Reviewed by Dr. Janet Ludwig, ACHS Dean of Integrative Health and Nutrition
What should I eat? How much is too much? And how can I ensure my body gets all the nutrients it needs? These are all valid questions that are well worth our consideration.
Among the many nutritional strategies out there, personalized health approaches are gaining popularity. This can be ideal for people searching for solutions to suit their unique health needs. But what exactly does that look like in practice?
Functional nutrition offers a customizable approach to health and wellness. It assesses an individual’s biochemical composition, lifestyle, and health factors.
Conventional nutrition usually relies on a one-size-fits-all strategy. Functional nutrition, conversely, focuses on the root causes of health issues. This approach aims to optimize well-being through nutrient-dense, whole foods.
How is Functional Nutrition Different from Standard Nutrition?
At its core, functional nutrition is a personalized approach to dietary planning. This includes general health management that considers all of the factors contributing to a person’s health. Here are some of the main tenets of functional nutrition:
- Whole Foods Focus – Emphasis on consuming minimally processed, nutrient-rich foods
- Biochemistry Individuality – Diets should be based on individual genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors
- Root Cause Approach – Rather than treating symptoms, the goal of functional nutrition is to address the underlying causes of health problems
- Nutrients Aplenty – Prioritize foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients
- Comprehensive View – Functional nutrition looks at the interconnectedness of different body systems and how these relationships impact overall health
With all these principles in mind, functional nutrition can provide a wide range of benefits.
Practical Benefits of Functional Nutrition
By seeking to address some of the risks for health issues, functional nutrition plans may improve energy levels. Functional nutrition may even be able to support better management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders.
It also focuses on optimal digestion and gut health. This, in turn, reduces unpleasant symptoms like bloating, gas, constipation, and/or diarrhea.
With whole, nutrient-dense foods, functional nutrition ensures that the body receives all the essential vitamins and minerals needed for healthy bodies.
Additionally, it focuses on disease prevention, aiming to mitigate health issues before they arise.
This comprehensive approach also considers mental and emotional health. It’s important to recognize the interplay that occurs between diet, stress, and our general well-being.
When we take the time and care to integrate all of these elements, functional nutrition enables a better sense of balance and stamina. Ultimately, this can lead to better long-term health and resilience against illnesses.
How to Practice Functional Nutrition
Practicing functional nutrition involves taking a more personal approach to diet and exercise to suit your specific health needs.
Begin with a comprehensive dietary and lifestyle assessment. This means understanding your health history, genetic predispositions, as well as your current eating habits.
Focus on choosing a variety of nutrient-rich foods you like to eat. Fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats are all great options. It’s also critical to minimize your intake of highly processed foods and foods that may contain artificial additives. Be sure to pay attention to any food intolerances or sensitivities you may have and adjust your diet accordingly.
Integrate lifestyle adjustments that will also support your health. Regular physical activity is key, as it complements dietary efforts and enhances your metabolic health.
Stress management techniques are another lifesaver. This may look like mindfulness, meditation, or relaxation exercises. Such practices can also help you maintain a balanced mental state.
Adequate sleep and hydration are essential as well; the body cannot function without water and the ability to recharge.
For best results, ask for guidance from a functional nutritionist or a trusted healthcare provider. These professionals with nutrition credentials can provide personalized recommendations and support your journey toward better health.
How Functional Nutrition Differs from Holistic Nutrition
Functional nutrition and holistic nutrition both aim to improve health but have differing approaches.
Functional nutrition – as mentioned above – focuses on personalized dietary plans. These are specifically tailored to an individual’s biochemistry, genetic predispositions, and health conditions. It underscores the role of nutrients and their interaction with the body’s systems. This way, health professionals can identify and address the causes of health issues through targeted nutrition. Functional nutritionists often use diagnostic tests to guide these recommendations.
Holistic nutrition, on the other hand, takes a broader approach by considering the whole person. In other words, what are the physical, emotional, and environmental factors at play? It emphasizes natural, whole foods and balanced lifestyle practices to support overall well-being. Holistic nutritionists advocate for mindful eating, stress management, and the use of natural remedies alongside dietary improvements.
Functional nutrition can be thought of as more data-driven with specific strategies. Holistic nutrition takes a more comprehensive approach – more integrative – focusing on harmony between body, mind, and spirit.
A Personalized Path to Wellness
Discover the profound impact of holistic nutrition by exploring some of the many online degrees offered at ACHS. Equip yourself with the knowledge to promote overall well-being through balanced lifestyle choices and natural remedies. Experience firsthand why the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists fully recognizes ACHS’s Master of Science in Holistic Nutrition program.
Join us in making a difference in your life and the lives of others. Visit our website today to learn more about our holistic nutrition programs and start your path toward a healthier, more harmonious future.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be medical advice. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent disease. This article has not been reviewed by the FDA. Always consult with your primary care physician or naturopathic doctor before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine.
