication use and nurture your quality of life throughout your treatment regimen at the same time.
The Naturopathic Approach
Naturopathic care aims to nurture optimal well-being through helping you address and prevent chronic inflammation and immune activation. Our goal is to ultimately treat the whole person and not just focus on your current disease.
Promoting Gut Health
HIV infection can impair the abilities of your gut mucosa to protect the body against harm from food and environmental particles that enter the body through your gastrointestinal tract. This is because the infection primarily damages your CD4+ Helper T cells, which are heavily responsible in initiating your body’s protective mechanisms against foreign invaders. Chronic infection and inflammation can also cause damage to cells that regulate the normal composition of your gut microbiota, which eventually triggers and sustains a never-ending cycle of inflammation.2 To prevent this cycle from happening, probiotics and prebiotics can be incorporated into your daily regimen. Probiotic and prebiotic supplementation can help prevent inflammation and improve the composition of your gut microbiota, thereby preventing gut dysbiosis.
Nutrient Supplementation
HIV infection cannot only exhaust your body’s immune response, but also trigger a heavy amount of stress that can eventually deplete your body’s nutrients and cause potential deficiencies that can affect your overall healthy state. Additionally, problems with your gastrointestinal mucosa can lead to malabsorption of essential vitamins and minerals that eventually causes or exacerbates nutrient deficiencies. Antioxidants normally produced in the body to protect it from oxidative damage are also depleted during the course of HIV infection. Supplementing your diet with essential vitamins and minerals, such as zinc, magnesium, and selenium can help promote your overall health and nurture your body’s natural abilities to produce antioxidants.
Botanical Medicine
Herbal medications are effective natural remedies that can help support your immune system and improve the efficacy of your treatment regimen.
And many more!
Promoting Gut Health
HIV infection can impair the abilities of your gut mucosa to protect the body against harm from food and environmental particles that enter the body through your gastrointestinal tract. This is because the infection primarily damages your CD4+ Helper T cells, which are heavily responsible in initiating your body’s protective mechanisms against foreign invaders. Chronic infection and inflammation can also cause damage to cells that regulate the normal composition of your gut microbiota, which eventually triggers and sustains a never-ending cycle of inflammation.2 To prevent this cycle from happening, probiotics and prebiotics can be incorporated into your daily regimen. Probiotic and prebiotic supplementation can help prevent inflammation and improve the composition of your gut microbiota, thereby preventing gut dysbiosis.
Nutrient Supplementation
HIV infection cannot only exhaust your body’s immune response, but also trigger a heavy amount of stress that can eventually deplete your body’s nutrients and cause potential deficiencies that can affect your overall healthy state. Additionally, problems with your gastrointestinal mucosa can lead to malabsorption of essential vitamins and minerals that eventually causes or exacerbates nutrient deficiencies. Antioxidants normally produced in the body to protect it from oxidative damage are also depleted during the course of HIV infection. Supplementing your diet with essential vitamins and minerals, such as zinc, magnesium, and selenium can help promote your overall health and nurture your body’s natural abilities to produce antioxidants.
Botanical Medicine
Herbal medications are effective natural remedies that can help support your immune system and improve the efficacy of your treatment regimen.
- Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). This most treasured plant that is effective in managing stress and promoting relaxation can help reduce the progression of HIV infection by preventing viral replication.3 It also helps stimulate and strengthen your immune response.
- Lingzhi (Ganoderma lucidum). Traditionally used in Chinese medicine, this powerful mushroom can help reduce fatigue and improve the function of your immune system. It also has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting abilities that nurtures your optimal health. Bonus point! Lingzhi contains zinc, potassium, selenium, magnesium, iron, and other essential minerals that can help prevent nutritional deficiencies!4
And many more!
Nurturing Your Immune Health
The health of your immune system is crucial for the overall health of your body, especially when you have HIV infection. Nurturing your immune system through supplementing your treatment regimen with essential vitamins and minerals, optimizing your gut health, and incorporating herbal medications that can help support your immune response are essential in achieving an undetectable viral load, preventing transmission to other people, and avoiding complications of an ineffective immune response, such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). To learn more about how to begin your holistic health and wellness journey, talk to us today!
Take note : it is best to consult with your healthcare provider first before exploring natural and alternative options for your optimal health to ensure that your treatment regimen is what is best and safe for you. Additionally, most herbs are contraindicated during pregnancy and in special populations, so talking with your healthcare provider can prevent you from experiencing unwanted effects associated with unregulated use.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Kemnic TR, Gulick PG. HIV Antiretroviral Therapy. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; September 20, 2022.
- Vujkovic-Cvijin I, Somsouk M. HIV and the Gut Microbiota: Composition, Consequences, and Avenues for Amelioration. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep. 2019;16(3):204-213. doi:10.1007/s11904-019-00441-w
- Jadaun P, Harshithkumar R, Gaikwad SY, et al. Withania somnifera extracts induced attenuation of HIV-1: a mechanistic approach to restrict viral infection. Virol J. 2023;20(1):173. Published 2023 Aug 3. doi:10.1186/s12985-023-02130-y
- Ekiz E, Oz E, Abd El-Aty A, et al. Exploring the potential medicinal benefits of ganoderma lucidum: From metabolic disorders to coronavirus infections. Foods. 2023;12(7):1512. doi:10.3390/foods12071512
- Sundareshan V, Swinkels HM, Nguyen AD, et al. Preexposure Prophylaxis for HIV Prevention. [Updated 2024 Jan 28]. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507789/
Menopause is an unavoidable part of living. As you age, your body undergoes different changes that signal another phase in your life. These changes may bring different feelings and experiences compared to your younger years. Aside from activating your menstrual periods, your hormones actually exert regular and protective properties that lessen your chances of developing health problems, such as cardiovascular diseases. Discovering the best practices that you can do during this wonderful phase in your life can help you walk through the aging process gracefully.
Understanding Menopause
Menopause occurs when women who menstruate do not experience periods for at least 12 months.1 This phase does not happen overnight. Menopause is actually a period of transition that happens for years, where your reproductive abilities start to change, and your ovaries stop producing eggs to be fertilized. This depletion in your reproductive abilities eventually triggers hormonal fluctuations and reduction, especially estrogen, as well as the loss of your normal menstrual cycle. Additionally, declining estrogen levels put postmenopausal women at risk of developing cardiovascular problems.
The Role of Estrogen
Estrogen is an essential hormone that is naturally produced in the body to help your body sexually develop. It exerts its effects on different organs, making it important in regulating your overall health and wellbeing. Specifically, estrogen nurtures your reproductive, bone, skin, and cardiovascular health. Estrogen helps increase your breast size during puberty and, during pregnancy, readies the breasts for the production of milk after pregnancy, a process called lactation.2 It keeps your vaginal lining supple during your reproductive years. Estrogen additionally prepares your body to carry and nurture another human being during pregnancy. Your bones are also being protected and made stronger by estrogen! Estrogen helps reduce the activity of osteoclasts, which are cells responsible in breaking down bone.2 Interestingly, estrogen helps balance out cholesterol levels in the blood, thereby protecting you against metabolic and heart problems.2
Symptoms of Menopause
As your body undergoes dramatic changes and your hormone levels decline, you may experience different sets of symptoms that will affect your everyday activities. These may include hot flashes (warm sensation or sweating that progresses into chills), palpitations, night sweats, and even anxiety. These are associated with low estrogen levels, which affect your brain’s abilities to regulate body temperature.1
The Naturopathic Approach
Rather than fighting off the effects of menopause, naturopathic care focuses on nurturing your body’s natural abilities to cope up with this major change. This is done through incorporating holistic practices that support your body’s optimal health, as well as supplementing estrogen levels safely and effectively.
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Botanical Medicine
And many more!
It is important to remember that many herbs are contraindicated when you have certain health risks. In discovering the best herbal remedies for your case and preferences, talking to your naturopathic doctors is essential.
Nutrient Supplementation
Estrogen decline during menopause will affect the integrity of your vaginal lining, making it thin and dry. This may not only cause painful sexual intercourse, but also increase your risks of developing infections in your vagina. To prevent this from affecting your sexual and immune health, supplementing your diet with vitamin D may be beneficial. Vitamin D and calcium supplements is also helpful in preventing osteoporosis (brittle bones) caused by reduced estrogen levels; your naturopathic doctor can help determine if you should supplement.
- Black cohosh (Actea racemosa). Black cohosh is a phytoestrogen (a plant compound that mimics sex hormones produced in the body) that helps relieve symptoms of menopause.3 It helps alleviate hot flushes, especially those intense types, and improves your overall mood!
- Ginseng (Angelica sinensis). Ginseng, in combination with Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), is effective in reducing hot flashes and night sweats associated with menopause.4 This wonderful combination also helps improve the quality of your sleep.
- Hops (Humulus lupulus). Hops helps reduce inflammation and acts as a phytoestrogen, thereby relieving menopausal symptoms and protecting your body against the long-term effects of estrogen loss.5 It also has antimicrobial properties that helps protect you against infections!
And many more!
It is important to remember that many herbs are contraindicated when you have certain health risks. In discovering the best herbal remedies for your case and preferences, talking to your naturopathic doctors is essential.
Nutrient Supplementation
Estrogen decline during menopause will affect the integrity of your vaginal lining, making it thin and dry. This may not only cause painful sexual intercourse, but also increase your risks of developing infections in your vagina. To prevent this from affecting your sexual and immune health, supplementing your diet with vitamin D may be beneficial. Vitamin D and calcium supplements is also helpful in preventing osteoporosis (brittle bones) caused by reduced estrogen levels; your naturopathic doctor can help determine if you should supplement.
The Key to Graceful Aging
Menopause is a natural phase in life that affects the overall well-being of people who menstruate. Although menopause can affect your physical and emotional well-being, it should not be considered a disease or medical disorder. The key to surviving and thriving in menopause is supporting your body as it goes through extreme changes in its effort to age gracefully. At Natural Path to Wellness, we will help you discover the best holistic strategies to help you in your journey through menopause and transition to another wonderful life phase. Talk to us today!
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Peacock K, Carlson K, Ketvertis KM. Menopause. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; December 21, 2023.
- Delgado BJ, Lopez-Ojeda W. Estrogen. [Updated 2023 Jun 26]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538260/
- Castelo-Branco C, Navarro C, Beltrán E, Losa F, Camacho M; on the behalf of the Natural Products Study Group of the Spanish Menopause Society. Black cohosh efficacy and safety for menopausal symptoms. The Spanish Menopause Society statement. Gynecol Endocrinol. 2022;38(5):379-384. doi:10.1080/09513590.2022.2056591
- Johnson A, Roberts L, Elkins G. Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Menopause. J Evid Based Integr Med. 2019;24:2515690X19829380. doi:10.1177/2515690X19829380
- Vahedpoorfard Z, Ferdosi S, Rahimi H, Motedayyen H. Effect of Humulus lupulus L. (Hop) on Postmenopausal Sexual Dysfunction: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Int J Clin Pract. 2023;2023:9528335. Published 2023 Apr 17. doi:10.1155/2023/9528335
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune condition that affects your central nervous system (a.k.a., the entirety of your brain), causing problems associated with vision, movement, thinking, and other regulatory processes that allow your body to function effectively everyday! The main problem that triggers the development of this debilitating disease is inflammation that attacks your central nervous system in what appears to be a form of autoimmune dysfunction. Multiple sclerosis is tricky in that its clinical course is extremely variable. It may initially cause mild, un-alarming symptoms that rapidly progress into an incapacitating disease that requires an extensive, holistic health plan targeting your lifestyle choices, maintenance supplements and medications, and whole body routines that nurture your brain and the functions it is responsible for everyday.
Understanding Multiple Sclerosis
The exact cause behind multiple sclerosis is yet to be discovered. However, its progression is severely affected by inflammation that causes demyelination of nerves (damage to the protective layer of myelin wrapped around the nerve to help deliver signals fast and accurately to organs and cells within the body) and neurodegeneration (a.k.a., destruction of the very cells that make up your nervous system). This inflammation begins when your T-helper cells, a specific type of white blood cell, become activated, causing them to attach to the lining of your central nervous system, cross the blood-brain barrier which filters out toxins from the blood and supplies the brain with nutrients, and attack the very cells they were supposed to protect, eventually causing damage and destruction.1 Different factors can affect the progression of multiple sclerosis, including environmental elements, genetic predisposition, infection, chemical or environmental toxin exposure, and immune dysfunction.
Signs and Symptoms
Multiple sclerosis may occur abruptly or insidiously. This means that people with multiple sclerosis may experience sudden bouts of severe symptoms, while others may have very mild symptoms to the point that they may not think of these as needing appropriate medical attention! Since your brain is responsible for regulating a wide variety of processes everyday, symptoms of multiple sclerosis generally depend on the location and severity of lesions within the brain. These may include vision problems or loss, vertigo, dizziness, impaired swallowing, difficulty speaking, weakness, tremors, tingling sensations, problems with urinating or having a bowel movement, and difficulty concentrating or recalling snippets of your past memories.1 These symptoms can be transient, waxing and waning over a period of days to months. Often, this is followed by a period with no symptoms at all, which can last months to years.
Allopathic Treatments
Multiple sclerosis is conventionally managed with disease modifying therapies (DMT) consisting of medications that can help decrease lesions and damage within the brain.1 Additionally, supportive management is also used to manage your unique symptoms. This includes the use of corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and discomfort. However, people with severe disease or those having neurodegenerative cases may not fully benefit from this therapeutic regimen.
The Naturopathic Approach
Naturopathic care for multiple sclerosis aims to nurture optimal well-being through incorporating different strategies that target multiple aspects of your health.
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Mitochondrial
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Supports Healthy Nerves
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Helps Reduce Inflammation
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Nutrient Supplementation
- Essential fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids have immunomodulatory properties that will help regulate your immune response and reduce inflammation that can promote the progression of multiple sclerosis through stabilizing cytokine levels in the blood.2
- Lipoic acid. This wonderful supplement has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties that can help taper down the progression of multiple sclerosis and reduce chances of relapse.2 Additionally, lipoic acid has wonderful antioxidant properties that can help regenerate vitamin E, glutathione, and vitamin C, which are other forms of antioxidants that can help repair damaged tissues.2
- Vitamin D. Low vitamin D levels in the body can increase your risk of experiencing severe symptoms when you have multiple sclerosis. In fact, majority (84%) of people previously diagnosed with multiple sclerosis also have deficiencies in vitamin D.2 The benefits of vitamin D supplementation in people with multiple sclerosis is rooted in its abilities to disrupt the abilities of inflammatory cells to enter your brain.2 Since vitamin D can be over-supplemented leading to toxicity, you should have your levels checked prior to, and during, supplementation.
Lifestyle Changes
Did you know? Healthcare providers in the past used to ban people with multiple sclerosis from exercising because they previously believed that higher body temperature and use of nerve fibers from exercise can worsen disease symptoms and affect the course of illness!2 This belief has been debunked as medicine learns more about the nature of multiple sclerosis. Presently, regular physical activity and exercise are known to be beneficial in improving cognitive function in people with multiple sclerosis.2
Regular exercise is also critical for helping to maintain function and mobility as you manage your condition. Your exercise routine may need to be optimized to help you maintain or improve your strength and activity levels while preventing increasing inflammation or over-fatiguing your muscles, but there is no need to give up enjoyable physical activities. Additionally, regular exercise can improve your heart health, metabolic functions, bone strength, mood, and blood sugar levels, thereby nurturing other aspects of your health!
Stress Reduction Techniques
Stress can worsen multiple sclerosis symptoms and increase your risks of having disease exacerbations, as this phenomenon creates more lesions in the brain.2 Hence, managing your stress levels through nurturing the connection between your mind and body can help prevent these consequences. Mind-body practices such as yoga, breathing exercises, and meditation can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Take note: Talking to your healthcare provider before exploring different options for your health and changing your treatment regimen is essential. This is to ensure that the regimen you are taking is best for your optimal health. Additionally, this step helps prevent unwanted effects that may cause more harm than good to your body.
Nurturing Your Brain Health
Multiple sclerosis can affect different processes within the body, causing unique sets of symptoms that can inevitably affect your day-to-day lives. This is why following a personalized and holistic approach that targets nutrition, supplementation, lifestyle changes, and medications (whether conventional or botanical) is important to achieve remission and nurture optimal well-being. At Natural Path to Wellness, we will help you in every step of this road to wellness. Talk to us today!
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Tafti D, Ehsan M, Xixis KL. Multiple Sclerosis. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; March 20, 2024.
- Pizzorno JE, Murray MT. Textbook of Natural Medicine. Elsevier; 2021.
THE BLOG AT NATURAL PATH TO WELLNESS
AuthorS
Natural Path to Wellness values community education and welcomes contributions from writers with a background in Naturopathic Medicine, natural health and wellness, herbalism, homeopathy, Nature Cure, and more.
Medical Reviewer:
Marney Johnson, ND, MSCI-TS is a Naturopathic Doctor and Naturopathic Medicine Advisor with a background in allopathic (standard American medicine) medical research, Dr. Johnson, is uniquely qualified to evaluate current scientific research and offer insight to help you make sense of how you can integrate natural medicine into your health plan. She is passionate about the roles of Nutrition, Lifestyle, and Nature in health and constantly seeks new ways to make these accessible through food as medicine, encouraging new, healthy habits, and promoting interaction with Nature in its many forms.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
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