What are the benefits of an integrative/functional approach to health & wellness?

The conventional approach to chronic medical conditions focuses on symptom suppression without discovering and treating the underlying "functional" (physiological dysfunctions) causes of the problem. Symptom improvement or resolution may be possible for many conditions by addressing the root causes via lifestyle interventions alone; whilst some conditions may require conventional treatment in tandem with the functional approach. A medically trained practitioner who understands both approaches is especially beneficial for those patients who need to remain on necessary medication. A knowledge of acute and serious pathology also means serious conditions that might require urgent referral are not missed.

Which conditions are suited to this approach?

Functional Medicine approaches can be effective adjuncts in the management of autoimmune diseases including thyroid disease, joint and skin problems, gastrointestinal disorders such as IBS, constipation and Crohn's disease. Chronic fatigue / ME, stress and mood disorders, cognitive decline, mast cell activation disorders, safe weight loss and diabetes to name a few are also amenable to treatment using the Functional Medicine approach of identifying and intervening in the root causes of the condition. 
​Amateur or professional athletes who have plateaued in performance may also derive benefit from a functional approach to uncover and address physiological obstacles to their athletic improvement or simply to sustain the same performance levels more healthfully.
Any suggested interventions should never replace any treatments advised by NHS or private GPs or specialists, and those should always be continued.

© 2025 Dr Anton Krige. All rights reserved.