Do We Always Have to Pick a Side?

Hello dear, Today I’d like to start with a slightly deeper question: Do we really have to choose a side?

Each of us carries certain beliefs and agendas we've adopted over the years. Some of us are vegetarians, some are left-wing, some are religious, some are patriotic. We grew up a certain way, explored topics close to our hearts - or didn’t. And usually, we’re quite sure that what we see is the absolute truth.

There’s a quote often attributed to Mark Twain: “It ain't what you don't know that gets you into trouble. It's what you know for sure that just ain't so.”

Sometimes, it’s exactly the things we’re most certain about that can lead us astray. And that’s where I try, and I’m sure not always successfully to question what I think I know.

So, what does this have to do with health, you may ask? Well, let me ask you: Are you... For? Against? Or maybe... a bit of both?

Are you for or against complementary medicine? For or against pharmaceuticals? Vaccinations? What do you think - or what do you know that you know?

I have a friend, a very intelligent and thoughtful person, who has spent years researching everything considered a “conspiracy.” He’s convinced the earth is flat. He’s convinced pharmaceutical companies control the global economy. He’s convinced that a carnivore diet (based almost entirely on meat) is the healthiest way to nourish the body.

On one hand - it sounds like total nonsense. On the other hand - how can I really know? Whom should I trust?

I know that he gets his information from sources with a conspiratorial agenda. And I get mine from conservative sources, which probably have their own interests too. So what do we choose?

In today’s world, where information is endless and opinions are everywhere, it’s hard to know what’s true, or whom to believe.

I choose to rely on my common sense. To consult only with people who have real experience in the field I’m dealing with. And just as importantly - to listen to my heart.

And what about medicine? So... what side are you on? Or maybe - we don’t really have to choose sides at all?

Western medicine has incredible diagnostic tools, on a microscopic level and in imaging technology. It offers life-saving treatments, emergency care, solutions for aggressive illnesses, and significant improvements in quality of life.

But... some of those solutions come with side effects. Sometimes harsh, sometimes almost as bad as the problem itself.

Complementary medicine, on the other hand, offers gentler solutions, often with very few (if any) side effects. Sometimes, even in cases where Western medicine has already given up. But... it’s less suitable for emergencies or extreme situations.

Here too, opinions differ - and that’s completely okay. I’m not here to state facts, only to share a perspective.

Weekly tip and a little surprise for my Amsterdam clients. About a week and a half ago, I had a lovely meeting with a kind and professional general practitioner named Jidske Berkhout.

Dr. Jidske Berkhout, sees patients in West Amsterdam, and these days she’s expanding her practice and currently accepting new patients.

She too, like me, believes in a smart and balanced integration of Western and complementary medicine. So if you live in the area and you’re looking for a doctor with an open mind, broad medical knowledge, and a big heart – Dr. Jidske Berkhout, is an excellent choice for you. If I lived in Amsterdam, there’s no doubt I would choose her myself.

More details you can find in her website: www.huisartsintegraal.nl

Let’s end on a positive note...

If you’ve made it this far - first, thank you. That means a lot. I hope this newsletter gave you something small to take with you into the week - a thought, a bit of inspiration, or even just a smile. If you have any thoughts, questions, or just feel like saying hi, I’m always happy to hear from you. Just send a message, even if it’s just to say hello.

Wishing you a smooth week, with fewer aches and more good moments. Yours, Zohar