What is Functional Medicine?

Today, I’d like to share with you the answer to a question I’m asked quite often. What is Functional Medicine? Functional Medicine is a systemized approach which identifies the underlying root causes while building a therapeutic relationship with the patient. As Functional Medicine practitioners, we assume that everyone knows the answer to this question. Although this practice has been around for more than 30 years, it really is still new to the health system.

When evaluating a patient there are 3 components to Functional Medicine’s systemized approach:

1. Genetics
2. Biochemical Individuality
3. Lifestyle Factors

We look at each of these components and gather all of the data to put together a personalized plan. Any imbalances are then evaluated to see if further testing is needed. We work with the patient to build a therapeutic relationship. We continue to track and assess imbalances to obtain optimal health and wellness.

Some of the recent statistic prove that there is currently an epidemic happening:

• 50% of the US population have 1 chronic illness.
• 25% of the US population have at least 2 chronic illnesses.
• 86% of the $3.2 trillion healthcare costs in the US are spent on chronic diseases.

While conventional medicine has massive value and is necessary for saving lives, particularly in emergency and other situations, when it comes to chronic disease we need to look at the underlying root causes of the disease. In short, no generic formula is the answer for everyone and it’s important to build a personalized plan to achieve optimal health.