Being deficient in vital nutrients can cause illness. In orthomolecular therapy, natural vitamins, minerals and trace elements are administered to boost the patient’s immune system and health.
These days, it is virtually impossible to eat a balanced diet containing all the necessary nutrients. Unnatural farming methods, transportation, storage and preparation all lead to the loss of crucial substances. Orthomolecular health practitioners believe that this causes a large number of diseases and complaints.
This form of alternative medicine was developed largely by Linus Pauling with the aim of compensating for the biochemical imbalance by administering micronutrients. These include vitamins, minerals, trace elements, amino acids, essential fatty acids and enzymes, which may be given in high doses. Nutrients such as these are considered more easily tolerated and beneficial than extraneous or synthetic substances like medication. A blood analysis is used to determine which substances the patient is lacking.
Nutrient therapy can boost the patient’s health in many ways by supporting the natural functions of the metabolism and cells. A strong immune system is critical for a healthy life free from disease. Signs that someone is deficient in nutrients may include fatigue, a lack of energy or susceptibility to infections.
