8 Benefits of Seeing a Naturopathic Doctor

Have you ever left a doctor’s appointment feeling uncertain, or avoided making one because you struggled to express your concerns? You’re certainly not the only one. For this reason, many Canadians opt to consult naturopathic doctors (NDs) alongside their conventional healthcare providers to receive a personalized, holistic approach to their health.

We spoke with Dr. Chanel Smyth, ND at Creekside Health in Whistler, BC, to delve into how these professionals can support your well-being.

An ND is distinct from a naturopath; the education required is extensive. To qualify, one must complete eight years of devoted study, beginning with acquiring a bachelor’s degree that fulfills pre-medical prerequisites, followed by a four-year doctoral program recognized by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education, and passing the required board examinations.

According to Smyth, the primary functions of an ND include diagnosing, preventing, and managing both acute and chronic health conditions, along with the authority to prescribe medications in certain provinces. NDs are equipped to address a wide array of health issues and often collaborate with medical doctors (MDs) to ensure comprehensive care.

A foundational tenet of naturopathic medicine is to “treat the whole person.” This means examining the connections between an individual’s physical state, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices, and how these aspects influence their health.

“Every individual is essentially a unique ecosystem that functions as a unified entity,” remarks Smyth. An ND aims to develop a comprehensive treatment strategy that considers all aspects of the patient’s medical history, physical condition, and emotional well-being.

Don’t wait for a significant health issue to book a visit with an ND. Preventative care is a major focus within naturopathic practices. NDs offer initial assessments and regular checkups to discuss diet, supplement needs, and exercise plans, along with recommendations for any necessary adjustments and annual lab work,” shares Dr. Smyth.

Generally, Smyth advises seeing your ND biannually unless there are new health concerns requiring attention.

When confronted with a serious health challenge like cancer, consulting an ND can be immensely beneficial in your recovery journey. Following a cancer diagnosis, more than 80% of individuals opt to complement their oncology treatments with natural or alternative therapies.

NDs can be instrumental in minimizing treatment side effects, alleviating pain, bolstering the immune system, and enhancing overall well-being during cancer treatment.

An ND can conduct a thorough evaluation of both partners to uncover the underlying causes of fertility challenges, whether they stem from an unnoticed condition or a hormonal or nutrient imbalance,” states Smyth. NDs can test various hormone levels such as progesterone, estrogen, AMH, as well as conduct urinary assessments as necessary.

After addressing these factors, your ND can provide personalized recommendations and support efforts to enhance fertility through techniques like acupuncture or lifestyle and nutritional adjustments.

Smyth notes that NDs can accompany you throughout your pregnancy, addressing concerns such as morning sickness and digestive issues, as well as ensuring proper nutrient intake for both the mother and the developing child.

An essential role of an ND is that of “educator,” who guides patients on health matters rather than merely treating symptoms. Having an ND throughout your pregnancy offers valuable education about maintaining health for both you and your baby, helping ease the transition into motherhood.

Even with an established MD for your child, NDs can complement traditional medical care by offering alternative health options and support.

“Our approach involves collaborating with parents and children to investigate necessary tests, dietary modifications, and appropriate nutrient recommendations to address specific health issues,” explains Smyth. This might cover a range of concerns including skin ailments, allergies, and mood fluctuations.

Whether you’re feeling a little down or grappling with more severe mental health challenges, emotional wellness plays a critical role in daily life. Naturopathic approaches can effectively assist with various mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression.

Smyth notes that NDs strive for a holistic understanding of mental health by identifying underlying causes of distress, employing strategies like dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, and when necessary, diagnostic tests to effectively tackle the concerns at hand.