Dr. Shyra Jones | Give Life To Your Purpose.

Shyra Shares 5: Medication and Nutrition

Dear Reader,

One of my favorite things to say due to its profound truth is that as humans we are instinctively wired for survival.  The need for survival means we seek balance and safety by interacting with our environments in a particular way which is seeking pleasure and avoiding pain.  Our bodies get in on the act by seeking to preserve balance and homeostasis by changing its chemistry and structure.

Changing our bodies can be done in a variety of ways that include medication and food.  Let us talk about each a little more.

Medication can be natural, over the counter, and prescription. 

  • Natural medication includes herbs and other things that can be taken in a variety of ways such as supplements and essential oils.  There is the idea that natural means risk free which it does not.  For example, black pepper can be a stimulant of sorts that increases the absorption of other substances and turmeric can lead to a fine rash by many individuals who are allergic to it. 
  • Over the counter medication are those things we can purchase without a prescription from a medical professional such as cough syrup and pain medication.  These medications can be used with minimum possibility of side effects but should be used according to instructions given by the company who produces it or a medical professional.
  • Prescription medications are things that cannot be purchased without a medical professional writing what I like to call a “permission slip.”  The prescription gives the pharmacist instructions on how much to give you and communicates that you have been given instructions and are receiving support.

Food is a bit more complicated than medication in my view due mostly to the social context it has.  Food helps us gain the energy we need to face life on life’s terms and can be used to combat diseases of physical and mental health.  More can be learned about how to use food to reach one’s goals by working with a registered dietician or nutritionist. 

When I work with clients, I start by exploring lifestyle habits that may be tweaked to bring about optimum change.  Sometimes the changes can be small like drinking more water and eating more often while other times I refer out and help one make the changes given by another professional who has more education and skill than I on a particular topic.

Both medication and nutrition can be used to bring about health and wellness and there is no need to try to figure it out by yourself.  So, ask questions and get support when needed!

Warmly,

Dr. Shyra