Functional Medicine 101

Functional Medicine uses laboratory tests of blood, saliva, urine and stool but test result ranges are broader. For example, early stage hypothyroidism and associated symptoms can be treated nutritionally by looking at functional lab ranges long before acute hypothyroidism is diagnosed. The Functional approach uses diet and lifestyle changes to treat the patient. The Conventional approach uses synthetic agents and hormones.

Healing with Functional Medicine may take time to see results. Depending upon the severity and progression of the disease, it can take up to one year. It is important to be compliant and patient, but the results will be rewarding. In addition to feeling better, follow-up labs will confirm success.

Even the most carefully thought out diet may be deficient in key nutrients. Not all supplements are created equal. In fact many supplements may not be absorbed at all. Diane’s training as a nutritionist means she has selected only the highest quality, most absorbable supplements available on the market.

Diane may prescribe various botanicals, vitamins and minerals for treatment. In addition, antioxidants may be beneficial. Antioxidants are depleted from our bodies by toxins, stress and pollution. Inflammatory conditions and diseases deplete them as well. They are essential to good health and without them we become ill.