Should You Steer Clear of Antibiotics?
By Genevieve Cunningham
Modern medicine is truly a miracle in our world. Before modern medicine, making it to a ripe old age was quite a feat. But like any modern miracle, medicine comes with both good and bad. And in recent years, we've begun to see a little more of the bad. Take antibiotics. Antibiotics help people beat all sorts of infections and illnesses, but in excessive amounts, it seems that antibiotics are actually working against us. So what should we do? Are they safe to consume? Should we steer clear? To better understand the role of antibiotics in your life, take a look at this quick guide.
The Problem With Antibiotics
When used in moderation, antibiotics help our bodies fight off foreign invaders such as bacteria and other germs. For a long time, they've been incredibly effective. So what's happening? It seems that the use of antibiotics has become so prevalent, the bacteria is growing resistant. What does this mean? It means that the antibiotics ceases to be effective to these particular strains of illness. The more we consume antibiotics in high doses, the more likely it is that our bodies will have a hard time coping. In some cases, this resistance has proven fatal, and the more this resistance occurs, the more dangerous it becomes for society as a whole.
How to Use Them Safely
So should we use antibiotics at all? Without question, the answer is yes. But perhaps the best way to use antibiotics is in moderation. Doctors are now prescribing antibiotics with quite a bit of caution. Because these drugs are ineffective against viral infections, doctors do their best to avoid prescribing if a viral illness is suspected. In mild cases of illness, they may also give your immune system a chance to fight off the illness before swooping in with antibiotics. Should they be used? Yes! Should they be monitored? Yes! So get a doctor you trust to guide you.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy
No matter how you feel about antibiotics or modern medicine, there's no doubt that keeping your body healthy is important. Luckily, there are ways that this can be done in a natural way. Start by eating a healthy and well balanced diet. The better you feed your body, the better you feel, and the better your body can function. You should also get regular movement, practice impeccable hygiene, and keep a positive attitude. With these habits, as well as the use of modern medicine when needed, you may be able to keep your body healthier than ever.
Modern medicine is definitely a blessing. It's saved millions of lives and will save millions more! But it's important -- just as it is with anything else -- to be cautious and moderate with our use. Find a good, supportive doctor, voice your concerns, and let them guide you toward better health for a lifetime.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Orange, Calif.