Understanding the Root Cause: The Functional Medicine Difference

November 01, 2024•2 min read

Understanding the Root Cause

Why do illnesses occur, and what can be done to prevent them? These questions lie at the heart of Functional Medicine. Unlike conventional approaches that focus on managing symptoms, Functional Medicine prioritizes uncovering and addressing the root causes of diseases.

Conventional Medicine vs. Functional Medicine

Conventional medicine excels at acute care, such as treating infections or performing surgeries. However, it often falls short when addressing chronic diseases. Functional Medicine fills this gap by shifting the focus from treating symptoms to understanding the underlying causes. For example, instead of prescribing medication for type 2 diabetes, Functional Medicine investigates factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, or insulin resistance.

Advanced Diagnostics in Functional Medicine

Functional Medicine leverages cutting-edge diagnostic tools to identify the root causes of health issues. These include genetic testing, microbiome analysis, and advanced blood work. Such comprehensive diagnostics provide insights that enable practitioners to develop targeted, effective treatment plans.

Preventing Disease at Its Source

One of the most significant benefits of Functional Medicine is its preventative approach. By addressing factors like nutrition, stress, and environmental toxins, Functional Medicine helps patients prevent chronic conditions before they arise. This proactive strategy not only improves health but also reduces long-term healthcare costs.

Empowering Patients in Their Health Journey

Functional Medicine fosters a collaborative relationship between patients and practitioners. Patients are encouraged to take an active role in their care, from discussing their health history to implementing lifestyle changes. This empowerment leads to better adherence to treatment plans and improved outcomes.

Functional Medicine: A Path to Better Health

Functional Medicine offers a comprehensive, personalized approach to health that addresses the root causes of diseases. By focusing on prevention and patient empowerment, it paves the way for a healthier, more sustainable future.

“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” — Hippocrates

Ready to uncover the root causes of your health concerns? Schedule a consultation today and start your journey to optimal health.

functional health functional medicine

Dewald Jurgens

Dr. Dewald Jurgens QUALIFICATIONS / BOARDS December 2003 MB.ChB University of Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South-Africa October 2014 Canadian College of Family Physicians (CCFP) Top Ten academic achievement award at Stellenbosch University. Dr. Jurgens has over 19+ years of experience practicing as a family physician in South Africa, Ireland, and Canada. As a doctor, he understands the importance of full-spectrum health care and has the knowledge to provide the best treatments for his patients. By having years of experience under his belt, as well as experience in different countries, Dr.Jurgens is better equipped to be able to ensure his patients well- being, while drawing on the unique medical perspectives that each location offered to him. In addition to his experience in family medicine, Dr. Jurgens also has ER experience which allows him to recognize and respond to medical emergencies quickly and effectively.

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