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Gut Health in Naturopathic Medicine & Chinese Medicine with Dr. Alex Dragan

 

 

Show Notes

Are you ever at a loss when patients ask about vitamin D, magnesium, or iron supplements? 

As TCM practitioners, we’re experts in Chinese medicine and acupuncture, but many of us weren’t taught a deep understanding of the nutrients our patients take daily. That’s exactly why I invited back my friend and colleague, Dr. Alex Dragan!

In this episode, Alex shares her wisdom on vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, so you can better support and educate your patients. You’ll walk away with actionable insights and access to a game-changing resource that will transform your practice.

 

Vitamin D: The Winter Challenge

For many Canadians, or most living in the Northern Hemisphere, sunshine is a rare commodity, especially in the long winter months. 40% of Canadians are deficient in vitamin D, known as the “sunshine vitamin.” This deficiency, common in northern climates, leads to fatigue and other health issues. Clara shares a personal anecdote about her mother, who experienced fatigue in her 80s. A proactive approach by a new doctor revealed low vitamin D levels, and supplementation brought back her vitality. This underscores the importance of being proactive about health and not accepting fatigue as a normal part of aging.

 

Decoding Magnesium: Tailoring Your Supplementation

Magnesium is a mineral with various roles in the body. Dr. Dragan highlights that not all magnesium supplements are the same, with different forms targeting different health concerns. For instance, magnesium citrate aids in bowel regularity, while magnesium bisglycinate is preferred for muscle relaxation and stress relief. Understanding these nuanced differences empowers both practitioners and patients to choose the right type of magnesium to meet their specific needs, ensuring more effective use of supplements.

 

Iron Deficiency: A Global Health Issue

Iron is a critical mineral for maintaining energy through its role in oxygen transport. Dr. Dragan points out that iron deficiency is the most widespread nutrient deficiency worldwide, affecting millions. While women are more commonly affected due to menstruation, men are not immune. The symptoms—fatigue, shortness of breath, and reduced exercise tolerance—can be debilitating. Dragan emphasizes the importance of checking ferritin levels to assess iron stores and considering supplementation as a critical step towards improving oxygenation and energy.

 

Multivitamins: Are They Worth It?

When it comes to multivitamins, Dr. Dragan advises considering both the quality and necessity of these supplements. Many multivitamins provide only low doses of a wide range of vitamins, meaning they may not be sufficient to correct significant deficiencies. Furthermore, the origin of these vitamins—whether natural or synthetic—can impact their effectiveness. Dr. Dragan suggests prioritizing high-quality, medical-grade supplements and considering individual nutrient needs rather than relying solely on a multi-purpose pill.

 

Understanding B12: Vital for Vibrancy

Vitamin B12 plays an integral role in the production of red blood cells and maintaining nerve health. Despite its presence in animal products, even meat eaters can find themselves deficient in B12 due to absorption challenges. Dr. Dragan explains that B12 deficiency can lead to symptoms like fatigue and numbness, especially in older individuals who may have reduced stomach acid levels required for B12 absorption. This highlights why B12 supplementation, especially for those over 50 or with dietary restrictions, is vital in maintaining energy levels and overall health.

 

Considering NAD: An Adjunct to Healthy Living

Recently, NAD has become a popular supplement touted for its potential to boost energy and slow the aging process. Dr. Dragan advises a balanced perspective, suggesting that foundational health habits such as proper sleep, diet, and stress management should be established before turning to supplements like NAD. While it is beneficial for cellular health, NAD should be viewed as a complement to a healthy lifestyle rather than a standalone solution.

 

Bridging Knowledge Gaps with Integrative Education

Recognizing the gap in vitamin and nutrient education among TCM practitioners, Dr. Alex collaborated with AcuPro Academy and developed an in-depth course to help practitioners integrate this knowledge into patient care. This course covers the functions of vitamins and minerals, their optimal dosages, and addresses specific health areas like gut and hormonal health. By understanding how these elements work within the body, practitioners can enhance their treatment strategies, offering more comprehensive patient care and education.

 

Disclaimer

The Acupro Show podcast and material shared through Acupro Academy is a subdivision of Natural Health Sense Incorporated. Designed solely for educational and entertainment purposes. The utilization of information from this podcast or any associated material is at the user’s discretion and risk. This content is not meant to replace the guidance of an acupuncturist. Nor Chinese medicine doctor, medical doctor, physician, or any qualified professional. It is not a substitute for proper diagnosis or treatment. As well as users are strongly advised not to ignore or postpone seeking medical advice. For any existing medical condition with their healthcare professional. Regarding any health concerns.

 

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