Sometimes it feels like the side effects of medication are worse than the original condition. We’ve all seen pharmaceutical commercials that spend half their time listing potential negative reactions. While some medications are necessary for health and quality of life, it’s good to know strategies for removing the side effects of medicine naturally.
At Integra we’re all about promoting a healthier, balanced life. In this article, we will explore strategies to remove common medication side effects naturally, discuss the importance of lowering reliance on medication, and introduce the concept of functional medicine’s focus on root-cause treatment. Pills shouldn’t be our go-to response to illness. Instead, we should aim to unlock the body’s healing potential and find natural solutions to disease.
Learn more about how functional medicine can lower your reliance on medications.
Common Side Effects of Medication
Before delving into natural relief strategies, it’s important to understand some common side effects that you may experience while taking medication. These unnatural side effects from medicine can vary depending on the type of medication and individual factors, but it’s interesting to note that they resemble the symptoms we treat with functional medicine. So, if you experience the following side effects (or symptoms), it’s time to call Integra.
Common medication side effects include the following:
- Nausea and Digestive Issues: Medications such as antibiotics, painkillers, and antidepressants can often cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, indigestion, and diarrhea.
- Fatigue and Drowsiness: Many medications, particularly those used to manage chronic conditions, may lead to fatigue, drowsiness, or a general feeling of lethargy.
- Skin Reactions: Skin rashes, itching, and dryness are potential unnatural side effects of various medications, including antibiotics and anticonvulsants.
- Mood Swings and Emotional Disturbances: Medications such as corticosteroids and hormonal treatments may impact mood and emotional stability.
- Weight Gain or Loss: Some medications, such as antidepressants and antipsychotics, can cause changes in weight.
- Sexual Dysfunction: Certain medications, including antidepressants and blood pressure medications, may contribute to sexual dysfunction in both men and women.
Remove Side Effects by Lowering Reliance on Medication
Reducing the reliance on medication is the first step toward getting rid of your side effects. But removing side effects from medicine naturally does not mean stopping your current medications. Do not do this. Instead, work with a functional medicine practitioner such as Julie Helm to see how you might replace your current regimen with natural solutions.
While medications have their place in healthcare, research has shown that over-reliance can cause harm. Unintended interactions among medications, dependency, and chronic side effects are all possible with extended medication use.
Natural Relief Strategies for Medication Side Effects
It’s not always possible to get off the medications that are causing your side effects. In that case, you can make certain changes to reduce your symptoms. Here are some common side effects associated with medication that you can remove naturally.
Nausea and Digestive Issues
Reduce your intake of fatty, processed foods. Also, consider adding probiotics and tea to your diet. Be careful, as some over-the-counter stomach medications such as antacids can further contribute to digestive problems.
Fatigue and Drowsiness
If your health condition allows, engage in physical activity to boost energy levels and combat fatigue and brain fog. Make sure you’re adequately hydrated during the day. You might also want to see if the imbalance of your hormones is causing extreme fatigue.
Skin Reactions
Apply natural, fragrance-free moisturizers to combat dryness and soothe skin irritations. A modified diet can also improve your skin while taking medication.
Mood Swings and Emotional Disturbances
Incorporate mindfulness and meditation practices into your daily routine to help manage mood swings and emotional disturbances. Make sure you get enough sleep as well.
Weight Gain or Loss
Focus on a balanced diet that includes whole foods, plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to maintain a healthy weight. Beyond diet, work with a functional medicine provider to balance hormones. Hormones play a major role in your body’s ability to regulate metabolism.
Functional Medicine Can Help You Get Off Medication by Focusing on Root-Cause Treatment
Functional medicine takes a holistic approach to healthcare by identifying and addressing the root causes of health issues. Unlike traditional medicine, which often focuses on symptom management, functional medicine aims to uncover underlying imbalances, such as nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or lifestyle factors, that may contribute to the need for medication. By addressing these root causes, functional medicine seeks to reduce reliance on medication and promote long-term health.
In the end, removing medication’s side effects naturally is a journey that requires patience, collaboration with a functional medicine practitioner, and an open-minded approach to holistic healing. By embracing lifestyle modifications, exploring alternative therapies, and considering the principles of functional medicine, individuals can take proactive steps toward removing medication’s side effects naturally and achieving overall well-being.
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