Functional Medicine Glossary

Terms and definitions all around functional medicine and functional nutrition.

Celiac Disease

An autoimmune reaction to gluten damaging the small intestine.

Celiac Disease

Chemical Sensitivities

Adverse reactions to low-level chemical exposures in the environment.

Chemical Sensitivities

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)

Long-term, unexplained fatigue not improved by rest.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)

Chronic Inflammation

Long-term inflammation that can contribute to various chronic diseases.

Chronic Inflammation

Circadian Optimization

Aligning activities with the body’s natural rhythms to enhance sleep and longevity.

Circadian Optimization

Circadian Rhythm

The body’s internal clock regulating sleep, metabolism, and other processes.

Circadian Rhythm

Coenzyme Q10

A compound that helps generate energy in cells and acts as an antioxidant.

Coenzyme Q10

Comprehensive Stool Analysis

Evaluates gut microbiota, pathogens, digestion, and inflammation markers.

Comprehensive Stool Analysis

Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Score

A non-invasive CT scan measuring calcified plaque in the coronary arteries.

Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Score

Cortisol

A stress hormone that can influence fat storage, particularly in the abdominal area.

Cortisol

Curcumin

A polyphenol in turmeric with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Curcumin

Cytokines

Proteins involved in immune system communication, often linked to inflammation.

Cytokines

DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)

A precursor to sex hormones; functional medicine evaluates levels for adrenal health.

DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)

DHT (Dihydrotestosterone)

A potent androgen hormone derived from testosterone, involved in male sexual development, hair loss (androgenetic alopecia), prostate growth, and skin oil production.

DHT (Dihydrotestosterone)

DUTCH Test

A comprehensive hormone test evaluating sex, adrenal, and stress hormones.

DUTCH Test

Daidzein

An isoflavone found in soy products, known for its estrogen-like effects.

Daidzein

Desiccated Thyroid

A natural thyroid replacement therapy derived from porcine thyroid glands (e.g., Armour Thyroid).

Desiccated Thyroid

Detoxification Pathways

Biological processes that remove toxins from the body.

Detoxification Pathways

Diabetes (Type 2)

A chronic condition where the body fails to regulate blood sugar levels properly.

Diabetes (Type 2)

Dysbiosis

An imbalance in the gut microbiota associated with various health issues.

Dysbiosis

Dyslipidemia

Abnormal lipid levels in the blood, such as high cholesterol or triglycerides.

Dyslipidemia

Eczema

Chronic skin inflammation causing redness, itching, and irritation.

Eczema

Elimination Diet

A dietary approach to identify food sensitivities or allergies.

Elimination Diet

Ellagic Acid

A type of phenolic acid with antioxidant properties, found in fruits like berries.

Ellagic Acid

Endocrine Disruptors

Chemicals that interfere with hormone function.

Endocrine Disruptors