The Skeptic's Guide to Alternative Medicine

Energy medicine. Acupuncture. Superfoods. Healing magnets. What does the scientific evidence really say about these and other "alternative medicine" treatments for personal wellness?

How can we know if a natural remedy is safe and effective? How can people become their own best skeptical consumer of health news in the media? Join neurologist and science educator Dr. Steven Novella for a fascinating exploration of these and other important questions about the truths—and myths—behind alternative medicine.

Perhaps the most important skill to have in this brave new world of ever-changing medical news is the ability to evaluate sources and information, and to think critically about how alternative medicine is marketed, regulated, and used. Dr. Novella takes a rigorous, science-based approach in exploring so-called "popular" and "cutting-edge" trends. Armed with this knowledge, listeners will be in a much better position to assess alternative pathways to physical health.

Dr. Novella’s 10 leading-edge lectures will answer such questions as:

• Do magnetic fields really have useful biological properties?
• Why is chiropractic treatment no more effective for pain management than simple physical therapy?
• Can brain games truly make one smarter or help in staving off dementia?
• Can homeopathic remedies, such as those derived from plants and minerals, really cure ailments?
• Does cupping therapy really help to reduce pain and inflammation, while increasing blood flow?

Dr. Novella provides insights on the ever-widening gap between alternative medicine and scientific medicine, giving listeners the confidence they need to become their own best health advocates.

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True science not fiction.

Makes you think twice about using miracle cures and alternative medicine. Don't believe the hype.

Bringing light to the dark world of alternative medicine

Easily digestible chapters that provide ample data and information without going into too much scientific detail. A look at a broad range of topics that helps educate the reader and set them up for successful decision making.

Skeptic or closed minded.

This is not an even handed review of alternative medicine. The author presents very good points but is a little one eyed related to topics like chiropractic, cognitive training and acupuncture that are accepted by mainstream modern medicine. This could have been a great book if the object had been a little more even handed.

For those who want to be health literate

Dr. Novella imparts important information in an interesting intonation.

You will stay engaged through the entire audiobook and you will learn how to wade through what is right it wrong.

Critical Thinking 101

While I am already a skeptic and think critically about most topics, I can lean towards the hopeful and credulous when it comes to medicine – not just for myself, but particularly for my animals. This lecture series dives into the details of a variety of modalities and treatments (many of which I pretty much already knew were bunk, but the histories and details are very interesting) and – probably most importantly – addresses how to apply critical thinking to medicine and medical practitioners. And while he's talking about human medicine, everything he discusses can be applied to veterinary medicine as well (most of the specific treatments he covers are also used for animals, and I know a lot of people [including myself] who have spent a lot of money hoping alternative medicine will help their animals).

I recommend listening, even if it can raise your defenses about your favorite alternative treatment(s). At the end of the day, of course, it's only one doctor's research, but if nothing else, his recommendations about critical thinking should be taken to heart.