About Functional Medicine
Functional Medicine is an approach to healthcare that focuses on addressing the root causes of illness and disease, rather than just treating symptoms. It is a patient-centered, holistic model that aims to restore balance and optimal function to the body's systems.
Core Principles:
1. Patient-Centered Care
The patient is viewed as a whole person, with unique genetic makeup, lifestyle factors, environment, and history. Treatment plans are personalized based on individual needs, preferences, and goals.
2. Addressing Root Causes
Functional Medicine practitioners seek to understand the underlying factors contributing to a patient's health concerns. This involves looking at genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that may be influencing health.
3. Systems Biology Approach
The body is seen as an interconnected system of organs and processes. Functional Medicine looks at how these systems interact and affect overall health.
4. Promoting Optimal Function
The goal is not just to treat disease, but to optimize the body's function and promote resilience. This may involve enhancing the body's natural ability to heal and maintain balance.
5. Integration of Multiple Modalities
Functional Medicine integrates a variety of approaches, including nutrition, lifestyle changes, stress management, supplements, herbal medicine, and conventional treatments when necessary. The focus is on using the most appropriate tools for each individual.
In summary, Functional Medicine represents a shift towards a more integrative, personalized, and proactive approach to healthcare. By addressing the root causes of illness and focusing on optimizing function, it aims to promote long-term health and vitality for individuals seeking a holistic path to wellness.
