Pediatric Functional Medicine

Functional medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on understanding and addressing the underlying root causes of health issues, rather than just treating symptoms. This approach looks at the whole person – including lifestyle, diet, environment, emotional well-being, and genetics – in order to achieve optimal health and wellness. Functional medicine focuses on identifying imbalances in the body’s systems and correcting them through personalized treatments. It takes a comprehensive approach to healthcare by considering the interactions between physical, emotional, mental, environmental, and lifestyle factors that can contribute to illness. Functional medicine differs from traditional medicine in that it seeks to identify and address the underlying cause of a condition rather than just treating its symptoms. By addressing the root cause, functional medicine can help reduce or eliminate symptoms and provide lasting relief. This approach also works to promote overall health and well-being, rather than just managing disease. It is a patient-centered approach that allows for tailored treatments for each individual. Functional medicine emphasizes prevention, early detection, and personalized treatment plans based on an individual’s unique needs. It seeks to optimize the body’s natural healing capabilities by addressing imbalances in the body’s systems, which can include nutritional deficiencies, hormone imbalances, toxins, and lifestyle choices. This approach can help identify and address the underlying cause of a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, allergies, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, and mental health concerns.

Functional medicine takes into account the mind-body connection, and focuses on addressing underlying causes of disease and illness. In children, functional medicine can be used to treat a range of conditions, from digestive issues to sleep disturbances, anxiety and depression. Functional medicine helps children by focusing on individualized treatment plans. It seeks to identify the root cause of an illness or condition, and works with the child and family to address it. For example, a functional medicine practitioner may look at diet, lifestyle and environment as potential causes of a child’s digestive issues. They would then work with the child and family to make changes in these areas to help alleviate the issue. In addition, functional medicine practitioners look for ways to promote overall wellbeing and prevent future illness. This includes implementing strategies such as proper nutrition, stress management, adequate sleep, and regular exercise. By taking a holistic approach, practitioners can help children reach their optimal health potential. Functional medicine can be especially helpful for children who have chronic or complex conditions, or those that don’t respond well to conventional treatments. By taking a more comprehensive approach, functional medicine practitioners can work with children and families to find effective treatments that address all aspects of their health and wellbeing.

Functional medicine can be an effective approach for treating a range of pediatric health conditions. It takes an individualized, holistic approach that considers the body as a whole, rather than just focusing on symptoms. Common conditions that can be treated with functional medicine include:

• Gastrointestinal problems such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic constipation and food intolerances.

• Asthma and other respiratory problems.

• Allergies and sensitivities. • Skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

• Behavioral issues, including anxiety and depression.

• Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia and restless sleep.

• Immune system dysfunction, such as frequent colds and infections.

• Chronic fatigue syndrome.

• Attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

• Autism spectrum disorders.

Functional medicine is also helpful for general health maintenance, as it provides an opportunity to identify any potential health risks or imbalances in the body before they become more serious issues.