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CAM Myths & Realities
Myth #1: If it’s natural, it’s good for me.
- Truth: Products may be contaminated.
- Truth: Products may interfere with your medicines.
- Truth: Products may actually be dangerous (many poisons are also “natural”).
Bear in mind that supplements and herbs are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.
Myth #2: Complementary therapies are “safer” than regular medical treatments.
- Truth: Providers differ in their abilities.
- Truth: Checking to see if your acupuncturist, chiropractor or massage therapist is licensed may help avoid poorly trained people.
- Truth: Beware of people making outrageous claims (“I can cure your cancer”) or selling “their” special products.
Remember:
- Just because a therapy is “natural” or “complementary” does not make it safe.
- You need to be as careful in picking a provider of complementary therapy as you are in picking a doctor. Check their credentials as carefully as you would those of a primary care provider.
- Beware of practitioners or supplements who promise “miracle cures” or tell you “this works for everybody.”
- Discuss all complementary therapies with your primary doctor. If they are not interested, you can find a new doctor or educate your present one.
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