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Author

Dr. Smrithi Bhagiratha

Date

July 16, 2023

As a pediatric genetics specialist based in Bangalore, India, I also practice functional medicine. I find great joy and purpose in helping our children, our future, lead healthier and happier lives. Today, let’s discuss how a holistic, functional medicine approach can bring transformative changes in pediatric healthcare.

Functional Medicine: A Lifeline for Allergies and Gut Health

There’s a fascinating, complex relationship between allergies and gut health. Most of our immune system resides in the gut, which means an unhealthy gut can often lead to immune dysregulation and allergies. At our Functional Medicine Clinic, we employ the functional medicine approach, using tools such as the functional medicine elimination diet and targeted functional medicine supplements to help restore gut health and improve allergy symptoms.

Functional Medicine and Developmental Disorders

Pediatric gastrointestinal disorders, such as reflux, constipation, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), can significantly impact a child’s quality of life. Functional medicine seeks to address these conditions not just symptomatically, but by identifying and addressing the root causes. The treatment plan may involve nutritional changes, stress management techniques, and specific functional medicine supplements to aid digestion and restore gut health.

Holistic Care in Pediatrics

In functional medicine, we see the child as a whole – we consider their physical, emotional, and social well-being. Be it through the functional medicine lab interpretation of comprehensive blood test ranges or the guidance of a functional medicine nutritionist, every aspect of the child’s health is evaluated and cared for. Our goal is not just to treat illness but to promote optimal health.

Collaborative Care: Empowering Families

Functional medicine thrives on a partnership – between the child, family, and healthcare team. We empower parents with knowledge, guiding them to make informed health decisions for their children. Whether you are looking for a functional medicine pediatrician near you or a holistic children’s specialist, the choice of healthcare provider can significantly influence your child’s health journey.
Remember, functional medicine isn’t just an alternative to conventional medicine; it’s an integrative approach that combines the best of both worlds for personalized, patient-centered care. As the reach of functional medicine expands in India, it’s time to consider this paradigm shift for our children’s health.
Until next time, let’s work together to nurture healthier, happier children.

References:

 
  1. “Gut-Immune-Brain Dysfunction in Autism: Importance of Sex,” Brain Sciences (2020): [https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3425/10/6/412] ↩️
  2. “Clinical management of gut-brain interactions in autism,” European Journal of Pediatrics (2017): [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28289985/] ↩️
  3. “Functional gastrointestinal disorders and gut-brain axis: What does the future hold?”, World Journal of Gastroenterology (2019): [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6361233/] ↩️
  4. “Integrative Pediatrics: Successful Prevention and Treatment of Children’s Health Issues,” Pediatric Clinics (2009): [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0031395508001162] ↩️

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