Relying Too Much on Complementary Therapies Can Be Hazardous to Your Health

Complementary therapies should be just that: a complement, not a substitute, for proven treatments. Don’t rely on them alone.

Complementary and alternative therapies are touted for many different types of conditions and diseases. Many people choose them believing that they can be as — or even more — effective than more traditional therapies. However, a new study out last week emphasizes that relying too much on these alternative therapies can be dangerous to your health — or even deadly.

People who elected to use a type of complementary therapy to treat 1 of 4 types of cancer — breast, colorectal, lung and prostate –- had nearly twice the risk of dying over a 9-year period compared to those that used traditional treatment, such as chemotherapy, according to the study, published in JAMA Oncology.

The complementary therapies tended to include meditation, diets, herbs and nutritional supplements. The study also found that those who chose complementary therapy were more likely to refuse treatments like hormone therapy, radiation or surgery.

The bottom line: Complementary therapies should be just that: a complement, not a substitute, for proven treatments. Don’t rely on them alone.

If you are considering complementary therapies for a condition you have, you should know that many of them lack the breadth of scientific studies to back up their claims that FDA-approved treatments do. Before starting any kind of complementary therapy, do your own research, and as always, discuss it with your health care professional.

Another misconception about some homeopathic treatments is that because they are naturally derived, they must be safe. However, it is important to note that many vitamins and herbs can interact with medications, potentially making other drugs one is taking less effective or leading to unexpected side effects.

Much of the reason why people seek complementary medicine is because of the side effects associated with treatments. Cancer treatments, in particular, can have particularly harsh side effects. This is where alternative therapies can perhaps be best used –- as a way to manage the side effects of drugs.

For example, there is evidence that yoga and exercise can minimize side effects associated with some cancer treatments. Another study found that yoga can alleviate the side effects of radiation therapy seen in prostate cancer patients.

Complementary medicines can play a role in improving one’s quality of life as they battle disease. Just don’t make the mistake of looking at alternative medicines solely as a cure.

DISCLAIMER: MedShadow provides information and resources related to medications, their effects, and potential side effects. However, it is important to note that we are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The content on our site is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Individuals dealing with medical conditions or symptoms should seek guidance from a licensed healthcare professional, such as a physician or pharmacist, who can provide personalized medical advice tailored to their specific circumstances.

While we strive to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented on MedShadow, we cannot guarantee its completeness or suitability for any particular individual's medical needs. Therefore, we strongly encourage users to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any health-related concerns or decisions. By accessing and using MedShadow, you acknowledge and agree that the information provided on the site is not a substitute for professional medical advice and that you should always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any medical concerns.
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