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How Can Functional Medicine Help with Chronic Conditions?

January 02, 20254 min read

How Can Functional Medicine Help with Chronic Conditions Like Diabetes or Hypertension? Insights from Frosini Functional N.P. in Williamsville, NY

Living with chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension can feel overwhelming, especially when conventional treatments focus primarily on symptom management. At Frosini Functional N.P. in Williamsville, NY, we offer a different approach through functional medicine. By addressing the root causes of these conditions and creating personalized care plans, functional medicine helps you regain control of your health.


What is Functional Medicine?

Functional medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that seeks to identify and address the root causes of illness. It goes beyond treating symptoms by considering the whole person—including lifestyle, genetics, environment, and diet.

At Frosini Functional N.P. in Williamsville, NY, we specialize in functional medicine to empower patients with chronic conditions to achieve long-term wellness.


Why Functional Medicine is Effective for Chronic Conditions

Chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension are often influenced by multiple factors, including poor diet, stress, lack of exercise, and genetic predispositions. Functional medicine excels at:

  • Identifying Root Causes: Pinpointing underlying contributors like inflammation, insulin resistance, or hormonal imbalances.

  • Personalized Treatment: Crafting tailored plans that address your unique health needs.

  • Promoting Sustainable Changes: Focusing on long-term health rather than temporary fixes.


How Functional Medicine Helps with Diabetes

Understanding Diabetes

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels. It occurs when the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to its effects.

Functional Medicine Approach to Diabetes

At Frosini Functional N.P. in Williamsville, NY, we tackle diabetes by:

  1. Improving Insulin Sensitivity:

    • Addressing factors like weight management, stress, and inflammation.

    • Using personalized dietary plans rich in fiber, healthy fats, and lean protein.

  2. Balancing Blood Sugar:

    • Recommending frequent, balanced meals to stabilize glucose levels.

    • Incorporating supplements like magnesium or chromium if needed.

  3. Supporting Lifestyle Changes:

    • Encouraging regular physical activity to enhance insulin sensitivity.

    • Managing stress through mindfulness or yoga to reduce cortisol, which impacts blood sugar.

Success Stories

Many of our patients with Type 2 diabetes have seen significant improvements, including reduced reliance on medication, better energy levels, and weight loss.

For more, visit our success stories page.


How Functional Medicine Helps with Hypertension

Understanding Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is often called the "silent killer" because it can lead to serious complications like heart disease and stroke if left unmanaged. While conventional treatments often involve medication, functional medicine addresses the root causes.

Functional Medicine Approach to Hypertension

At Frosini Functional N.P. in Williamsville, NY, we address hypertension by:

  1. Reducing Inflammation:

    • Encouraging anti-inflammatory diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, and vegetables.

    • Identifying and eliminating dietary triggers like excess sodium or processed foods.

  2. Improving Vascular Health:

    • Supporting healthy blood vessels through lifestyle changes and targeted supplements like CoQ10 or L-arginine.

  3. Addressing Stress:

    • Teaching stress management techniques to lower blood pressure naturally.

    • Recommending consistent sleep patterns to promote cardiovascular health.

  4. Balancing Weight:

    • Assisting with sustainable weight loss strategies, as even small reductions in weight can significantly lower blood pressure.


The Role of Nutrition and Lifestyle in Managing Chronic Conditions

Nutrition and lifestyle are at the heart of functional medicine. At Frosini Functional N.P. in Williamsville, NY, we emphasize:

  • Whole-Food Diets: Prioritizing unprocessed foods that are nutrient-dense.

  • Regular Exercise: Encouraging movement tailored to your abilities.

  • Stress Management: Incorporating mindfulness, deep breathing, or meditation.

  • Sleep Hygiene: Optimizing rest to support overall health.

For actionable tips, check out our blog on the role of nutrition and lifestyle in functional medicine.


Benefits of Functional Medicine for Chronic Conditions

Functional medicine offers several advantages for managing diabetes and hypertension:

  • Personalized Care: Plans designed for your specific needs.

  • Proactive Approach: Focus on prevention and early intervention.

  • Reduced Dependency on Medications: Addressing root causes often leads to less reliance on medications (in collaboration with your primary care doctor).

  • Improved Quality of Life: Enhanced energy, better mood, and reduced symptoms.


FAQs About Functional Medicine and Chronic Conditions

Can functional medicine replace my current treatments?

Functional medicine complements conventional treatments. At Frosini Functional N.P. in Williamsville, NY, we work alongside your primary care provider to create a cohesive care plan.

How long does it take to see results?

While timelines vary, many patients notice improvements within weeks. Long-term management of chronic conditions may take several months.

Is functional medicine covered by insurance?

Coverage depends on your insurance provider. Some services may require out-of-pocket payments. For more, visit our blog on functional medicine and insurance.


External and Internal Resources

External Resources

  1. American Diabetes Association

  2. American Heart Association: Hypertension

Internal Resources


Take the First Step Toward Better Health

Managing chronic conditions doesn’t have to be a solo journey. At Frosini Functional N.P. in Williamsville, NY, we’re here to help you navigate diabetes, hypertension, and other chronic issues with personalized care plans that address the root causes.

  • Call us: (716) 201-0753

  • Visit us: 5500 Main St., Williamsville, NY

  • Email us: [email protected]

Let’s work together to improve your health and quality of life.


A Doctor of Nursing Practice, Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nurse, and Board-Certified Nurse Health Coach. She earned her Bachelor of Science degrees in Biology and Nursing from Niagara University, and her Family Nurse Practitioner and Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees from D’Youville University. Dr. Frosini is certified as a Functional Nurse Practitioner through the Elite NP and as a Nurse Health Coach through the Nurse Coach Collective. Her board certifications are through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Holistic Nurses Credentialing Center (AHNCC), which has earned Magnet status. Dr. Frosini is licensed to practice in New York State.

Maria Frosini

A Doctor of Nursing Practice, Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nurse, and Board-Certified Nurse Health Coach. She earned her Bachelor of Science degrees in Biology and Nursing from Niagara University, and her Family Nurse Practitioner and Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees from D’Youville University. Dr. Frosini is certified as a Functional Nurse Practitioner through the Elite NP and as a Nurse Health Coach through the Nurse Coach Collective. Her board certifications are through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Holistic Nurses Credentialing Center (AHNCC), which has earned Magnet status. Dr. Frosini is licensed to practice in New York State.

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