Functional medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of illness, rather than just treating the symptoms. It views the body as an interconnected system, where imbalances or dysfunctions in one area can affect the overall health and well-being of an individual.

Functional medicine practitioners take into account a person’s genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors, as well as their unique biochemistry and physiology, to develop personalized treatment plans. They aim to understand the underlying mechanisms and processes contributing to a person’s health issues and work towards restoring balance and optimizing function in the body.

Functional medicine combines the principles of conventional medicine with a broader understanding of health and healing. It emphasizes the importance of nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress management, and other lifestyle factors in promoting wellness. It also incorporates diagnostic tools and laboratory testing to assess biomarkers, hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, and other physiological markers to guide treatment decisions.

The goal of functional medicine is to promote health and prevent chronic diseases by addressing the underlying causes and supporting the body’s natural healing mechanisms. It encourages active patient participation and education to empower individuals to take charge of their health and make informed decisions about their well-being.