Arka Health

Date

July 16, 2023

As a practicing functional medicine doctor based in Bangalore, India, I frequently encounter queries related to functional medicine supplements. Today, I wish to shed some light on this topic, demystifying their role and benefits in a functional medicine approach.

Role of Supplements in Functional Medicine

In functional medicine, our objective is to restore balance and optimal function to the body. Often, this involves correcting nutritional imbalances. Although a nutrient-rich, varied diet forms the foundation of health, sometimes, dietary changes alone may not be enough to correct these imbalances. That’s where functional medicine supplements come in.
Supplements in functional medicine are used judiciously to complement a healthy diet and lifestyle. They can provide additional nutrients, support detoxification processes, boost the immune system, aid digestion, promote brain health, and more.

Personalization: Key to Effective Supplementation

Supplements should be personalized, just like every other aspect of a functional medicine treatment plan. As a functional medicine doctor, I use comprehensive functional medicine lab interpretations of blood test ranges to identify specific nutrient deficiencies or needs. Only then, the most suitable supplements are recommended.

Quality Matters in Functional Medicine Supplements

Not all supplements are created equal. Functional medicine stresses the importance of high-quality, well-researched supplements that are free from unnecessary fillers, allergens, and toxins. Always consult with a functional medicine practitioner or a functional medicine nutritionist before starting any new supplement regimen.

Examples of Functional Medicine Supplements

Here are some examples of supplements often utilized in functional medicine:

  1. Probiotics – To support gut health and immune function1.
  2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids – For heart and brain health2.
  3. Vitamin D – For immune function, bone health, and mood regulation3.
  4. B Complex Vitamins – To support energy metabolism and nervous system function4.
  5. Magnesium – For muscle and nerve function, sleep, and mood regulation5.

Remember, while supplements can be incredibly beneficial, they are not a replacement for a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. They serve to ‘supplement’ these foundational health practices.
The reach of functional medicine is expanding across India. So whether you’re seeking a functional medicine specialist in Bangalore or elsewhere in India, rest assured that this holistic, integrative approach to health is increasingly accessible. Together, we can navigate your health journey.
Stay tuned for my next blog, where we’ll delve deeper into the fascinating world of functional medicine.

References:

  1. “Probiotics for the Prevention of Pediatric Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea,” JAMA (2016): [https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2547761] ↩️
  2. “Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Their Health Benefits,” Annual Review of Food Science and Technology (2018): [https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/full/10.1146/annurev-food-111317-095850] ↩️
  3. “Vitamin D: The ‘sunshine’ vitamin,” Journal of Pharmacology & Pharmacotherapeutics (2012): [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3356951/] ↩️
  4. “B Vitamins and the Brain: Mechanisms, Dose and Efficacy–A Review,” Nutrients (2016): [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4772032/] ↩️
  5. “Magnesium in man: implications for health and disease,” Physiological Reviews (2015): [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25540137]

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