11 Holistic Health Principles for Total Wellbeing

8. Functional Medicine and Root-Cause Focus

Functional medicine centers on identifying underlying drivers of imbalance — such as inflammation, gut health, or hormonal shifts — instead of only treating symptoms. This approach often uses targeted testing and a systems view to build individualized plans emphasizing diet, sleep, movement, stress reduction, and selective supplementation. If pursuing a functional approach, ask providers which tests are evidence-based and how results will change treatment choices. Start with low-risk changes like dietary adjustments, improved sleep, and reduced stress while reserving more complex testing for persistent or unclear problems. Be aware that not every test or supplement has strong evidence; prioritize reversible lifestyle interventions with broad benefits first. Coordinate with your primary care clinician to ensure tests and treatments fit your overall care plan and avoid redundant or unsafe practices. Applied thoughtfully, a root-cause mindset helps convert vague symptoms into targeted, manageable steps toward health.