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What Is Functional Medicine—and Should You Ever Try It?

It’s growing in popularity, but there are some major red flags to watch out for.

Generally speaking, it’s usually a win when things are functional. Functional fitness, for example, focuses on movement patterns you use in everyday life. Functional fashion might bring to mind dresses with pockets or fanny packs. And don’t we all want to organize our pantries, closets, and basements in ways that are both visually pleasing and functional?
So it would only make sense that something called “functional medicine” would sound like pretty good news too. And with so many Americans feeling like our current health care system is kinda broken, it’s no wonder many people are looking for a fix. But what exactly is functional medicine, and what makes it unique? And more importantly: Is it a legit avenue for quality medical care? Below, experts explain what this term really means, if it’s ever worth a try, and red flags to watch out for.

Whatevenisfunctionalmedicine?Functionalmedicine(FM)isaholisticschoolofthoughtabouthealthcarethatfocusesonfindingandaddressingtherootcauseofanailment,ratherthanjusttreatingsymptoms.FMpractitionersput