Frequently Asked Health Questions and Answers

1. What is functional medicine, and how does it rely on evidence-based research?

Answer: Functional medicine is a patient-centered approach to healthcare that aims to identify and address the root causes of diseases rather than merely treating symptoms. It relies on evidence-based research, using scientific studies and clinical trials to inform diagnostic tests and treatment plans.

2. How does functional medicine offer a root-cause approach to auto-immune diseases?

Answer: Functional medicine delves into the underlying factors contributing to auto-immune diseases, such as genetics, environmental toxins, and lifestyle choices as well as other triggers. Evidence-based diagnostic tests and personalized treatment plans are used to address these root causes.

3. What evidence-based methods does functional medicine use to diagnose and treat thyroid issues?

Answer: Functional medicine uses comprehensive testing, including blood tests for TSH, T3, and T4 levels, as well as antibody tests. Additional testing may be recommended to differentiate between the different thyroid autoimmune conditions. Treatment often involves nutritional changes, supplements, and sometimes medication, all backed by scientific research.

4. How does functional medicine use nutrition to balance hormones?

Answer: Nutrition plays a crucial role in hormonal balance. Functional medicine often recommends a diet rich in essential nutrients, healthy fats, and protein, along with specific supplements, to help regulate hormones. These recommendations are based on evidence-based research and individual needs.

5. Can functional medicine provide evidence-based solutions for chronic fatigue?

Answer: Yes, functional medicine uses a multi-faceted, evidence-based approach to address chronic fatigue. This often involves nutritional changes, stress management techniques, and targeted supplements to improve energy levels. Identifying the contributing factors and addressing them is key.

6. What kinds of skin issues can be addressed through nutrition and functional medicine?

Answer: Conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis can often be improved through nutritional changes, such as eliminating food allergens and incorporating anti-inflammatory foods. These approaches are all supported by scientific studies.

7. How does functional medicine use evidence-based research for effective pain management?

Answer: Functional medicine employs various evidence-based methods like identifying root cause and addressing, biofeedback, and nutritional supplements to manage pain, often reducing the need for pharmaceutical interventions.

8. What role does inflammation play in chronic health conditions, and how does functional medicine use nutrition to manage it?

Answer: Inflammation is often a root cause of many chronic conditions. Functional medicine uses an evidence-based, nutrition-focused approach, recommending anti-inflammatory foods and supplements to manage and reduce inflammation.

9. What are the evidence-based diagnostic tests commonly used in functional medicine?

Answer: Common tests include comprehensive blood panels, hormone tests, gut microbiome tests, toxicity panels, and genetic testing, all of which are backed by scientific research.

10. How long does it typically take to see results when using a functional medicine and nutrition-based approach?

Answer: The time to see results can vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated, but many patients report improvements within a few weeks to a few months.

11. Is functional medicine covered by insurance, and what evidence supports its efficacy?

Answer: Coverage varies by provider, but the efficacy of functional medicine is supported by a growing body of scientific research, including clinical trials and peer-reviewed studies. Although some progressive Health Insurance plans do cover some services, remember, investing in your health will pay for itself and more.

12. What evidence-based nutritional changes are recommended in functional medicine?

Answer: Common recommendations include a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods, low in sugar, and high in anti-inflammatory foods. These guidelines are supported by numerous scientific studies. Nutritional changes are always recommended according to individual needs and may vary.

13. How does stress impact chronic health conditions, and what evidence-based methods does functional medicine use to manage it?

Answer: Stress can exacerbate many chronic conditions. Functional medicine often employs evidence-based stress management techniques like mindfulness, meditation, breathwork, and biofeedback.

14. What are some common supplements backed by research that are recommended in functional medicine?

Answer: Commonly recommended supplements include omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, probiotics, and adaptogenic herbs, all of which have scientific evidence supporting their efficacy.

15. How often should I consult with a functional medicine practitioner for an evidence-based treatment plan?

Answer: The frequency of consultations can vary based on individual needs and the complexity of the condition but expect initial frequent visits that taper off as you progress and then emphasis is on maintenance of progress and improvements.

16. Is functional medicine, with its focus on nutrition and evidence-based research, suitable for children and the elderly?

Answer: Yes, functional medicine's personalized, evidence-based approach can be adapted for both children and the elderly, taking into account their unique nutritional and medical needs.

17. What qualifications should I look for in a functional medicine practitioner who uses an evidence-based approach?

Answer: Look for practitioners who are certified in functional medicine and who regularly update their knowledge through continuing education in evidence-based research.

18. How is a functional medicine treatment plan personalized based on research and nutritional needs?

Answer: Treatment plans are developed after a thorough analysis of diagnostic tests, lifestyle factors, and nutritional needs, all of which are informed by current scientific research.

19. Can functional medicine be integrated with other evidence-based treatments?

Answer: Absolutely, functional medicine is often used in conjunction with other treatments like conventional medicine, physical therapy, and more, to provide a comprehensive, evidence-based care plan.

20. What are the first steps to take if I'm interested in an evidence-based, nutrition-focused functional medicine approach for my health issues?

Answer: The first step is usually a comprehensive consultation with a certified functional medicine practitioner to discuss your medical history, symptoms, and goals, followed by evidence-based diagnostic tests, analysis and design of individualized health improvement plan.

CAN YOU HELP ME WITH MY HEALTH PROBLEM?

If you suffer from a chronic medical condition, if you are frequently ill, tired or in chronic pain or if you simply seek to optimize your health, we may be able to help. If you feel you are taking too many prescription drugs, want a more natural approach or wonder which supplements are right for you, we can help.

Mainstream medical practice does not focus on finding the root cause of illness. The usual medical tests do not look for food sensitivities, hidden infections, environmental toxins, mold exposures, nutritional deficiencies and metabolic imbalances. New genetic testing can uncover underlying genetic risks that can be modified through diet, lifestyle, supplements or medications.