Find a Vitamin Savvy Doctor

January 28, 2008

Posted by Maggie Spilner

When you ask your doctor a question about nutrition, do you get a look of derision or a sigh and a blank stare? It can be frustrating and embarrassing to be dismissed by your doctor when you bring up the subject of supplements. But more importantly, it can be dangerous to your health and well-being if you allow his or her lack of education or understanding to dissuade you from taking the latest research about supplements seriously.

Many doctors have not been educated in the field of nutrition or have only a rudimentary understanding of it. Many don’t have the time to keep abreast of the latest developments. Research shows most take a multi-vitamin at minimum, but many would not be able to help you treat or support a chronic health condition nutritionally.

When I visit my physician at Woodlands Healing Center in Quakertown, PA, I know that supplements and herbs are considered vital companions to health care. The dispensary walls are lined with vitamin and herb bottles. My doctor keeps a list of all the vitamins and herbs I take on file and helps me to make decisions about whether I’m taking too much, too little or if any medications I might take would be adversely affected.

If you want support from a medical professional in making decision about supplements and herbs, or if you are being treated by an allopathic doctor (one who tends to treat symptoms rather than causes) for a chronic health challenge and want to find out what else you can do to support your health, you can find help by searching the databases of the following organizations:

American Holistic Medical Association
The AHMA lists MDs and DOs (osteopaths) who specialize in a natural approach to medicine and who may prescribe vitamins, herbs, chiropractic care, acupuncture and other healing modalities for their patients. Their database allows you to search for a physician with a special interest in nutrition.

American Association of Naturopathic Physicians
Naturopathic Physicians (NDs) receive rigorous training in nutrition, botanical medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, homeopathy and acupuncture. In some states they prescribe and in others they are only allowed to give guidance. Call toll-free: 866-538-2267

American Association for Environmental Medicine
Those interested in environmental medicine assess a patient in relationship to everything that may be affecting him internally and externally and are particularly interested in the effects of pollution, irritants and allergens that may be undermining your health or quality of life. AAEM members recognize the need to balance the body which may include supplementation. You can search their database by state.

Nutrition in Complementary Care
If you would like to work with a registered dietitian (RD) who is interested in alternative therapies and the use of supplements, you can search for members of this American Dietetic Association practice group by state.

The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: You shouldn’t see a doctor who relies only on traditional, pharmaceutical solutions. Find a doctor or health care practitioner who can relate to your knowledge of and desire for nutritional advice and a holistic approach to wellness. There’s no reason to settle for less.

QUICK TIP: Some vitamins and herbs can affect with the way some drugs work in the body. If you take prescription medications, it is especially important that you discuss the supplements you take with a health care provider or pharmacist you trust who can advise you about potential interactions. Learn More

Written exclusively for Stop Aging Now, the authority on anti-aging research, anti-aging nutrition, and anti-aging supplements.