What is functional medicine and how is it different from conventional care?
Functional medicine is a patient-centered, science-based approach that identifies and addresses the underlying root causes of chronic disease rather than managing symptoms with medication. Instead of asking 'what drug matches this diagnosis?', functional medicine asks 'what upstream imbalances in this person's biology, environment, and lifestyle are creating the conditions for disease?'
At Asheville Functional Medicine, I use this framework to work with patients dealing with gut health disorders, autoimmune disease, Hashimoto's, chronic fatigue, mold illness, chronic infections, and hormone imbalances.
By taking a detailed health history and using advanced functional lab testing, I build a personalized care plan around your specific biology. Not a generic protocol. A plan designed around you.
The Six Principles of Functional Medicine
Health as a Positive Vitality
Not simply the absence of disease.
Web-like Interconnections
The human body functions as an orchestrated network of interconnected systems, rather than individual systems functioning autonomously and without effect on each other.
Biochemical Individuality
Recognizes the importance of individual variations in metabolic function that derive from genetic and environmental differences among individuals.
Dynamic Balance
Balance of internal and external factors.
Patient Centered
Emphasis on "patient care" rather than "disease care".
Promotion of Organ Reserve
Promotion of organ reserve as the means to enhance longevity and health span.