I am excited to announce my recent certification in Functional Medicine through the Institute of Functional Medicine. Functional Medicine uses a unique systems biology approach based on peer reviewed current science, as well as clinical expertise, to address the underlying causes of disease. The program offered by The Institute of Functional Medicine (IFM) is the most recognized program to date. It was founded in 1991 by Jeffrey Bland, PhD.. Dr. Bland, a Biochemist, who developed the concept of Functional Medicine and is now known as “The father of Functional Medicine.” Therefore, it is no surprise that IFM offers the most comprehensive, rigorous and most well recognized worldwide program in the field of Functional Medicine.
For those who are unfamiliar, here are a few reasons why Functional Medicine is different from standard care.
It focuses less on the disease or condition and more on the factors that are causative, either in the short or long term, working to uncover the pathways in the body that are not functioning well.
It takes a food first approach when possible and focuses on improving modifiable lifestyle factors such as nutrition, movement, stress management, relationships and rest/sleep. It addresses connection with others, as well as spiritual and emotional health.
In conjunction with standard laboratory testing, some practitioners incorporate specialized testing. These tests take a more extensive look at such areas as the digestive system, hormones, allergens, genetics and even mitochondrial health.
It addresses the social determinants of health, which affect the underserved communities that often experience less availability of healthy food, healthy environment and access to equitable health care.
In addition, both the patient and practitioner develop a therapeutic partnership to determine the patients’ individual health needs and goals.
Also, unique only to Functional Medicine are the Timeline and Matrix, which are used to organize the patient’s story and provide a methodology for the order and determination of appropriate interventions. This is particularly effective for complex conditions and chronic disease. The goal is to move an individual toward their greatest state of health and healing, rather than simply mask the symptoms.
For more information about Dr. Griswold, DC, IFMCP, visit www.gvcwellness.com or contact directly at 301-865-6534. I would love to share the wealth of knowledge attained through this program! For more information about Functional Medicine and to find a certified practitioner near you, you can also visit the IFM website, www.ifm.org. I also highly recommend watching the Utube interview with Dr. Bland, “Why Functional Medicine Works.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2hqC47dYB0. This gives a great history of how Dr. Bland and his team developed the field of Functional Medicine, the protocols specific to this field and is very informative and truly fundamental for any consumer seeking Functional Medicine.
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