Functional Medicine

Functional Medicine is an approach to healthcare that focuses on addressing the root causes of disease and understanding the unique biochemistry of each individual. It is a holistic and patient-centered model of care that aims to promote optimal health and well-being by considering the interactions between genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Functional medicine practitioners view the body as an interconnected system and strive to identify and address the underlying imbalances or dysfunctions that contribute to various health conditions. They emphasize the importance of treating the whole person rather than just isolated symptoms.

Functional medicine can be used to address a wide range of chronic health conditions, including but not limited to:

1. Digestive disorders: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), food intolerances, acid reflux, and other gastrointestinal conditions.

2. Hormonal imbalances: Thyroid disorders, adrenal fatigue, menstrual irregularities, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and menopause-related symptoms.

3. Autoimmune diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis (MS), Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and celiac disease.

4. Metabolic conditions: Diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and insulin resistance.

5. Cardiovascular conditions: Hypertension (high blood pressure), dyslipidemia (abnormal cholesterol levels), and heart disease.

6. Mental health disorders: Depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and insomnia.

7. Chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.

8. Allergies and sensitivities.

Functional medicine practitioners employ a range of interventions, including dietary and lifestyle modifications, nutritional supplementation, stress management techniques, detoxification protocols, and targeted therapies to address specific imbalances. The goal is to support the body's natural healing mechanisms and restore optimal function.

It's important to note that functional medicine is a complementary approach to conventional medicine and is not intended to replace it. It often works in collaboration with other healthcare providers to provide comprehensive and personalized care to patients.

At Anne Swart Clinic we have our doctors, Dr Rita Xavier and Dr Manuela Figini, offering consultations in functional medicine.