“ Functional medicine is medicine by cause, not by symptoms. Functional medicine practitioners don’t treat disease – we treat your body’s ecosystem. We get rid of the bad stuff, put in the good stuff, and because your body is an intelligent system – it does the rest. ”
— Mark Hyman, MD
Functional Medicine involves understanding the origins, prevention, and treatment of complex, chronic diseases.
Functional Medicine focuses on promoting health as a positive vitality beyond the absence of disease. By listening to the patient and learning his or her story, the practitioner brings the patient into the discovery process and tailors treatments that address the individual’s unique needs.
Functional Medicine practitioners look “upstream” to consider the complex web of interactions in the patient’s history, physiology, and lifestyle that can lead to illness. Each patient’s unique genetic makeup is evaluated, along with both internal (mind, body, and spirit) and external (physical and social environment) factors that affect total functioning.
Functional Medicine embraces “alternative” or “integrative” medicine, creating a focus on prevention through nutrition, diet, and exercise; use of the latest laboratory testing and other diagnostic techniques; and recommended supplements, therapeutic diets, detoxification programs, or stress-management techniques.
Her mother, originally of German descent, was an advocate of holistic health practices standard of the European wellness model. Rather than taking medications as the first course to “treat” an illness, boosting the immune system with herbal teas, essential oils, wholesome soups, bodywork, and plenty of rest was perfectly normal. While there is a place for medication in times of crisis, she learned at an early age to honor the intelligence of the body. When we nurture our mental and physical state of well-being rather than suppress and ignore symptoms, we are better able to express our true health potential.
In 2001, without any warning signs and despite having led an extremely healthy life, Dr. Caroline’s mom was diagnosed with stage three lymphoma at a routine physical. Six weeks later, she passed away. Twelve years later, her father was diagnosed with CLL, a chronic form of leukemia. Despite a brave fight and many rounds of chemo, the disease won. Losing both parents to cancer served as fuel for Dr. Caroline’s need to understand health at a deeper level. Rather than placing the focus on fighting disease, her goal was to become an expert in wellness. Instead of fearing sickness, it was about embracing wholeness.
Her personal story, combined with nearly twenty years of reading patient health history forms, led her to incorporate Functional Medicine into the scope of services offered at Balance Atlanta.
Despite a person’s healthy exterior, she realized people of all ages are suffering from conditions not addressed by the allopathic medical system. Being frustrated by impersonal doctor-patient relationships, skyrocketing insurance costs, and alarming drug side effects, patients are seeking a safer and more logical approach to health care. The time to integrate health from the standpoint of Functional Medicine was only fitting.
Functional Medicine addresses the underlying causes of disease, using a systems-oriented approach and engaging both patient and practitioner in a therapeutic partnership.
It is an evolution in the practice of medicine that better addresses the healthcare needs of the 21st century. By shifting the traditional disease-centered focus of medical practice to a more patient-centered approach, functional medicine addresses the whole person, not just an isolated set of symptoms. Functional Medicine practitioners spend time with their patients, listening to their histories and looking at the interactions among genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that can influence long-term health and complex, chronic disease. In this way, functional medicine supports the unique expression of health and vitality for each individual. Functional Medicine does not replace the need for patients to seek care from their medical doctor. Nutrition and lifestyle recommendations are not a substitute for prescription drugs. Functional Medicine does not cure or treat disease. Instead, its goal is to support the body in its ability to restore homeostasis naturally.
Our society is experiencing a sharp increase in the number of people who suffer from complex, chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, mental illness, and autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis. The system of medicine practiced by most physicians is oriented toward acute care, the diagnosis and treatment of trauma or illness that is of short duration and in need of urgent care, such as appendicitis or a broken leg. Physicians apply specific, prescribed treatments such as drugs or surgery that aim to treat the immediate problem or symptom.
Unfortunately, the acute-care approach to medicine lacks the proper methodology and tools for preventing and treating complex, chronic diseases. In most cases, it does not take into account the unique genetic makeup of each individual or factors such as environmental exposures to toxins and the aspects of today’s lifestyle that have a direct influence on the rise in chronic disease in modern Western society.
There’s a huge gap between research and the way doctors practice. The gap between emerging research in basic sciences and integration into medical practice is enormous—as long as 50 years—particularly in the area of complex, chronic illness. Most physicians are not adequately trained to assess the underlying causes of complex, chronic diseases and to apply strategies such as nutrition, diet, and exercise to both address and potentially prevent these illnesses in their patients.
Understanding of the biochemical individuality of each human being, based on the concepts of genetic, environmental and lifestyle uniqueness.
Support a patient-centered rather than a disease-centered approach to treatment.
Dynamic interconnection between all cells, tissues, organs, and systems of the body.
Mental, emotional, spiritual, and social health are equally important to physical health.
Identification of health as a positive vitality, not merely the absence of symptoms and disease.
The promotion of wellness is to enhance the quality of life of patients, not merely to extend their life span.
“Functional medicine is medicine by cause, not by symptoms. Functional medicine practitioners don’t treat disease – we treat your body’s ecosystem. We get rid of the bad stuff, put in the good stuff, and because your body is an intelligent system – it does the rest.” — Mark Hyman, MD
At Balance Atlanta, we serve patients of diverse ages and conditions, especially those seeking solutions to persistent health issues that have yet to respond to other treatments. Our typical client prioritizes a scientifically-grounded approach over quick fixes and values, forming a collaborative relationship with a trusted healthcare advisor. They embrace an integrated approach to wellness.
We initiate the process with a complimentary 10-minute phone consultation. If our services align with your needs, we proceed with a paid 30-minute telehealth meeting or an in-person visit to the Balance Atlanta office, whichever is more convenient. Functional medicine consultations are scheduled during non-peak office hours for enhanced convenience.
After reviewing your health history, Dr. Caroline will recommend specific laboratory tests tailored to your needs. Some tests involve blood draws at local lab centers, while others require saliva, stool, or cheek cell samples taken at home. Requisition forms, test kits, and detailed instructions are readily accessible at Balance Atlanta.
Upon receipt of test results, typically within 10 to 30 days, the doctor will analyze the data, and her assistant will contact you to schedule a follow-up appointment. During this appointment, we will thoroughly review the findings, providing a detailed understanding of your health status—a collaborative approach that sets us apart from traditional medical practices.
Due to limited availability, we request a credit card on file to secure your functional medicine appointment. Payment is required in full in advance for all lab testing, initial visits, and functional medicine programs, with no refunds. This policy ensures the efficient and effective delivery of care.
Lab reports are not intended for and should not be used for medical diagnosis, prevention, or treatment, including self-diagnosis.
Reports should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care and should not be relied upon in diagnosing or treating a medical condition, ailment, or disease.
Consult your primary physician or other qualified healthcare practitioners regarding the applicability of any information or materials provided in lab reports regarding your symptoms or medical condition.
Never disregard professional medical advice, delay seeking medical advice or treatment, or stop current medical treatment because of something you have read in lab reports.
Lab tests help uncover root causes of health issues by detecting underlying imbalances or dysfunctions in the body.
Objective data from lab tests allows for personalized treatment plans tailored to the individual's specific health needs and goals.
Test results guide targeted interventions, enabling more precise and effective treatment strategies.
Lab tests provide measurable markers to track progress over time, allowing adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.
Early detection of imbalances or abnormalities through lab testing can facilitate preventive measures to address potential health risks before they escalate.
Lab tests reveal deficiencies or excesses in essential nutrients, guiding interventions to optimize nutritional status and support overall health.
Biomarkers of inflammation identified through lab tests inform interventions aimed at reducing inflammation, a common factor in many chronic diseases.
Lab results inform recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, exercise regimens, and stress management techniques to support health optimization.
Objective data from lab tests empowers patients to actively participate in their health journey by providing tangible insights into their physiological status and progress.
Functional medicine is a patient-centered approach to healthcare that seeks the root causes of symptoms rather than merely managing them. Instead of focusing solely on a diagnosis, it examines how genetics, environment, nutrition, stress, and lifestyle all interact to influence health. By identifying imbalances and patterns, functional medicine builds a plan that supports healing and long-term wellness. The goal is to restore balance in the body’s systems, enabling patients to feel and function better, not just temporarily, but in a sustainable manner.
Conventional medicine often focuses on treating symptoms or diagnosing disease, usually with medications or procedures. Functional medicine, on the other hand, looks upstream—asking why symptoms are happening in the first place. It emphasizes prevention, whole-body health, and personalized care. For example, instead of only prescribing something for high blood pressure, functional medicine would also explore nutrition, sleep, stress, gut health, and lab results to uncover contributing factors. The approach blends science with lifestyle change, aiming for long-term results.
Lab testing is a cornerstone of functional medicine. Beyond standard blood work, advanced panels may
assess nutrient status, hormone balance,aLab testing is a cornerstone of functional medicine. Beyond standard blood work, advanced panels may assess nutrient status, hormone balance, inflammation, immune health, toxins, gut function, and other factors. These tests provide detailed insights into how the body is functioning, often revealing imbalances before disease fully develops. By combining lab results with a patient’s history and lifestyle, practitioners can create targeted recommendations. The goal isn’t just to diagnose but to track patterns, optimize health, and prevent future problems. inflammation, immune health, toxins, gut function, and other
factors. These tests provide detailed insights into how the body is functioning, often revealing
imbalances before disease fully develops. By combining lab results with a patient’s history and lifestyle,
practitioners can create targeted recommendations. The goal isn’t just to diagnose but to track patterns,
optimize health, and prevent future problems.
Nutrition is central to functional medicine because food is both fuel and information for the body. Poor nutrition contributes to inflammation, blood sugar imbalances, hormone disruption, and digestive issues. Functional medicine uses food as therapy, focusing on whole, nutrient-dense options tailored to each patient’s needs. Plans may include anti-inflammatory diets, elimination of trigger foods, or gut-healing protocols. By addressing nutritional deficiencies and restoring balance, many patients experience improvements in energy, digestion, mood, and long-term health outcomes.
Yes. Functional medicine is particularly beneficial for chronic conditions, including fatigue, digestive disorders, autoimmune diseases, hormonal imbalances, and metabolic issues. Instead of only masking symptoms, it looks at the underlying dysfunctions driving the condition—such as inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, or gut health problems. Through lab testing, nutrition, and lifestyle changes, functional medicine supports the body’s ability to heal and regulate itself. While results vary, many patients see improvements in both symptoms and overall quality of life over time.
Lifestyle is a significant factor in health. Stress, sleep, movement, and environment all influence how the body functions. Functional medicine places strong emphasis on lifestyle modification—helping patients adopt healthier routines that reduce stress, improve resilience, and support healing. This may include tailored exercise, mindfulness practices, sleep hygiene, and environmental detox strategies. These changes, combined with nutrition and lab-guided care, create a robust framework for lasting wellness. The goal is not quick fixes but sustainable habits that promote long-term balance.
Anyone can benefit, from people struggling with chronic symptoms to those who simply want to optimize health and prevent disease. It is especially valuable for patients who feel unheard in conventional care or whose symptoms don’t fit a precise diagnosis. Functional medicine is also ideal for individuals who are motivated to take an active role in their own health and wellness. By focusing on the whole person—not just a set of symptoms—it provides personalized strategies that support wellness at every stage of life.
Gut health is central to functional medicine because it influences digestion, immunity, mood, and inflammation. Problems like bloating, food sensitivities, or irregular bowel habits often signal deeper imbalances in the gut microbiome. Functional medicine utilizes stool testing, food sensitivity panels, and nutrient evaluations to gain a deeper understanding of gut health. Treatment may involve dietary changes, probiotics, or gut-healing protocols. By restoring balance in the digestive system, many patients see improvements not only in digestion but also in energy, mood, and immunity.
Yes, but supplements are used strategically, not as a replacement for a healthy diet. Lab testing often reveals nutrient deficiencies or imbalances that require targeted support. Common examples include vitamin D, magnesium, omega-3s, or probiotics. Supplements are chosen based on individual needs and are meant to restore balance while lifestyle and nutrition changes take effect. The goal is always long-term health, so supplements are often used as part of a bigger plan rather than a permanent solution.
A functional medicine appointment often feels more in-depth than a traditional visit. Patients can expect detailed discussions about their medical history, nutrition, stress, sleep patterns, environment, and daily habits. Lab testing may be ordered to assess imbalances. The practitioner then creates a personalized plan that could include nutrition changes, lifestyle recommendations, and targeted supplements. Follow-up visits track progress, adjust strategies, and review lab results. The process is collaborative, with patients and practitioners working together to uncover root causes and promote lasting health.