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! 
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.
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
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:
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.
Botanical Medicine
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:
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.
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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 benefits of collagen for your body are a controversial topic in the medical industry, especially since the opinions of medical practitioners towards its efficacy has been divided for years. In understanding whether or not collagen is truly effective, we should first understand the different preparations of collagen, as well as how it is being absorbed and utilized by the cells in the body. For menopausal women who inevitably suffer from decreased skin elasticity and bone density, collagen can actually help prevent the rapid progression of these losses, making sure that you are able to age gracefully.
Understanding Collagen
Being one of the most important proteins in the body, collagen is formed from different types of amino acids, namely glycine, hydroxyproline, and proline, which are coiled into each other to create a very stable structure that helps form your body tissues together.1 Collagen can be found almost anywhere in the body, including your skin, bones, teeth, muscles, organs, and blood vessels. In fact, collagen can also be found in animals! This means that the wonders of collagen in maintaining structural integrity is not only limited to humans. In cases of collagen supplementation, we can get this essential protein from many sources!
The wonders of collagen in maintaining your body’s healthy state cannot be understated. Collagen not only helps in the development of your organs, but also repairs wounds and damaged tissues.1 Additionally, collagen plays a vital part in bone development and remodeling, which is a process that normally declines as you age. Did you know? Your body actually begins to lose collagen from 18-29 years old and eventually will lose around 1% per year after you reach 40 years old.1 By the time you reach 80 years old, your body’s collagen production decreases to up to 75% (of its own original production) compared to your younger peers!
The wonders of collagen in maintaining your body’s healthy state cannot be understated. Collagen not only helps in the development of your organs, but also repairs wounds and damaged tissues.1 Additionally, collagen plays a vital part in bone development and remodeling, which is a process that normally declines as you age. Did you know? Your body actually begins to lose collagen from 18-29 years old and eventually will lose around 1% per year after you reach 40 years old.1 By the time you reach 80 years old, your body’s collagen production decreases to up to 75% (of its own original production) compared to your younger peers!
The Benefits of Collagen Supplementation
- Bone health. Taking collagen supplements can help nurture bone mineral density, which measures the amount of calcium and minerals present in the bone that make it strong and less likely to get broken.2
- Skin integrity. Collagen supplementation can help increase the activity of fibroblasts (cells that help form tissues) in the skin and hair. This strengthens the structure and functions of your skin, especially its role in protecting your body from harm due to pathogens in the environment. Collagen hydrolysate, in particular, can help prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which accounts for water loss from the surface of the skin and shows the integrity of your skin barrier. It can also help reduce wrinkles and nurture the skin’s elasticity.
- Hair & Nail health. Collagen helps regulate blood flow to your hair follicles, thereby nurturing keratin formation that strengthens and protects your hair from damage. Interestingly, keratin also makes up your nails! Hence, the increase in blood flow due to collagen can help keep your nails strong and healthy, especially as you age.
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The Naturopathic Approach
With the controversies associated with collagen supplements and their massive available variations in the market, it is important that you should first talk to your naturopathic doctors to discover the right supplements for your health. Additionally, the wonders of collagen for your health can only be fully experienced through nurturing your holistic well-being.
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:
- León-López A, Morales-Peñaloza A, Martínez-Juárez VM, Vargas-Torres A, Zeugolis DI, Aguirre-Álvarez G. Hydrolyzed Collagen-Sources and Applications. Molecules. 2019;24(22):4031. Published 2019 Nov 7. doi:10.3390/molecules24224031
- Zdzieblik D, Oesser S, König D. Specific Bioactive Collagen Peptides in Osteopenia and Osteoporosis: Long-Term Observation in Postmenopausal Women. J Bone Metab. 2021;28(3):207-213. doi:10.11005/jbm.2021.28.3.207
Your stomach is a vital organ that is very susceptible to inflammation from infection, injury, and irritation, especially since it receives food from the mouth (which may contain foreign pathogens) and breaks them down into particles for your intestines to absorb essential nutrients that your body needs to remain healthy. In people with peptic ulcer disease (PUD), the protective function of their stomach is impaired, leading to ulcerations that can severely affect quality of life and overall well-being.
Understanding Peptic Ulcer Disease
Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) occurs due to an imbalance in the protective and damaging forces present in the gastrointestinal tract. Although the condition may occur in any part of the GI tract, it most commonly affects the last part of the stomach and the first portion of the small intestine.4 Years ago, most people with PUD were infected with Helicobacter pylori. However, with improvements on sanitation and the growing use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain and fever, the trends eventually shifted. Helicobacter pylori is a bacteria that thrives in the stomach of some people which can cause inflammation that can damage the stomach lining. The microorganism does this by decreasing the protective mucus that is present in the stomach, allowing gastric acid to destroy healthy cells. Currently, the rising rates of PUD have been associated with the use of NSAIDs, which can cause damage to the protective layer of your stomach. Ibuprofen or aspirin blocks COX-1, which is an enzyme that helps protect the stomach lining. Once blocked, the production of mucus in the stomach decreases and its protective properties diminish. Curious to learn more about the effects of NSAIDs to your stomach lining? We have the perfect blog post for you!
Signs and Symptoms
People with peptic ulcer disease experience episodes of burning or aching epigastric pain (pain located on the upper middle part of your abdomen). This gruesome pain typically happens 1-3 hours after eating and can be worse at night. The tricky part is that pain in PUD can be relieved by food or non-acidic drinks. Aside from abdominal pain, you may also experience bloating, nausea, and vomiting, all of which can affect your daily activities. In severe cases, PUDs can put you at risk of having GI bleeding, malnutrition, or cancer, since damage to your stomach lining can affect the integrity of blood vessels that supplies its cells the energy to function, impair the absorption of essential nutrients, and cause chronic irritation that can lead to the development of malignant cells. The good news is that peptic ulcers can actually spontaneously heal without having to go to treatment or therapy. However, the risks of developing additional ulcers should prompt you to take charge of your health and explore natural options that target and eradicate the cause of persistent erosions.
Allopathic Options
Conventional treatment strategies for peptic ulcer disease focus on eliminating H. pylori through antibiotics and reducing stomach acid through H-2 receptor antagonists, such as ranitidine, and proton pump inhibitors (PPI), such as omeprazole. Additional supplementation may be needed when using PPIs, since their prolonged use can lead to malnutrition and may increase your risks of getting bone fractures.4 Bismuth may also be taken in addition to antibiotics and PPIs when these two become ineffective in managing PUD. These medications can help treat the symptoms of peptic ulcer, but they do not treat the underlying cause or aid in nourishing the body.
Naturopathic Options
The naturopathic approach in managing peptic ulcer disease focuses on nurturing whole body health through lifestyle and food modifications, supplementation, herbal remedies, and stress reduction, which are all aimed at targeting the root cause of inflammation and breaking the cycle of ulceration. Simply put, naturopathic care aims to correct the cause of dysfunction, eliminate pathogens like H. pylori, healing the stomach and intestinal lining, and replace any lost nutrients. Additionally, people with long-term NSAID use are more likely to suffer from conditions that need immediate and frequent pain relief. Targeting the root cause of their health problem may ultimately prevent them from using NSAIDs in the first place!
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Stress Reduction
Exposure to stressful events and environments can affect acid secretion in the stomach and cause unwanted irritation to the lining that eventually results in ulceration. Hence, your stress levels severely affect regulatory processes within the body! Identifying and reducing stressors with your naturopathic doctors not only help nurture balance within the body, but also challenges yourself to become more proactive and conscious in maintaining optimal health.
Botanical Medicine
- Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis). Marshmallow root contains healing properties that help coat the lining of your esophagus and stomach, thereby forming a barrier that protects your gastric wall from acid and damage.1
- Licorice (Radix glycyrrhizae). Licorice can be a safer and effective alternative to bismuth, which is the drug of choice that helps protect your stomach from destructive acid and pepsin secretions by acting as a barrier while enhancing mucus secretion at the same time.1 Licorice root can increase your blood pressure so, as always, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen.
- Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra). Aside from its wonders in healing sore throat, slippery elm helps nurture the protective barrier of the stomach by stimulating mucus production, thereby coating irritated or ulcered lining.2 This wonderful plant can also help improve your bowel habits and reduce problems with constipation.1
L-glutamine Supplementation
As the most abundant amino acid that helps maintain regulatory processes in the body, L-glutamine supports the optimal functioning of your gastrointestinal tract. Glutamine helps regulate the production of inflammatory markers and proliferation of white blood cells, thereby nurturing your defenses against infection and irritation.3 Supplementing your diet with L-glutamine also helps meet the metabolic demands of the body during metabolic stress, such as peptic ulcer disease.3
Nurturing Your Gastric Health
The role that your stomach plays is not only limited to breaking down food particles for absorption. It also helps secrete enzymes that help regulate the processes within your gastrointestinal tract. With food particles that may contain toxins and pathogens entering the stomach everyday, keeping your stomach strong and healthy is important to nurture innate protective factors that safeguard it from infections and ulcerations.
Do you want to learn how? Take the Natural Path to Wellness today!
Do you want to learn how? Take the Natural Path to Wellness 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:
- Mohiuddin AK. Alternative Treatments for Minor GI Ailments [retracted in: Innov Pharm. 2020 Feb 25;11(1). doi: 10.24926/iip.v11i1.3940]. Innov Pharm. 2019;10(3):10.24926/iip.v10i3.1659. Published 2019 Jul 5. doi:10.24926/iip.v10i3.1659
- Slippery Elm. In: LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; January 5, 2024.
- Perna S, Alalwan TA, Alaali Z, et al. The Role of Glutamine in the Complex Interaction between Gut Microbiota and Health: A Narrative Review. Int J Mol Sci. 2019;20(20):5232. Published 2019 Oct 22. doi:10.3390/ijms20205232
- Malik TF, Gnanapandithan K, Singh K. Peptic Ulcer Disease. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; June 5, 2023.
2/2/2025
A Controversial Take on Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Pain Relief with Added Health Risks
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The wonders of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief cannot be understated. In just a few minutes after taking the medication, you can get back on track and forget about your headache for the rest of the day. Although the discovery of the power of NSAIDs for pain relief is groundbreaking in allopathic medicine, their unregulated and frequent use can cause dire health consequences, especially to your gastrointestinal tract.
What are NSAIDs?
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are a class of medications that help reduce inflammation and pain relief, making them useful in managing muscle pain, fever, migraines, arthritis, and even period cramps. The wonders of NSAIDs come from their ability to block the action of cyclooxygenase, a special enzyme that exerts protective and regulatory effects to body processes and at the same time drives your body’s inflammatory response. Cyclooxygenases are divided into two subgroups: cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). COX-1 is regularly expressed in the body, as it plays a big role in nurturing the lining of the gastrointestinal tract, promoting platelet aggregation to stop bleeding and assist in wound healing, and regulating kidney function. COX-2, on the other hand, is not regularly expressed and is only present during inflammation.
The wide variety of NSAIDs available in the market allows people to choose their preferred type and brand. A very important consideration to remember when choosing the type of NSAIDs for your health problem is that not all medications are made equal. In fact, NSAIDs are classified into two types: nonselective COX inhibitors which block the effects of COX-1 and COX-2, and COX-2 selective inhibitors which only suppress COX-2. This means that although their actions in suppressing inflammation are the same, their side effects may be different from the other.
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The Consequences of NSAID Use
NSAIDs affect all major organ systems in the body. From the very first day of taking the medication, your risks of having stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding (GI bleeding), heart problems, and stroke, are higher than those who have not taken the medication.2 Since non-selective COX inhibitors affect both COX-1, that helps protect your gastric mucosa, and COX-2, which is necessary during inflammation, you may experience pain relief but at the same time put yourself at risk of stomach irritation and ulcers with long-term and unregulated use. Opting for a COX-2 selective NSAIDs may mitigate these risks since it does not hamper the protective effects of COX-1.
However, the use of COX-2 selective NSAIDs is not entirely beneficial since these medications do not help regulate platelet aggregation, putting you at risk of developing blood clots with prolonged use.2 The risk of side effects with NSAID use is higher in the elderly population, since these people are likely to take medications that may modify the effects of NSAIDs and because it can reduce the effects of aspirin therapy.2
However, the use of COX-2 selective NSAIDs is not entirely beneficial since these medications do not help regulate platelet aggregation, putting you at risk of developing blood clots with prolonged use.2 The risk of side effects with NSAID use is higher in the elderly population, since these people are likely to take medications that may modify the effects of NSAIDs and because it can reduce the effects of aspirin therapy.2
Safety and Considerations
NSAIDs may cause hypersensitivity reactions to people who are allergic to the medication. Additionally, the use of NSAIDs are contraindicated in people who have undergone coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) and mothers during the second half of pregnancy.1 When ultimately necessary, the benefits of its use for your health should outweigh possible health risks.
The improper use of NSAIDs may lead to toxicity, damaging your kidneys and liver, inducing high blood pressure levels, and causing gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding.1 As previously mentioned, the use of non-selective NSAIDs may also cause gastrointestinal damage, since it blocks the protective effects of cyclooxygenase to your stomach and intestinal lining. Once prolonged, this damage can lead to decreased nutrient absorption, putting you at risk of developing anemias and malnutrition.
The improper use of NSAIDs may lead to toxicity, damaging your kidneys and liver, inducing high blood pressure levels, and causing gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding.1 As previously mentioned, the use of non-selective NSAIDs may also cause gastrointestinal damage, since it blocks the protective effects of cyclooxygenase to your stomach and intestinal lining. Once prolonged, this damage can lead to decreased nutrient absorption, putting you at risk of developing anemias and malnutrition.
Naturopathic Solutions for Pain and Inflammation
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Rather than dealing with unwanted consequences of long-term NSAID use, naturopathic medicine offers alternative holistic remedies that will not only help relieve pain and inflammation, but also target the root cause of your health problems.
Botanical Medicine
Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been used by traditional medicine to manage pain and reduce inflammation by inserting needles through the skin at specific surface points to recover the natural energy flow within. Its wonders in pain control comes from its ability to nurture your body’s natural energy flow.3 Acupuncture has been observed to provide pain relief within 30 minutes of the procedure, which can last for months or even a whole year after therapy.3
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy focuses on applying essential oils on the skin or inhaling them to relieve pain and provide relaxation.4 These essential oils are made from plants that contain healing and relaxing properties. Additionally, the pleasant smell of essential oils can help you enjoy each aromatherapy session.4
Aromatherapy can be an invaluable treatment option, but this realm is also full of false claims, greedy companies, and pseudoscience. Burns, kidney failure, worsening of chronic disease and cancer, and even infant deaths have occurred because of inappropriate use of aromatherapy. Always talk to a trusted and knowledgeable healthcare professional before utilizing essential oils.
Botanical Medicine
- Turmeric (Curcuma Longa). Curcumin is a powerful herb that blocks the drivers of inflammation and COX-2, but spares COX-1, helping to reduce inflammation and relieve pain but without putting yourself at risk of gastrointestinal irritation, which is associated with non-selective NSAIDs.5
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale). Ginger contains active ingredients that exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects by controlling the expression of TNF-alpha, which is the key regulator of the inflammatory process.6 The smell of ginger also activates receptors expressed in neurons responsible for recognizing pain, ultimately decreasing pain perceived with inflammation.6
- Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus). Eucalyptus helps relieve pain and reduce inflammation by preventing blood vessels from becoming leaky, thereby preventing swelling, as well as the progression of the inflammatory response.7
Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been used by traditional medicine to manage pain and reduce inflammation by inserting needles through the skin at specific surface points to recover the natural energy flow within. Its wonders in pain control comes from its ability to nurture your body’s natural energy flow.3 Acupuncture has been observed to provide pain relief within 30 minutes of the procedure, which can last for months or even a whole year after therapy.3
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy focuses on applying essential oils on the skin or inhaling them to relieve pain and provide relaxation.4 These essential oils are made from plants that contain healing and relaxing properties. Additionally, the pleasant smell of essential oils can help you enjoy each aromatherapy session.4
Aromatherapy can be an invaluable treatment option, but this realm is also full of false claims, greedy companies, and pseudoscience. Burns, kidney failure, worsening of chronic disease and cancer, and even infant deaths have occurred because of inappropriate use of aromatherapy. Always talk to a trusted and knowledgeable healthcare professional before utilizing essential oils.
The Naturopathic Approach
The naturopathic approach aims to support the body’s natural ability to heal itself. This is done through exploring holistic solutions that incorporate lifestyle, nutrition, supplementation, and natural remedies that are all aimed to nurture. Explore the wonders of naturopathic medicine for pain relief and inflammation 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:
- Ghlichloo I, Gerriets V. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; May 1, 2023.
- Davis A, Robson J. The dangers of NSAIDs: look both ways. Br J Gen Pract. 2016;66(645):172-173. doi:10.3399/bjgp16X684433
- Niruthisard S, Ma Q, Napadow V. Recent advances in acupuncture for pain relief. Pain Rep. 2024;9(5):e1188. Published 2024 Sep 13. doi:10.1097/PR9.0000000000001188
- Lakhan SE, Sheafer H, Tepper D. The Effectiveness of Aromatherapy in Reducing Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Pain Res Treat. 2016;2016:8158693. doi:10.1155/2016/8158693
- Eke-Okoro UJ, Raffa RB, Pergolizzi JV Jr, Breve F, Taylor R Jr; NEMA Research Group. Curcumin in turmeric: Basic and clinical evidence for a potential role in analgesia. J Clin Pharm Ther. 2018;43(4):460-466. doi:10.1111/jcpt.12703
- Rondanelli M, Fossari F, Vecchio V, et al. Clinical trials on pain lowering effect of ginger: A narrative review. Phytother Res. 2020;34(11):2843-2856. doi:10.1002/ptr.6730
- Arooj B, Asghar S, Saleem M, et al. Anti-inflammatory mechanisms of eucalyptol rich Eucalyptus globulus essential oil alone and in combination with flurbiprofen. Inflammopharmacology. 2023;31(4):1849-1862. doi:10.1007/s10787-023-01237-6
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) can be seen growing almost everywhere, even considered a garden weed in some parts of the world. The beauty of dandelion, however, cannot compare to the wonders it can bring to your health! Dandelions are also used to spice up dishes and give flavor to drinks. Interestingly, dandelions belong to the “Taraxacum” family, which is derived from “taraxos” meaning disorder, and “akos” meaning remedy. Specifically, dandelions are rich in vitamins, calcium, iron, and potassium. Its leaves are also abundant in lutein and beta-carotene, which have antioxidant properties that protect body cells against damage. Dandelion roots, on the other hand, contain inulin, which is considered a prebiotic that supports the health of your intestinal microbiome and digestive tract! Here are 6 good reasons for you to start exploring the wonders of dandelions for your health.
1. It is good for the heart.
Dandelions are wonderful for your heart. Its leaves are rich in potassium which can help regulate blood pressure and reduce your risks of having complications from persistent hypertension.1 This wonder herb also has antioxidant properties from its abundant phenolic compounds, as well as anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects due to the presence of coumarins. Specifically, the antioxidant effects of dandelions help fight off oxidative stress, which puts you at high risk of developing hypertension.2
2. It is a good diuretic to reduce swelling.
The leaves of the dandelion plant have been used for centuries as a diuretic, which helps your body get rid of excess water and salt by causing you to urinate more frequently. This powerful effect occurs from taraxasterol and taraxetrol, which are active compounds that help nurture the function of your kidneys and increase the production of urine.6 Dandelions in Italy are even called “piscialetto” meaning bedwetter.3 Unlike most conventional diuretics that cause the excretion of potassium along with excess fluids, dandelions can help replace and prevent potassium loss, thereby reducing swelling without putting your body at risk of non-potassium sparing diuretic effects (which can do more harm than good, especially to the heart).5
3. It protects your liver.
Aside from causing harmful effects to the heart, oxidative stress can also damage your liver. The antioxidant properties of dandelions prevent this from happening through preventing the build-up of free radicals and nurturing the abilities of your body to regenerate its own antioxidants.4 Interestingly, the antioxidant effects of dandelions depend on its dose, which means that higher concentration of the plant can cause better antioxidant effects since higher concentration of antioxidant ingredients are present.4
4. It boosts your immune system.
Dandelions help strengthen your immunity by increasing the production of enzymes that initiate and regulate the immune response.6 These include nitric oxide, which is responsible for widening blood vessels and allowing more blood to travel to sites that need protection and repair. Dandelions also work wonders in nurturing cytokine levels in the blood, which are important messengers that help control the regulatory mechanisms of your immune system.
5. It is a delicious source of prebiotics.
Dandelions are famous in the food industry, as they have been incorporated in many food and drinks. Its roots can actually be a substitute for your morning coffee or breakfast cereals!1 Dandelion leaves are often used as a salad ingredient, while delicious syrups are extracted from its flowers. Dandelions are also rich in inulin, which is a natural fiber that also acts as a prebiotic. This ingredient not only helps facilitate the flow of bulk through your gastrointestinal tract, but it also nurtures the healthy microbiota that keep your gut healthy.2 Additionally, dandelions are rich in essential vitamins, such as vitamins B, C, A, and E, as well as iron, potassium, and zinc.
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Take note! Dandelion leaf is bitter, but it actually does wonders in stimulating salivation, digestive enzymes, and hydrochloric acid production. These all help nurture your gastrointestinal system’s abilities to absorb nutrients and regulate digestion! |
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6. It helps you fight against metabolic syndrome.
Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that can increase your risk of developing heart disease and diabetes mellitus. The occurrence of metabolic abnormalities, such as high blood pressure, abnormally high levels of lipids in the body, and insulin resistance affect your body’s abilities to regulate processes within. To prevent such occurrences, modifications to lifestyle and dietary practices should be made. Dandelions help regulate your body’s ability to breakdown lipids and sugars, thereby protecting your liver, regulating blood sugar levels, and preventing the development of disorders associated with impaired fat and carbohydrate metabolism.2
Dandelion Root Capsules |
Dandelion
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Dandelion
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Safety and Considerations
Dandelion has been used through the years as a food ingredient and herbal remedy, hence its effects on your health have been proven with time and side effects associated with its use rarely happen. These may include diarrhea, skin irritations, or stomach upset. Dandelion products have also been approved by the FDA as a form of dietary supplement.2 However, dandelion may not be the right herb for you if you are allergic to the plant or if you were recently diagnosed with gastrointestinal problems or obstructions in your digestive system. It is best to talk to your primary care provider and naturopathic doctors to thoroughly evaluate your case and identify the right herbal remedies for your optimal health. Additionally, most herbs are contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation, so it is best to consult with your doctors first before using these natural remedies to ensure your health is nurtured and your baby’s well-being is protected.
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:
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:
- Olas B. New Perspectives on the Effect of Dandelion, Its Food Products and Other Preparations on the Cardiovascular System and Its Diseases. Nutrients. 2022;14(7):1350. Published 2022 Mar 24. doi:10.3390/nu14071350
- Kania-Dobrowolska M, Baraniak J. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale L.) as a Source of Biologically Active Compounds Supporting the Therapy of Co-Existing Diseases in Metabolic Syndrome. Foods. 2022;11(18):2858. Published 2022 Sep 15. doi:10.3390/foods11182858
- Di Napoli A, Zucchetti P. A comprehensive review of the benefits of taraxacum officinale on human health. Bulletin of the National Research Centre. 2021;45(1). doi:10.1186/s42269-021-00567-1
- Pfingstgraf IO, Taulescu M, Pop RM, et al. Protective Effects of Taraxacum officinale L. (Dandelion) Root Extract in Experimental Acute on Chronic Liver Failure. Antioxidants (Basel). 2021;10(4):504. Published 2021 Mar 24. doi:10.3390/antiox10040504
- Clare BA, Conroy RS, Spelman K. The diuretic effect in human subjects of an extract of Taraxacum officinale folium over a single day. J Altern Complement Med. 2009;15(8):929-934. doi:10.1089/acm.2008.0152
- Taha MM, Abdelwahab SI. Unveiling a century of taraxacum officinale G.H. Weber ex wiggers research: A scientometric analysis and thematically-based Narrative Review. Bulletin of the National Research Centre. 2024;48(1). doi:10.1186/s42269-024-01194-2
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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