Naturopathic Doctors Address Root Causes of Heart Disease

WASHINGTON, Feb. 1, 2018 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Naturopathic doctors (NDs) play an important role in reversing and preventing the number one killer of Americans: cardiovascular disease. That's because they focus on identifying the underlying causes of heart disease, and empowering patients to make enduring lifestyle changes. This is according to the Institute for Natural Medicine (INM), which today released a new FAQ in partnership with the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP).

Trained to treat the whole person, naturopathic doctors address the genetic, environmental, and behavioral/lifestyle factors that lead to cardiovascular disease. Root causes often show up as warning signs in other bodily systems, and many times they are the result of chronic inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation can arise from poor diet, a sedentary lifestyle, stress, autoimmune disease, food allergies, and many other sources.

While treatment approaches are individualized to each patient, here are six key focuses for naturopathic prevention and treatment of heart disease:

1. Comprehensive 1-2-hour intake to identify risk factors and underlying causes
2. Targeted labs for a clear picture of what's going on inside your body
3. Management of vital signs with medication as needed
4. Optimizing gastrointestinal function
5. Addressing endothelial dysfunction
6. Motivating physical activity

"Lifestyle changes can reverse heart disease in patients with arterial plaque build-up, and help people avoid surgery and long-term reliance on medication," said Michelle Simon, PhD, ND and Chair of the INM Board of Directors. "Naturopathic doctors individualize treatment with an emphasis on lifestyle shifts and other natural therapies, such as clinical nutrition, botanical medicine and counseling."

The complete FAQ, "How do naturopathic doctors prevent and treat heart disease?" can be found here.

About the Institute for Natural Medicine
The Institute for Natural Medicine (INM) is a national not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization that provides public education about naturopathic medicine and increases consumer access to naturopathic doctors. As a close partner to the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, the INM strives to increase consumer and physician choice in safe, effective healthcare that improves patient outcomes and lowers costs. For more information visit www.naturemed.org or call 855-799-4490.

About the AANP
The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians is the professional association that represents licensed naturopathic physicians. The AANP strives to make naturopathic medicine available to every American, and to increase recognition of naturopathic physicians as the identified authorities on natural medicine. Learn more at www.naturopathic.org.

Reena Mukamal
[email protected]
650-218-3139

SOURCE Institute for Natural Medicine

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