Prescription medications or a naturally healthy lifestyle - compare the side effects!

Warnings about prescription medications seem to appear in headlines on an almost weekly basis. I did some research on the side effects of some frequently prescribed medications and here's what I found:

Corticosteroids: used to treat autoimmune disease such as RA, arthritis, lupus, asthma, and MS. Side effects include; abdominal obesity; increase susceptibility to infection; interference with wound healing; interferes with metabolism of folic acid, vitamins B6, B12, potassium, and zinc; a reduction of vitamin D and calcium levels. Long term use leads to decreased bone density and osteoporosis.

NSAID’s (Advil, Motrin, and Aleve): an over the counter medication used to treat minor pain. Side effects include; stomach upset. Over use leads to erosion of the stomach wall and gastritis, gastric ulcers, leaky gut syndrome, which can trigger an inflammatory immune reaction and food sensitivities/intolerances. Even aspirin and ibuprofen have been linked to an accelerated breakdown of cartilage in joints.

Cox – 2 inhibitors (Vioxx, Celebrex): these work to suppress cyclooxygenase activity which rises in the inflammatory response. Side effects include increased risk for heart attack and stroke, erosion of the stomach wall, impedance of brain development such as memory and activity, and can potentially disrupt reproduction.

CRP (C-reactive protein) lowering agents called satins; Lovastatin; pravastatin; simvastatin: these reduce the body’s production of cholesterol by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase. This in effect turns off all the other compounds dependent on HMG-CoA reductase such as all of the body’s steroid hormones like estrogen, testosterone, and corticosteroids. Side effects include; depletion of CoQ10 – vital to the production of energy in cells. It can also lead to muscle weakness, and breakdown of muscle tissue.

Now consider the "side effects" of making a few changes to your dietary and lifestyle habits:

Improved sleep
Improved concentration
Increased energy
Less aches and pains
Saved money on prescriptions, co-pays and office visits!
Increased passion and joy for living!

The choice is up to you....