WHAT ARE THE TOP 10 MOST PRESCRIBED CHEMICALS IN NHS ENGLAND?

8It's a challenging read when you sit back and consider what were the Top 10 most prescribed chemical substances for NHS England in 2022/2023.  It's even more challenging when you consider that the majority of these chemical substances were prescribed for conditions that could be improved dramatically by us choosing to consider Eating well, Moving well, and Sleeping well, 3 of our Whole Health Model components. In fact, improving the gut microbiome would improve all of the conditions outlined in Figure 8 (Vitamin D absorption may be supported by improved gut microbiome.) ​

​Source Data : National  Statistics 2022/2023

Are we prescribing chemical substances for illnesses that are created by lifestyle?

The primary conditions/diseases highlighted in the tables above are high cholesterol, high blood pressure, acid reflux. Alongside type 2 diabetes each is considered symptomatic of our lifestyle. (Note: there are some people who are genetically predisposed and therefore medicating is the sensible preventative option). 

Evidence shows that if we were to reduce stress, improve nutrition with home cooking, choose fresh produce, increase hydration, and move more, we may reduce our need for medication that is costing the NHS over £333m per annum in England. (Please note we do not recommend that reducing medication without discussing with a medical practitioner) ., 

Is it fair to conclude that  we have a responsibility to look after our own health and wellbeing to actively reduce this burden on our health service? 

​If the answer is YES then choosing to take action is the first step.

 
BOOST NUTRITION

As our body needs nutrients to complete every function of our body then it makes sense to start with nutrition. Although every food isn't as nutrient-rich as it once was ( consider over farming, crop spraying, soil quality, and seed quality) we can make one basic change that will support our health immediately. 

1. Choose to Boost Gut Health 
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​Our gut microbiome is designed to support the production of hormones, mood-boosting neurotransmitters, energy, skin health, and much more.

Increasing vegetable intake, hydration levels and reducing highly processed foods are a great place to start. Vegetables and whole grains are great sources of fibre that feed our population of good bacteria helping them thrive.

Choosing to increase fermented foods such as kombucha, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi are a great boost to our good bacteria levels. If you suffer from digestive conditions such as IBS, Crohns, Colitis or Diverticulitis, consult a nutritionist or gut health specialist before increasing probiotic foods. 

2. Choose to Boost your Immune System 

Vitamin D  
In the winter months get outside on sunny days and leave the sunglasses at home.
Increase vitamin D-rich foods such as oily fish, egg yolks, and mushrooms, and consider taking a supplement during the winter.

Increasing vitamin D will boost your immune system and support the absorption of magnesium and calcium. 

3. Support heart health and muscle health

​Magnesium 

An essential mineral that supports conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, migraines, low energy, indigestion, muscle relaxation, insulin and glucose production and sleep quality. 

• It supports 340 enzymatic processes in the body.
• Highly stressed individuals, athletes, and pre-menstrual and menopausal women may all be affected adversely. 
• A common symptom of magnesium deficiency is restless leg syndrome. 

Magnesium Food Sources 
Pumpkin seeds, kelp, nuts and seeds, apricots, wheat bran.
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Alternative Sources 
Epsom salt baths are 100% magnesium and a relaxing way to boost your levels whilst lowering your stress levels. 

 
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