Function Medicine
Functional medicine uses a comprehensive approach to prevention, health and well-being combining integrative therapies like nutrition, supplementation, and stress management. The functional medicine model treats the root cause of disease by addressing genetic, environmental and lifestyle imbalances using a personalized approach.
What is Functional Medicine?
Each of us is unique. Genetics (which you can't influence), epigenetics (which you CAN influence), environmental factors, quality of sleep, hydration and nutritional needs all vary and change over time as our bodies age, hormones decline, and our exposure to bacteria, viral infections and toxins increase.
Your values, beliefs and focus define you who you are, but when it comes to health and wellness, we often walk around overwhelmed with misinformation, not sure who to trust and not sure how to put all the pieces together.
Before venturing into coaching, I’ve navigated my own functional medicine journey and learned a TON along the way. Frustratingly enough, I don’t see functional medicine concepts being taught in traditional healthcare spaces. Women's health has never been a priority in research due to the complexity.
Healthy aging is not just about living longer, but living well by preserving independence, gaining confidence, vitality, and a sense of fulfillment.
Functional medicine combines conventional medical practices with integrative therapies like nutrition, supplements, and stress management. This model reinforces that disease starts at the root level and that addressing lifestyle and system imbalances is key to healing.
According to The Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM), Functional Medicine is defined as:
“A systems biology–based approach that focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of disease. Each symptom or differential diagnosis may be one of many contributing to an individual’s illness.” Functional medicine is a patient-centered, science-based approach to health that focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of disease rather than just treating symptoms. Functional medicine views the body as an interconnected system, considering genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that influence long-term health.
Key Elements of IFM’s Functional Medicine Approach
The Functional Medicine Model
The Institute for Functional Medicine Model includes tools like the Timeline, Matrix, and Functional Medicine Tree, which help coaches map out factors contributing to disease and develop personalized treatment strategies.
Functional Medicine Timeline
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A tool used to map out a patient’s health history from birth to the present.
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Helps identify triggers, antecedents (pre-existing factors), and mediators (ongoing influences) contributing to disease.
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Divides health events into “before” and “after” key turning points (e.g., major illnesses, trauma, diet/lifestyle changes).
Functional Medicine Matrix
This framework organizes information into seven core biological systems that influence health:
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Assimilation – Digestion, absorption, microbiome, and respiration.
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Defense & Repair – Immune function and inflammation.
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Energy – Mitochondrial function and metabolism.
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Biotransformation & Elimination – Detoxification pathways.
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Transport – Cardiovascular and lymphatic function.
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Communication – Hormones and neurotransmitters.
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Structural Integrity – Musculoskeletal and cellular health.
This matrix helps practitioners connect seemingly unrelated symptoms and determine how different systems interact.
Functional Medicine Tree
• Roots: Lifestyle factors including nutrition, sleep, stress, exercise, and relationships that nourish health.
• Trunk: Core clinical imbalances including immune, hormonal, digestive symptoms etc.
• Branches & Leaves: Symptoms and disease manifestations.
Key Aspects of Healthy Aging:
1. Physical Health
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Staying active with regular exercise
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Maintaining a balanced, nutrient-rich diet
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Managing chronic conditions effectively
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Prioritizing sleep and recovery
2. Cognitive & Mental Well-Being
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Engaging in lifelong learning and mental stimulation
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Managing stress and practicing mindfulness
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Seeking support for emotional and psychological health
3. Social Connection & Purpose
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Maintaining strong relationships with family and friends
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Participating in community or volunteer activities
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Finding purpose through hobbies, work, or creative pursuits
4. Preventive Healthcare
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Regular medical check-ups and screenings
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Managing medications appropriately
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Preventing falls and injuries
5. Environmental & Lifestyle Factors
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Creating a safe and accessible living space
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Avoiding harmful substances (e.g., smoking, excessive alcohol)
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Staying adaptable to life changes and challenges
