Functional Medicine is a patient-centered, systems-biology-based clinical approach that seeks to identify and address the root causes of disease, rather than merely treating symptoms. It views the individual as a whole, integrating genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that influence long-term health and complex chronic disease. This model contrasts with the traditional disease-centered approach by emphasizing prevention and the optimization of physiological function, including hormonal balance.
Origin
The term was coined in the late 20th century to describe a new paradigm in clinical practice that moved beyond the conventional focus on pharmaceutical management. “Functional” refers to the optimization of biological functions, aiming to restore the body’s innate capacity for health. It draws heavily on advancements in nutritional science, genomics, and endocrinology.
Mechanism
A functional medicine practitioner uses a comprehensive intake and advanced diagnostic testing, often including detailed hormonal and metabolic panels, to map the patient’s individual biological landscape. Treatment protocols are highly personalized and typically involve targeted lifestyle modifications—such as diet, stress management, and exercise—alongside evidence-based nutritional and botanical supplementation. This methodology aims to correct underlying imbalances in core physiological processes, such as detoxification, inflammation, and hormonal signaling.
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