What is the immune system?
The immune system is like an orchestra of many different cells, all playing their unique part in a complex array of signalling mechanisms, chemical reactions and pathogen killing processes.
For all of this to work properly, we need enough intake and absorption of unprocessed whole foods that provide macronutrients (protein, carbohydrate, and healthy fats), as well as micronutrients (including Vitamins C, A, and D, Zinc, Iron and Selenium). We also need a wide variety of plant-based foods, in order to support our microbiome and provide antioxidants, both of which play important roles in supporting immune function.
How does functional medicine support the immune system?
If you suffer from any of the following, nutrition and lifestyle interventions (in conjunction with any necessary ongoing medical treatment) can make an important difference to your day to day health and wellbeing:
- Long covid
- Frequent infections
- Autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis
- Skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis
Functional medicine and the immune system
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Step 1: Understand the root cause
In addition to discussing your current symptoms and concerns, I will take a detailed medical and lifestyle history that incorporates a full analysis of your diet, exercise, stress exposure and sleep quality, as well as interpretation of any previous test results. You may also be asked to complete a three-day food diary.
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Step 2: Undertake further testing
If necessary, I may recommend further testing in order to help inform personalised nutrition recommendations.
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Step 3: Create a personalised wellness plan
I will use the information we have gathered during our initial session, combined with any further results, to design a bespoke functional medicine programme for you. The aim will be to support immune function and optimise health and wellbeing going forward.
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