Functional Nutrition Services in Houston, Texas

Functional nutrition, also referred to as personalized nutrition, integrative nutrition, and holistic nutrition, is an approach to health that focuses on individualized nutrition plans tailored to each person’s unique needs.

Functional nutrition considers factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and environment.

The principles of functional nutrition include bio-individuality, which means recognizing that each person is unique.

Functional nutrition emphasizes whole foods, nutrient density, and dietary diversity. It also involves assessing and addressing the root causes of health issues rather than just treating symptoms.

Functional nutrition incorporates ongoing monitoring and adjustments based on the person’s response.

Clinical nutrition, which overlaps with functional nutrition, focuses on dietary strategies and medical nutrition therapy to manage diseases. Both clinical and functional nutrition aim to optimize health, but functional nutrition is more holistic and personalized, integrating broader aspects of an individual’s life.

At the Nutrition and Health Center, all these approaches – functional, personalized, integrative, holistic, and clinical nutrition – are considered and followed. This ensures comprehensive, individualized care for each client’s unique health needs and goals.

Functional nutrition and traditional nutrition differ primarily in their approach and focus. 

Functional nutrition focuses on personalized nutrition plans, considering genetics, lifestyle, and environment. Functional nutrition aims to address the sources of health issues. 

Traditional nutrition uses general guidelines and focuses on meeting basic nutritional needs. Traditional nutrition often treats symptoms rather than the source of the problem.

Functional nutrition is personalized and holistic, while traditional nutrition is often standardized and symptom-focused.

Listed below are some of the benefits that have been observed by clients following a functional nutrition plan. 

• Improved Energy Levels: Tailored functional nutrition plans help support more consistent and higher energy levels throughout the day.
• Better Digestion: Addressing individual dietary needs can promote a healthier digestive system.
• Reduced Disease Symptoms: Personalized, functional nutrition plans can help alleviate symptoms related to chronic illnesses.
• Enhanced Immune Function: Diets designed specifically for the individual can support a stronger immune system.
• Optimized Nutrient Absorption: Customized plans can improve the body’s ability to absorb and utilize nutrients.
• Balanced Hormones: Tailored nutrition can assist in achieving hormonal balance.
• Weight Management: Personalized approaches can help individuals achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
• Improved Mental Clarity: Functional nutrition can support cognitive function and mental clarity.

Functional health testing plays an important role in functional nutrition by providing detailed insights into an individual’s unique health status.

Functional health assessments and tests help identify underlying health issues, such as nutrient deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, and metabolic problems. 

The data gathered from functional health assessments guide the creation of personalized nutrition plans tailored to the individual’s specific needs. 

Functional health testing enables ongoing monitoring, allowing for adjustments to nutrition plans based on real-time health data, ensuring optimal outcomes.

Listed below are various tests involved in functional health testing at the Nutrition and Health Center.

• In-Body Test: Measures body composition, including body fat, muscle mass, body water levels, and more.
• Comprehensive Blood Evaluation: Analyzes various blood markers to assess overall health and identify potential deficiencies.
• Biological Terrain Assessment (Urine/Saliva): Evaluates the body’s internal environment, measuring factors such as pH and oxidation levels.
• Mineral Hair Analysis: Determines mineral content and toxic metal exposure over a period of time through hair samples.
• Neurotransmitter Testing (Urine/Saliva): Assesses the balance of neurotransmitters to understand mood and cognitive function.
• DUTCH Hormone Test (Urine): Provides a detailed analysis of hormone levels and adrenal health.
• Micronutrient Testing (Blood): Checks for deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals.
• Food and Chemical Sensitivity Test (Blood): Identifies sensitivities to various foods and chemicals that may be affecting health.
• Comprehensive Stool Analysis: Examines gut health by analyzing the presence of beneficial bacteria, pathogens, and digestive function.
• Omega Check (Finger Prick): Measures omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid levels to assess fatty acid balance in the body.