Functional Medicine
What Is Functional Medicine?
According to the Institute for Functional Medicine, functional medicine can be described as:
Functional medicine addresses the underlying causes of disease, using a systems-oriented approach and engaging both patient and practitioner in a therapeutic partnership. It is an evolution in the practice of medicine that better addresses the healthcare needs of the 21st century. By shifting the traditional disease-centered focus of medical practice to a more patient-centered approach, functional medicine addresses the whole person, not just an isolated set of symptoms. Functional medicine practitioners spend time with their patients, listening to their histories and looking at the interactions among genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that can influence long-term health and complex, chronic disease. In this way, functional medicine supports the unique expression of health and vitality for each individual.
Functional medicine is a patient-centered approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of disease rather than just treating symptoms. It integrates traditional Western medicine with alternative and holistic practices to create a personalized treatment plan for each patient. Here are some key aspects of functional medicine:
Holistic Approach: Functional medicine views the body as an interconnected system, where various factors like genetics, environment, lifestyle, and emotional well-being all play a role in health and disease.
Personalized Care: Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, functional medicine tailors treatment plans to the individual’s unique circumstances, including their biology, lifestyle, and environment.
Root Cause Focus: The primary goal of functional medicine is to identify and address the underlying causes of disease, which may include imbalances in nutrition, hormones, gut health, or other factors.
Integrative Practices: Functional medicine practitioners may combine conventional medical treatments with alternative therapies such as nutrition, herbal medicine, acupuncture, and stress management techniques.
Preventative Care: Emphasizing prevention, functional medicine encourages patients to make lifestyle changes that reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress reduction practices.
Patient Partnership: Functional medicine fosters a collaborative relationship between the patient and practitioner, with the patient actively participating in their health journey.
This approach is often used to manage chronic conditions such as autoimmune diseases, digestive disorders, hormonal imbalances, and more, offering an alternative for those who seek more personalized care.
