Frequently Asked Questions about Functional Medicine and Wellness in Knoxville TN

Wellness and functional health is about restoring function to the body through natural ways so that you can function the way you were designed. By addressing root causes of health issues rather than just treating symptoms we can create an individualized plan for you to move towards health based on what your body is telling us it needs.

Conventional medicine typically focuses on diagnosing and treating specific symptoms or diseases, often with medications. Functional health, on the other hand, looks at the whole person—lifestyle, genetics, environment—and works to restore balance to all body systems, aiming for long-term health rather than just symptom management.

• Personalized care – Treatment is tailored to the individual's unique health needs.
• Root cause analysis – Focuses on finding and treating the underlying causes of health issues.
• Whole-body approach – Considers the interconnectedness of the body’s systems.
• Prevention and wellness – Emphasizes lifestyle changes to prevent illness and optimize well-being.
• Collaboration with healthcare providers – Works alongside conventional treatments when necessary.

Functional health can be beneficial for conditions like:

• Hormonal imbalances (e.g., thyroid issues, adrenal fatigue, infertility, PCOS, endometriosis)
• Digestive disorders (e.g., IBS, leaky gut)
• Chronic fatigue
• Autoimmune diseases
• Weight management
• Migraines and headaches
• Mental health (e.g., anxiety, depression)

Nutrition is foundational in functional health. A nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory diet is tailored to the individual's specific health needs, promoting healing, balancing hormones, supporting the immune system, and improving overall energy. Functional health often includes dietary interventions, supplements, and lifestyle changes.

Yes! Functional health is rooted in scientific research and evidence. Practitioners use diagnostic testing, such as lab work or genetic analysis, to gain insights into the body's functions and identify underlying issues. The approach combines traditional medical knowledge with emerging research in nutrition, gut health, and cellular biology.

In our office, we look at

• Blood panels to assess nutrient levels, hormones, and inflammatory markers
• Gut microbiome analysis to understand digestive health
• DUTCH - Urinary Hormone Test
• Adrenal and thyroid function tests
• Immuno Food Allergy Test

Functional health recognizes the connection between physical and mental well-being. It focuses on balancing hormones, improving gut health (which affects mood and brain function), managing stress, and supporting neurotransmitter balance through diet, supplements, and lifestyle changes.

Functional health can complement traditional medical care but is not intended to replace it. In many cases, a functional health approach works alongside conventional treatments to provide a more comprehensive plan for healing and long-term wellness. Always consult with healthcare professionals when combining treatments.