The mind-body connection is a powerful one.
Did you know that there are 86 billion neurons in the brain alone? And our physical bodies are made up of equally complex networks and systems. All of which are constantly talking to each other.
But what happens when those systems are out of balance? When the communication isn’t clear?
Conventional medicine doesn’t typically focus on the holistic health of the mind and body. When it comes to illness, being able to look beyond the physical symptom and get to the root of a person’s overall health is necessary. That’s where Integrative and Functional nutrition comes in.
You Are What You Eat
Integrative and Functional Nutrition embodies that phrase by incorporating ways to keep the mind and body healthy, and the conversation flowing between the various complex systems.
It is a unique way of treating and preventing illness by addressing the whole self, not just the symptoms. By identifying the underlying cause (i.e. stress, lack of sleep, poor nutrition, etc.), you can work to reduce the existing issue, as well as prevent future ones from forming.
Here are some of the areas that Functional Nutritionists look at:
- Lifestyle
- Levels of inflammation
- Medical history
- Stress levels
- Environmental factors
- Activity levels
- Food
All of these factors are considered and incorporated (or integrated) to facilitate healing and reduce the risks that accompany chronic disease.
Whole Body / Whole Person Approach
One size certainly does not fit all when it comes to healthcare. Tailoring an experience that is specific to your needs is what Functional nutrition is all about.
Functional Nutrition is a “whole body / whole person” approach, examining all the systems of the body in order to create a specific diet plan to promote increased, and sustainable, health in the individual.
Have you ever felt like you were doing all the right things? You’re eating right and working out, and still can’t seem to shed those pesky pounds? You’re not alone.
The beauty of Integrative Nutrition is that it eliminates the guessing game – no more of those frustrating hours spent in trial and error. It offers concrete explanations and breaks down why your body is behaving the way that it is.
For example, a Functional Nutritionist may find the underlying cause of weight gain is stemming from one of the following:
- Imbalanced hormones
- Thyroid disfunction
- High-stress levels
- Need for a detoxed gut
- Past traumas
From there, we’ll be able to formulate a tailored plan that meets your specific needs. All recommendations are personalized to your body, your lifestyle, your health.
Healing Your Gut
Supporting a digestive system is one of the main focuses of Functional Nutrition. Did you know that 70% of our immune system is located in the gut? That means that the food we consume affects the composition of our gut, which in turn impacts how we feel and operate.
If you suffer from IBS or other gut/bowel problems, Functional Nutrition can be greatly beneficial. It works to identify “problem foods” that are causing irritability or discomfort and incorporate foods that will improve gut flora and digestion.
Here are a few of the main focuses of Functional/Integrative Nutrition
- Emphasis on consuming high quality, whole foods
- Supporting the gut microbiome for optimal digestion
- Supporting sleep routines, ensuring the body can rest
- Supporting personal relationships
- Supporting stress levels
Food is Medicine
Taking a look at all aspects of your health allows your body to heal, regenerate, and function more efficiently in the future.
If you’re curious about how Functional and Integrative Nutrition can help you, Dody Chiropractic Center for Wholeness is here to help you restore wellness and feel your best.
Feel free to reach out and schedule an appointment today!
