Functional Medicine is an individualized, patient- centered, science-based approach to medicine that empowers patients and doctors. Additionally, patients work with their doctors to determine underlying causes of disease to promote optimal wellness. Also, it uses testing and research to design safe and effective treatment. These treatments address the root causes of illness.
Why is Functional Medicine Important?
Functional Medicine is important because it is effective at treating chronic diseases. Specifically, chronic disease is defined as a disease that lasts for more than three months. For example, common chronic diseases are arthritis, asthma, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s Disease plus many more. Just think, if we could cure chronic disease with the use of these protocols, wouldn’t that be fantastic?!
Research and Testing
These doctors are specially trained. They allow sufficient time to listen to patient concerns. They gather extensive patient medical history. Doctors use this information to identify the root causes of illnesses. This includes causes such as poor nutrition, stress, toxins, allergens, genetics, and gut microbiome (bacteria living in the gut). To that end, the doctor will likely conduct testing. This testing uses advanced diagnostic testing to uncover underlying dysfunction. Functional panels measure a wide variety of biomarkers well beyond the standard blood panels used in conventional medicine.
Once all testing is complete, the doctor will provide a plan for healthy living. You will frequently hear functional medicine doctors say that we must use “food as medicine.” Their plan for healthy living will always include whole, nutritional foods to support natural health.
Locating Functional Medicine Doctors
You can find these doctors practicing in every conceivable area of medicine. There are general doctors that handle everything. These are similar to an internal medicine doctor who handles a wide variety of medical complaints. Also, there are also specialty doctors who handle eye care, skincare, gynecological care and dentistry. You can contact Dr. Stephen Cabral for testing and test analysis. http://www.sandwichedmatriarchandmoney.com/equilife You can also contact the Institute for Functional Medicine to find a doctor in your area.