Hello, my friend!

I hope May has been good to you!

This month I'll tell you about a very naturopathic (but surprising) thing I do. Read on to find out more!

But first: an admin task:

This newsletter brings you health tips, information, special offers, and personal stories I don't share anywhere else. This is intended to enhance the experience for patients working with me + provide plenty of value for non-patients too.

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The most naturopathic thing I do

I saw a video recently in which someone was criticizing naturopathic doctors, stating that we have become drug pushers—just like MDs.

If you interviewed 100 different naturopathic doctors, you'd likely find that each of them practices a little differently. Some may prescribe medications frequently, while others might not prescribe medications at all. I prescribe medications sometimes, and I prescribe natural medicines most of the time—but all of my patients get to choose.

To me, it's all about options.

While many people seek out naturopathic medicine because they're looking for alternatives to medications, others are perfectly happy to use medications if it means reaching their goals faster. Sometimes medications are a simple, effective, and inexpensive solution—and that appeals to many people.

Medications are not anti-naturopathic.

One of the tenets of naturopathic medicine is "treat the whole person." To me, "the whole person" includes the person's preference, financial wellbeing, lifestyle, schedule, values, etc. When choosing a treatment plan, all of these factors have to be considered.

There's a concept in medicine called PARQ. It stands for Procedure, Alternatives, Risks, and Questions. PARQ is the foundation of informed consent.

When discussing a treatment plan, doctors are supposed to explain the recommended treatment, review alternative options, discuss the risks and benefits of each, and provide time for questions.

Does your doctor do this?

In my experience, most medical doctors have limited alternatives to offer beyond conventional treatments. Sometimes there is a choice between a few medications, a medication versus surgery, or perhaps a "watch and wait" approach. Occasionally diet and lifestyle changes are discussed. But herbs, supplements, and other natural therapies often aren't part of the conversation.

With me, you have options.

Naturopathic doctors can offer a much wider range of treatment options for many health concerns. That means you have choice. You get to help design a treatment plan that aligns with your values, budget, goals, and comfort level.

And sometimes, the treatment that makes the most sense is a medication.

If I review a treatment plan that involves major dietary changes, three supplements, and a new exercise routine—but a medication that costs $12 per month can accomplish the same goal—many people understandably find that option attractive.

Likewise, some people would rather invest the time and effort to address underlying causes, reduce their reliance on medications, and build a foundation for long-term health.

Neither approach is inherently right or wrong.

My job isn't to tell you what you should choose.

My job is to help you understand your options.

It's also important to understand the risks of any treatment. Sometimes the risk is a side effect. Sometimes the risk is financial. Sometimes it's the burden of taking multiple supplements every day or following a treatment plan that simply doesn't fit your life.

To me, naturopathic medicine isn't about limiting treatment to natural therapies. It's defined by a commitment to individualized care, informed choice, and treating the whole person. It's giving you the ability to choose.

The most naturopathic thing I can do isn't to push a supplement or deny you a medication.

It's to sit down with you, understand your goals, explain your options, and help you make the decision that's right for you.

If you've been told that your only option is a medication—or if you've been told that medications should never be used at all—you may be missing part of the picture.

You deserve to know all of your options.

If you'd like help understanding the root causes of your symptoms, exploring natural therapies, or deciding whether a medication is the right fit for your situation, I'd be happy to help. Book an appointment and let's create a treatment plan that works for your health goals, your lifestyle, and your budget.

That's all for this month!

Comments? Questions? Just reply to this email! I'd love to hear what you think!