Naturopathic Medicine
Holistic Therapies to Complement Traditional Treatment
Many people with MS are motivated to do everything possible to optimize their health, and many seek the help of holistic, integrative or alternative medicine to help them feel better. Naturopathic medicine provides this perspective and is an important part of the comprehensive services offered at IMSMP.
Naturopathic care promotes overall health by addressing nutritional, lifestyle, environmental, and stress-related factors that may underpin disease.
In partnership with your neurologist, Dr. Deneb Bates, ND will recommend individualized healthy nutrition and lifestyle choices, identifying and minimizing aggravators like stress, hormone imbalances, and food or environmental sensitivities. Dr. Bates will help you integrate natural medicine safely into your overall treatment plan, and may suggest natural supplements and protocols that support healing and repair.
FAQ
What’s the difference between Naturopathic Medicine and Dietetics?
A Naturopathic Doctor (ND) specializes in holistic patient care including physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors. They develop treatment protocols that may include dietary changes, supplements, and herbal medicine.
A Registered Dietitian (RD) specializes in medical nutrition therapy and food science related to patient care. They help develop meal-planning and dietary strategies with a focus on nutrition education.
Does naturopathic medicine take the place of traditional treatment?
Naturopathic medicine works hand-in-hand with traditional care, but is not a replacement.
Disease Modifying Therapies (DMTs) are the most effective tools we have to prevent further damage to the brain and nervous system in MS.
Naturopathic medicine adds a deeper, personalized approach, guided by core principles:
- First Do No Harm
- Harness the Healing Power of Nature
- Identify & Treat the Cause
- Doctor as Teacher
- Treat the Whole Person
- Prevention
Although the root cause of MS remains unknown, a naturopathic approach explores:
- Environmental exposures
- Possible post-infectious immune changes
- Food-related autoimmune triggers
- Gut microbiome health
- The role of hormones in immune and brain health
- Mind-body factors
While MS Disease Modifying Therapies are the best tools available to shut down disease activity and prevent future damage, naturopathic care addresses what traditional MS medications don’t: root causes, education, and whole-person wellness. By addressing these for each individual, we create an optimal environment for healing and repair and help you live your best life.
What happens at an appointment with Dr. Bates?
Your story matters. Dr. Bates takes time to hear both your MS journey and your life experiences.
A Naturopathic Medicine appointment with Dr. Bates will focus on:
- Identifying risks for autoimmunity, inflammation, & neurodegeneration
- Relevant labs for nutrition, hormones, cardiovascular health, and gut function
- Lifestyle factors—stress, sleep, exercise, social connection, purpose
- Hormonal transitions like fertility, menopause, and testosterone changes
- Nutrition & daily habits that support neuroprotection and brain repair
Appointments are highly personalized to create a plan that supports neuroprotection, repair, and overall wellness.
Why should I be interested in naturopathic medicine?
Naturopathic Medicine is personalized, empowering, and focused on your whole health—not just your symptoms. This approach empowers you to be an active partner in your health and helps you live your best life. Sometimes a diagnosis provides the motivation to truly understand and care for your whole body.
Does Dr. Bates accept insurance?
Coverage varies by state and insurance provider. Some patients receive partial reimbursement, FSA funds can often be used for appointments, and our Center is committed to helping connect patients with the care they need. Contact our office for a personalized conversation about working with Dr. Bates!
