What is Functional Medicine?
Functional medicine is an approach to healthcare that focuses on addressing the underlying causes of disease and dysfunction rather than just treating symptoms. It views the body as an interconnected system and aims to understand the root imbalances that lead to health issues. Functional medicine practitioners use a systems biology approach, considering the interactions between various physiological functions. Key principles include personalized and patient-centered care, in-depth understanding of an individual's health history, and the use of advanced laboratory testing to identify imbalances or dysfunctions. Treatment plans in functional medicine often involve personalized nutrition, lifestyle modifications, and sometimes targeted supplements or medications. The goal is to restore balance and optimize the body's function to promote long-term health and well-being. Practitioners of functional medicine can come from various medical backgrounds and often undergo additional training in functional medicine principles and practices.
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Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) are trained in 4 years of naturopathic medical school and utilize functional medicine to treat their patients. They use natural remedies and therapies to promote self-healing, and emphasize the body's ability to heal itself and seek to address the underlying causes of illness rather than just treating symptoms.
Key principles of naturopathic medicine include:
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The Healing Power of Nature: Trusting in the body's inherent ability to heal and recover.
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Identifying and Treating the Causes: Naturopathic practitioners aim to identify and address the root causes of illness rather than just alleviating symptoms.
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First, Do No Harm (Primum Non Nocere): Utilizing the least invasive and least harmful interventions to promote healing.
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Doctor as Teacher (Docere): Educating and empowering patients to take responsibility for their health.
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Treat the Whole Person: Considering the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of an individual when providing care.
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Prevention: Focusing on preventive measures to maintain overall health and well-being.
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Naturopathic treatments may include dietary and lifestyle counseling, herbal medicine, homeopathy, acupuncture, physical therapies, and other natural approaches. It's important to note that the practice of naturopathic medicine varies, and the acceptance and regulation of naturopathic doctors can differ between countries and regions.