Have you ever heard of functional medicine? It is an approach to healthcare that is focused on the unique needs of the individual. This type of medicine looks at the whole person, taking into account their lifestyle, environment, and genetic makeup in order to create a personalized plan for health and wellness. Let’s take a look at what makes functional medicine different from traditional medical approaches. 

What is Functional Medicine? 

Functional medicine relies on a patient-centered approach to healthcare. It takes into account the whole person—including their lifestyle, environment, and genetics—in order to create an individualized plan for health and wellness. Unlike traditional medicine, which focuses mainly on treating symptoms, functional medicine seeks to uncover the underlying root cause of an illness or condition in order to achieve optimal health. For example, rather than simply prescribing medication for high blood pressure, a functional medicine practitioner may recommend dietary changes or lifestyle modifications in order to reduce an individual’s risk of cardiovascular disease. 

What is functional medicine? 

Functional medicine takes a systems–based approach to identify and address the root cause of disease and seeks to restore balance in the body.  Unlike conventional medicine which often views the body as separately functioning compartments, functional medicine sees each organ system as a key player in the overall functioning of the body. We look at how each of these systems interacts and relates to the bigger whole with a goal of restoring balance among them.

What happens during a functional medicine consultation? 

During a functional medicine consultation a detailed history will be taken to create a timeline of events that often dates back to childhood and even birth.  All aspects of lifestyle which could potentially impact health are explored.  Often at the end of the consultation additional laboratory testing such as hormonal, nutritional and microbiome profiles are recommended. 

What are the benefits of Functional Medicine? 

Functional medicine can provide numerous benefits for individuals looking for an alternative way to manage their health. First and foremost, it is tailored specifically for each patient’s unique needs and goals. Additionally, because it focuses on preventative care as opposed to reactive care (i.e., waiting until you are ill before seeking treatment), it can help individuals maintain optimal health throughout their lives. Finally, it can help improve overall quality of life by providing individuals with the tools they need to make healthy lifestyle choices that will benefit them in the long run.