What is Anti-Aging/Functional Medicine?
Functional medicine is an individualized approach to your healthcare that focuses on finding the root cause of the problems you may have. At Howard Health And Wellness we look at factors including your fitness, nutrition, sleep habits, stress management and your environment. Laboratory studies go beyond traditional testing and dive deeper into hormone regulation, nutrition, gut health, heart disease assessment and much more. By evaluating you holistically and more fully we have an opportunity to halt and even reverse disease progression. This style of medicine allows Dr. Howard to work directly with each person, spending the time needed to help to improve your overall health.
What can I expect during my visit?
During your visit you will meet directly with Dr. Howard. Sometimes these visits may be live or they may be virtual using one of several platforms that make it easy for you to reach Dr. Howard. The typical visit lasts between 1-2 hours. It starts with some basic questions and becomes more detailed during the visit. We will review your lifestyle habits, previous records including lab studies, address advanced screening for issues such as heart disease, thyroid issues and hormones, perform an exam (unless you are seen via Telehealth) and order testing. Everything that is done is explained in detail so that by the time you leave you have a plan to improve your health. Sometimes supplements are recommended (typically after testing) or you may need some type of medications. It all depends on what is found during the visit. When you leave you will have a way to reach Dr. Howard and have your follow up scheduled.
What are some of the non-traditional evaluation and treatments that Dr. Howard offers?
Nutritional testing and counseling
Hormone evaluation- Blood, saliva or urine (sometimes multiple methods
Hormone Therapy-creams, injection or long-term/depot forms such as pellets
Gut health evaluation
Advanced heart disease testing
Detailed thyroid testing
Peptide therapy (see below for more details)
Peptides are small proteins that can be quite powerful in the treatment of a number of conditions. For example: Insulin and semiglutide (for weight loss) are both peptides. There are, however, many more. These include peptides that can decrease inflammation, enhance performance while some are for anti-aging. These treatments may be given orally or by injection depending on the product.
Peptides may:
Reduce signs of aging
Increase athletic performance
Help you lose weight
Treat muscle and joint pains and inflammation
Increase production of natural hormones
Improve neurologic function
Peptides are typically available through speciality pharmacies. However, be aware that many may be sold to consumers over the internet and these products may not be fully tested or contain the active ingredients that are stated. This is one of the circumstances where it is best to speak with a professional that can guide you to the correct products that may benefit you.