Functional

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Functional Medicine

Functional Medicine (pronunciation: /ˈfʌŋkʃənəl ˈmɛdɪsɪn/) is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on interactions between the environment and the gastrointestinal, endocrine, and immune systems.

Etymology

The term "Functional Medicine" was first used in the late 20th century, with the term "functional" referring to the type of testing and treatments used, which are designed to address the root cause of health issues, rather than simply treating symptoms.

Definition

Functional Medicine is a patient-centered, science-based approach that empowers patients and practitioners to work together to address the underlying causes of disease and promote optimal wellness. It requires a detailed understanding of each patient’s genetic, biochemical, and lifestyle factors and leverages that data to direct personalized treatment plans that lead to improved patient outcomes.

Related Terms

  • Alternative Medicine: Any of a range of medical therapies that are not regarded as orthodox by the medical profession, such as herbalism, homeopathy, and acupuncture.
  • Gastrointestinal System: The system in the body that processes food and turns it into energy.
  • Endocrine System: The collection of glands that produce hormones that regulate metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep, and mood, among other things.
  • Immune System: A complex network of cells and proteins that defends the body against infection.

See Also

External links

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