Functional Medicine

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE AT NUTRITIONAL MATTERS

The focus of Functional Medicine is optimal health rather than the presence or absence of disease. More than simply reducing or eliminating symptoms of a disease, the aim is the restoration of vitality as far as possible.

Functional medicine is client-centred, science-based health care that identifies and addresses underlying biochemical, physiological, environmental, and psychological factors in order to reverse the progression of disease and enhance vitality.

The Institute of Functional Medicine (https://www.ifm.org) describes the model as an individualised approach that empowers clients and practitioners to work together to address the underlying causes of disease and promote optimal wellness. It requires a detailed understanding of each client’s genetic, biochemical, and lifestyle factors and leverages that data to direct personalised nutrition treatment plans that lead to improved client outcomes.

By understanding the root cause, rather than symptoms, practitioners become oriented to identify the complexity of disease. They may find one condition has many different causes and, likewise, one cause may result in many different conditions. As a result, Functional Medicine treatment targets the specific manifestations of disease in each individual.

Rather than depending solely on single, powerful treatments such as drugs or surgery, Functional Medicine utilises a range of interventions including diet, vitamins, minerals, herbs, stress management techniques, movement and other therapeutic interventions. The preferred choice is always non-toxic and non-invasive interventions where possible.

One of the tools used in Functional Medicine is the use of functional testing to more deeply investigate imbalances in the body. These profiles may be more comprehensive than standard medical panels, and often suggest tighter reference ranges to focus on optimal health. We work with a range of private laboratories who specialise in these profiles, and are not covered under standard care offered by the NHS. The profiles recommended are chosen according to individual needs, and may include blood, saliva, stool or urine tests. When necessary, our nutritionist therapist can work with a specialised medical team to provide targeted medical support alongside your dietary and lifestyle interventions.

This helps us find imbalances in your physiology before they reach the stage of pathology or disease, and so is considered part of a preventative medicine approach.

WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY

Managing the data, privacy and confidentiality of our clients and practitioners is important to us.

Here are some real testimonials from clients, with names and identifying information removed.

Results may vary for different clients we see. We hope this gives you a sense of who we are as a team, and organisation.

Joy was very professional, and her sense of humour put me at ease to discuss any difficult issues with her. She was great! From the initial point of contact everyone was so friendly.

Lesley

I found Farah was really good at challenging the way I think about eating, and to suggest alternatives.

Darren

You have the have the right kind of relationship when it comes to this kind of service. They work with you to understand yourself and move at your own pace, in your own way rather than prescribing their own values onto your life. Our relationship with weight and food is one that we will carry with us forever – it deserves respect and to be nurtured with intention and everyone I’ve met through HealthMatters seems to understand that. It really was all fantastically life changing for me.

Kimberley

Having tried a plethora of dieting programmes, my biggest concern was whether this programme will actually work at this time. I strongly believe that I wouldn’t be able to achieve such a great result without Olga’s support and guidance. It was personalised and relevant to my needs, and well-informed by empirical studies.

Eirini

Sue taught me so much about nutrition, educated me on blood sugar levels and the body’s response to certain foods. Her advice was tailored to help me make better choices and experiment with food. I started incorporating a few changes, little by little, never motivated by weight loss but by my health and just feeling good […] I lost 35 kgs pretty much effortlessly, by truly living and breathing the principles Sue taught me. I can’t thank the team enough for putting me on this journey.

Parvine

Anybody using your professional services will feel better in themselves, enjoy a healthier diet and be healthier and happier for that […] Working with Susanna was a new and the best experience in weight loss I’ve ever had.

Ana

My biggest concern was my debilitating IBS. I found Sue Camp to be very calming and supportive – a real “we’ve got this!” attitude. I saw results from day one and I have already recommended her to my friends.

Wendy

I cannot believe the difference in me after working with Chloe! I have started my period today, I actually did not see it coming because I have had no PMS symptoms! It feels like a miracle. I have been able to see directly how eating whole nourishing foods can transform how we feel. My skin is better, I have lost weight, I’ve had no bloating and my anxiety levels have reduced dramatically. I feel I couldn’t have got to this stage without Chloe’s support and the knowledge she shared.

Beth

Before coming to Susanna, I was struggling with post-hormonal contraception acne and digestion inconsistencies. Susanna has really helped me understand my needs and what was missing from my diet in order to start healing from the inside. Her recommendation of doing the gut health test was extremely valuable as I was more aware of the deficiencies I had that may have been implicated in my problem areas. I would recommend Susanna to anyone.

Amanda

My biggest concern was my fatigue and general lack of energy. I have learnt so much about nutrition, supplements and how to keep my body healthy, and it has allowed me to get over any disordered mindsets around food. I would highly recommend Susanna if you need realistic and attainable advice. Especially if you are a vegetarian like me, she gave really good advice around how to maintain a well balanced plant-based diet!

Elizabeth

When I started working with Susanna, I was concerned about how my diet was impacting my thyroid function and my ability to conceive. The advice, recommendations and testing provided by Susanna continue to be very beneficial, as I have been able to modify my diet to eliminate symptoms and to support my thyroid health. Susanna is very friendly and approachable and puts a lot of care into the service she provides. I feel this makes the whole experience positive and helped me to feel at ease. She has been extremely helpful and is very knowledgeable. It was a pleasure to have been under her care.

Sharan

I absolutely love our sessions, the analysis of the food diary is so helpful and I have definitely noticed my sugars are more stable throughout the day when I am eating regularly enough. I just wanted to say a huge thank you for helping me. It’s the first time in 12 years that I actually feel like I’m getting somewhere and finally starting to recognise how to manage my sugars. Farah is pretty awesome.

Megan

My favourite part of the sessions was the detail Chloe shared with me around how specific nutrients impact the body. Chloe linked every single recommendation to my specific symptoms and test results, and provided a very personalised plan of support. I’d recommend it to anyone […] what you learn about your body and nutrition through this process is invaluable.

Hannah

My biggest concern was feeling stuck – believing that no matter what I tried, my body weight wouldn’t change, and feeling too busy with work to commit to dietary changes. What stood out to me the most was Chloe’s tailored approach. She’s incredibly passionate and knowledgeable, always well-prepared and ready to answer my questions. The detailed handouts and personalized plans fit seamlessly into my busy lifestyle, making the process both effective and enjoyable. If you’re considering working with Chloe, I’d wholeheartedly recommend it. The experience has transformed how I perceive food and improved my relationship with it.

“Seeing Nese throughout my weight loss period was a real pleasure and a great help. Not only was she able to advise me on planning, and other helpful strategies, but she was also perhaps more importantly, a true source of moral support.

Dina

FUNCTIONAL TESTING OPTIONS

We use functional testing options to assess various health markers and body functions:

Hormone Function
Digestive Function
Cardiovascular Health
Thyroid Function
Nutritional Deficiencies
Food Intolerances & Sensitivities

Some of the profiles we use include the following:

IMBALANCES	TEST PROFILE
Digestive Dysfunction	GI Comprehensive Stool Profile
Health Assessment	Functional DX Blood Profiles
Nutrient Assessment	Metabolomix Profile
Hormone Assessment	DUTCH Complete Profile
Thyroid Function	Thyroid Advanced Profile
Stress Response	Adrenal Stress Profile

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FAQs

1. What is Functional Medicine?

Functional Medicine is a patient-centered, systems-based approach to healthcare that seeks to identify and address the root causes of chronic illness. By considering the complex interactions between genetics, environment, and lifestyle factors, Functional Medicine practitioners aim to restore optimal health and balance.

2. How does Functional Medicine differ from conventional medicine?

While conventional medicine often focuses on diagnosing and treating symptoms, Functional Medicine emphasizes understanding the underlying imbalances and dysfunctions that contribute to disease. This approach involves a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s history, lifestyle, and biochemical factors to develop a personalized treatment plan.

3. What should I expect during my first consultation?

Your initial consultation will last 60-minutes. During this time, your practitioner will start to review your health history in detail, discuss your current symptoms, and explore potential contributing factors. This thorough assessment allows for the creation of a tailored plan over time, that may include dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and targeted therapies.

4. What conditions can Functional Medicine address?

Functional Medicine is effective in managing a wide range of chronic and complex conditions, including:

Metabolic issues (e.g., insulin resistance, obesity)
Digestive disorders (e.g., IBS, bloating)
Hormonal imbalances (e.g., thyroid disorders, menopause)
Autoimmune diseases
Chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia
Mood disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression)

5. Will I need laboratory tests?

Functional testing is often utilised to gain deeper insights into your health status. These may include standard blood tests, hormone panels, nutrient assessments, and other specialised tests. Your practitioner will recommend appropriate tests based on your individual needs, and explain any costs involved.

6. How long does treatment typically last?

The duration of treatment varies depending on the complexity of your condition and your individual goals. Some patients experience significant improvements within a few months, while others may require longer-term support. Regular follow-up appointments help to monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

7. Is Functional Medicine suitable for everyone?

Functional Medicine is particularly beneficial for individuals seeking a comprehensive approach to chronic health issues, those who have not found relief through conventional treatments, or anyone interested in preventive care and optimizing overall wellness.

NEXT STEPS

Recalibrating your health is a journey that takes time, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Time To Ask – Free 30-Minute Enquiry Call

This complimentary call provides an opportunity to:

Discuss your health concerns and goals
Learn more about our Dietitan services
Determine if this path aligns with your needs
Get matched with the most suitable practitioner for your situation

Take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced life.

Book A Free Assesment Call