How Do I Know if I’m Ready for a Functional Medicine Approach to Treating Ulcerative Colitis?

Wondering if you’re ready for a functional medicine approach to treating your ulcerative colitis? It’s a question I hear often. And the truth is, if you’ve never explored health treatments beyond conventional methods, venturing into functional medicine can seem daunting.

You may be afraid of the unknown or skeptical about the efficacy of such approaches. It’s completely understandable. No one wants to invest time and effort into a new treatment strategy only to find it ineffective or too challenging to maintain. But don’t let that deter you! A functional medicine approach can offer profound insights into the root causes of your ulcerative colitis and potentially lead to long-lasting remission.

A good example is a close friend of mine Erik, who was days away from having his colon surgically removed, before he decided to do whatever it takes to reverse this situation. Since then he has reduced inflammation to and medicines to a minimum, is fully back to work and almost in complete remission!

If you’ve been considering this approach, you’re likely getting close to taking the plunge.

To help you decide, today I’m sharing four ways to know if you’re ready for a functional medicine approach to your ulcerative colitis. This way, you can focus on achieving better health outcomes – without the fear of wasted effort.

(And if you’re not ready yet, you’ll know what steps you might need to take!)

Let’s dive in.

4 Ways You Know You’re Ready for a Functional Medicine Approach to Treating Ulcerative Colitis

Only you can say for sure whether you’re ready for this significant health step. If it’s been on your mind a lot lately, you’re probably in a good place to at least start researching your options.

Readiness Sign #1: You’re Seeking Deeper Answers

If your current treatment isn’t addressing the underlying causes of your ulcerative colitis or if medications are only masking symptoms, you might be ready for functional medicine. This approach goes beyond just treating symptoms—it involves a comprehensive look at your entire health history, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

If you find yourself constantly researching or asking your doctor about underlying causes and long-term health strategies, this is a sign you’re ready to explore deeper.

Readiness Sign #2: You’re Open to Changing Your Lifestyle

A big part of functional medicine is lifestyle modification. If you’re ready to make significant changes in your diet, stress levels, exercise routines, and perhaps even your sleep habits, then you’re likely ready for this approach.

Here are a few ways to ease into these changes:

• Step 1: Start with small dietary changes, such as reducing processed foods.
• Step 2: Incorporate gentle exercises like yoga or walking into your routine.
• Step 3: Learn stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises.

Readiness Sign #3: You Have Support

Whether it’s from family, friends, healthcare providers, or online communities, having support is crucial when transitioning to a functional medicine approach. This support can help you stay motivated and overcome any challenges along the way.

• Why is this important? Emotional and logistical support can make a big difference in managing a chronic condition like ulcerative colitis.
• What bad things will happen without it? Without support, you might feel overwhelmed and revert to old habits.

Readiness Sign #4: You’re Willing to Invest Time and Possibly Resources

Functional medicine often involves a variety of tests and continuous adjustments to your treatment plan. This can require both time and, in some cases, financial resources. Being prepared for this investment is crucial for success.

• What you need to have ready: Ensure you have the time to commit to appointments, treatments, and lifestyle changes.
• Why is this important? Without commitment, it can be difficult to follow through with the necessary steps to find relief.
• Prepare for the long haul: Remember, functional medicine is about long-term solutions, not quick fixes.

That’s a Wrap!

I hope this guide has helped clarify whether a functional medicine approach to treating your ulcerative colitis is right for you. If you’ve identified with these readiness signs, you’re well-prepared to embark on this comprehensive journey towards better health.

Need more information or guidance? I am here to support you in our community and would also be happy to get on a intro health coaching call to help steer you in the right direction. Just visit the page in the link below to learn more and join our community where you can connect with others embracing functional medicine for ulcerative colitis, and other gut issues.

Click here to join our free community to get access to functional medicine resources aimed at improving gut health and conditions like ulcerative colitis now >>