In a world brimming with health trends and wellness buzzwords, functional medicine often emerges as both a beacon of hope and a source of confusion. With a focus on treating the whole person, functional medicine examines the intersectionality of lifestyle, environment, and genetics in order to determine the root cause of your symptoms.
With Americans becoming sicker and our rates of disease rising there has been an increase in the interest of those seeking alternatives to conventional medicine. Unfortunately, this has also produced a great amount of misunderstanding along with it.
Living in a world where social media has become a replacement for news and self-appointed experts have been granted influence, it can be difficult to decipher the truth from inaccuracies. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a well-researched patient, we are going to equip you with knowledge by sharing five common misconceptions and offer clarity so you can pursue your health and wellness with confidence.
Fiction: The approach isn’t scientific.
Fact: Functional medicine is based on the same science as conventional medicine.
The difference between functional and conventional medicine isn’t the science, but the healthcare model. While traditional medicine is typically concerned with the treatment of dysfunction, functional medicine examines the dynamic processes that contribute to ailments and disease and emphasizes the importance of genomics, the interconnectedness of body systems, root cause analysis and comprehensive lab testing.
Fiction: Serious health conditions can not be treated.
Fact: Functional medicine can be used to treat even the most concerning issues.
A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that 70% of patients participating in functional medicine programs reported significant improvements in chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders after just six months of treatment.
By integrating traditional medical treatments with complementary therapies, you are presented with a multifaceted approach that not only makes you feel better but aims to keep you well.
Fiction: It’s a bunch of woo woo hocus pocus.
Fact: Functional medicine is supported by oversight, training, and certifications that establish its legitimacy.
Becoming a functional medicine doctor requires specific qualifications; it’s not open to just anyone. The Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) mandates that candidates hold a license in a medical profession.
IFM collaborates with prestigious clinics like the Cleveland Clinic and leading universities such as Dartmouth, Harvard, George Washington University, and Yale. Additionally, the FDA holds the authority to disapprove any practices related to functional medicine.
Fiction: I need to take medication to feel better
Fact: Though functional medicine practitioners can and will prescribe conventional medications when necessary, it is often unnecessary.
Medication often works by treating the symptoms instead of the problem. While this may make you feel better momentarily, it does not address the issue that is causing the problem in the first place. It’s no secret that medication is heavily prescribed in the US.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about 30% of antibiotics prescribed in the U.S. are unnecessary, contributing to antibiotic resistance and other health issues.
The American Journal of Psychiatry found that nearly 50% of antidepressant prescriptions may be unnecessary and Journal of the American College of Cardiology has found that about 30% of patients prescribed antihypertensive medications did not meet the criteria for hypertension.
This isn’t to say that all medication is bad, however lifestyle and environmental modifications can make all the difference in the world and eliminate the need to add more pills or powders to your routine.
Fiction: I have a genetic issue and can’t do anything to get better
Fact: Lifestyle modifications have the most substantial influence on overall health outcomes.
The impact of lifestyle, genetics, and environment on health is intricate, with each factor playing a significant role. While genetics play a role in predisposing individuals to certain conditions, they are not the sole factor.
A study published in Nature indicated that genetics contribute to about 20-30% of the risk for developing chronic conditions whereas choices related to diet, exercise, smoking, and alcohol consumption have the greatest influence. In fact, The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that modifiable lifestyle factors account for approximately 70% of all chronic diseases.
Working with a functional health physician will help you to identify all factors that contribute to your wellness and make changes to those you can control.
Whether you are exploring alternative options or seeking to enhance your current health regimen, embracing the principles of functional medicine can provide a pathway to improved health outcomes. Remember, knowledge is a powerful tool—use it to advocate for your well-being and pursue a healthier, more vibrant life.
