02. What is Functional Medicine?
02. What is Functional Medicine?
Introduction: Opening thoughts on the evolution of healthcare and the frustration that led to discovering functional medicine.
Personal journey: From struggling with chronic health issues to going back to school for functional medicine.
Overview of Functional Medicine:
Definition: Functional medicine is a patient-centered approach addressing root causes instead of symptoms. Personal perspective: The role of a seasoned mentor, coach, and certified health and nutrition coach.
Core principles: Comprehensive analysis of genetics, environment, and lifestyle for personalized health strategies.
Why Functional Medicine Matters: Personal experiences with conventional medicine and the need for a personalized approach. Highlighting the importance of individual health stories and experiences. Differentiating functional medicine's holistic approach from conventional systems-based medicine.
Background of Functional Medicine: Emergence in the early 1990s, pioneered by Dr. Jeffrey Bland, a biochemist and nutritional researcher. Shifting the healthcare paradigm towards a patient-centered, integrative model. Evolution into a widely recognized and practical approach embraced by healthcare practitioners.
Key Components of Functional Medicine: A whole-body perspective: Comparing the body to a complex system, emphasizing holistic health. Integrating spiritual health as a foundational element. Moving beyond symptom management: Addressing underlying imbalances for sustainable well-being.
Practical Tips for Implementing Functional Medicine:
- Mindful Nutrition: Embracing whole, nutrient-dense foods. Paying attention to individual reactions to different foods.
- Stress Management: Prioritizing stress reduction through breathwork, prayer, and mindfulness. Understanding the impact of stress on overall health and hormonal balance.
- Lifestyle Adjustment: Focusing on adequate sleep, regular exercise, and a consistent daily routine. Making small, sustainable changes over time.
- Track and Reflect: Keeping a health journal to monitor symptoms, food intake, and lifestyle factors. Reflecting on patterns to gain valuable insights for personalized strategies.
- Build a Support System: Engaging with the community for motivation, accountability, and shared experiences. Being an active part of the community to provide support and encouragement.
Key Takeaway: Functional medicine is not a new concept but a return to core principles of holistic health. It offers a simpler and personalized approach to building habits of health.
Closing Thoughts: I am so thankful for your presence and participation in this community. I would love for you to leave feedback and reviews for continuous improvement. Note: The podcast episode transcript has been edited for clarity, coherence, and conciseness.
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