Back to the reader files we go with this installment of our Natural Health Blog.  Readers and clients write in a lot concerning what they are taking and when with respect to their prescription drugs, and they almost always will go on to disclose a supplement (or five or ten) they are also taking.

Sometimes, we find that folks are using the natural, herbal world to make their nutrition a more complete picture.  Other times they are taking something that helps to correct a disease process that is a result of a deficiency, as with iron, calcium, or vitamin D shortages.

But occasionally, we come across disclosures that raise a flag, as in the cases relating to people who are on serious prescription drugs and also supplementing from nature with highly concentrated herbal supplements or mineral compounds.

Many times, there are no interactions.  In fact, some herbal supplements actually help a drug to be either better absorbed or to be more effective.  An example might be people taking fish oil capsules as well as hormone replacement regimens (whether natural or herbal).

This statement occurs so much it leaves me wishing I could have a dime every time someone mentions it.

Some of my own staff have even said variations of it from time to time.

While I understand the sentiment, it does concern me a lot since a licensed health care provider someone who can accurately diagnose health conditions.  Someone off the street or in a health food store is not someone who can do that.

That said, it can be very frustrating when you are trying to live according to healthy, natural rules and your doctor hands you a prescription sheet after spending 45 seconds with you.  Does he or she even really understand the issue? Does he or she respect my wishes to try natural methods first?

Only you can answer this, and the only way is to develop a better communication channel with your provider.  Avoiding even seeing the doctor is the opposite of this.