Chiropractic and nutrition: chiropractors attack the source of disease

Article Abstract:

Most individuals do not associate nutrition with the principles of nerve supply and function which are the basis of the practice of chiropractic medicine. But the cells of the body can be considered microscopic chemical factories which are greatly affected by improper nutrition. Nutritional deficiencies can be due to either inadequate or imbalanced intake of nutrients, or to abnormalities of nutrient absorption. In addition, aspects of the growing, harvesting and handling of food can markedly affect the nutritional value of food. Other issues involved in nutrition relate to the side effects of conventional prescription drugs, illegal drugs, alcohol and smoking. Surgery, emotional difficulties, environmental stress and malnutrition can influence an individual's ability to absorb and process additional nutrients. Unfortunately, physicians often lack training in nutrition; an estimated 30 percent of medical students receive only the most minimal training in nutrition. In contrast, chiropractors have a long tradition of nutrition training, and chiropractic license renewal calls for continued education in this important field. Healthy functioning can only occur when the nerve cells of the body are well nourished. Conversely, proper nerve function is required for the control of processes which lead to the absorption of nutrients, creating a circular problem if poor nutrition exists. Proper and adequate nutrition works to break this cycle, and this is why nutrition counseling works so well when coupled with basic chiropractic theory and practice. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Training

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Old diet myths die hard

Article Abstract:

In the United States, one in four adults is obese, defined as more than 20 percent above ideal body weight. Although nutrition knowledge and practice are the cornerstones of successfully treating obesity, few individuals are adequately prepared for life with accurate nutrition knowledge. A recent survey designed to evaluate the nutrition knowledge of Americans uncovered many common misconceptions and myths. The results demonstrate that 51 percent of those surveyed overvalued the importance of protein, believing that it should be the major component of diet meals. Further, there was an erroneous belief that eating protein builds muscles, while in reality muscle growth occurs only as a result of exercise. Confusion regarding the value of complex carbohydrates and their food sources (starches such as bread, potatoes, pasta and rice) also abound. Ninety percent of those questioned did not realize that all oils and fats have the same calorie content (9 calories per gram). Ninety percent of the subjects, however, said that they would welcome improved information on food labels. Accurate knowledge about nutrition is an exceedingly important factor in developing the skills and habits that lead to physical well-being. Professional health care personnel, such as chiropractors, must take responsibility for providing information, education, and counseling to the American public. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Surveys, Obesity, Nutrition, Diet therapy

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Diet and nutrition: what your patients should know

Article Abstract:

All too often Americans have been victims of fads, and this tendency has extended to body image and our ideas concerning beauty. Buxom movie stars of the 1940s were replaced by thin pixie-like TV personalities in recent years. This has lead many Americans to use crash diet programs to become 'healthy looking' rather than truly healthy. The role of the chiropractor can be an advisor who dispenses common sense with regard to nutrition and health. This issue of the Journal of Chiropractic (September 1990) includes a group of articles which are intended to advise chiropractors and their patients on the relationship of diet and nutrition to health and the principles of chiropractic medicine. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Fads

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