Issue #040, March 17, 2012

Ever Experienced Doctor Frustration?

It's been awhile since I've sent out an ezine, and I thought I'd share with you the reason why in the hopes that my story might help others.

In 2008 I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism, which means my thyroid wasn't working properly. It's amazing how one small gland can knock you for a loop. I couldn't do chores without taking a long rest afterwards. I avoid doctors like the plague, but it was hard to get out of bed in the morning, so I followed the doctor's advice and started taking a synthetic thyroid medication. I did okay at first, but I still couldn't lose weight, (I put on almost 40 pounds between 2008 and 2010) and I slowly grew more depressed and unable to think. I spent hours staring at my computer screen, unable to write a word. Just trying to do anything was mentally excruciating.

I kept asking my doctor if we could up the thyroid medication, but he insisted my thyroid levels were just fine based on the blood tests. But it didn't matter if the test said I was okay. I wasn't okay. I was too tired and depressed to do anything. When my doctor recommended an antidepressant I was speechless. Okay doc, you're worried about me taking a little too much thyroid medication, but you have no qualms about prescribing a psychosomatic drug that messes with my brain chemistry? It was time to find another doctor.

It turns out that not only was my doctor not giving me the right test, but if he had given me a natural (and low-cost) thyroid medication instead of a synthetic one, all of those negative symptoms – depression, foggy thinking, inability to lose weight and chronic fatigue, would have disappeared.

And that's the frustration I suspect many of us face with conventional medicine. These days, the medical establishment is ignoring the Hippocratic oath of “First, do no harm” and instead listening to the profit drumbeat of the pharmaceutical companies. While natural thyroid medication (made from the thyroid glands of pigs) is cheaper, it doesn't bring in the profit the synthetic versions do.

Ever been in the doctor's office and noticed people in suits getting to see the doctor before you? Those guys are representatives from the pharmaceutical companies, and their job is to educate your doctor on the best way to treat you, not from the viewpoint of what is actually good for you, but instead what is the most profitable for the pharmaceutical companies. And doctors, who tend to be overworked anyway, tend to rely on the advice of these guys rather than taking the time to research it themselves.

And let's be real. Why should they? They're never going to be as motivated as you are to find the best way to heal you or someone you love. That's where self reliance comes in.

These days I'm reflecting a lot more on natural forms of healing, and the website shows it. I have articles on kefir and juicing for better health. In the future I plan to post more articles about natural healing as well as gardening and self reliance.

In the meantime, if you're dealing with chronic fatigue or can't seem to lose weight, think about seeing a naturopath. If you live in the midwest, I have a great one to recommend.

What's New?

One reader is about to be unemployed and asks for tips on self reliance. Read more.

2011 Backyard Garden in Lancaster, SC

Kathy Griffin shares her gardening success story.

Living the Way

Reader Susanne shares some frugal tips.

What Breed of Dog is Good for Homesteaders?

Mike asks if one breed stands out above others for being a good four-legged intruder alarm. Read more.

Kefir Recipe

This kefir recipe is an easy way to make the healthiest drink possible. Learn how to make kefir, and you have self sufficient healing for you and your family, including healing of ulcers, gastrointestinal problems and sleep disorders. Read more.

Health Benefits of Kefir

The health benefits of kefir are astounding. By adding this kefir probiotic drink to your diet on a daily basis you improve your health and build up a strong immune system, saving you hundreds of dollars in doctor's bills. Read more.

Bartering Corner

One reader is looking for organic cornmeal, wheat flour, grits, honey and jelly. Another reader is looking for grass fed beef, and a third reader wants his wild bee hives removed.

Can You Have Chickens in Elsmere, Kentucky?

Read the answer here.

Benefits from Juicing

Benefits from juicing. You may be wondering if it is really worth it to invest in a juicer, but you would be amazed at the health benefits of making your own fresh juice. Read more.

Tips for Juicing

If you're looking for a way to increase your health and feel better, follow these helpful juicing tips.

Megadose Vitamin Therapy

Megadose vitamin therapy sounds more complicated that it really is - namely taking a whole lot more of a vitamin than you normally would for phenomenal results. Read more.

And as always, happy homesteading!

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