B.Sc. Dietetics (NWU) MB.Ch.B. (UP) Cert IFMCP (IFM, WA, USA) MS HNFM (UWS, Oregon, USA)
Located in Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
Functional Medicine and Nutrition
Certified Functional Medicine Doctor
Dr Hester Visagie
B.Sc. Dietetics, MBChB, FMCP-M, MS Human Nutrition and Functional medicine
Functional Medicine focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying causes of disease rather than only treating symptoms. Functional Medicine takes a comprehensive, evidence-informed approach by considering genetics, nutrition, lifestyle, environmental exposures, gut health, hormones, metabolism, and other factors that influence health. The goal is to work collaboratively with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that support optimal health, prevent disease, and improve long-term wellbeing.
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Services Provided
FOOD ALLERGY AND FOOD INTOLERANCE TESTING
Food allergy testing can be done at the local pathology laboratories. Due to cost, it is important to identify the specific food types to be tested.
Food Intolerance testing can also be done via a blood test, although very costly. It is possible to identify specific food intolerances without doing special laboratory tests, but via a special elimination process and re-introduction.
ENDOCRINE EVALUATION AND SUPPLEMENTATION
Thyroid function: The conditions of either hypo- or hyperthyroidism are often related to altered thyroid hormone sensitivity and cellular response. Typical symptoms of low thyroid function include low energy, cold hand and feet, muscle pain, hypercholesterolemia, depression, fatigue and cognitive deficits.
GASTROINTESTINAL EVALUATION
The seven most prevalent disorder in Western countries are: 1. GORD (Gastro-oesophageal reflux disorder) 2. IBS (Irritable bowel syndrome or spastic colon) 3. Gallstone disease 4. Diverticular disease 5. Celiac disease 6. Inflammatory bowl disease (Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis) 7. Colorectal cancer
