The Functional Medicine approach of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Even though the news that neurodegenerative diseases are increasing can only be described as ominous, at the same time the medical society is optimistic about the prevention of these conditions. The Greek medical tradition dictates that it is more important to prevent than to cure. Treating a disease after it has occurred can be compared to digging to find water when you are already thirsty.
If, however, the onset of the disease is unavoidable, it is of paramount importance that the diagnosis is made as soon as possible so that there is enough time for reversing even partial or even slowing the progression of the disease. Even when there are genetic factors predisposing to such a disease, lifestyle factors can modify gene expression and thus suppress or reverse the mechanisms that lead to inflammation and degeneration. Thus, the onset of the disease can be avoided or, in the worst of cases, delayed significantly.
The innovative diagnostic tests available to Functional Medicine are able to analyze the cellular functions and understand the underlying mechanisms of the disease. This targeted approach that supports the healthy cells or even those that are already diseased contributes to the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases based mainly on the application of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and protective vascular or other biological mechanisms, and not chemotherapy.