What are the top three most common issues you help your patients address?
I tend to see a lot of patients who have food sensitivities and digestive issues such as gas, bloating, heartburn, constipation/diarrhea, etc. Some of these patients have underlying conditions like IBS or IBD.
I also often work with women who deal with PMS and menopause symptoms, to rebalance their hormone levels. This also includes breast and bone health.
Many people also come to see me because they suffer from low energy or they are frequently sick and are wanting to strengthen their immune system. I really enjoy working with people of all ages (including children) to improve their health.
How might a Naturopathic Doctor’s approach differ, or compliment the treatment someone may receive from their GP?
Naturopathic doctors are licensed health care professionals trained to treat diverse medical conditions and work collaboratively with GPs and other health care professions. Like family doctors, we are trained to diagnose diseases, to order and interpret lab work, to formulate appropriate treatment, and to refer patients to other health care providers when appropriate. We are also formally trained in the interactions and side effects of both pharmaceutical and herbal medications.
Naturopathic doctors search for the underlying cause of illness and aim to restore optimal health. Our focus is on prevention and using natural treatments. We develop personalized treatment plans for our patients that combine clinical nutrition, botanical (herbal) medicines, acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, homeopathy, and appropriate vitamin/mineral supplements.
If you could give everyone one piece of advice with regards to their health this spring what would it be?
Spring is a great time to prioritize your health and get started on a new health regime that will increase your energy and help you feel your best! To start your day off right, drink warm lemon water in the morning before you eat your breakfast. This is a simple way to cleanse your body and start your day.
What is new and exciting on the Naturopathic horizon for this spring?
If you have been suffering from allergies, you may want to consider a Naturopathic approach this spring. There are several natural treatments that can help alleviate allergy symptoms by getting to the root of the issue. I will soon be posting an article on this in our blog.
What can someone expect an initial appointment with you to look like?
An initial Naturopathic appointment is approximately 1 hour in length to allow time for a thorough health assessment. During this visit, we will discuss current health concerns as well as relevant medical history. A pertinent physical examination may be performed, and further specialized lab or diagnostic testing may be recommended.
I encourage my patients to bring copies of recent lab/ blood work to our appointment, as well as any medications and supplements that they are currently taking. Together, we will create a personalized treatment plan/protocol that is right for you.
*Optimal health is priceless! Most extended health insurance plans cover all or part of Naturopathic visits. Please check with your insurance company.
* Dr. Bartolini offers a 15-minute complementary consultation to answer questions you may have and to help you decide if naturopathic medicine is the right choice for you. Please note that no health advice is given in this visit.