How Functional Medicine Differs from Conventional Medicine

There’s no single approach to healthcare—in fact, it’s quite the opposite! While all physicians have subtly different approaches, functional and conventional medicine are two of the biggest distinctions used to categorize medical practices. Understanding the differences between them can help you find the right provider for your needs and preferences. 

Functional Medicine vs. Conventional Medicine

Let’s begin with conventional medicine, the most common form of medicine used in the United States. Also called “Western” or “traditional” medicine, this approach involves addressing and managing symptoms as they occur. This symptoms-based approach is often effective at targeting pressing health concerns but strongly hinges on medications and procedures. 

Functional medicine, on the other hand, goes deeper than the symptoms to determine their root causes and consider the body as a whole. It’s ideal for patients who want to take a proactive approach to their health, minimize their reliance on medications, and effectively manage chronic conditions. 

Your functional physician will evaluate all aspects of your health and lifestyle to identify factors that may negatively affect your well-being, including:

• Diet
• Exercise
• Sleep
• Stress levels
• Exposure to environmental toxins and allergens
• Genetic factors
• Hormonal balance
• Gut microbiome

Functional medicine also involves much more extensive testing than conventional medicine to reveal valuable insights into your wellness. For example, while conventional physicians may order a standard blood test, they won’t dive deeper into results that fall within the standard range. Functional physicians note subtle imbalances and patterns that could impact your health over time from a wide range of tests, including cortisol, stool, micronutrient, heavy metal, hormone, and DNA testing. 

Whether you’re looking to prevent health conditions before they strike, effectively manage a chronic condition, or take a natural approach to your health, you may want to consider functional medicine. Schedule an appointment at Mind Body Spirit Care today to learn more!