Question: How can I find a good holistic doctor?

Dr. Brownstein's Answer:

One of the questions I get most often from readers and audiences at my lectures is, “Dr. Brownstein, how do I find a holistic doctor in my area?”

In formulating an answer, the first thing I do is explain exactly what is meant by a “holistic doctor.” When I talk about holistic medicine, I am referring to a combination of conventional and alternative practices that address a patient’s overall health rather than merely treating the symptoms of a particular illness.

Alternative medicine simply denotes a medical approach or technique that is not commonly practiced by “conventional” doctors or taught in medical schools.

This might surprise you, but medical schools don’t actually train students about the importance of health or diet and nutrition. Rather, the schools place an emphasis on making a diagnosis and treating the symptoms they see with pharmaceutical drugs.

While I do frequently criticize drug therapies, there is a time and a place for such therapies. However, most drug therapies do not treat the underlying cause of illness.

On the other hand, a holistic practitioner will, when indicated, not only utilize prescription medications, but he or she will also give patients diet and nutritional approaches. This will allow them to optimize and maintain their health so that, eventually, they will not need to use drugs.

This is important because eating a healthy diet provides the raw materials the body needs to carry out its biochemical reactions.

A holistic healthcare provider should not only talk a good game, they should also “walk the walk.” By that I mean he or she should be incorporating holistic principles into their own health plan, and following the same advice they are giving to you.
Many doctors say they practice holistic medicine, but do not. It’s not always easy to tell the difference. You may have to shop around for a doctor, just as you would shop for a new automobile.

See if he/she has written anything. Most doctors have websites promoting their practice. A holistic doctor is usually happy to advertise their use of natural therapies.

A good reference for finding a holistic doctor is a compounding pharmacist. Holistic physicians utilize the skills of compounding pharmacists. A busy compounding pharmacist can guide you to which holistic doctor is right for you. Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor how he/she practices. A holistic doctor should be able to explain their philosophy succinctly to you.

Finally, ask around. Satisfied patients are more than happy to tell you their experience.

Remember, you are in charge of your healthcare decisions. You decide who will take care of you. Finding the right fit with a holistic doctor can help you achieve your optimal health.