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What is Functional Medicine and how is it different than Naturopathic Medicine?
The key difference between functional and naturopathic medicine lies in their approach and framework. Functional medicine is heavily driven by cutting-edge scientific research and advanced diagnostic testing, often integrating conventional medicine with holistic strategies. Naturopathic medicine, while also evidence-based, places a stronger emphasis on traditional healing modalities and may incorporate more natural treatments as a first-line approach.
Functional Medicine vs. Naturopathic Medicine: A Personal Perspective
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to holistic healing—understanding the body as a whole, rather than just a collection of symptoms to be treated separately. That’s why I find it important to explore the parallels between Functional Medicine and Naturopathic Medicine. While they seem similar in many ways, there are key distinctions that shape the way practitioners in each field approach health and healing.
A Shared Philosophy with Different Paths
Both Functional Medicine and Naturopathic Medicine recognize that the body has an innate ability to heal itself. They emphasize patient-centered care, evidence-based medicine, and treating the root cause rather than just managing symptoms. This is where they align beautifully.
Functional Medicine, as popularized today, was established in 1991 by Dr. Jeffrey Bland. Interestingly, Dr. Bland had a strong connection to Bastyr University, a leader in naturopathic medical education. This is no coincidence—many of the core principles of Functional Medicine are deeply rooted in naturopathic philosophy. The idea of assessing the whole person—lifestyle, genetics, environment, and mental well-being—is something that Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) have been practicing for well over a century.
Naturopathic Medicine, however, has an even older lineage. Its roots date back to 19th-century Germany, where Dr. Benedict Lust brought the concept of naturopathy to the United States. Since then, it has developed into a distinct form of primary care, focusing on natural therapies, prevention, and patient education.
The Roadblocks and Realities
One of the biggest differences between these two fields isn’t necessarily the approach—it’s the way they fit (or don’t fit) into the modern healthcare system. Functional Medicine has become an appealing option for MDs and DOs looking to expand their knowledge beyond pharmaceuticals and surgery. However, the challenge they face is significant: once traditional medical doctors step into the realm of Functional Medicine, they often find themselves at odds with insurance companies and pharmaceutical-driven protocols. They must make a difficult choice—do they continue practicing conventionally, or do they step outside the system to truly embrace a holistic approach?
On the other hand, NDs don’t face this same dilemma because they are trained in natural therapies from the start. They are not beholden to pharmaceutical companies, but the tradeoff is that they often struggle for recognition within the insurance-driven medical system. Since they don’t rely on pharmaceuticals, insurance companies frequently refuse to cover their care, making accessibility a challenge for many patients.
The Bigger Picture
At the end of the day, whether you call it Functional Medicine or Naturopathic Medicine, the goal is the same—to restore health by addressing the root cause and supporting the body’s natural healing processes.
I personally believe that Functional Medicine is simply a rebranded version of Naturopathic Medicine—one that allows MDs and DOs to step into holistic care without the stigma historically associated with naturopathy. The unfortunate reality is that conventional medicine has created a divide between what is considered “real medicine” and what is deemed “alternative.” But if we go back to the original meaning of medicine—a remedy that works with the body’s own defenses—we can see that Functional and Naturopathic Medicine are two sides of the same coin.
Moving Forward
The growing demand for patient-centered, holistic care is undeniable. More people are looking for answers beyond prescriptions and quick fixes. While Functional Medicine provides a bridge for conventionally trained doctors to explore holistic healing, Naturopathic Medicine remains a time-honored approach that has always embraced the healing power of nature.
It’s not about choosing one over the other—it’s about expanding our understanding of what true healthcare looks like. And to me, that means empowering individuals to take control of their health, using the best of both worlds to create real, lasting healing.