Functional medicine differs from traditional medicine in a few ways. First, it looks at a slimmer reference frame on lab test results. Reference numbers for diagnosis can vary from lab to lab. A normal result doesn’t always assist in diagnosing symptoms. Functional medicine doctors look at where your body is thriving and where it isn’t.
Second, labs are more comprehensive. An issue may be caused by your gut microbiome, hormonal imbalances, or food sensitivities. These areas are all explored.
Finally, diagnosis and treatment is evidence-based for each individual. A treatment program that works for one person may not work for the next.
Autoimmune Issues
Autoimmune disorders are on the rise. Some diseases aren’t labeled until there is 70% to 90% destruction of the affected area of the body. This destruction doesn’t happen overnight. Many people are undiagnosed, because their levels aren’t high enough for diagnosis. This is preventing autoimmune conditions from being arrested and inflammation being reduced immediately.
3 Stages of Autoimmune Spectrum
- Silent Diagnosis: no noticeable symptoms but lab shows positive antinuclear antibodies (ANA) that are attacking your own tissue.
- Autoimmune Reactivity: noticeable symptoms and lab shows positive ANA.
- Autoimmune Disease: enough body destruction for diagnosis.
Triggers You Can Change
- Look at the foods you eat. Reducing grains that contain gluten may help you. Gluten is problematic for many people. Dairy may also be a trigger.
- Cleanse your life. Eat foods that help with detoxification like garlic, onions and green leafy vegetables. This isn’t a diet. It needs to become your lifestyle.
- Work to reduce inflammation. Green tea and turmeric can help. You may need to increase your consumption to notice results.
- Manage your stress. Stress can counteract all of the good things you’re doing to help your body. Can you change your stressful situation? Is it something you can accept? Can you become more resilient by addressing this stress? Stress can trigger and perpetuate a condition. Be good to yourself.
Dr. Will Cole, leading functional medicine practitioner, specializes in clinically investigating underlying factors and customizing health programs for chronic conditions such as thyroid issues, autoimmune, hormonal dysfunctions, and more.