Q: What is Functional Medicine?

A: Functional medicine is a science-based, systems-biology approach that looks for the root causes of symptoms instead of only suppressing them. It considers how genetics, environment, nutrition, stress, sleep, and lifestyle interact to create either health or disease, and builds a personalized plan to restore balance.

Q: How is functional medicine different from conventional medicine?

A: Conventional care typically focuses on diagnosing a disease and prescribing medication or procedures to manage symptoms. Functional medicine looks at the whole person over time, mapping your story, using targeted testing, and addressing root imbalances through nutrition, lifestyle, environment, and when appropriate, medications and other therapies.

Q: Is functional medicine evidence-based or “alternative”

A: Functional medicine uses current medical research, advanced lab testing, and established physiology, but applies them through a root-cause, whole-person lens. It may incorporate conventional medications along with nutrition, lifestyle, and integrative therapies based on what is safest and most effective for you.

Q: Who is functional medicine for?

A: It is especially helpful for people with chronic symptoms, hormone issues, gut problems, fatigue, autoimmune conditions, or fertility concerns that haven’t responded to a “band-aid” approach. It is also ideal if you feel “not sick but not well” and want a proactive, preventive plan.

Q: Can functional medicine be used for prevention, not just disease?

A: Yes. Functional medicine is proactive, focusing on optimizing health and catching imbalances early, before they progress to disease. Many people choose this approach simply to feel their best and protect long-term health.