What is the key purpose of functional assessments in FDN?

The key purpose of functional assessments in Functional Diagnostic Nutrition (FDN) is to evaluate individual health status and needs. This approach emphasizes understanding each person's unique biochemical and physiological makeup rather than solely focusing on diagnosing diseases. By employing various functional assessments, practitioners gather comprehensive data about a client’s health, lifestyle, and environmental influences, which helps identify imbalances and areas requiring support.

Functional assessments enable practitioners to develop personalized nutrition plans and lifestyle recommendations that align with the individual's specific circumstances and goals. Instead of labeling conditions or focusing on disease management, the emphasis is on optimizing health and wellness through targeted nutrition and lifestyle changes. This holistic view allows for a more tailored approach, ultimately supporting the individual's overall well-being and empowering them to participate actively in their health journey.

In contrast, other approaches such as diagnosing diseases, restricting food groups arbitrarily, or prescribing medications do not capture the essence of FDN's guiding philosophy, which is rooted in prevention and personalized care.