The Internet is an incredible place for information…and as most of us have realized, not all info found here is accurate, factual, useful, understandable, or relevent. Many of the most popular health info sites on the Web are dominated by Big Pharma, the AMA, The Gates Foundation, and others allied to the current “sick-care” industry mis-named health care.
Since the mid-70’s, when I helped start a rural natural food buying club in southwestern Virginia, I have been studying many aspects of alternative health and lifestyles. The truth that consistently arises is: prevention is less time-consuming and less expensive than treatment. And way easier said than done! Also, many strategies for becoming and staying healthy have been marginalized, vilified, or ignored in the mainstream press. This is not to say that the alternative movement is perfect! We have our fair share of folks whose reach exceeds their grasp.
So here are six helpful sites I use, and my opinion (and me just say up front that it is an opnion, not absolute truth, whatever that might be) about each one. Notice that one is well served by an open mind and a sense of humor concerning the diversity of those who self-define as being “alternative.” AlterNet is a great source for news; their health info is both semi-main stream and many shades of alternative. Often excellent investigative reporting is presented about related health subjects (like food and water) to give one the “back story” or help explain why what is, is. For a good recent example click here to read about whistleblowers and food safety. Also at AlterNet (this was a good day for big picture info) is a story about our food growing system (the political aspect of farming). To read about it, click here.
Prevention may be key, but most of us are already dealing with “issues.” This next site addresses both. The GreenMed Info newsletter is always thought-provoking, and iconoclastic, as well as one of the most densely researched on the web. Click here for the issue on wheat, which will open a veritable Pandora’s box. GreenMed Info hosts the largest study-based, peer-reviewed alternative health data base on the internet, and it is free. With over 10,000 useful entries, this database has already helped a client of mine find the best supplement to take for his situation (and it is helping).
The Organic Consumer Association puts out a newsletter called Organic Bytes. This issue focuses on GMO, and what you can do to participate in campaigns to confront, halt, label, and educate. In case you are wondering what genetically modified food could have to do with health….well, check out this site, or the next two for way more info than you really want, but do need.
The next 2 sites are the most well-known, have the most advertising, and reflect the values of their authors. Both of these men do their homework, say what their opinion is up front, and cite their research. I may still quibble a bit here and there (both are prone to hyperbole), and you can find out a tremendous amount of info on a very wide range of health issues including healthy food (from the vegetarian and vegan point of view as well as the organic and free-range meat eaters), exercise protocols, supplements, herbs and healthy sleeping habits, as well as the more controversial and political issues like GMO, vaccines, pesticides, cell phone radiation problems, etc.
For an excellent article on Lyme disease check here from Health Ranger Rick’s naturalnews.com. For a comprehensive look at drinking water check here from Dr (MD) Mercola’s mercola.com.
Last but not least is Byron J. Richard’s Wellness Resources. He always seems to come up with fascinating research (that he quotes and sites) often from mainstream sources. Click here for how the bacteria in our guts affects our brains. He also has a full range of info on his site. Like the other 2 men above, he is trying to sell you supplements.
OK, now for my 2 second infomercial! I have a supplement buying club that has a few openings. At some point later in blogdom I’ll elaborate. However, if you have read this far, take supplements, and would like a free 15 minute consult, call me toll-free @ 877-286-2970,
Iris Herbal Products 