Doing your own research (5 Viewers)

[The Longtime Lurker]

Does it change anyone's mind/perception to know that the "alternative treatment / wellness" industry is $6T in 2024 and projected to be $9T by 2028 by Global Wellness Institute?

What is "alternative/wellness" defined as? Where is the bulk of the $6T generated? How i think about that in relation to the Pharma medical complex depends on what we're considering alternative.

It's the things people turn to outside of standard medical care. You can go to Global Wellness Institute as I stated above and read up on everything that's included. I'm rather confident most here don't really have a good idea of what the "machine" is behind "alternate treatments"

Could be true. As someone that's a pretty firm believer in science over woo I've had the experience of needing to look behind the curtain of "alternative" treatments for care and it's not all dangerous or based in fantasy. Plenty is, there's no doubt about that. Something like sauna that I'm guessing isn't something a doctor would prescribe, but can be found at a wellness clinic would be an example I would use. I'll look at the resource you've mentioned, but "alternative" comes with a negative connotation, but the definition needs narrowing as i don't think everything outside of standard care is negative. Maybe I'm being nit picky looking for a definition past what you've given.

 

[The Longtime Lurker]

"researchers have linked blackberries to lower cholesterol"

I could deal with blackberries. If it were brussel sprouts or beets, I'd hug my loved ones and wait for my arteries to slam shut.

Respectfully, pickled beets are delicious

 

[Joe Bryant]

Thanks. That adds a ton more context and is super helpful. That huge 6 trillion number seems more understandable adding in real estate and spas and beuty products and such.

That's interesting and helpful. Thanks

I think those numbers are full of ****

Could well be. But at least there's a little more context on how they got there. You're right in one would still need to dig in. but at least breaking it out like they did in categories is something. I hear you though.

 

[Joe Bryant]

"researchers have linked blackberries to lower cholesterol"

I could deal with blackberries. If it were brussel sprouts or beets, I'd hug my loved ones and wait for my arteries to slam shut.

Respectfully, pickled beets are delicious

 

[Joe Bryant]

When some story pops up, "researchers have linked blackberries to lower cholesterol", and some failed personal trainer on social media points to a screenshot of the headline, that's all some people need to toss their meds. Not great.

On the social accounts, what do you hope to gain from them? Can you recommend some you like?

I do think discernment is important there too. Obviously there is no "qualifier" or licensing to be on social media like there is for a medical professional.

So the range is much wider but I think there can still be good information. A popular guy like Dr. Andrew Huberman from Stanford talking about sleep or nutrition may share the same social platform as a girl doing dance challenges in front of a camera in her bedroom but that doesn't mean I can't get some value from Huberman.

But granted, it's a much "noisier" environment with a lot of not good content crowding out the good. It's the same problem we face at Footballguys.

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

In a vacuum I'm going to trust doctors who ground their way through an insanely hard and rigorous training, with certifications, than a dude on the Internet explicitly making his money by being popular -- and citing vague factoids.

 

[Joe Bryant]

In a vacuum I'm going to trust doctors who ground their way through an insanely hard and rigorous training, with certifications, than a dude on the Internet explicitly making his money by being popular -- and citing vague factoids.

I think for the original discussion it's not an either/or question.

And for sure not limited to social media influencers.

I undestood it to be a question of if outside research in addition to a professional has value.

 

[Sparky Polastri]

I want to ask a question. We all know that almost all the "do your own research" people that Term identified on the first page almost always turn to the "alternative treatment" or "wellness" industry and their influencers in lieu of the "pharmaceutical medical complex". Right? We can agree on that?

Absolutely positively, No.

At least for me. And how I'd hope the board would operate.

And not just no, we can't all agree on that, I think that kind of reading past the actual words that are written and assuming that you have the ability to know what they really mean as if they actual words are some kind of code is one of the bigger problems on the forum.

Written word is a challenging way to communicate. No voice or inflection or timing among people who mostly have never met each other. To try and add some sort of knowing assumption that what they mean is something very different than the words they wrote is an awful way to try and discuss anything.

Ok. Then I won't go further. If we can't take the explanations from the posters for what they mean, then there is really no point in proceeding. Appreciate the honesty. Saves a lot of time.

Thanks.

And so you're clear, I'm not saying "take the explanations from the posters for what they mean"

I'm saying take the posters at their word and assume they mean what they actually say.

Not add our own assumptions to what they actually say and assume it means something different from what they say.

That feels like journalism 101. However, talking past others and putting words into their mouths that they didn't actually say is also how we got the social media we have today.

I honestly have zero idea what you're saying and at this point, I have no interest in trying to figure it out. I asked if we could agree that what Term said was what he meant. Your answer was "no" Term was crystal clear on what he was talking about on page one as well as several follow up clarifications. If we can't agree on that, then its done.

 

[Sparky Polastri]

Anyone have any healthy skepticism of the calculated total of the Global Wellness industry, as calculated by the...... Global Wellness Institute??

Of course...it's a quack industry for the most part. I don't see anything in their number that would nullify the comparisons to the medical industry though. This is the area almost all those "do your own research" doofuses Term was referencing go. It's a HUGE industry made on the backs of the ignorant for the most part. If anyone is interested in how much lunacy there is, I have three social media sources that are continually debunking all this nonsense with actual study data, and they have new material daily, sometimes hourly.

If you want to delve down that hole, you can find Dr. Noc (a friend of mine and researcher at UNC-CH), Jessica Knurick who is a nutrition sciences PhD and for variety Dr Idz who is from outside the country looking in and debunking dis/misinformation posts all the time from the "wellness" group I mentioned above. It's constant, nonstop.

 

[Joe Bryant]

I want to ask a question. We all know that almost all the "do your own research" people that Term identified on the first page almost always turn to the "alternative treatment" or "wellness" industry and their influencers in lieu of the "pharmaceutical medical complex". Right? We can agree on that?

Absolutely positively, No.

At least for me. And how I'd hope the board would operate.

And not just no, we can't all agree on that, I think that kind of reading past the actual words that are written and assuming that you have the ability to know what they really mean as if they actual words are some kind of code is one of the bigger problems on the forum.

Written word is a challenging way to communicate. No voice or inflection or timing among people who mostly have never met each other. To try and add some sort of knowing assumption that what they mean is something very different than the words they wrote is an awful way to try and discuss anything.

Ok. Then I won't go further. If we can't take the explanations from the posters for what they mean, then there is really no point in proceeding. Appreciate the honesty. Saves a lot of time.

Thanks.

And so you're clear, I'm not saying "take the explanations from the posters for what they mean"

I'm saying take the posters at their word and assume they mean what they actually say.

Not add our own assumptions to what they actually say and assume it means something different from what they say.

That feels like journalism 101. However, talking past others and putting words into their mouths that they didn't actually say is also how we got the social media we have today.

I honestly have zero idea what you're saying and at this point, I have no interest in trying to figure it out. I asked if we could agree that what Term said was what he meant. Your answer was "no" Term was crystal clear on what he was talking about on page one as well as several follow up clarifications. If we can't agree on that, then its done.

No worries. What I wrote is as clear as I can make it. Taking written words to mean what they actually say, not what we want to assume they mean and put words into people's mouths is a key part of good discussion.

I'm not saying "take the explanations from the posters for what they mean"

I'm saying take the posters at their word and assume they mean what they actually say.

Not add our own assumptions to what they actually say and assume it means something different from what they say.

That feels like journalism 101. However, talking past others and putting words into their mouths that they didn't actually say is also how we got the social media we have today.

 

[Sparky Polastri]

Does it change anyone's mind/perception to know that the "alternative treatment / wellness" industry is $6T in 2024 and projected to be $9T by 2028 by Global Wellness Institute?

What is "alternative/wellness" defined as? Where is the bulk of the $6T generated? How i think about that in relation to the Pharma medical complex depends on what we're considering alternative.

It's the things people turn to outside of standard medical care. You can go to Global Wellness Institute as I stated above and read up on everything that's included. I'm rather confident most here don't really have a good idea of what the "machine" is behind "alternate treatments"

Could be true. As someone that's a pretty firm believer in science over woo I've had the experience of needing to look behind the curtain of "alternative" treatments for care and it's not all dangerous or based in fantasy. Plenty is, there's no doubt about that. Something like sauna that I'm guessing isn't something a doctor would prescribe, but can be found at a wellness clinic would be an example I would use. I'll look at the resource you've mentioned, but "alternative" comes with a negative connotation, but the definition needs narrowing as i don't think everything outside of standard care is negative. Maybe I'm being nit picky looking for a definition past what you've given.

Again. We'll take the 80/20 rule here. In this case, I'm going 90/10 rule. Yeah, you'll find some examples of "positive" alternate treatments. They are very much the exception in that world. And I only really pose this question, because for several pages the size of the industry and the "follow the money vibe" against standard medical care was a driving factor and a core theme. I am curious the reaction when we are shown that the "alternate" industry (which includes many many more "remedies/solutions" in scope) are 3-4 times as large by that measure.

 

[Joe Bryant]

Does it change anyone's mind/perception to know that the "alternative treatment / wellness" industry is $6T in 2024 and projected to be $9T by 2028 by Global Wellness Institute?

What is "alternative/wellness" defined as? Where is the bulk of the $6T generated? How i think about that in relation to the Pharma medical complex depends on what we're considering alternative.

It's the things people turn to outside of standard medical care. You can go to Global Wellness Institute as I stated above and read up on everything that's included. I'm rather confident most here don't really have a good idea of what the "machine" is behind "alternate treatments"

Could be true. As someone that's a pretty firm believer in science over woo I've had the experience of needing to look behind the curtain of "alternative" treatments for care and it's not all dangerous or based in fantasy. Plenty is, there's no doubt about that. Something like sauna that I'm guessing isn't something a doctor would prescribe, but can be found at a wellness clinic would be an example I would use. I'll look at the resource you've mentioned, but "alternative" comes with a negative connotation, but the definition needs narrowing as i don't think everything outside of standard care is negative. Maybe I'm being nit picky looking for a definition past what you've given.

Again. We'll take the 80/20 rule here. In this case, I'm going 90/10 rule. Yeah, you'll find some examples of "positive" alternate treatments. They are very much the exception in that world. And I only really pose this question, because for several pages the size of the industry and the "follow the money vibe" against standard medical care was a driving factor and a core theme. I am curious the reaction when we are shown that the "alternate" industry (which includes many many more "remedies/solutions" in scope) are 3-4 times as large by that measure.

Of course. Following the money and understanding incentives applies to everything.

 

[The Longtime Lurker]

Does it change anyone's mind/perception to know that the "alternative treatment / wellness" industry is $6T in 2024 and projected to be $9T by 2028 by Global Wellness Institute?

What is "alternative/wellness" defined as? Where is the bulk of the $6T generated? How i think about that in relation to the Pharma medical complex depends on what we're considering alternative.

It's the things people turn to outside of standard medical care. You can go to Global Wellness Institute as I stated above and read up on everything that's included. I'm rather confident most here don't really have a good idea of what the "machine" is behind "alternate treatments"

Could be true. As someone that's a pretty firm believer in science over woo I've had the experience of needing to look behind the curtain of "alternative" treatments for care and it's not all dangerous or based in fantasy. Plenty is, there's no doubt about that. Something like sauna that I'm guessing isn't something a doctor would prescribe, but can be found at a wellness clinic would be an example I would use. I'll look at the resource you've mentioned, but "alternative" comes with a negative connotation, but the definition needs narrowing as i don't think everything outside of standard care is negative. Maybe I'm being nit picky looking for a definition past what you've given.

Again. We'll take the 80/20 rule here. In this case, I'm going 90/10 rule. Yeah, you'll find some examples of "positive" alternate treatments. They are very much the exception in that world. And I only really pose this question, because for several pages the size of the industry and the "follow the money vibe" against standard medical care was a driving factor and a core theme. I am curious the reaction when we are shown that the "alternate" industry (which includes many many more "remedies/solutions" in scope) are 3-4 times as large by that measure.

That's fair. If we're following profit motives alternatives to western medicine are just as guilty of separating a fool from their money, probably a lot more and in this conversation it's easier to lump them into a singular basket. Like everything there's nuance to the conversation, but you point is taken.

 

[DA RAIDERS]

"Cringe" insults aside I thought some of the advice was helpful.

Keep the Language Centered on People​

Instead of saying things like:

• “Big Food has bought off the FDA”
• Try: “It’s tough when the same companies making our food also help shape the guidelines for what we’re told to eat.”

You're still raising the issue, but in a way that invites curiosity rather than conflict.

Luv ewe

 

[Sparky Polastri]

Does it change anyone's mind/perception to know that the "alternative treatment / wellness" industry is $6T in 2024 and projected to be $9T by 2028 by Global Wellness Institute?

What is "alternative/wellness" defined as? Where is the bulk of the $6T generated? How i think about that in relation to the Pharma medical complex depends on what we're considering alternative.

It's the things people turn to outside of standard medical care. You can go to Global Wellness Institute as I stated above and read up on everything that's included. I'm rather confident most here don't really have a good idea of what the "machine" is behind "alternate treatments"

Could be true. As someone that's a pretty firm believer in science over woo I've had the experience of needing to look behind the curtain of "alternative" treatments for care and it's not all dangerous or based in fantasy. Plenty is, there's no doubt about that. Something like sauna that I'm guessing isn't something a doctor would prescribe, but can be found at a wellness clinic would be an example I would use. I'll look at the resource you've mentioned, but "alternative" comes with a negative connotation, but the definition needs narrowing as i don't think everything outside of standard care is negative. Maybe I'm being nit picky looking for a definition past what you've given.

Again. We'll take the 80/20 rule here. In this case, I'm going 90/10 rule. Yeah, you'll find some examples of "positive" alternate treatments. They are very much the exception in that world. And I only really pose this question, because for several pages the size of the industry and the "follow the money vibe" against standard medical care was a driving factor and a core theme. I am curious the reaction when we are shown that the "alternate" industry (which includes many many more "remedies/solutions" in scope) are 3-4 times as large by that measure.

That's fair. If we're following profit motives alternatives to western medicine are just as guilty of separating a fool from their money, probably a lot more and in this conversation it's easier to lump them into a singular basket. Like everything there's nuance to the conversation, but you point is taken.

This is right. So now Joe and others are left to reconcile the narrative they were asserting before. If an industry running at $2T in revenue and they should be questioned because, follow the money what kind of questiining/faith should there be placed in an industry running at double or triple that? Oh and by the way getting a fraction of the successful outcomes for that increased cost. And what does it say about those choosing the later given the lack of successful outcomes compared to those held to a higher, scientific standard generally speaking.

 

[Chaos34]

Again. We'll take the 80/20 rule here. In this case, I'm going 90/10 rule. Yeah, you'll find some examples of "positive" alternate treatments. They are very much the exception in that world. And I only really pose this question, because for several pages the size of the industry and the "follow the money vibe" against standard medical care was a driving factor and a core theme. I am curious the reaction when we are shown that the "alternate" industry (which includes many many more "remedies/solutions" in scope) are 3-4 times as large by that measure.

Ultimately I'm with you in general regarding alternative medicine, but I'm going to push back on your description of what the financials mean. I'd reverse your 90/10. 10% may be pushing it if we're talking a 6.3 trillion dollar issue.

I asked an LLM to review GWI and break down the numbers. I then lectured it for the cringy reply. I got it to behave. Here's the breakdown of the 6.3 trillion, no cut and pasting my ai conversation, but trusting the lightning fast replies (which could be wrong).

Wellness tourism and the spa economy are 1 trillion. If a health resort makes false claims about its juice cleanse then Dr. Noc can have at 'em. Folks spending vacation money on this are not a problem. They could be in Vegas hitting the buffets.

Mental, workplace and real estate wellness are another trillion. Is there a problem here other than some foolish spending?

Physical fitness is almost another trillion, 900B. This is a good thing. I wish it was 5 trillion.

Personal Care and Beauty is 1.2 trillion. I guess there's plenty of false claims about healthy skin care products, but again, I don't see a big issue here.

Public Health/Prevention/Disease Management is 700 billion. AI says nothing to see here.

Traditional & Complementary Medicine is 600B. Chiropractic, massage therapy and acupuncture are in here. Some dubious claims for sure but also some helpful pain management.

That leaves less than 500B for supplements which includes vitamins. According to AI about 150B of that is false claims and weak evidence.

The lion's share of this is preventative measures. I'm glad the Dr. Nocs are out there, and I hate false claims about supplements, but you've overstated the financials to make your point, a point I agree with if presented reasonably.

So now Joe and others are left to reconcile the narrative they were asserting before. If an industry running at $2T in revenue and they should be questioned because, follow the money what kind of questiining/faith should there be placed in an industry running at double or triple that? Oh and by the way getting a fraction of the successful outcomes for that increased cost. And what does it say about those choosing the later given the lack of successful outcomes compared to those held to a higher, scientific standard generally speaking.

I think you should have reconciled the data from GWI. Massraider was right to laugh at it.

 

[3C's]

"researchers have linked blackberries to lower cholesterol"

I could deal with blackberries. If it were brussel sprouts or beets, I'd hug my loved ones and wait for my arteries to slam shut.

Respectfully, pickled beets are delicious

Could be but they give my wife terrible gas, the type that makes people gag.

 

[Peggy]

Does it change anyone's mind/perception to know that the "alternative treatment / wellness" industry is $6T in 2024 and projected to be $9T by 2028 by Global Wellness Institute?

What is "alternative/wellness" defined as? Where is the bulk of the $6T generated? How i think about that in relation to the Pharma medical complex depends on what we're considering alternative.

It's the things people turn to outside of standard medical care. You can go to Global Wellness Institute as I stated above and read up on everything that's included. I'm rather confident most here don't really have a good idea of what the "machine" is behind "alternate treatments"

Could be true. As someone that's a pretty firm believer in science over woo I've had the experience of needing to look behind the curtain of "alternative" treatments for care and it's not all dangerous or based in fantasy. Plenty is, there's no doubt about that. Something like sauna that I'm guessing isn't something a doctor would prescribe, but can be found at a wellness clinic would be an example I would use. I'll look at the resource you've mentioned, but "alternative" comes with a negative connotation, but the definition needs narrowing as i don't think everything outside of standard care is negative. Maybe I'm being nit picky looking for a definition past what you've given.

Again. We'll take the 80/20 rule here. In this case, I'm going 90/10 rule. Yeah, you'll find some examples of "positive" alternate treatments. They are very much the exception in that world. And I only really pose this question, because for several pages the size of the industry and the "follow the money vibe" against standard medical care was a driving factor and a core theme. I am curious the reaction when we are shown that the "alternate" industry (which includes many many more "remedies/solutions" in scope) are 3-4 times as large by that measure.

That's fair. If we're following profit motives alternatives to western medicine are just as guilty of separating a fool from their money, probably a lot more and in this conversation it's easier to lump them into a singular basket. Like everything there's nuance to the conversation, but you point is taken.

This is right. So now Joe and others are left to reconcile the narrative they were asserting before. If an industry running at $2T in revenue and they should be questioned because, follow the money what kind of questiining/faith should there be placed in an industry running at double or triple that? Oh and by the way getting a fraction of the successful outcomes for that increased cost. And what does it say about those choosing the later given the lack of successful outcomes compared to those held to a higher, scientific standard generally speaking.

Nobody but you brought up alternative treatments. The argument was thinking for yourself versus blind faith in what the doctor says, not immediately seeking out alternative treatments. Definition of strawman. Read any of the examples provided by posters who knew better, they aren't alternative treatments.

 

[Joe Bryant]

So now Joe and others are left to reconcile the narrative they were asserting before

Already reconciled earlier today.

Of course. Following the money and understanding incentives applies to everything.

 

[uwillbsoon]

Does it change anyone's mind/perception to know that the "alternative treatment / wellness" industry is $6T in 2024 and projected to be $9T by 2028 by Global Wellness Institute?

What is "alternative/wellness" defined as? Where is the bulk of the $6T generated? How i think about that in relation to the Pharma medical complex depends on what we're considering alternative.

It's the things people turn to outside of standard medical care. You can go to Global Wellness Institute as I stated above and read up on everything that's included. I'm rather confident most here don't really have a good idea of what the "machine" is behind "alternate treatments"

Could be true. As someone that's a pretty firm believer in science over woo I've had the experience of needing to look behind the curtain of "alternative" treatments for care and it's not all dangerous or based in fantasy. Plenty is, there's no doubt about that. Something like sauna that I'm guessing isn't something a doctor would prescribe, but can be found at a wellness clinic would be an example I would use. I'll look at the resource you've mentioned, but "alternative" comes with a negative connotation, but the definition needs narrowing as i don't think everything outside of standard care is negative. Maybe I'm being nit picky looking for a definition past what you've given.

Again. We'll take the 80/20 rule here. In this case, I'm going 90/10 rule. Yeah, you'll find some examples of "positive" alternate treatments. They are very much the exception in that world. And I only really pose this question, because for several pages the size of the industry and the "follow the money vibe" against standard medical care was a driving factor and a core theme. I am curious the reaction when we are shown that the "alternate" industry (which includes many many more "remedies/solutions" in scope) are 3-4 times as large by that measure.

That's fair. If we're following profit motives alternatives to western medicine are just as guilty of separating a fool from their money, probably a lot more and in this conversation it's easier to lump them into a singular basket. Like everything there's nuance to the conversation, but you point is taken.

This is right. So now Joe and others are left to reconcile the narrative they were asserting before. If an industry running at $2T in revenue and they should be questioned because, follow the money what kind of questiining/faith should there be placed in an industry running at double or triple that? Oh and by the way getting a fraction of the successful outcomes for that increased cost. And what does it say about those choosing the later given the lack of successful outcomes compared to those held to a higher, scientific standard generally speaking.

Nobody but you brought up alternative treatments. The argument was thinking for yourself versus blind faith in what the doctor says, not immediately seeking out alternative treatments. Definition of strawman. Read any of the examples provided by posters who knew better, they aren't alternative treatments.

To be fair, he brought it up because folks were essentially saying you can't trust doctors because of the profit motive. Many of those who refuse to follow modern medical treatments, who the original poster described as those who do their own their own research, buy these alternative treatments.

The point being there is a profit motive - generally with less rigorous training and regulation - among alternative treatments that those who do their own research and turn down modern medical treatments in favor of alternative treatments.

Not saying everyone does, but if you're turning down modern treatments, you're either doing nothing or using an alternative treatment.

 

[Sparky Polastri]

Again. We'll take the 80/20 rule here. In this case, I'm going 90/10 rule. Yeah, you'll find some examples of "positive" alternate treatments. They are very much the exception in that world. And I only really pose this question, because for several pages the size of the industry and the "follow the money vibe" against standard medical care was a driving factor and a core theme. I am curious the reaction when we are shown that the "alternate" industry (which includes many many more "remedies/solutions" in scope) are 3-4 times as large by that measure.

Ultimately I'm with you in general regarding alternative medicine, but I'm going to push back on your description of what the financials mean. I'd reverse your 90/10. 10% may be pushing it if we're talking a 6.3 trillion dollar issue.

I asked an LLM to review GWI and break down the numbers. I then lectured it for the cringy reply. I got it to behave. Here's the breakdown of the 6.3 trillion, no cut and pasting my ai conversation, but trusting the lightning fast replies (which could be wrong).

Wellness tourism and the spa economy are 1 trillion. If a health resort makes false claims about its juice cleanse then Dr. Noc can have at 'em. Folks spending vacation money on this are not a problem. They could be in Vegas hitting the buffets.

Mental, workplace and real estate wellness are another trillion. Is there a problem here other than some foolish spending?

Physical fitness is almost another trillion, 900B. This is a good thing. I wish it was 5 trillion.

Personal Care and Beauty is 1.2 trillion. I guess there's plenty of false claims about healthy skin care products, but again, I don't see a big issue here.

Public Health/Prevention/Disease Management is 700 billion. AI says nothing to see here.

Traditional & Complementary Medicine is 600B. Chiropractic, massage therapy and acupuncture are in here. Some dubious claims for sure but also some helpful pain management.

That leaves less than 500B for supplements which includes vitamins. According to AI about 150B of that is false claims and weak evidence.

The lion's share of this is preventative measures. I'm glad the Dr. Nocs are out there, and I hate false claims about supplements, but you've overstated the financials to make your point, a point I agree with if presented reasonably.

So now Joe and others are left to reconcile the narrative they were asserting before. If an industry running at $2T in revenue and they should be questioned because, follow the money what kind of questiining/faith should there be placed in an industry running at double or triple that? Oh and by the way getting a fraction of the successful outcomes for that increased cost. And what does it say about those choosing the later given the lack of successful outcomes compared to those held to a higher, scientific standard generally speaking.

I think you should have reconciled the data from GWI. Massraider was right to laugh at it.

The places I'd agree are in the areas where the industries overlap, which are mental health and exercise. That's said, the industry is what it is. That's all the thing included in the "alternate wellnes" industry. People (my great aunt) believe this stuff where exercise will cure brain cancer. My great uncle died about a year and a half earlier than he should have as a result (doctor's estimate).

That said, the quantity of money and tying that to suspicion, is NOT my construct. Thats for others in this thread, not me. My construct is outcome based more than anything.

 

[Sparky Polastri]

Does it change anyone's mind/perception to know that the "alternative treatment / wellness" industry is $6T in 2024 and projected to be $9T by 2028 by Global Wellness Institute?

What is "alternative/wellness" defined as? Where is the bulk of the $6T generated? How i think about that in relation to the Pharma medical complex depends on what we're considering alternative.

It's the things people turn to outside of standard medical care. You can go to Global Wellness Institute as I stated above and read up on everything that's included. I'm rather confident most here don't really have a good idea of what the "machine" is behind "alternate treatments"

Could be true. As someone that's a pretty firm believer in science over woo I've had the experience of needing to look behind the curtain of "alternative" treatments for care and it's not all dangerous or based in fantasy. Plenty is, there's no doubt about that. Something like sauna that I'm guessing isn't something a doctor would prescribe, but can be found at a wellness clinic would be an example I would use. I'll look at the resource you've mentioned, but "alternative" comes with a negative connotation, but the definition needs narrowing as i don't think everything outside of standard care is negative. Maybe I'm being nit picky looking for a definition past what you've given.

Again. We'll take the 80/20 rule here. In this case, I'm going 90/10 rule. Yeah, you'll find some examples of "positive" alternate treatments. They are very much the exception in that world. And I only really pose this question, because for several pages the size of the industry and the "follow the money vibe" against standard medical care was a driving factor and a core theme. I am curious the reaction when we are shown that the "alternate" industry (which includes many many more "remedies/solutions" in scope) are 3-4 times as large by that measure.

That's fair. If we're following profit motives alternatives to western medicine are just as guilty of separating a fool from their money, probably a lot more and in this conversation it's easier to lump them into a singular basket. Like everything there's nuance to the conversation, but you point is taken.

This is right. So now Joe and others are left to reconcile the narrative they were asserting before. If an industry running at $2T in revenue and they should be questioned because, follow the money what kind of questiining/faith should there be placed in an industry running at double or triple that? Oh and by the way getting a fraction of the successful outcomes for that increased cost. And what does it say about those choosing the later given the lack of successful outcomes compared to those held to a higher, scientific standard generally speaking.

Nobody but you brought up alternative treatments. The argument was thinking for yourself versus blind faith in what the doctor says, not immediately seeking out alternative treatments. Definition of strawman. Read any of the examples provided by posters who knew better, they aren't alternative treatments.

To be fair, he brought it up because folks were essentially saying you can't trust doctors because of the profit motive. Many of those who refuse to follow modern medical treatments, who the original poster described as those who do their own their own research, buy these alternative treatments.

The point being there is a profit motive - generally with less rigorous training and regulation - among alternative treatments that those who do their own research and turn down modern medical treatments in favor of alternative treatments.

Not saying everyone does, but if you're turning down modern treatments, you're either doing nothing or using an alternative treatment.

Think I'm done here though. We can't even be honest around what the original premise was. There's really no point in continuing.