Americans are spending their own money on alternative health care. An analysis from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health reports that in 2012 people spent more than $30 billion out of pocket on dietary supplements as well as chiropractors, acupuncturists, yoga instructors and massage therapists. They also purchased books, videos and other self-help educational materials.
No Insurance for Alternative Health Care:
Because insurance rarely covers such treatment, the authors speculate that people must value the care they are receiving. Yoga, for example, is becoming increasingly popular. People see it as a way to promote wellbeing.
You can get more details on the survey completed in 2012 from the National Institutes of Health. The investigators found that adults were using the lion’s share of alternative health care.
Nutritional Supplements:
People are using slightly fewer nutritional supplements than they were several years ago. Studies that found a lack of effectiveness from herbs such as Echinacea and Ginkgo biloba may have reduced interest in these herbs.
Supplements (including vitamins and minerals as well as botanical products and other compounds) still constitute a multi-billion dollar industry. Leaving vitamins and minerals aside, supplements are the most commonly used alternative health care approach. More people than ever are taking fish oil, for example.
Coordinate with Your Doctor:
A spokesperson for the Academy of Integrative Health and Medicine recommends that people taking supplements or seeking complementary care coordinate with their primary care provider to avoid incompatibilities. Herbs and other supplements may interact with certain prescription drugs.
National Health Statistics Reports, June 22, 2016
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