The modern world we live in and the lifestyles we lead can place stresses and strains on our bodies. This has an impact on the nutrition that our bodies need to stay optimally well.  The genetics we are born with and the conditions we have been exposed to throughout our lives are further contributing factors.  In combination, these factors can lead to specific imbalances and dysfunctions.  On a cellular level, food contains the nutrients needed for communication, repair and harmony in the body, hence the importance of optimal nutrition for optimal health. 

 

What is Functional Medicine?

 

“Functional Medicine is an evolution in the practice of medicine that better addresses the healthcare needs of the 21st century. By shifting the traditional disease-centred focus of medical practice to a more patient-centred approach, Functional Medicine addresses the whole person, not just an isolated set of symptoms.  Functional Medicine practitioners spend time with their patients, listening to their histories and evaluating the interactions among genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that can influence long-term health and complex, chronic disease. In this way, Functional Medicine supports the unique expression of health and vitality for each individual.”

The Institute of Functional Medicine (IFM)

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The roots of the tree above define the root cause of the disease or health issue; toxins, poor sleep, stress, poor diet, inflammation, immune imbalance, digestive problems, negative thoughts, no exercise. The branches of the tree represent the disease or health issue such as allergies, IBS, heart disease, obesity, depression, anxiety, diabetes.  

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Functional Nutrition employs an individual-centred approach to achieving optimal health and well-being, driven through functional medicine principles.

 

What is Functional Nutrition?

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Functional Nutrition is about exploring an individual’s nutritional needs

Appropriate adjustments to diet and lifestyle will be advised to achieve the required nutritional input to promote optimal health and wellbeing.  There is no single diet that applies to each and every one of us.  We have different genetic backgrounds, lifestyles and preferences. 

 

Functional Nutrition involves a partnership

As a patient, you enter into a partnership with your Nutrition practitioner.  Together we make gradual changes to improve health in order to change the outcome of the disease.  This partnership employs respect for the patient’s lifestyle and preferences.  The goal is a common goal towards better health outcomes that is sustainable and achievable.  

 

Functional Nutrition offers strategies and tools

Meal planning, food plans, recipes and cooking demonstrations are offered to help with the transition and ensure clients feel empowered and confident to make changes, without adding pressure to their lifestyles.   

 

 

Functional Nutrition may help to optimise and support;

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Gastrointestinal function

Cardiovascular health

Blood sugar balance

Weight management

Adrenal/thyroid function

Allergies and intolerances

Fertility and pregnancy

Children’s health

Cognitive health

Immune imbalances

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Nathalie has completed all of the Advanced Practice Modules with the Institute of Functional Medicine (IFM) 

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