From Publishers Weekly
"According to a Harvard study, Americans now pay more visits to alternative practitioners in a year than they do to primary care physicians.... They're spending $250 million a year on homeopathic remedies, and close to $4 billion on nutritional supplements.... But is this stuff safe for kids?" Yes, claim physicians Ditchek and Greenfield, practitioners of "integrative pediatrics" (as derived from Andrew Weil's Program in Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona). In this clear and compassionate guide, the authors combine the best of alternative and conventional treatments, medications and lifestyle choices to bolster children's immune systems, address health questions with the least invasive but most effective treatment available from the pantheon of global medical practices, and offer recommendations for common illnesses like ear infections and asthma. They conclude with a 12-month program whereby families can incorporate integrative choices into their lives. Seeking to address the "whole child," Ditchek and Greenfield's expansive reach includes issues like societal messages, physical fitness and environmental dangers and their impact on children's health. For quick reference, call boxes highlight critical topics, including "Ten Reasons Our Kids Are Couch Potatoes" and a "Summary of Useful Herbs for Children," and a comprehensive appendix of resources for everything from vaccinations to ADHD, with an array of Web sites, is included. Friendly, balanced and commonsensical, this demystification of nontraditional medical practices and options will be appreciated by parents of children of all ages. Agent, Richard Pine.
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
From Library Journal
Integrative pediatrics combines natural healing therapies with conventional medical treatments. The physician-authors, both experienced and trained in traditional medicine, have written a thorough guide for parents who are interested in complementary methods of prevention and healing and are looking for a reliable text directed at pediatricians unfamiliar with alternative treatments. Section 1 discusses preventive medicine, including strengthening the immune system, vaccination, proper use of antibiotics, nutrition, rest and exercise, and protecting children from environmental and cultural hazards. Section 2 covers complementary therapies that can safely be used on children, including massage, therapeutic touch, botanical and homeopathic medicines, acupuncture, acupressure, Reiki, and other energy systems. Section 3 addresses the use of integrative treatments for common pediatric complaints such as respiratory illnesses, sore throats, ear infections, colic, upset stomachs, asthma, allergies, and attention disorders. Complete with extensive references and resources, this book neatly balances traditional pediatrics with naturopathic/herbal healing books and is recommended for childcare and natural health collections. Anne C. Tomlin, Auburn Memorial Hosp., NY
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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