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FLOURISH NUTRITION AND CHIROPRACTIC

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE AND NUTRITION

 

Functional Medicine is a healthcare approach which determines the root causes of health conditions and uses evidence-based methods for the restoration of function and wellbeing.    Biological systems are reviewed holistically, meaning as they work together as a whole.  Recommendations are based on individuals' physical exam and lab findings, their health goals and lifestyle.   Discussion of past medical history,  present health concerns and desires, diet, sleep patterns, exercise, relaxation, emotional support and work habits are essential.  Clinical assessments include laboratory and physical exam findings, body measurements, and review of current medication and supplements, emotional and spiritual health,  environmental and genetic factors.   Specific, functional laboratory testing can give direction and solutions for chronic and often complex issues.   Natural methods such as diet, supplements and lifestyle techniques are often used to restore biochemical balance and bodily functions.

One of the primary benefits of functional medicine is to have a consultation which allows the patient and doctor to identify where someone’s health began to decline so we can work together from that point to create long-term health. Patients are asked specific questions which help Dr. Sannelli determine where to focus and what to prioritize. Once a diagnosis is determined and a care plan is established, patients are quite engaged in their care.  They understand exactly what to do to get better. They are encouraged to pay attention to how they feel and function after eating or drinking dietary items so they can make good choices. Specific supplements are often recommended based on clinical and lab findings in order for the body to work at its best. For instance, vitamins and minerals are needed for enzymes to work,  to repair organ tissue, detoxify cells, restore biochemical processes and revitalize health.   A recent publication based on care from the Cleveland Clinic’s Center for Functional Medicine has linked functional medicine with improved quality of life.  Check it out here!

Genetic and functional lab testing often give people  missing information to explain their chronic or unresolved health concerns.   Dr. Sannelli is trained in determining when to order these tests, how to assess any imbalances and how to correct these imbalances whenever possible.  Some people seek her care for preventive reasons, in order to maintain their health and to screen for early disease biomarkers.   Others simply want guidance for reaching their health goals in a realistic and sustainable way.   

Functional medicine and clinical nutrition often enhance current medical treatments so Dr. Sannelli works in collaboration with patients' medical doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician's assistants.  She finds that when health professionals  work together, patients get the best possible care and the most efficient results. 

Conditions treated most commonly and successfully with Functional Medicine and Clinical Nutrition include:

Allergies and Asthma, Arthritis, Autoimmune disorders,  Candida (Yeast)Overgrowth,  Cardiovascular Disease, Chronic FatigueChronic Pain, Depression, Diabetes, Digestive Disorders, Eating Disorders, Eczema and Rashes,  Fibromyalgia,  Food Sensitivities, GERD, Headaches, Hormonal & Thyroid concerns, Hypertension, Insomnia, Migraines, Multiple Sclerosis, Metabolic Syndrome, Fatty Liver Disease,  PCOS,  Pre-diabetes, Recurrent Infections, Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO),  Sports Performance Needs and Successful Weight Gain or Loss.

“80% of premature heart disease, stroke and diabetes can be prevented.”  (World Health Organization, 2020)

"The use of herbs or their parts is becoming more and more popular. Natural remedies not only act prophylactically, but also help to alleviate symptoms of many diseases and enhance the overall functioning of the internal organs." (Muszynska, Lojewski, Rojowski, et al, 2015)

References:

1. World Health Organization.  Overview:  Preventing chronic diseases: a vital investment. https://www.who.int/chp/chronic_disease_report/part1/en/index11.html  2020. 

2. Muszynska, B, Lojewski, M, Rojowski, J, et al.  Natural products of relevance in the prevention and supportive treatment of depression. Psychiatr. Pol. 2015; 49(3): 435-453.

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