Most of us hear health recommendations and advice very frequently. From our doctors, of course, and from … everyone else it seems. It’s nearly impossible to go anywhere – or even log on online – without someone offering tips on what to eat and what not to eat. Ads for the latest drugs, weight loss tricks and cure-all potions fill the airwaves and web pages wherever we look.
With so many experts – and non-experts – weighing in, it may be hard to keep track of all the advice. When it comes to medical and other health decisions, many people listen to what their doctors tell them, or rely on the advice of family members, and do not do their own research into the matter.
While finding a physician you trust is important, and family that cares can help you when you’re in a bind, it is crucial to be educated about the details of your health, as well as all of your options when facing a medical decision. Why? The simple answer: because it’s your body, and no one knows your body like you do. You do live inside it, after all.
The problem is, many health experts, such as doctors, for example, are highly specialized in one field of health, and know little about other areas. For example, a general practitioner may not know how to diagnose specific skin conditions, and would therefore recommend seeing a dermatologist.
Neither the medical doctor or the dermatologist, however, are likely to know about herbal remedies and essential oils for skin conditions. For these types of remedies, you would go and see a naturopathic practitioner. But, who is to say what is necessary for your individual rash or scaly patch? Is the doctor right, or the naturopath?
To make the best possible decisions for your health, you need to be armed with an arsenal of knowledge. First of all, you need to know your body, and the way that it behaves. Know what foods give you energy and make you feel good, and what your body does not tolerate. Get familiar with your family history, and know how much sleep you are getting. Keeping a journal is a great place to start.
Doing research online as to the latest in health news, as well as researching any health issues you may have, is crucial so you keep up-to-date. Watching health and science updates and videos online is also a fun way to stay current – just don’t spend too much time sitting!
You may also wish to talk to numerous types of health experts, to get familiar with what each of them knows and how they might benefit you. Keeping an open mind opens many doors, but always approach with a critical eye and your own sources and credible articles in your back pocket. Everyone has their own expert opinion, but in the end, only you know your specific situation, symptoms and concerns.
If you are your own health expert, next time you are faced with a medical decision, you will be prepared to make the best possible decision – one that’s right for you.
-The Alternative Daily
