The Two Sides of Medicine
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Health Fitness -> subcategory Medicine.
The Two Sides of Medicine
Throughout history, there have been two main perspectives on how to maintain or regain good health. This debate has continued from ancient times and will likely persist into the future.
One perspective asserts that good health is achieved through external interventions like drugs and surgery. The other emphasizes living in harmony with natural laws, focusing on nutrition and cleanliness.
The ancient Greeks personified these views through deities. Followers of Asklepios, the god of medicine, supported the intervention approach and were known as Asklepians. Those who believed in harmony with nature were inspired by Hygeia, the goddess of health, and were called Hygeians.
Asklepians vs. Hygeians
Both groups have historically criticized each other, a dynamic that continues today. Modern Western medicine often aligns with the Asklepian viewpoint. However, the Hygeian approach, foundational in traditional Chinese medicine, has gained traction due to several factors:
- Dissatisfaction with mainstream medical practices
- Increasing incidence of medical errors (hospitals can often be risky)
- Recognition that health is a personal responsibility, not solely the domain of overworked physicians
- Awareness of the influence of drug companies and the availability of safer, more affordable natural alternatives
Despite these shifts, mainstream medicine still plays a crucial role, especially for emergencies and urgent illnesses. Even if you lean towards the Hygeian approach, don't dismiss the benefits of conventional medicine, particularly in early disease detection.
A Real-Life Example
Consider this scenario: you're over 40, healthy, fit, and not overweight. You eat well, don’t smoke, drink moderately, and rarely get sick. You might believe you'll live to a ripe old age. But think again.
Have you ever heard of someone seemingly healthy who died suddenly? It could happen to competitive athletes as well.
I recall a friend from about 15 years ago. At around 40, he was a former competitive bodybuilder, fit and active. One day at a lake, he decided to show some young water-skiers a few tricks. Tragically, moments later, he died of a massive heart attack.
Such tragedies could often be avoided with better awareness of risk factors and proactive health measures.
What You Can Do
If you're over 35 and haven't had a blood test recently, schedule one now. A comprehensive test should include:
- LDL and HDL cholesterol
- Triglycerides
- Homocysteine levels
- Lipoproteins
- Liver and renal function
- Plasma glucose
Men over 40 should additionally consider a Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test. Abstain from sex for 2-3 days before the test, as it can affect PSA levels.
Regardless of gender, consult your physician about any other necessary tests. If your results are normal, focus on feeling better and slowing the aging process. Abnormal results require action to return to normal ranges and might necessitate further testing.
Potential Conflicts
Here's where Asklepian and Hygeian philosophies might clash. If your cholesterol levels are high, a conventional doctor might suggest dietary changes or statin drugs. However, while statins can be effective, they come with side effects and risks.
On the other hand, natural alternatives for lowering cholesterol are often safer and lack side effects, but they’re not widely promoted due to lack of patentability and financial incentives.
This principle applies to many ailments. It’s important to explore natural remedies and understand potential pharmaceutical side effects.
Pharmaceutical Drugs vs. Natural Remedies
Pharmaceuticals, often ‘blockers,’ do not address the root causes and generally work by suppressing natural functions, providing immediate results. They’re useful in emergencies but might not be the best long-term solution.
Conversely, natural products like herbs and vitamins act as ‘enablers,’ addressing underlying nutrient deficiencies. Results are slower, needing weeks or months.
If facing a serious health issue, collaborate with your physician to explore natural remedies first. If they’re unfamiliar with these treatments, research independently and discuss them intelligently. If your physician is closed-minded about natural remedies, consider seeking another with an open perspective.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: The Two Sides of Medicine.
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