BACKGROUND
The definition of good health is "a condition of optimal well-being, soundness, especially of body and mind, and freedom from disease."
Many people cannot claim that they feel this way. One reason is that the modern North American diet does not provide enough of the nutrients required for the body and brain to function. Additionally, we consume toxins that can harm the body on a daily basis. As we are our own best advocates of our own health, we need to learn to take charge and take responsibility for our health care, regardless whether we are taking a traditional or alternative (or combined) approach. An orthomolecular approach to health is all about balancing body chemistry to prevent disease, and help treat disease if it is present.
ORTHOMOLECULAR APPROACH
To support a high level of general health, an orthomolecular approach recommends what many would already consider a balanced diet and lifestyle:
Avoid sugar, especially refined
Eat three wholesome, no-junk-food meals a day containing a wide variety of foods as long as they don't create allergic reactions.
Drink plenty of water every day, up to 12 glasses a day
Exercise daily
Avoid alcoholic beverages
Do not smoke
Avoid unhealthy levels of stress where possible
An orthomolecular approach to supporting general health could include the use of the following supplements:
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
Vitamin B Complex
Vitamin A
Calcium
Iron
Iodine
Copper
Magnesium
Manganeses
Zinc
Molybdenum
Chromium
Selenium
* A customized program must be developed by an orthomolecular practitioner
REFERENCES AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Articles and Resources
Orthomolecular Medicine News Service, November 2, 2007. Study Shows Vitamin "Pill-Poppers" Are Healthier. http://orthomolecular.org/resources/omns/v03n11.shtml
Hoffer, Dr. Abram. "The Megavitamin Revolution." Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine. 7.1 (1995)
Kunin, Richard. "Principles That Identify Orthormolecular Medicine: A Unique Medical Specialty". Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine. 4 (1987)
Harnett, Cindy. "Victoria MD wins prize for theories on megavitamins" Times Colonist November 3, 2007
Cameron, Ewan and Pauling, Linus. Cancer and Vitamin C. Philadelphia, PA: Camino Books, Inc., 1993.
Murray, Michael T. Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements: The Essential Guide for Improving Your Health Naturally. Roseville, CA: Prima Publishing, 1996.
Pauling, Linus. How to Live Longer and Feel Better. Corvallis: First Oregon State University Press, 2006.
Hoffer, Dr. Abram. Users Guide to Natural Therapies for Cancer Prevention and Control. Laguna Beach, CA: Basic Health Publications, 2004