Misconceptions that Kill #9: Natural Supplements are Better

It's very common to go to the pharmacy aisle in a store and see boxes and bottles with "all-natural" labeled in big bold letters.  It sends the message that natural ingredients are better that non-natural ingredients in medications.  This is a huge misconception that can cause harm to your health and literally kill you in some instances.  First, what does all-natural mean?

All natural does not mean good or better.

All-natural simple means there are no artificial ingredients or preservatives.  It doesn't, however, mean the product is better for you.  Having artificial ingredients does not mean the medicine is harmful.  It's a big misconception that causes some people to forego traditional medicines in favor of all-natural products that are too often homeopathic in nature.  This essentially means there is no active ingredient and therefore you are ingesting something that will do nothing to help cure or alleviate your symptoms.  

Most of the time this just means it'll take longer for you to heal, but refusing traditional medicine can allow a medical condition to linger and possibly result in more damaging medical conditions.  This could ultimately lead to someone's death.  My best advice is to listen to your doctor and do what he/she says.  Don't ignore your doctor in favor of all-natural remedies because someone tells you it will work better.  Listen to you doctor!