We have received numerous inquiries from readers who wonder why our blogs on New Age and alternative health practices seem to put so much emphasis on science. Shouldn't they based on Catholic teaching?
Photodynamic Red Light Therapy (Photo courtesy of the National Cancer Institute)CF writes: “I was reading about the new LUMEBOX red light therapy. It is promoted to be better than medications in helping almost everything. Could you illuminate me as to whether this is a hoax?”
DF writes: "I googled 'earthing' on your blog and read the article you wrote on it (and essential oils). While you stated that there is little evidence that this 'earthing' stuff is, you did not say if it is harmful (other than wasting your money and/or supporting new age businesses.)
JR writes: “I was listening to Wacky Wednesday on Women of Grace June 19, 2024.
I would be greatly interested if anyone has conducted a survey as to cancer in pets for people who use Essential oils in diffusers. I have known several pet owners who lost their dogs to lung cancer.”
AC asks: "I have been told that thermography is a better alternative to mammography. Are there any concerns or dangers with thermography? Is it New Age? Would it be o.k. to undergo thermography for breast cancer screening?"
Y asks: "I am 8 months pregnant and I go to a food supplemental place called WIC. The breastfeeding counselor there advised me to try Kangaroo Care or (skin to skin contact). Is this method considered New Age? I don't have a good feeling about this. What should I do?"
JB writes: "I wanted to know if you have any information on Meridian Stress Assessment? Is this anything to be wary of?"
ML writes: "Many of my friends, suspicious of modern medicine, are turning to nutritional therapies including essential oils. I dabbled in the New Age years ago, although the dabbling got me too close to the fire, so to speak. As my faith life grew, and I began to abandon my New Age philosophies, I began to experience bizarre physical symptoms which I knew were spiritual in origin. Thanks to my wonderful, faithful husband, I got to a priest for deliverance prayer.
MD writes: "Is cupping OK for Christians to do? My doctor suggested it for bursitis."
SR writes: "Everyone seems to be on some kind of diet. (I.e. Paleo diet or Gluten free, Atkins, etc. I understand if someone is diagnosed with Celiac Disease or Gluten intolerances, it makes sense and would be prudent to eliminate gluten, but it seems that more and more people are on diets because they are desperate to lose weight. In some cases I feel some people turn these diets into a "religion". Are they any diets we should avoid (that are New Age?)
