Abstract

Despite the growing popularity and evidence of functional medicine, there are still many misconceptions and myths about this approach that may prevent people from seeking or benefiting from it. Some of these misconceptions stem from a lack of awareness or understanding of functional medicine, while others are based on outdated or biased views of conventional medicine. In this paper, we will discuss five common misconceptions about functional medicine and clarify them with facts and examples.

We will also explain why it is important to understand these misconceptions and how they can affect one’s health outcomes and quality of life.

Table of Content

Introduction

What is functional medicine?

What are some of the common misconceptions about functional medicine?

Misconception 1: Functional Medicine is a Fringe Practice

Misconception 2: Functional Medicine is Expensive

Misconception 3: Functional Medicine is Only for People with Chronic Illnesses

Misconception 4: Functional Medicine is Just Another Form of Alternative Medicine

Misconception 5: Functional Medicine is Not Reliable and Focuses Only on Nutrition

Clarifications: Can functional medicine complement conventional medicine?

1. Holistic Approach:
2. Prevention and Treatment:
3. Patient Empowerment:
4. Integrative Care:

Unveiling the Synergy: Integrating Functional Medicine into Conventional Healthcare Despite Common Misconceptions

Goals

Perspectives

Benefits

Challenges

Conclusion

Patient Testimonials

Introduction

As our understanding of genetic and epigenetic expression patterns grows, so too does the potential for personalized Functional Medicine intervention programs. Emerging technologies will soon allow for the measurement of alterations in the epigenome and their impact on phenotype. This will enable us to analyze complex patterns associated with functional changes in our health and intervene at the earliest stages of dysfunction. Furthermore, we will be able to assess our epigenetic imprintome and monitor the success of interventions designed to increase resilience and organ reserve.¹

What is functional medicine?

Functional medicine is a medical approach that focuses on the root cause of diseases and aims to restore the body’s natural balance. It is based on scientific research and evidence-based medicine and has several benefits over traditional medicine. However, there are also some common misconceptions about functional medicine that may prevent people from seeking this type of care. In this article, we will address some of these myths and clarify what functional medicine really is and how it can help you.

What are some of the common misconceptions about functional medicine?

• Functional medicine is a fringe practice that is not reliable or proven.
• Functional medicine is expensive and time-consuming.
• Functional medicine is only for people with chronic illnesses or who have tried everything else.
• Functional medicine is just another form of alternative medicine that relies on supplements and nutrition.
• Functional medicine is too “out there” and not compatible with conventional medicine.

These misconceptions are based on a lack of understanding or misinformation about functional medicine. In reality, functional medicine is:

• A well-established and well-tested approach to healthcare that has been used for centuries in other cultures and is supported by scientific research and evidence-based medicine.
• A cost-effective and time-saving approach to healthcare that addresses the underlying cause of disease, rather than just treating symptoms, and prevents future complications and chronic conditions.
• A beneficial approach to healthcare for anyone who wants to optimize their health and wellness, prevent disease, or reverse chronic conditions.
• A comprehensive and holistic approach to healthcare that integrates the best of conventional and alternative medicine and uses a variety of modalities, such as nutrition, lifestyle, supplements, herbs, acupuncture, mind-body techniques, etc., depending on the individual needs of the patient.
• A compatible and collaborative approach to healthcare that works with your primary care physician and other specialists to provide you with the best possible care.

Misconception 1: Functional Medicine is a Fringe Practice

Fringe science is a term that encompasses a broad range of scientific theories and hypotheses. These ideas are often characterized by their highly speculative nature, meaning they are based on conjecture rather than established evidence or agreed-upon science. Furthermore, fringe science often relies on premises that have been previously refuted or disproven by mainstream scientific consensus. Despite these characteristics, fringe science can sometimes serve as a catalyst for new thinking and innovation within the scientific community, although it’s important to approach such ideas with a healthy degree of skepticism and critical thinking.²

One of the common myths about functional medicine is that it is a fringe or alternative practice that is not reliable or proven by the mainstream medical community. Some people may think that functional medicine is based on pseudoscience, anecdotal evidence, or personal beliefs, rather than rigorous research and clinical trials. They may also question the qualifications or licenses of functional medicine practitioners or their compliance with the standards and regulations of conventional medicine. Notwithstandingly, whereas there is a lack of evidence to support such false assumptions, functional medicine is neither a fringe nor alternative practice, but rather a modern and innovative approach that integrates the best of conventional and complementary medicine. Functional medicine is supported by a growing body of scientific literature that demonstrates its effectiveness in treating various chronic conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disorders, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, and mental health problems. Functional medicine is also endorsed by many reputable organizations and institutions, such as the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM), the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M), the American College of Nutrition (ACN), and the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine.

Furthermore, functional medicine practitioners are trained and certified by accredited programs and organizations, such as the IFM Certification Program (IFMCP), which requires extensive coursework, examinations, case studies, and continuing education. Functional medicine practitioners also follow the ethical and legal standards of their respective professions and scopes of practice. Therefore, functional medicine is not a fringe or alternative practice, but rather a legitimate and evidence-based approach that is recognized and respected by the mainstream medical community.

Nevertheless, functional medicine also recognizes the limitations and challenges of mainstream medicine and offers a personalized and holistic way of health care based on scientific research and evidence-based medicine. Functional medicine adopts the concept of ‘everyday fringe medicine’, which refers to various critical health and well-being practices that challenge or critique established forms of medical expertise and promote personalized modes of self-care. Everyday fringe medicine articulates three critiques of the medical establishment – critiques of medical knowledge production, professional practices, and the knowledge base – which reveal the complexities related to public understanding of science within everyday fringe medicine. By addressing these critiques, functional medicine can help patients achieve optimal health and wellness by identifying and treating the root causes of disease.³

To summarize, functional medicine is sometimes perceived as a fringe practice due to several reasons:

1. Lack of Recognition: Functional medicine is not widely recognized by most insurance companies, so physicians can’t bill insurance in the same way that they would for typical visits. This can make functional medicine seem less mainstream or accepted.
2. Misunderstanding: Some people may misunderstand functional medicine as a new, untested approach to medicine. In reality, functional medicine is a very old, well-tested approach to healthcare that’s been used for centuries in other cultures. (Guide, 2022)
3. Criticism: Some critics argue that functional medicine combines massive over-testing with a lack of science and a “make it up as you go along” ethic. However, many practitioners of functional medicine would argue that their approach is evidence-based and individualized to each patient.

Despite these perceptions, functional medicine is becoming more mainstream as people start to realize its effectiveness. Many hospitals, large insurance companies, and other medical facilities are starting to use functional medicine to help their patients feel better. (Guide, 2022)

Misconception 2: Functional Medicine is Expensive

Another common misconception about functional medicine is that it is expensive and unaffordable for most people. Some people may think that functional medicine involves costly tests, supplements, consultations, and treatments that are not covered by insurance or reimbursed by government programs. They may also believe that functional medicine requires a lot of time and commitment from patients, which may interfere with their work or family obligations.

According to a study conducted by Rupa Health, the average price of a functional medicine visit ranges from $280 to $4,700.⁴ The cost of an initial functional medicine consultation can range from $200 to $600, and the cost of diagnostic testing can range from $500 to $2,000 or more.^5,6 However, most programs do not include lab testing. Much of functional medicine and functional testing is not covered by insurance.

It is noted that the cost of functional medicine can vary depending on location, practitioner experience, diagnostic testing, and the type of treatment recommended.

However, these beliefs are not accurate. Functional medicine is not necessarily expensive or unaffordable for most people. While it is true that some aspects of functional medicine may not be covered by insurance or reimbursed by government programs, there are also many ways to reduce or manage the costs of functional medicine. For example: Some functional medicine tests, supplements, consultations, and treatments may be partially or fully covered by insurance or reimbursed by government programs depending on one’s plan, provider, diagnosis, and location.

• Some functional medicine practitioners offer sliding scale fees, payment plans, discounts, or scholarships for patients who have financial difficulties or limited resources.
• Some functional medicine practitioners offer group visits, online consultations, telemedicine services, or educational programs that can lower the costs and increase the accessibility of functional medicine.
• Some functional medicine practitioners collaborate with other health professionals, such as nutritionists, health coaches, therapists, or pharmacists, who can provide additional support and guidance for patients at lower costs.
• Some aspects of functional medicine, such as nutrition, lifestyle interventions, and natural therapies, can be implemented by patients themselves at home or in their communities with minimal costs.

Moreover, functional medicine can be seen as an investment in one’s health and well-being that can save money and prevent complications in the long run. By addressing the root causes and underlying imbalances of chronic diseases, functional medicine can help patients achieve lasting improvements in their symptoms, quality of life, and productivity. Functional medicine can also reduce the need for expensive medications, surgeries, hospitalizations, or disability claims that are often associated with conventional medicine.

Therefore, functional medicine is not necessarily expensive or unaffordable for most people. There are many ways to reduce or manage the costs of functional medicine and to reap the benefits of this approach in the long run.

In fact, a retrospective cohort study comparing outcomes and cost to deliver care to patients in shared medical appointments versus individual appointments at Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine compared the outcomes and costs of functional medicine-based care delivered in two different ways: in a group setting (shared medical appointment, or SMA) or in a one-on-one setting (individual appointment).⁶ The study was done at the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine, where patients received functional medicine-based care that focused on addressing the root causes and underlying imbalances of chronic diseases. The study included 2455 patients who were 18 years or older and who had a baseline and a follow-up score for their physical and mental health at 3 months. The study matched 213 pairs of patients based on their age, sex, race, marital status, income, weight, body mass index, blood pressure, health scores, and functional medicine diagnosis. The study measured the changes in their physical and mental health scores, their weight, and their blood pressure at 3 months. The study also measured the costs of delivering care to each patient.

The results of the study showed that patients who received care in a group setting had better outcomes than patients who received care in a one-on-one setting. Patients in a group setting had greater improvements in their physical and mental health scores, and they also lost more weight than patients in a one-on-one setting. Both groups had similar improvements in their blood pressure. The study also showed that delivering care in a group setting was less costly than delivering care in a one-on-one setting.

The conclusion of the study was that delivering functional medicine-based care in a group setting was actually more effective and less expensive than delivering care in a one-on-one setting. This shows that functional medicine is not an expensive or inaccessible form of healthcare. There are ways to deliver functional medicine-based care that can improve outcomes and reduce costs for patients.⁷

To summarize, functional medicine can be perceived as expensive due to several reasons:

1. Time-Intensive: Functional medicine often requires more personal time with the patient. This is because it involves a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s health, including lifestyle, environmental factors, and genetics.
2. Cost of Tests: Functional medicine often involves in-depth lab testing which can add to the overall cost.
3. Package-Based Services: Most functional medicine doctors sell their services in bundles or packages, which include a long initial appointment and sometimes also include the in-depth lab work and follow-up appointments.
4. Lack of Insurance Coverage: Most functional medicine providers do not accept insurance and require cash pay at the time of service. Even though some lab testing, imaging, and sometimes supplements can be covered by insurance, the personal time with the doctor cannot be billed for under current guidelines.
5. Location: The cost can also vary greatly depending on the location. Areas with high demand for functional medicine, like San Francisco, LA, and New York, tend to have higher prices.(Hamalainen, 2019) (6 Big Problems With Functional Medicine That You Should Know, 2022)

It’s important to note that while the upfront costs may be higher, functional medicine aims to address the root cause of health issues, which could potentially lead to lower healthcare costs in the long run.

Misconception 3: Functional Medicine is Only for People with Chronic Illnesses

A third common misconception about functional medicine is that it is only for people with chronic illnesses or complex health problems that have not been resolved by conventional medicine. Some people may think that functional medicine is not relevant or useful for people who are healthy or have acute or minor health issues. They may also believe that functional medicine is too intensive or invasive for people who do not need or want such a comprehensive approach.

However, these views are not correct. Functional medicine is not only for people with chronic illnesses or complex health problems but also for people who are healthy or have acute or minor health issues. Functional medicine is relevant and useful for everyone, regardless of their age, gender, ethnicity, or health status. Functional medicine can help people:

• Prevent chronic diseases and optimize wellness by identifying and addressing the risk factors and triggers that may predispose them to develop chronic conditions in the future.
• Treat acute or minor health issues by finding and correcting the underlying causes and imbalances that may contribute to their symptoms, rather than suppressing them with medications or procedures that may have side effects or complications.
• Enhance their performance and resilience by improving their energy, cognition, mood, sleep, immunity, digestion, metabolism, hormones, and other aspects of their health and function.
• Personalize their healthcare by understanding their unique genetic makeup, biochemistry, physiology, psychology, and environment, and how they interact to influence their health and disease.

To summarize, one possible misconception about functional medicine is that it is only for chronic conditions, and not for acute or preventive care. However, this is not true, as functional medicine can be applied to any health situation, and can benefit people of all ages and stages of life. Here are some reasons why functional medicine is not only for chronic conditions:

• Root causes: Functional medicine is based on finding and addressing the root causes of disease, rather than just treating symptoms. This can help prevent the development of chronic conditions, or reverse them if they have already occurred. For example, functional medicine can help identify and correct nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, environmental toxins, or genetic factors that may contribute to chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders.
• Optimizing health: Functional medicine is also focused on optimizing health and well-being, not just eliminating disease. This means that functional medicine can help enhance physical, mental, and emotional wellness, and improve quality of life. For example, functional medicine can help improve energy levels, mood, cognitive function, sleep quality, digestion, immunity, and more.
• Personalized: Functional medicine is personalized and patient-centered, meaning that it takes into account the unique needs, preferences, and goals of each individual. This allows for a more comprehensive and effective treatment plan that is tailored to the specific situation and desired outcomes of each person. For example, functional medicine can help design a customized diet, exercise, supplement, and lifestyle program that suits the person’s health status, genetic makeup, and environmental exposures.
• Integrative: Functional medicine is collaborative and integrative, meaning that it works with other healthcare professionals and modalities to provide the best possible care. This can help enhance the benefits and reduce the risks of conventional and complementary treatments, and create a more holistic and synergistic approach to health. For example, functional medicine can work with conventional medicine to reduce the need for medications or surgery, or to manage their side effects. It can also work with complementary therapies such as acupuncture, massage, or yoga to enhance their effects and support healing. (What Is Functional Medicine? | IFM, n.d.)

Therefore, functional medicine is not only for chronic conditions, but for anyone who wants to improve their health and well-being, prevent or treat disease, and achieve optimal wellness. Functional medicine is a science-based, holistic, and individualized approach to health care that can benefit people of all ages and stages of life.

Misconception 4: Functional Medicine is Just Another Form of Alternative Medicine

A fourth common misconception about functional medicine is that it is just another form of alternative medicine that is based on unproven or dubious theories and practices. Some people may think that functional medicine is similar to or derived from other modalities, such as naturopathy, homeopathy, acupuncture, herbalism, or chiropractic, that are often considered alternative or complementary to conventional medicine. They may also doubt the validity or safety of functional medicine and its methods, such as testing for food sensitivities, detoxification, or bioidentical hormone therapy.

However, these opinions are not valid. Functional medicine is not just another form of alternative medicine that is based on unproven or dubious theories and practices. Functional medicine is a distinct and independent approach that is grounded on scientific principles and evidence. Functional medicine differs from other modalities in several ways, such as:

• Functional medicine is not limited to or biased by any single theory or practice, but rather draws from a wide range of disciplines and sources, such as biochemistry, genetics, immunology, endocrinology, neurology, psychology, sociology, and ecology, to understand and address the complexity and diversity of human health and disease.
• Functional medicine is not opposed to or incompatible with conventional medicine, but rather complements and enhances it by filling the gaps and limitations of conventional medicine, such as its focus on symptoms rather than causes, its reliance on medications rather than lifestyle interventions, and its fragmentation rather than integration of healthcare.
• Functional medicine is not based on anecdotal evidence or personal beliefs, but rather on rigorous research and clinical trials that support its effectiveness and safety in treating various chronic conditions. Functional medicine also follows the standards and guidelines of evidence-based medicine and uses the best available scientific data to inform its decisions and recommendations.
• Functional medicine is not static or dogmatic, but rather dynamic and adaptive to the changing needs and demands of patients and society. Functional medicine constantly updates and evolves its knowledge and methods based on new discoveries and innovations in science and technology.

On the other hand, here are some reasons why functional medicine is often considered a form of alternative medicine:

1. Holistic Approach: Like many forms of alternative medicine, functional medicine takes a holistic approach to health, considering all aspects of a patient’s lifestyle, environment, and genetics.
2. Prevention and Treatment: Functional medicine focuses on prevention and the treatment of chronic diseases, similar to many alternative medicine practices.
3. Patient Empowerment: Functional medicine empowers patients to take an active role in their health, a common theme in many alternative medicine practices.
4. Integrative Care: Functional medicine often works alongside conventional doctors, providing integrative care that combines the best of both worlds.
5. Lack of Recognition: Functional medicine is not widely recognized by most insurance companies, so physicians can’t bill insurance in the same way that they would for typical visits. This can make functional medicine seem less mainstream or accepted, similar to many forms of alternative medicine.
6. Cost: Functional medicine can be perceived as expensive, especially since it often requires more personal time with the patient and is usually not covered by insurance. This is a common characteristic of many alternative medicine practices.
7. Misunderstanding: Some people may misunderstand functional medicine as a new, untested approach to medicine. In reality, functional medicine is a very old, well-tested approach to healthcare that’s been used for centuries in other cultures.
8. Criticism: Some critics argue that functional medicine combines massive over-testing with a lack of science and a “make it up as you go along” ethic. However, many practitioners of functional medicine would argue that their approach is evidence-based and individualized to each patient.
9. Scientific Basis: Functional medicine far exceeds Alternative Medicine in this area, although the latter has presented results in specific cases, these do not present a record that is safe for all cases.
10. Collaboration with Conventional Medicine: Functional medicine works with conventional medicine to reduce the need for medications or surgery, or to manage their side effects.
11. Cause vs. Symptom Approach: Functional Medicine is more effective because of the way it works with the patient, it looks for a general diagnosis and attacks the problems from all possible angles.
12. Scientific Basis: Functional Medicine far exceeds Alternative Medicine in this area, although the latter has presented results in specific cases, these do not present a record that is safe for all cases.
13. Collaboration with Conventional Medicine: This is my favorite part, in Functional Wellness Network we operate a community of health professionals from different fields that can respond to requests in search of a comprehensive response to the problem. (Alternative Medicine – Functional Medicine Vs. Alternative Medicine: The Differences Explained, n.d.) (Complementary, Alternative, or Integrative Health: What’s In a Name?, n.d.)
14. Both Functional Medicine and Alternative Medicine have their place in the world of health and fulfill the same function: to help the patient recover. Only their difference lies in the approach given to the problem.
15. While Functional Medicine approaches the problem from different angles and solves it in a comprehensive manner through a network.
16. Functional Medicine addresses the underlying causes of disease, using a systems-oriented approach and engaging both patient and practitioner in a therapeutic partnership.
17. Functional Medicine is an evolution in the practice of medicine that better addresses the healthcare needs of the 21st century.
18. Functional Medicine is often described as 21st-century medicine.
19. It is a science-based approach that looks at the function of all of the body’s systems and how they interact with one another rather than naming a disease and giving a pill.
20. Functional medicine looks at EVERYTHING.
21. Functional medicine begins with a detailed medical history from preconception to the present. (Complementary, Alternative, or Integrative Health: What’s In a Name?, n.d.)
22. The Foundation for Alternative and Integrative Medicine believes that functional medicine is the bridge that will unite allopathic medicine (western medicine) and alternative and integrative medicine as we move into the future.
23. **Functional medicine looks at the symptom as a sentinel, telling the patient there is an imbalance in the body.
24. The terms “complementary,” “alternative,” and “integrative” are continually evolving, along with the field, but the descriptions of these terms below are how we at the National Institutes of Health currently define them.
25. Complementary Versus Alternative According to a 2012 national survey, many Americans—more than 30 percent of adults and about 12 percent of children—use healthcare approaches that are not typically part of conventional medical care or that may have origins outside of usual Western practice.
26. When describing these approaches, people often use “alternative” and “complementary” interchangeably, but the two terms refer to different concepts: If a non-mainstream approach is used together with conventional medicine, it’s considered “complementary.” If a non-mainstream approach is used in place of conventional medicine, it’s considered “alternative.”
27. Most people who use non-mainstream approaches also use conventional health care.
28. In addition to the terms complementary and alternative, you may also hear the term “functional medicine.
29. This term sometimes refers to a concept similar to integrative health (described below), but it may also refer to an approach that more closely resembles naturopathy (a medical system that has evolved from a combination of traditional practices and health care approaches popular in Europe during the 19th century).
30. Integrative Health Integrative health brings conventional and complementary approaches together in a coordinated way.
31. Integrative health also emphasizes multimodal interventions, which are two or more interventions such as conventional health care approaches (like medication, physical rehabilitation, psychotherapy), and complementary health approaches (like acupuncture, yoga, and probiotics) in various combinations, with an emphasis on treating the whole person rather than, for example, one organ system.
32. Integrative health aims for well-coordinated care among different providers and institutions by bringing conventional and complementary approaches together to care for the whole person.
33. The use of integrative approaches to health and wellness has grown within care settings across the United States.
34. Researchers are currently exploring the potential benefits of integrative health in a variety of situations, including pain management for military personnel and veterans, relief of symptoms in cancer patients and survivors, and programs to promote healthy behaviors. (Complementary, Alternative, or Integrative Health: What’s In a Name?, n.d.)

Therefore, functional medicine is not just another form of alternative medicine that is based on unproven or dubious theories and practices. Functional medicine is a distinct and independent approach that is grounded on scientific principles and evidence.

Misconception 5: Functional Medicine is Not Reliable and Focuses Only on Nutrition

A fifth common misconception about functional medicine is that it is not reliable and focuses only on nutrition as the main or sole factor that affects health and disease. Some people may think that functional medicine is based on unstandardized or inaccurate tests, such as hair analysis, saliva testing, or muscle testing, that are not validated by conventional medicine. They may also believe that functional medicine is too simplistic or restrictive in its dietary recommendations, such as gluten-free, dairy-free, or paleo diets, that are not suitable or sustainable for everyone.

However, these notions are not factual. Functional medicine is not unreliable and does not focus only on nutrition as the main or sole factor that affects health and disease. Functional medicine is based on standardized and accurate tests, such as blood tests, urine tests, stool tests, or genetic tests, that are validated by conventional medicine and provide valuable information about one’s biochemical status, metabolic function, microbial balance, genetic variations, and other factors that influence health and disease. Functional medicine also uses functional tests, such as the organic acids test, amino acids test, fatty acids test, or hormone test, that measure the levels of various metabolites, hormones, or nutrients in the body and reflect the activity and efficiency of various biochemical pathways and systems. These tests help functional medicine practitioners identify and address the specific imbalances and dysfunctions that may cause or contribute to one’s symptoms or conditions.

Functional medicine also does not focus only on nutrition as the main or sole factor that affects health and disease. Functional medicine recognizes that nutrition is one of the most important factors that influence health and disease, but it is not the only one. Functional medicine also considers other factors, such as stress, sleep, exercise, environment, emotions, relationships, spirituality, and purpose, that can affect one’s health and well-being. Functional medicine also does not prescribe a one-size-fits-all diet for everyone but rather customizes one’s nutrition based on individual needs, preferences, goals, and test results. Functional medicine also does not advocate for extreme or restrictive diets that may harm one’s health or quality of life but rather encourages a balanced and varied diet that includes whole foods, healthy fats, lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, fiber, antioxidants, phytonutrients, and other essential nutrients.

In fact, the field of nutrition in integrative and functional medicine is characterized by a patient-centered, healing-oriented approach that harmoniously combines both conventional and complementary therapies. Practitioners who are Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) in this field prioritize nutrition care that is not only preventative but also interventional, aiming to address the root causes of disease.⁸

The Dietitians in Integrative and Functional Medicine Dietetic Practice Group, in collaboration with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Quality Management Committee, have revised the Standards of Practice (SOP) and Standards of Professional Performance (SOPP) for RDNs specializing in nutrition in integrative and functional medicine.

These standards provide indicators that describe three levels of practice: competent, proficient, and expert. The SOP employs the Nutrition Care Process and clinical workflow elements to guide the delivery of patient/client care. Meanwhile, the SOPP focuses on six domains related to professional performance: Quality in Practice, Competence and Accountability, Provision of Services, Application of Research, Communication and Application of Knowledge, and Utilization and Management of Resources.

The SOP and SOPP offer specific indicators that illustrate how these standards apply to practice. They are designed to complement each other and serve as resources for RDNs. They can be used as a self-evaluation tool to ensure competent practice in nutrition in integrative and functional medicine. Furthermore, they can help identify potential education and training needs for advancing to a higher practice level across various settings.⁸

Therefore, functional medicine is not unreliable and does not focus only on nutrition as the main or sole factor that affects health and disease. Functional medicine is based on standardized and accurate tests that provide valuable information about one’s health status and function. Functional medicine also considers other factors that can affect one’s health and well-being and customizes one’s nutrition based on individual needs, preferences, goals, and test results.

To recap, here are some reasons why functional medicine might be perceived as unreliable and overly focused on nutrition:

1. Lack of Recognition: Functional medicine is not widely recognized by most insurance companies, so physicians can’t bill insurance in the same way that they would for typical visits1. This can make functional medicine seem less mainstream or accepted.
2. Cost: Functional medicine can be perceived as expensive, especially since it often requires more personal time with the patient and is usually not covered by insurance. This is a common characteristic of many alternative medicine practices.
3. Misunderstanding: Some people may misunderstand functional medicine as a new, untested approach to medicine. In reality, functional medicine is a very old, well-tested approach to healthcare that’s been used for centuries in other cultures.
4. Criticism: Some critics argue that functional medicine combines massive over-testing with a lack of science and a “make it up as you go along” ethic. However, many practitioners of functional medicine would argue that their approach is evidence-based and individualized to each patient.
5. Focus on Nutrition: Functional medicine does place a significant emphasis on nutrition as a key factor in health. However, it’s important to note that functional medicine also considers many other factors, including genetics, environment, and lifestyle. While nutrition is a crucial component of health, functional medicine is not solely focused on this aspect. (Myers, 2021) (6 Big Problems With Functional Medicine That You Should Know, 2022)

Clarifications: Can functional medicine complement conventional medicine?

With all the misconceptions, it is understandable to wonder whether functional medicine can complement conventional medicine. The short answer is, yes, and in fact, it is more suitable for chronic and complex conditions.

Functional medicine and conventional medicine can complement each other in several ways:

1. Holistic Approach: Functional medicine takes a holistic approach to health, considering all aspects of a patient’s lifestyle, environment, and genetics. This complements the more symptom-focused approach of conventional medicine, providing a more comprehensive view of the patient’s health.
2. Prevention and Treatment: While conventional medicine excels at treating acute illnesses and conditions, functional medicine focuses on prevention and the treatment of chronic diseases. By addressing the root causes of disease, functional medicine can help prevent the onset of chronic conditions and improve long-term health outcomes.
3. Patient Empowerment: Functional medicine empowers patients to take an active role in their health by focusing on lifestyle modifications like diet, exercise, and stress management. This complements conventional medicine by enhancing patient compliance and promoting healthier habits.
4. Integrative Care: Functional medicine practitioners often work alongside conventional doctors, providing integrative care that combines the best of both worlds. For example, a patient with heart disease might see a cardiologist for medication management and a functional medicine practitioner for nutritional counseling and lifestyle advice.

Remember, it’s always important to consult with a healthcare provider when making decisions about your health. Both functional and conventional medicine have their strengths, and the best approach often involves a combination of the two.

Unveiling the Synergy: Integrating Functional Medicine into Conventional Healthcare Despite Common Misconceptions

Health is one of the most important aspects of human life, yet it is often threatened by various diseases and disorders. The World Health Organization (WHO) says that non-communicable diseases (NCDs), also called chronic diseases, are the main reason for death and disability around the world, making up 71% of all deaths every year.^9,10

Chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and respiratory diseases, are characterized by long duration, complex causation, multiple risk factors, and functional impairment.

How can we prevent and treat chronic diseases effectively? What kind of medical approach can best address the needs and challenges of patients with chronic conditions? These are some of the questions that motivate the comparison between conventional and functional medicine, two different paradigms of health care that have different assumptions, principles, methods, and outcomes.

Conventional medicine is the dominant model of medicine in most countries, especially in the developed world. It is based on the biomedical model, which views health as the absence of disease and disease as the result of abnormal biological processes. Conventional medicine focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases using drugs, surgery, and other interventions that target specific symptoms or organs.

Functional medicine is an emerging model of medicine that challenges some of the limitations and drawbacks of conventional medicine. It is based on the systems biology model, which views health as a dynamic state of balance and disease as the result of interactions between genes, environment, and lifestyle. Functional medicine focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of diseases using personalized and holistic approaches that target the whole person.

Goals

The main goal of conventional medicine is to cure or manage diseases using standardized protocols that are based on evidence from clinical trials. Conventional medicine aims to reduce mortality and morbidity rates by eliminating or controlling pathogens or abnormal cells that cause diseases. Conventional medicine also strives to improve the quality of life of patients by relieving their pain and discomfort using pharmacological or surgical interventions.

The main goal of functional medicine is to optimize health and wellness using individualized plans that are based on comprehensive assessments of each patient’s unique factors. Functional medicine aims to enhance vitality and resilience by restoring or maintaining balance and harmony in the body’s systems. Functional medicine also strives to prevent or reverse chronic diseases by addressing their underlying causes using natural or integrative interventions.

Perspectives

Conventional medicine adopts a disease-oriented perspective that classifies diseases into categories based on their signs, symptoms, and pathological features. Conventional medicine views diseases as discrete entities that can be isolated and treated independently of other factors. Conventional medicine assumes that diseases have a single or dominant cause that can be identified and targeted by specific interventions.

Functional medicine adopts a patient-oriented perspective that considers diseases as manifestations of dysfunctions in the body’s systems. Functional medicine views diseases as dynamic processes that are influenced by multiple factors that interact with each other. Functional medicine assumes that diseases have multiple or complex causes that can be modulated by personalized interventions.⁹

Benefits

Conventional medicine has many benefits for patients who suffer from acute or infectious diseases that need urgent or emergency care. Some of these benefits are:

• Conventional medicine can save lives by providing timely and effective interventions for life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, trauma, sepsis, etc.
• Conventional medicine can reduce suffering by providing pain relief and symptom management for conditions such as arthritis, migraine, asthma, etc.
• Conventional medicine can improve function by providing rehabilitation and restoration for conditions such as fractures, joint replacements, organ transplants, etc.

Functional medicine has many benefits for patients who suffer from chronic or degenerative diseases that need comprehensive or preventive care. Some of these benefits are:

• Functional medicine can enhance vitality by providing personalized and holistic interventions that address the whole person rather than just the disease.
• Functional medicine can prevent disease by identifying and correcting the risk factors before they become manifest.
• Functional medicine can reverse disease by addressing the root causes rather than masking the symptoms.

Challenges

Conventional medicine also has some challenges for patients who suffer from chronic or degenerative diseases that need comprehensive or preventive care. Some of these challenges are:

• Conventional medicine can be ineffective or harmful by providing interventions that do not address the root causes of diseases or that have negative side effects or complications.
• Conventional medicine can be costly and unsustainable by consuming a large amount of healthcare resources and generating a lot of waste and pollution.
• Conventional medicine can be impersonal and disempowering by treating patients as passive recipients of care rather than active participants in their own healing.

Functional medicine also has some challenges for patients who suffer from acute or infectious diseases that need urgent or emergency care. Some of these challenges are:

• Functional medicine can be inaccessible or unavailable by having a limited number of qualified practitioners or facilities that offer functional medicine services.
• Functional medicine can be time-consuming or demanding by requiring a lot of testing, analysis, education, counseling, coaching, and follow-up.
• Functional medicine can be controversial or unsupported by lacking enough evidence or research to validate some of its claims or practices.¹

Conclusion

In conclusion, functional medicine is a patient-centered, science-based approach to healthcare that aims to identify and address the root causes of chronic diseases and promote optimal wellness. Functional medicine practitioners use a variety of tools and methods, such as comprehensive history-taking, advanced laboratory testing, personalized nutrition, lifestyle interventions, and natural therapies, to help patients restore their health and function. Functional medicine is based on the principles of systems biology, which recognizes the interconnection and interdependence of all biological processes and networks in the human body. Functional medicine also acknowledges the influence of environmental, genetic, and lifestyle factors on health and disease.

The future evolution of Functional Medicine will be illuminated by these discoveries. We anticipate a transformation in medicine into a humanistic art that utilizes scientific advances to create a system that sustainably supports functional health at all levels – from planetary to energetic.¹

However, despite the growing popularity and evidence of functional medicine, there are still many misconceptions and myths about this approach that may prevent people from seeking or benefiting from it. Some of these misconceptions stem from a lack of awareness or understanding of functional medicine, while others are based on outdated or biased views of conventional medicine. In this paper, we discussed five common misconceptions about functional medicine and clarified them with facts and examples. We also explained why it is important to understand these misconceptions and how they can affect one’s health outcomes and quality of life.

This paper aims to clarify common misconceptions about functional medicine and enhance its understanding and appreciation among patients and healthcare providers. Functional medicine is seen as a potential game-changer in healthcare, with the capacity to improve the lives of millions suffering from chronic diseases or those seeking to optimize their wellness. It is suggested that those interested in exploring functional medicine further or experiencing its benefits should reach out to a certified functional medicine practitioner or visit the websites of reputable organizations and institutions that endorse functional medicine.

Functional medicine is not a one-size-fits-all approach to healthcare. It is a personalized and patient-centered approach that takes into account your unique history, genetics, environment, and lifestyle factors that influence your health. By working with a functional medicine practitioner, you can discover the root causes of your health issues and receive a customized plan to treat them at their source. Functional medicine can help you achieve optimal health and wellness by addressing the complex interactions between genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that affect illness.

Patient Testimonials

Mostafijur Bhuiyan, a patient in 2021, had a transformative experience with Dr. Haque. His journey began when his wife had to undergo surgery. In retrospect, Mostafijur believes that if they had found Dr. Haque earlier, his wife might not have needed the surgery.

Dr. Haque, known for his knowledge and friendly demeanor, made a significant impact on Mostafijur and his wife. He took the time to listen in detail to their concerns, providing them with the care and attention they needed.

The encounter with Dr. Haque was a turning point for Mostafijur and his wife. They are grateful to have found Dr. Haque and appreciate his dedication to their well-being. Mostafijur expresses his gratitude to Dr. Haque and wishes him a long and healthy life.

This case study serves as a testament to the impact a dedicated healthcare professional can have on a patient’s life. It underscores the importance of finding the right healthcare provider who can offer personalized care and attention.

He wrote:

“Dr. Haque is very knowledgeable and friendly. He likes to listen in details. If we could have found him before my wife wouldn’t have to gone through the surgery. Thanks my almighty for Haque in our path. Wishing his long healthy life. Thank you sir for everything.”

• Mostafijur Bhuiyan, Patient, 2021

Khadija, a resident of New York, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017. Prior to meeting Dr. Haque, she underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy. However, the adverse effects of these cancer treatments were severe and significantly impacted her quality of life.

Upon consulting with Dr. Haque, Khadija started following his guidelines for a healthy lifestyle aimed at recovering from the severe side effects of her cancer treatments. She also began taking the medications and supplements recommended by Dr. Haque. These changes had a profound impact on her health. She started feeling much better, with no more dizziness or tiredness, and she was able to return to work.

In addition to the improvements in her overall well-being, Khadija’s blood reports also showed excellent results. Before meeting Dr. Haque, she had been dealing with fatty liver problems. However, after following Dr. Haque’s guidelines for two months, her blood test results showed no signs of fatty liver. Her physician was extremely pleased with the results.

Today, Khadija is doing well and feels fine in every aspect of her health. Her case serves as a testament to the effectiveness of a holistic approach to health recovery following severe cancer treatments. It underscores the importance of personalized care in managing complex health issues and improving the quality of life.

She wrote:

“I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017. Before I met with Dr. Haque, I did chemotherapy and radiotherapy. I started to follow Dr. Haque’s guidelines for a healthy life for recovering from severe side effects of adverse cancer treatment, and at the same time I started to take the medication and supplements also; all those things really work in my body. I feel very good, no more dizziness, no more tiredness, and now I can work. Everything is good. My blood report was excellent. Before I met with Dr. Haque, I had fatty liver problems, then I started to follow his guidelines and after two months, I did my blood test and my physician was really happy. The results showed that I don’t have fatty liver, my blood report was really nice. It is very good. So now I am fine with everything!”

• Khadija, New York, Patient

References

References

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Complementary, Alternative, or Integrative Health: What’s In a Name? (n.d.). National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Retrieved December 5, 2023, from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/complementary-alternative-or-integrative-health-whats-in-a-name

Complementary, Alternative, or Integrative Health: What’s In a Name? (n.d.). National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Retrieved December 5, 2023, from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/complementary-alternative-or-integrative-health-whats-in-a-name

Guide, S. (2022, May 4). 5 Common Misconceptions About Functional Medicine. Hope For Healing. Retrieved December 5, 2023, from https://get2theroot.com/5-common-misconceptions-about-functional-medicine/

Hamalainen, R. (2019, August 23). The Average Price of a Functional Medicine Visit – Here’s What the Data Says. Rupa Health. Retrieved December 5, 2023, from https://www.rupahealth.com/post/the-average-price-of-a-functional-medicine-visit

Myers, A. (2021, May 9). Functional Medicine vs Conventional Medicine. Amy Myers MD. Retrieved December 5, 2023, from https://www.amymyersmd.com/article/functional-medicine-vs-conventional

6 Big Problems With Functional Medicine That You Should Know. (2022, November 1). Dr. Westin Childs. Retrieved December 5, 2023, from https://www.restartmed.com/downsides-to-functional-medicine/

What is Functional Medicine? | IFM. (n.d.). The Institute for Functional Medicine. Retrieved December 5, 2023, from https://www.ifm.org/functional-medicine/what-is-functional-medicine/

¹ Bland JS. Functional Medicine Past, Present, and Future. Integr Med (Encinitas). 2022 May;21(2):22-26. PMID: 35698609; PMCID: PMC9173848.

² Dutch, Steven I (January 1982). “Notes on the nature of fringe science”. Journal of Geological Education. 30 (1): 6–13. Bibcode:1982JGeoE..30….6D. doi:10.5408/0022-1368-30.1.6. ISSN 0022-1368. OCLC 427103550. ERIC EJ260409.

³ Guthrie, C. (2011). Functional medicine: A science whose time has come. Experience Life: Being Healthy Is a Revolutionary Act, Guide to Functional Medicine, 2-9. Retrieved from [https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/83ce4f4f/files/uploaded/02.pdf]

⁴ Viswanathan, T. (2019, October 12). The cost of functional medicine lab testing & diagnostics. Rupa Health. https://www.rupahealth.com/post/the-cost-of-functional-medicine-lab-testing-diagnostics

⁵ Merge Medical Center. (2023, June 26). How expensive is functional medicine? https://mergemedicalcenter.com/health-blog/how-expensive-is-functional-medicine/

⁶ Hamalainen, R. (2019, August 23). The Average Price of a Functional Medicine Visit – Here’s What the Data Says. Running Your Business. https://www.rupahealth.com/post/the-average-price-of-a-functional-medicine-visit

⁷ Beidelschies, M., Alejandro-Rodriguez, M., Guo, N., Postan, A., Jones, T., Bradley, E., Hyman, M., & Rothberg, M. B. (2021). Patient outcomes and costs associated with functional medicine-based care in a shared versus individual setting for patients with chronic conditions: a retrospective cohort study. BMJ Open, 11(4), e048294

⁸ Noland D, Raj S. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Revised 2019 Standards of Practice and Standards of Professional Performance for Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (Competent, Proficient, and Expert) in Nutrition in Integrative and Functional Medicine. J Acad Nutr Diet. 2019 Jun;119(6):1019-1036.e47. doi: 10.1016/j.jand.2019.02.010. PMID: 31130171.

⁹ World Health Organization Noncommunicable Diseases (NCD). (2019). Available online at: https://www.who.int/gho/ncd/mortality_morbidity/en/ (accessed October 5, 2023). [Ref list]

¹⁰ Budreviciute, A., Damiati, S., Sabir, D. K., Onder, K., Schuller-Goetzburg, P., Plakys, G., Katileviciute, A., Khoja, S., & Kodzius, R. (2020). Management and Prevention Strategies for Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs) and Their Risk Factors. Frontiers in Public Health, 8. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2020.574111