how much is too much?

October 3, 2011

Disclaimer: My opinions shared in this post are 100% mine based off of my experiences that I have had with the health care system. What I share may not be true of everybody’s experience, nor are my words meant to be malicious in any way.

Growing up, I had very Americanized health care. My dad had standard teacher’s insurance, and I had a family physician (and lady doctor) I went to every so often to get physicals, some antibiotics, and the occasional blood test to make sure everything was in tip top shape. More often than not, I went in, waited for a better part of thirty minutes (or more!), was given an antibiotic and was sent on my way. When I was twenty one, I was having some seasonal allergy type issues, along with the digestive issues I had been battling for quite some time. I went to my health provider’s allergist, got stuck with about 50 different needles, and you want to know what they told me? “You’re not allergic to anything. We don’t know what is causing these symptoms. There’s nothing we can do for you.”

Um… what? That doesn’t sound right. I left frustrated and pretty mad at the standardized American doctor. So, what’s a girl to do? Stop going. When I stopped going to my regular health care provider (besides my lady doctor friend — I still go to one!), I started to think more and more about the regular health care system Western medicine brings. I have found more and more than when people come in with problems, health care providers will prescribe medicine to try and “fix” the problem, when more or less they are really just masking the problem (hence the reason why I will not go back on birth control). I stopped taking antibiotics when I got sick. I have not gotten a flu shot all three years I have been in the classroom as a teacher. And I am 100% happy with that decision.

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Not too long after my allergy testing was done in a traditional setting, I was introduced to my natural care doctor, who really revamped my entire thinking on how our bodies work, react, and repair themselves. He has a very holistic approach and is always able to know what is going on with my body before I even do. Just as an example, one day I went in and described some symptoms I was having — tiredness, sinus issues, digestive problems — and he went ahead to see if there were any chemicals or toxins lingering in my body. Turns out, he found a chemical in my body that is very prevalent in new carpeting. We had just installed new carpet at our home the week before. Had I told him this before hand? Not so much. Creepy? No, I’d call it awesome!

After working with this doctor, (who, if you want his information please email me! I have already given out a few referrals) and completing some non-traditional testing, we uncovered a few problems my body was having: some food intolerances and some hormonal imbalances, both of which were decreasing my body and immune system’s ability to fight off any sort of infection or provide me with long lasting energy throughout the day and completing some non-traditional testing, we uncovered a few problems my body was having: some food intolerances and some hormonal imbalances, both of which were decreasing my body and immune system’s ability to fight off any sort of infection or provide me with long lasting energy throughout the day.

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For the past two or so years, I have been visiting this doctor every few weeks to check in as I have still been having issues with my hormone imbalances and thyroid disorder (which, yes, I am on traditional medicine for this!). Every few weeks I have to buy supplements (vitamins) that will allow my body to work in tip top shape. A few days ago, the Husband and I had a discussion about my natural health care route. What he found was I was spending about $100/month on this natural care health supplement/program. If you do the math, this is $1200/year. After talking about whether we could cut this amount down at all, I discussed with the Husband that this was not something that was negotiable to me — that I would not give any of it up.

To me, this doesn’t seem unreasonable. Yes, I have traditional health insurance as well because I do have to see an endocrinologist, a gynecologist, and a dentist. And if I were to ever get into an emergency situation, I would want a traditional option. I don’t think that traditional health care is bad per se, most of the time it just isn’t for me.

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Now, I know what you are all thinking — do the vitamins/supplements actually work? How do you know if they are really making a difference? And I am here to tell you they do make a difference. For a few weeks in the last month, I had run out of my supplements and could not make it into the doctor for a while. I was legitimately run down, tired, irritable, constipated (TMI? Whatever.) and just flat out uncomfortable for those two weeks. Of course I didn’t put two and two together until after I had gone back to the doctor, started taking my supplements again, and felt almost instantly better.

To me, that $1200 a year is $1200 well spent. I am taking care of my health now and being proactive rather than wait until a problem occurs and try to reverse it thereafter. I feel good and do not regret any of that money being spent.

So — now it’s your turn to weigh in. How much is too much?

{ 74 comments… read them below or add one }

Lindsay @ In Sweetness and In Health October 3, 2011 at 5:17 pm

Awesome post Chelsey! I agree with you that many doctors today just want you to get you in, prescribe you something, and get you out. That’s part of the reason why I chose occupational therapy as a profession- because I can do something to help a person that doesn’t require meds, and I’m helping them with activities! I do think some medicines are totally needed, for instance, I am on an anti-depressant and have been for almost 5 years. Nothing else has worked. And let me tell you- that medication is pretty damn pricey. But you know what? I feel normal now and that money is completely worth it. I only think that it’s too much when you’re spending money on something that isn’t working. But, if it’s helping you and making you feel better in your everyday life then not too much at all. Sorry that was kind of all over the place haha.

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Lindsey October 3, 2011 at 5:18 pm

Great post and perfect timing! I just started taking natural supplements at $55/month, I don’t know how long I will be on them, maybe 6-12 months but I look at it as money well spent regardless, after all it is my body and my future. I am taking these because I don’t want to get to the point where the conventional doctor starts giving me all sorts of weird drugs. Since I just started days ago I hope in a few months when I go back to my doctor everything is moving in a better direction and I will already be a step ahead of the game!

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Lindsey @ Cardio Pizza October 3, 2011 at 5:24 pm

I agree, good supplements work! When I don’t take my supps, I feel the same way: run down, lethargic, and “backed up”. Along with eating healthy foods, supplements to me are also vital.

I recently had been feeling crappy and realized I had not been taking my supplements for a while. I figured I didn’t really need them. But sure enough, I start back up and I feel like myself again. My iron is low so I notice a huge difference when I take my supplements and when I don’t.

I currently take a “whole food source” mulitvitamin, fish oil, amazing grass superfood mix, and vitamin D (which I also swear by).

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Cardio Pizza October 3, 2011 at 5:25 pm

I agree, good supplements work! When I don’t take my supps, I feel the same way: run down, lethargic, and “backed up”. Along with eating healthy foods, supplements to me are also vital.

I recently had been feeling crappy and realized I had not been taking my supplements for a while. I figured I didn’t really need them. But sure enough, I start back up and I feel like myself again. My iron is low so I notice a huge difference when I take my supplements and when I don’t.

I currently take a “whole food source” mulitvitamin, fish oil, amazing grass superfood mix, and vitamin D (which I also swear by).

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Meagan October 3, 2011 at 5:25 pm

I totally agree with your skepticism and I do think that md’s should take a more holistic approach - or at least know what it is so they can give that option to their patients. I hate to play devil’s advocate but I was just wondering if the 2 week period of you feeling worse also corresponded to when you found out your thyroid levels were still off and your synthroid dose got changed ( I know it sounds creepy that I remember that but I have Hashimoto’s too and so I just remember other people’s thyroid problems)?

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cleaneatingchelsey October 3, 2011 at 5:27 pm

Nope! They were about a month apart. The time when my thyroid meds were off was way back in August - this just happened with the supplements in the last two weeks.

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Meagan October 4, 2011 at 6:09 am

I’d be super interested to know what supplements you are taking if you feel comfortable sharing.

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Ashley @ coffee cake and cardio October 3, 2011 at 5:25 pm

Extremely interesting post! I’ve never added up the cost of my health care in a year’s time, but it’s worth it. I don’t think what you’re spending is too much. People spend that and more each month on eating out!

Thanks again! Great post!

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Kaila @healthyhelperblog! October 3, 2011 at 5:28 pm

such a great post chelsey!! i agree! to many doctors nowadays are in it to give their patients a quick fix instead of attacking the underlying route of the problem! take obese people for example, many have high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes etc. and doctors put them on countless medications for these issues! but instead they could be teaching them about good nutrition and exercise!!! ugh! it just really bothers me sometimes! i feel like so many doctors are controlled by the pharmaceutical industry and by the MONEY!

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Hannah October 3, 2011 at 5:29 pm

great post!! i can deff tell when I don’t take my vitamins!! but the $ issue! check kroger they had vitamins on manager special from anywhere to .79 cents up to $1.79 the other day! kroger brand and name brand :)

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Lilly October 3, 2011 at 5:29 pm

Such a great post! I agree, I think some (not all, I know) doctors look for the quick fix. I think that is now the norm and part of our health care system, which is actually sorta sad. Growing up I didn’t visit a “mainstream” doctor that much, my mom took me to naturalists and holistic doctors if needed but honestly I didn’t really need to go to the doctor much. I think as long as you found what works for you, that is what matters most! I personally would much rather take a more natural and unique approach to health, and less of the mainstream quick fix route, but may have to go there with some “woman problems” that I need to sort out. It is tough to decide what is right but ultimately we all just want to be the healthiest we can be, however that is depends on the person.

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Tina @ Faith Fitness Fun October 3, 2011 at 5:36 pm

I think if paying for that isn’t taking money away from other needs for you and your husband, then it’s not too much. The cost of health is worth more than the cost of a new TV or dinner out for example….but is it worth more than the cost of feeding your family or paying your electric bill? No. PS - Not saying you do that. Just saying it’s all about balance and priorities. Health should be a priority and if that is the best option for your body to be healthy and have the chance to live fully, then it’s worth it.

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cleaneatingchelsey October 3, 2011 at 8:48 pm

Great perspective!!!

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Lauren October 3, 2011 at 5:37 pm

I so agree! I was originally a nursing major, but after my first clinicals, I saw that nurses seem to just give meds ALL the time. I switched to nutrition because I knew there had to be a better way to help with disease and improve health then taking meds. Meds are such an integral part of society, and most people believe that meds help more than diet. I think diet is much more important!

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cleaneatingchelsey October 3, 2011 at 8:47 pm

So interesting to hear that you changed your major!

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Aimee October 6, 2011 at 11:36 am

Lauren, I’m sorry that you were turned off by your first clinical. It sounds like nutrition is a great fit for your goals. As a nurse I would like to say that nurses do much more than just pass meds. Nurses are found in many areas of medicine both westernized and natural medicine. I work in behavioral health and while the patients may take medications much of my job involves teaching and counseling.

I am a huge advocate of healing through the most natural means possible. I personally utilize homeopathic remedies and herbal supplements. I also believe that diet is critical to maintaining good health and preventing disease.

All the best to you!

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Jen @familyfoodfitnessandfun October 3, 2011 at 5:46 pm

Great post! I have just recently went to see a naturopath for my digestive issues. When I approached my traditional doctor about them, she told me to drink more water. HAHA..I already drink so much water. However, my naturopath did a simple blood test to see if I had a food intolerance. Turns out, I do! He also told me about some wonderful natural foods to add to my diet such as flax seed and coconut oil. Since implementing these changes, I feel a lot better. I think spending $$ on our health and overall well being is worth it.

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Tabaitha October 3, 2011 at 5:47 pm

This is a great post and really opens my eyes to standardized health care. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and opinions.

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Felicia @ Natural + Balanced October 3, 2011 at 5:48 pm

i got my nursing degree, started off in the hospital on a stepdown intensive care unit, and got first hand experience of what our healthcare system is really all about. there is a time and place for western medicine, but after being exposed to it and realizing that i don’t want to be helping people by making them take unnecessary pills, i’m back in school getting a masters in acupuncture + eastern medicine. best choice i ever made. your a smart girl and in the end it is worth every penny

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Averie @ Love Veggies and Yoga October 3, 2011 at 5:51 pm

I have soooo much to say on this issue about health care, about the quality or ACCESS to health care in this country. About what reasonable health care premiums are for people, and for those who are self employed and run small biz’es like Scott and I, we pay thru the nose for healthcare and/or aren’t insurable due to pre-existing conditions. The healthcare system in our country is soooo whack. So messed up. Dont even get me started.

As for re-allocating dollars to spend on natural healthcare or any kind of healthcare that you deem a good fit, yes, do it. Taking care of ourselves the way we see fit is priority number one. If you dont have good health, then what good is anything else in life? Really!

Girl I could write a book on this…I have so many strong opinions on it all. Too strong for a comment field :)

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cleaneatingchelsey October 3, 2011 at 8:47 pm

I can tell you’re all fired up!!!

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Julie H. of Spinach and Sprinkles October 3, 2011 at 5:53 pm

I see a holistic doctor as well! SUCH a saving grace! ….I hated that when all my issues came up, I had to pump my body full of medication. I like all of the vitamins and supplements I’m on and they make the world of difference, no cloudy brain! That one is the best part for me! :)

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Karlee October 3, 2011 at 5:57 pm

I agree with a more holistic approach too. Working in health care, and just from personal experience I haven’t been impressed with a lot of doctors. Question: Do you still take pain relievers (ibuprofren, advil) and/or cold medicine? I rarely take pain relievers, and I HATE cold medicine, it makes me feel worse. I know a lot of people are against getting a flu shot, but my job requires me to have one and I have never had a bad experience with it. It does make me wonder how all these chemicals we are putting in our bodies will affect us in the future.

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cleaneatingchelsey October 3, 2011 at 7:26 pm

Nope - no pain relievers or cold meds. When I get a headache, I will use pressure points to relieve it. When I get a cold, I head over to my holistic doctor and he will give me some natural meds for things like sinus infections, colds, flu viruses, etc.

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Katie @ Peace Love and Oats October 3, 2011 at 5:58 pm

First off, I think health is priceless. I’d pay anything to not feel like I do every day! Second, I’m going to a new gastroenternologist Wednesday, if I don’t like him as much as I didn’t like my first one, I’m definitely e-mailing you for a referral.

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Ellen @ Undercover Runner Eats October 3, 2011 at 6:07 pm

If you take into account the days of work that you would probably miss if you didn’t take the supplements and things that you take, that $1200 is cancelled out if not an actual SAVINGS!

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Lauren @ Forward is a Pace October 3, 2011 at 6:10 pm

We must be on the same wavelength today — I just wrote a post about my chiropractor, whose holistic approach has me feeling oh-so-much-better. Still, for my ulcerative colitis, I’m most comfortable with my gastroenterologist and traditional medicine. For some reason, I become a little uncomfortable when my holistic doctor tries to help with that part of my health. (I wonder why that is…)

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cleaneatingchelsey October 3, 2011 at 8:47 pm

We are on the same wave length! That’s interesting that you get uncomfortable when your holistic doc tries to help you out with your GI issues!

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Lauren @ Forward is a Pace October 3, 2011 at 8:52 pm

I know. I’ve been thinking about it since I posted it. The best I can come up with is that the low dose of medication I take works very, very well for me. When I remember how sick I used to feel, trying out a new method doesn’t seem worth the risk at this point.

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Kaitlyn@TheTieDyeFiles October 3, 2011 at 6:16 pm

I definitely agree with your views in this post. I think preventative and natural medicine are far more beneficial than traditional medicine in most aspects. I think if you feel comfortable paying $1200/year that’s entirely reasonable. After all, how much money would you be spending for traditional treatments if you weren’t seeing your natural doctor? I believe that most doctors these days are really prescription-happy, and I have a feeling they’d have you on quite a few!

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Amber K October 3, 2011 at 6:43 pm

I really wish I could go see a natural care doctor. It seems like they are able to provide more answers than “traditional” doctors. I have thyroid problems as well and I know I have multiple food intolerances. But I haven’t been able to get everything worked out in order to feel 100% better yet. I hope I can do the same, but right now my husband and I don’t have any extra money to spend.

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Christine @ BookishlyB October 3, 2011 at 6:48 pm

Many people low that much, or more, on Starbucks every month. I’d say if it’s helping you and improving quality of life go for it.

How much is too much? That’s a really difficult topic and I think it depends on your lifestyle, budget, and how much you’re willing to suffer. In college I had no insurance and could barely make ends meet, so I stopped buying allergy medicine, stretched my contacts out way too far, and didn’t go to the dentist often. These days now that I’m a grown up (teacher for 6 years!) I can afford it and missing those things wouldn’t be an option. Back then it was fine and I accepted it. Different times!

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cleaneatingchelsey October 3, 2011 at 8:46 pm

I definitely agree. I probably would have a different perspective if I was unemployeed or in a different position!

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Ashley @ My Food 'N' Fitness Diaries October 3, 2011 at 6:51 pm

Great post - very informative and interesting to me. I have always seen a stereoptypical American doctor through my health insurance, and the most recent time I went was extremely frustrating to me. I’m curious, how did you find out about your natural care doctor? Did someone give you a recommendation or did you research it or how were you introduced to him?

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cleaneatingchelsey October 3, 2011 at 7:23 pm

Someone recommended him to me - but I’m sure if you research “holistic doctors in xxx area” you will find something!

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Lauren October 3, 2011 at 7:04 pm

I am so glad you shared this. Coming from a series of AWFUL mainstream health experiences, I have come to the realization that I trust very little doctors. Perfect example, I just spent the weekend in the ER and the doctor there looked at me and said, “well, I’m not sure but I think you have this so let’s give you an antibiotic to get rid of whatever it is.” Seriously???? I’ve been misdiagnosed and mistreated my entire life and I swear it almost killed me. I haven’t seen a holistic doctor yet but I am so ready to.

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cleaneatingchelsey October 3, 2011 at 8:45 pm

I can only imagine what you have had to go through with your Chron’s!

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Victoria @ The Pursuit of Hippieness October 3, 2011 at 7:22 pm

I think when it comes to our health and what maintains our well-being, $1200 a year is not a bad price to pay at all! I’ve been on the lookout for a good naturopathic doctor in my area so I can start feeling 100%!

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Sarah October 3, 2011 at 7:34 pm

I spend at least $100/month between supplements and acupuncture. Yes, I see an acupuncturist for pain management. It’s the only thing that has helped at all and I’ve run out of all other non-surgical western medicine options. Best $100.00 I spend a month.

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cleaneatingchelsey October 3, 2011 at 8:44 pm

I have always wanted to try acupuncture!

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Hannah October 3, 2011 at 8:00 pm

i have to agree. last summer i went through a whole slew of tests to determine what was going on with my digestive system.. no allergies, some abrasion in intestines following an upper endoscopy and colonoscopy.. nothing. at this time ii am unable to pay for a hollistic dr. but i am all about it and think it is totally worth it!!

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Anna @ On Anna's Plate October 3, 2011 at 8:14 pm

Great post. My husband suffered from HORRIBLE ibs for several years in his mid to late twenties. Traditional doctors could do practically nothing to help the pain, but when we finally started focusing on alternative methods of treatment- diet, supplements, yoga- he finally got some relief.

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Alexa @ A Life in Drive October 3, 2011 at 8:19 pm

Thank you for posting! I am currently experiencing the frustration of traditional western medicine on my own. As I shuffle through unhelpful and not thorough doctors, I find myself veering toward more natural and alternative methods.

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Marian @ marianwrites October 3, 2011 at 8:34 pm

I completely agree with your stance on western medicine. total TMI, but I haven’t had my period for over a year, even after going off birth control. I went to a gyno and she essentially told me that my ONLY option was to go back on the pill, and shooed me out of the office with prescription in hand. I’ve been seriously considering going to a naturopath ever since, especially because I have heard so manny accounts (including yours) of people who have had really positive experiences with them. Thanks for sharing!!

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cleaneatingchelsey October 3, 2011 at 8:43 pm

That is exactly what happened with me - and I was absolutely so so soooo mad. I never wrote about it because I felt I would come across as a horribly bitter person, but it made me so mad.

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Meagan October 4, 2011 at 6:16 am

Yup happened to me too. I ended up back on the pill (a different one this time though) because I was so worried about osteoporosis. All the women in my family have it and I have pretty much every risk factor. Thank goodness I am super passionate about adoption because I don’t know if having kids would be an option or not.

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Brittany October 3, 2011 at 8:43 pm

I am so happy you posted this! I am have almost all the same problems. After getting of BC I haven’t had my period (in about a year), I have been having digestive issues, tired, and all those symptoms. Sad but true, I still go to my pediatrician and she didn’t seem to be worried at all. I thought it was really weird but she said I was fine who cares if I didn’t get my period and my digestive issues weren’t anything to worry about. Um, okay? I didn’t think that was normal but I may have to go to a doctor like yours to get this checked out. Thank you SO much for sharing Chelsey.

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cleaneatingchelsey October 3, 2011 at 8:44 pm

Anything that makes you not feel like “you” is a problem - don’t let anyone shoo it away! Not getting your period IS a big deal though because of bone density health. I’ve tried everything, but will not go back on the pill. I’m kind of at a loss right now!

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Brittany October 3, 2011 at 8:46 pm

I agree, I hated the way it made me feel and I really don’t want to be back on it ever. Thanks and I will definitely get myself checked out:)I hope you figure it all out and feel better yourself!

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Deanna October 4, 2011 at 10:59 pm

Have you even tried any natural “fertility” cleanses to get your period? I’ve been thinking about it even though I’m not planning on getting pregnant right now!

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Gina @ Running to the Kitchen October 3, 2011 at 8:54 pm

This post is so perfect on the timing, Just this weekend I was talking to my husband and mom about how I’d like to seek out a naturopath doctor and figure out if there are some hormonal imbalances going on. After going off birth control 4 years ago, my skin has just never figured itself out and it is horrible, a problem I never had before bc or while on it and I refuse to go back on it b/c to me, that’s just masking the underlying issue. I think “non-traditional” medicine has many potential benefits and I wish traditional health insurances recognized this and treated it similar to the traditional doctors. I have a high deductible traditional insurance that covers what they call preventative care at 100%. But, I can only use that at a physical with a “regular” doctor or for vaccines like the flu shot. I think there is plenty of “non-traditional” medicine that can be considered preventative and it’s unfortunate it’s not recognized as such.
I’ve had my fair share of needing “traditional” medicine and will always think it’s needed for certain situations but, I don’t run to get antibiotics to “fix” every little thing (in fact I can’t remember the last time I was on antibiotics) and I think as a country we have dug ourselves into quite a large whole with drug companies, insurance companies, doctors, mal practice insurance, etc which has only hurt the patient both physically and monetarily.
Anyway-curious how you found your doctor…I did some searching online but I’m nervous about finding the right naturopath. Since this will be something I pay out of pocket for completely I want to make sure I get someone I like. was there a website you used or any other way to narrow the options down besides word of mouth?

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Abby @ Abz 'n' Oats October 3, 2011 at 9:10 pm

Great post! I am always very interested to read about holistic doctors. I think it would be really cool to work for one! :)

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Leah October 3, 2011 at 9:14 pm

how much is too much? Any amount at this point. I just hope I don’t have any kind of accident or get bit by another spider (well that only cost $200 at the emergency room). I would love to get some of my issues worked out with a naturopath one day. I totally agree with everything you said.

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Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin October 3, 2011 at 9:22 pm

If it’s making you feel better, keeping your energy levels high, and keeping your body functioning, then I think that $1200 is being put to good use! When it comes to your health, I think that spending a little extra money is totally worth it.

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Rachel @ Eat, Learn, Discover! October 3, 2011 at 9:57 pm

Oh man, what a hot topic! I am always so bothered when I go to my doctor only to be given a pill on the spot or told that nothing is wrong with me. The only thing truly keeping me from seeing a naturopath is the cost. I would love to get a hollistic opinion on the little problems and be as healthy as possible - I guess I will have to see, if things get worse or anything.

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Lindsay October 3, 2011 at 10:27 pm

I am sorry but I have to disagree. I personally think that western medicine is a necessity. If it werent for western medicine we would be suffering from many of the diseases that third world countries suffer from. I have had MANY healthy issues that require medical treatment on a weekly basis! I know that you are blessed with a healthy body, but some of us with critical health conditions NEED the western medicine! :D
P.S. I hope that this doesnt come off as offensive, just putting in my two cents! :D

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cleaneatingchelsey October 4, 2011 at 5:51 am

Nope not offensive at all - I have had health issues that I have had to resolve with Western medicine as well. In fact, if my dad didn’t get chemo for his Luekemia, he probably would still be suffering as well. I think that there is a time and a place for both Western and Eastern medicine - “Yes, I have traditional health insurance as well because I do have to see an endocrinologist, a gynecologist, and a dentist. And if I were to ever get into an emergency situation, I would want a traditional option. I don’t think that traditional health care is bad per se, most of the time it just isn’t for me.”

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Alyse October 3, 2011 at 10:52 pm

This is really interesting, and something I’ve been thinking a lot about. I’m actually about to get a full food intolerance /allergy test from a naturopathic doctor (after a traditional, western MD did the skin-prick test and told me I was allergic to nothing). I’m really excited to see what the results are, because I’m pretty sure things are not all normal up in there…

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www.feelingsfoodandrunning.wordpress.com October 4, 2011 at 12:09 am

Chelsey-
Wow, I really appreciated your honesty and openness here! I think I may also be struggling with some of the thyroid and period related issues you described. I 100% believe that the money you spend on vitamins and naturopathic doctors is justified and worth it. It is so important that we take our health into our hands and advocate for ourselves. You are awesome for doing just that! Thank you for sharing!

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Khushboo October 4, 2011 at 12:40 am

Great post, Chelsey! I think if you are feeling the benefits of taking the vitamins/supplements, $1200 is not too much. Obviously that is relative but at the same time, I totally believe you can’t put a price on health. A family friend who has always been obese also had high blood pressure. Even though she was diagnosed with medication she refused to take it. Out of the blue she had a stroke 2 weeks ago and the doctors are linking it with the high blood pressure. The amount her parents are paying on hospital/medical bills is extortionate, and the price of the actual medication is probably a mere fraction of it. Health = wealth and never feel the need to compromise on it!

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Jess @ Jess Go Bananas October 4, 2011 at 5:50 am

This is why is I don’t mind shoveling out the money to but certain foods like coconut oil!!! :D

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Heather October 4, 2011 at 6:35 am

I love this post, Chelsey. Thank you so much for sharing your story and bringing up this necessary topic!

I feel like everyone and their mother touts birth control as a God send. For me, it was anything but God sent. Lame city is more like it.

I was on Junel (low dose). It made me break out like crazy (I’ve never had acne before), made my boobies incredibly tender and painful, and most of all, made me feel so depressed and disconnected from myself and my body. My experience was so awful that I’m fearful of trying another brand and definitely will not.

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jordanarae October 4, 2011 at 8:05 am

I spent my university years in and out of the hospital for dehydration because I couldn’t keep anything down. I was in constant pain, constipated, etc etc. My family doctor is a wonderful man and he was the one who pointed me towards natural medicine and soon afterwards found out I have food intolerances and with supplements my health started to improve.

On the flip side, I have been having major sleep issues and my natural doc just couldn’t fix it and sent me back to my family doctor who in turn referred me to a sleep psychiatrist. After monitoring me for a month and running sleep tests he was able to diagnose a syndrome that had gone unnoticed for years. Now by taking a very small dose of pharma meds along with additional supplements all of my energy has returned and I have true, restorative sleep.

I think it’s about finding a balance and listening to your body and finding health practitioners who are the right fit.

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Emily October 4, 2011 at 8:47 am

It’s a shame that our nation’s “health care” has been converted into “sick care”.

I do not feel $1200 is too much, you cannot put a price on your health. Besides, if you think of it your insurance company would be paying much much more in providing you with synthetic drugs to harm your body. If you take one drug, chances are you’ll need 10 more to combat that drug’s side-effects. It’s a vicious cycle.

Kudos to you for going against the grain and taking care of yourself!

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Cait @ Cait hates Cake October 4, 2011 at 9:49 am

$100 a month is money well spent if it keeps you healthy and feeling well. I think Western medicine is extremely important, but if using alternative/natural treatments keeps you from needing Western medicine as often, then I think it’s a great idea. The dermatologist (actually multiple dermatologists) had me on all sorts of topicals and antibiotics for years. They would see me for 5 minutes and prescribe medication. I finally said enough and am currently trying out more natural remedies which are proving just as effective and costing me FAR less than expensive prescriptions.

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Candy @ Healthy in Candy Land October 4, 2011 at 5:31 pm

This is a great post for me to read right now. I am so frustrated with the current state of our healthcare system, and hate how doctors just use the band-aid approach to treat whatever symptoms we have instead of finding out the cause of the symptoms. I haven’t had a regular doctor since I was in college for this very reason. I am in the process of looking for a natural care doctor and it was nice to hear you have had good results with one.

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peacebeme October 4, 2011 at 6:42 pm

I believe that each person should do whatever works best for THEM, whether it is traditional Western medicine or alternative/natural medicines. I think a combo of both is good to. Your body will tell you when it feels best and that means what you are doing is right for you!!!

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peacebeme October 4, 2011 at 6:46 pm

too*

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Joey October 4, 2011 at 7:13 pm

Go you! Better to spend $1200 per year now to stay healthy than $1200+++ per year later to heal your body. I don’t take supplements but spend the extra money on local organic foods to nourish my body and keep it healthy…

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Annie October 5, 2011 at 9:57 am

This speaks volumes to the fact that what I’m reading from all these posts we are believing in ourselves as the healers of our bodies. If you listen carefully and tune in to your body every morning when you wake. Whether you notice nothing or sense something this is your first vibe to listen and tune in.

I feel whatever we are comfortable with Western, Traditional, Holistic, etc… or blend of combinations they all bring us a sense what is available for “our” needs to heal. We are our own healers.

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Jessica October 5, 2011 at 11:01 am

Thanks for this post! In the past year, I have made drastic changes to my diet to focus on organic foods and supplements. I have noticed a huge change in the way I feel, not to mention a decreased instance of illness. Before this change, I had been an advocate for the flu vaccine. I never missed a year! Yesterday, I went for my usual yearly vaccination without much thought and last night had my first adverse reaction to the vaccine . Aches, pain, chills, sore throat in the matter of hours and I still feel weak today. Needless to say, this is my last conventional flu prevention attention. This can’t be good for my body.
What do you do, if anything, to prevent the flu?

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elise October 5, 2011 at 1:35 pm

hi chelsea! so, i have been semi-secretively blog stalking you for a while now (1.5 months to be exact)…ever since i started fodmaps and discovered i was sensitive to wheat (not gluten) and i wasnt rec’d your site for some great bread recipes. i often make my own breads so it was nice to find your site…you are now the blog i most look forward to for recipe inspiration. we have SO much in common (im a total type A, prep for the week, fridge full of tupperwared up meal options, etc.), even though i often end up at whole foods with my credit card bill taking a nose dive. different discussion…
before i babble on even longer, i just wanted to say thanks for your open and honest writing. its why i keep coming back.
ive had IBS issues forever, and only now am discovering how important it is to be proactive in terms of managing your own health in the current health care system. this is especially embarrassing for me since im a nurse…but sometimes we arent great at taking our own advice. anyway, i have an appt with an allergist in two weeks and im so curious to find out the results because i think ive figured out my sensitivities (thanks to my own research and sleuthing).
tangent over. thank you for sharing your story!

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cleaneatingchelsey October 5, 2011 at 7:07 pm

I’m so glad you’re not a creepy blog lurker anymore! ;) And why in the world are we not best friends already?

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Katie @ Peace Love and Oats October 14, 2011 at 3:43 pm

hey chelsey, I sent you an e-mail about a week ago from my blog e-mail peaceloveandoats@gmail.com about getting the doctor’s information for a referral and wasn’t sure if you had gotten the e-mail? Just checking in because I’d really love some more information on him, I’m having a hard time with the doctors I’ve seen so far!

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