Dr. Deneb Bates is a Naturopathic Doctor who recently joined the IMSMP in order to provide a knowledgeable holistic approach for the care of people living with Multiple Sclerosis. She is an expert in utilizing complimentary and integrative medicine to promote optimal health. She specializes in providing patients with minimally invasive natural treatment options, which include nutrition and botanical medicine, and in empowering patients to take positive actions for their own health and wellbeing. Dr. Bates studied biochemistry and ethnobotany at Evergreen State College and received her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University, the premier medical school offering a four-year naturopathic medical education. In addition, she also trained in midwifery and natural childbirth, completed an internship in integrative allergy and immunology, and is designer of a specialty nutrition program for healthy brain aging.WHAT IS NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE? Naturopathic medicine adds an integrative perspective to the comprehensive services offered at IMSMP for people living with Multiple Sclerosis. The goal of naturopathic medical care is to promote health while also addressing factors that underlie disease. Naturopathic Doctors help you optimize your baseline level of health by recommending individualized healthy lifestyle choices. Naturopathic Doctors also help you identify and remove the causes of illness while suggesting safe and effective natural treatment options that support healing. Naturopathic Doctors are experts in the use of natural therapies, such as clinical nutrition and botanical medicine, and in drug-herb-supplement interactions. WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT FROM A NATUROPATHIC HEALTH CONSULTATION WITH DR. BATES? Integrative consultation and management of your care in partnership with your neurologist at IMSMPComprehensive review of your personal health history and naturopathic assessment of current health statusDetailed assessment of your dietary and lifestyle choicesPersonalized recommendations and education on anti-inflammatory nutritional choicesEvaluation of your current medications and your past or present use of supplements and alternative therapiesSuggestions for specific natural therapies (i.e., supplements) for your health needsNUTRITIONAL NEWS FROM DR. BATES:Good fats are important to good healthDietary fats play an essential role in total body inflammation. Additionally, our brains and myelin are composed primarily of fats.Research is confirming that the type and quality of fats that we choose in our diet has a profound impact on inflammation, memory, mood, and overall neurological function.Not surprisingly, the same types of fats that are good for brain and neurological health are also good for the rest of the body through their anti-inflammatory properties. Choosing to eat these beneficial fats, while reducing inflammatory fats, improves overall health in many ways. Wild Alaskan Salmon, Mackerel (except King), Sardines, Anchovies, and Herring are the best food choices for DHA, the essential fatty acid most closely associated with brain health. These fish are high in DHA, while being low in environmental contaminants. Some plant foods also contain healthy omega-3 fats, which our bodies convert in smaller amounts to DHA. The best sources are walnuts, soy, flax seeds, canola oil, pumpkin seeds, and kiwi. Reduce unhealthy saturated and trans fats by replacing butter and margarine with healthy plant oils, such as walnut or olive oil. Choose lean and grass fed meats and dairy products to improve overall fatty-acid ratios.