What is Integrative and Functional Nutrition?

Integrative and functional nutrition utilizes a systems-based approach to evaluate the many interacting factors that promote health or disease. It seeks to understand the root causes of system(s) imbalances that influence one’s biology, genetics, nutritional status and well-being.

Integrative and functional nutrition uses a holistic, multi-dimensional evidence and practice-based approach to the nutrition care process. A comprehensive nutrition assessment helps the practitioner design a personalized treatment plan, tailored to the patient’s unique needs and lifestyle to support the highest expression of health and healing. This integrated approach can dramatically improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

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Principles of Integrative and Functional Nutrition Therapy

• Nutrition affects cellular metabolism, dynamic physiological networks and gene expression.

• A minor imbalance within the body can produce a cascade of biological triggers with long latency effects that can eventually lead to poor health and chronic illness.

• Each individual functions in an environment with internal and external factors (physical, mental, social, cultural, spiritual) that influence interactions between the mind and body.

• Traditional, conventional, complementary, and alternative therapies are acknowledged as potential healing modalities.

• Each person is unique and this is recognized in a personalized clinical assessment and intervention plan that engages and empowers the patient in this process to restore optimal function, manage symptoms and promote overall health, vitality and well-being.

Source: Integrative and Functional Nutrition Academy, https://www.ifnacademy.com/what-is-functional-nutrition. April 5, 2024.

Additional Definitions:

Integrative Registered Dietitian:

• An integrative registered dietitian is an RD who incorporates principles of integrative medicine into their practice. Integrative medicine takes a holistic approach to healthcare, considering the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.

• Integrative RDs may use a combination of conventional and complementary therapies, emphasizing lifestyle factors, nutrition, and wellness to support overall health.

Functional Registered Dietitian:

• A functional registered dietitian is an RD who has additional training in functional nutrition.

• Functional nutrition aims to address the root causes of health issues and focuses on the interplay between various bodily systems.

• Functional RDs often use personalized nutrition plans and may consider factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and environmental influences in their approach.

It's important to note that the terms "integrative" and "functional" can sometimes be used interchangeably, and individuals may pursue training in both areas. The key commonality is that both approaches seek to understand and address the underlying factors contributing to health conditions, taking a more comprehensive and personalized view of nutrition and wellness.

Programs and services are conducted virtually via a secure, HIPAA compliant video platform. That means you get to attend our sessions from the convenience of your own home. Features within this platform allows you to:

• Create your private login and attend video sessions directly from your desktop, tablet, or mobile device

• Access our mobile app for added convenience

• View/download/print your personalized Integrative & Functional Nutrition Prescription and Lifestyle Plan, created by your practitioner

• Food and mood journal

• Lifestyle journal

• Track measurements/biometrics

• Instant message your practitioner as a part of our Support Between Sessions service included in your program

• Securely Upload documents

The good news is that most imbalances can be addressed to restore or substantially improve a person’s health. Prevention is paramount.

Virtually every complex, chronic disease is preceded by long-term disturbances in functionality. These disturbances can often be effectively managed before they turn in full blown health issues.

Changing how our body's systems function can have a major impact on our health. The Integrative and Functional Nutrition practitioner examines a wide array of available interventions and customizes a plan including those with the most impact on your health.

Interventions may include combinations of nutritional supplements, therapeutic diets, or detoxification programs. They may also include coaching on lifestyle, exercise, or stress-management techniques.

The patient/client becomes a partner.

As a patient/client, you become an active partner with your Integrative and Functional Nutrition practitioner. Such a partnership allows you to be in charge as we work together on improving your health and changing the outcome of disease.

We are currently not in-network with any insurance company.

We do accept payments via FSA or HSA (as well as regular forms of payment). Interest-free payment plans are also available.

My signature program is designed for the person who is serious and committed to addressing the root cause of their chronic condition. My clients get amazing results if they are ready to commit to the process. If that sounds like you, then you are a great fit! My approach is highly collaborative in that we form a partnership. I hold your hand, support and guide you every step of the way, while we work together to find the unique, holistic path or combination that works for you.

If you are looking for a “quick fix” this program is not for you.

We will cover a lot of ground using a step-by-step integrative and functional nutrition approach designed to help you feel empowered to make changes toward taking your health, and frankly, your life back. You simply need to work with me (and do the "homework"), while I provide the tools, resources, information, and strategies to help you achieve real results.

My 1:1 program serves residents in the following states:

• Arizona

• California

• Colorado

• Georgia

• Florida

• Maryland

• New Jersey

• New York

• Virginia

A Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) has completed multiple layers of education and training established by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics. All RDs or RDNs must:

• Obtain a four-year degree which includes a specially designed, accredited nutrition curriculum.

• Complete an extensive supervised program of practice.

• Pass a rigorous registration exam.

• Maintain continuing education credits throughout their career.

What's more, roughly half of all RDs and RDNs hold graduate degrees and many have certifications in specialized fields.

In my case, I hold a graduate degree (Master of Science in Nutrition) and additional certifications/advanced training in specialized fields (Board Certification in Integrative and Functional Nutrition and Certified LEAP Therapist).

Previous certifications include Certified Diabetes Educator and Wellness Coaching.