Functional nutrition is an emerging area within the broader health and wellness industry that emphasizes using dietary practices and nutritional interventions to prevent, manage, and treat chronic diseases and improve overall health. This approach also aligns with and adopts "Food as Medicine" principles, recognizing the therapeutic properties of food. Its personalized and holistic approach to health and wellness goes beyond simply managing symptoms or treating specific diseases; instead, it addresses the root causes of health issues by considering an individual's unique biochemistry, lifestyle factors, environmental influences, and overall well-being. This approach recognizes that each individual has distinct nutritional needs and that one-size-fits-all dietary recommendations are often inadequate for optimal health.

Unlike traditional nutrition, which primarily emphasizes the basic sustenance provided by foods, functional nutrition prioritizes the therapeutic potential of specific nutrients and bioactive compounds. It also focuses on personalizing dietary plans based on genetics, biomarkers, lifestyle, and health history to address chronic diseases and prevent potential diseases. In addition to the individual's diet, their stress levels, sleep patterns, physical activity, and other lifestyle factors are also considered to enhance overall wellness. 

The industry's nutrition-focused approach to wellness has garnered interest not just from those with health conditions but also from generally health-conscious individuals looking to maintain healthier lifestyles.

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