Functional medicine approaches

Abstract

Functional medicine focuses on optimizing health and wellness. Evaluation of health is based on therapeutic partnership between the patient and clinician. Together they dive deep into the patient's potential clinical imbalances in these seven key areas: 1. Assimilation/gastrointestinal 2. Immune 3. Energy 4. Detoxification 5. Cardiovascular/lymphatic 6. Hormones/neurotransmitter 7. Musculoskeletal/cellular structure This chapter will explore the links between each of these areas and acne/rosacea. For example, we will discuss how acne is related to oxidative stress and that how dairy and a high-glycemic load diet clearly trigger or exacerbate acne in most of those with a genetic susceptibility to the disease. Additionally, we will explore topics such as links between small bacterial overgrowth and acne/rosacea, how red and blue light treatments help improve acne, the association of dioxin exposure and acne, the mechanisms of how stress triggers acne, the relationship between rosacea and cardiovascular disease, and the role of the skin barrier in acne and rosacea. By unveiling these deeper root causes of acne and rosacea, focus areas for personalized treatment can be developed. In collaboration, the patient and clinician decide on priorities and goals for treatment. Implementation of treatment regimens is focused on lifestyle factors as well as prescription treatments. The potential lifestyle factor areas that are addressed include: Sleep and relaxation Exercise and movement Nutrition (food, vitamins, minerals, supplements, botanicals, etc.) Stress management Relationships and community connections Environmental factors (quality of air, water, etc.) Mental factors (cognition, perception, and psychosocial factors), Emotional factors (awareness and regulation of emotions) Spiritual connections (sense of purpose and meaning) Collaboration with other practitioners to fully address areas of lifestyle factors is commonly implemented to ensure optimal health outcomes.