What is Integrative Medicine?

Principles

  • Appropriate use of both conventional and alternative methods facilitates the body’s innate healing response
  • Integrative medicine neither rejects conventional medicine nor accepts alternative therapies uncritically.
  • Good medicine is based in good science

How do we use the framework? For instance….

Prediabetes/Diabetes

The integrative management of pre-diabetes and diabetes centers on two key goals: reducing insulin production and improving cellular insulin sensitivity.

To achieve this, we will design a personalized food plan (e.g., Mediterranean or low-carb, incorporating foods like cinnamon and fenugreek) and a movement regimen (including aerobic, resistance, and flexibility training) tailored to your needs. We will also review dietary supplements, such as chromium, magnesium, vitamin D, and bilberry, to support your overall health. To address potential complications, we’ll explore modalities like alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) and capsaicin cream for diabetic neuropathy. Additionally, we’ll incorporate stress management and mind-body approaches—such as yoga, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and biofeedback—which can enhance insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation. Finally, we’ll consider complementary therapies from traditional Chinese medicine (e.g., acupuncture) and Ayurvedic medicine.”

Premenstrual syndrome

The integrative management of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) focuses on balancing progesterone and estrogen levels and supporting mental well-being.

To achieve this, we will create a personalized plan featuring a food plan rich in complex carbohydrates, fiber, calcium, and magnesium, paired with an exercise regimen that includes aerobic, resistance, and flexibility training. We’ll also review dietary supplements such as Vitex berry (a progesterone enhancer), calcium, magnesium, vitamin B6, and vitamin E to support symptom relief. Our approach addresses common PMS symptoms, including mood swings, insomnia, and depression, while listening to your unique social and family stories. Stress management and mind-body techniques—such as yin yoga, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), biofeedback, and essential oils (e.g., lavender)—will be explored. Additionally, we’ll discuss complementary therapies like Chinese medicine (e.g., acupuncture techniques including Chong Mai, Yang Ming, Four Gates, and auricular pressure) and Ayurvedic medicine.

History of breast cancer

If breast cancer is like weeds in a garden, surgeons and oncologists remove the weeds, while an integrative specialist nurtures the soil to prevent their return.

The integrative management of post-treatment breast cancer involves a lifestyle approach designed to reduce Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1), balance hormone production, which could lower the risk of recurrence. We will develop a personalized plan featuring a whole-food, plant-based diet (e.g., Mediterranean-style eating) rich in chemoprotective foods, such as green tea, brassica vegetables (like broccoli and kale), and a variety of fruits and vegetables packed with phytonutrients. A tailored movement regimen—including aerobic, resistance, and flexibility training—will be crafted to meet your needs and support evidence-based cancer recurrence prevention. Alcohol consumption will be limited to minimize risk. We’ll also review dietary supplements, such as curcumin and turkey tail mushroom, known for their potential benefits. Stress management and mind-body approaches will be incorporated to enhance mental well-being. Additionally, we’ll address adverse effects from surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, such as nerve pain, joint discomfort, and lymphedema.

Diet supplements

Mind-body approach