Embrace Health and Wellness This Holiday Season with Functional Medicine

Natalie
Dec 17, 2024
3 min read

Staying Healthy this Winter With Functional Medicine

Understanding Functional Medicine

As the holiday season approaches, the emphasis on health and wellness becomes even more important.

What is Functional Medicine?

Functional medicine is rapidly gaining popularity, and for good reason. It focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of diseases rather than merely treating symptoms. Family Nurse Practitioner Devon Nelson with Big Life Integrative Health says, “It’s about understanding the underlying causes of health issues, working from the ground up and blending lifestyle changes with medications for symptomatic relief.” This integrated approach not only seeks to provide immediate comfort but also aims to wean patients off medications and supplements by resolving foundational problems.

Why is Functional Medicine a Buzzword?

People are increasingly disillusioned with traditional Western medicine due to the side effects and limited long-term results of pharmaceutical drugs. Functional medicine offers an alternative, empowering individuals to reclaim their health by addressing chronic diseases, pain, and weight management through holistic means.

Managing Holiday Stress and Winter Illnesses

The holidays, although joyous, can be a period of heightened stress and poor dietary habits. Stress can significantly affect gut health, leading to issues like bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. Practical solutions include incorporating L-Theanine supplements, practicing deep breathing, and engaging in meditation to lower stress levels and improve digestion. Remember, a balanced diet with controlled indulgences is key. Have a cheat day, but get back on track the next day.

Combatting Overindulgence and Hangovers

Hydration is critical to counteract the diuretic effects of alcohol and reduce inflammation. Incorporate electrolytes, prioritize protein, and limit sugar to help your body recover. Exercise and saunas are effective for burning calories and detoxifying. Nelson advises, “Going for a sweat session can help reset your system and get you feeling better faster.”

Strengthening Your Immune System

This winter has seen a surge in upper respiratory illnesses like flu, COVID, and RSV. Preemptive care with IV therapy can help to boost the immune system. IV therapy bypasses the gut, delivering nutrients directly to cells for faster recovery. For continuous protection, daily supplements such as vitamin D, zinc, and quercetin are recommended. Nelson underscores the importance of shifting the immune system from an inflammatory state to a protective one, with optimal nutrient levels playing a crucial role.

The Value of Blood Work

When you’re trying to boost your health, blindly choosing supplements can be inefficient. Comprehensive blood work can provide a clearer picture, tailored to your unique needs. Get your nutrient levels checked to avoid guessing and optimize your health.

Managing Toxins

Toxins from food and environment are omnipresent, but awareness and proactive measures can minimize their impact. When possible, eat organic foods, soak fruits and vegetables in baking soda or vinegar, and choose grass-fed and pasture-raised animal products. The Environmental Working Group provides resources to check the toxicity of skincare products. Reducing toxin exposure is essential for maintaining health, and small changes can have significant benefits.

Keeping the Whole Family Healthy

Children are particularly susceptible to deficiencies and environmental toxins. Ensuring they receive adequate zinc can reduce the frequency of infections. Functional medicine practices also extend to innovative treatments like upper respiratory probiotics, which are beneficial for conditions like recurrent strep throat.