Blog – Gut Health2023-12-03T05:58:11+00:00

Gut Health

Olena Center for Health and Wellness is a Functional Medicine Clinic with a comprehensive health approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Functional Medicine?2023-06-26T04:25:10+00:00

Functional medicine is a science-based, individualized approach to health that goes beyond traditional medicine. It finds the root cause of illness by focusing on gut health, metabolism, hormones, environment, and genetics. A personalized diet, nutritional supplementation, and lifestyle plan is designed for your unique profile to achieve health. The Institute for Functional Medicine’s website (ifm.org) has detailed information regarding our practice model.

How is functional medicine different from holistic medicine?2023-06-26T04:25:41+00:00

Both functional and holistic medicine focus on the total body. Functional medicine focuses on interactions between genetics, environment, and lifestyle that impact health. Holistic medicine has a spiritual approach to the body, mind, and soul.

Can you help me with my health problem?2023-06-26T04:26:23+00:00

Functional medicine can help with many health problems, such as fatigue, sleep problems, indigestion, weight gain, and hormonal imbalances. If you’re on multiple medications, want to get to the root of your symptoms, or want more natural ways to optimize your health, functional medicine can help you.

What diseases do you treat?2023-06-26T04:26:39+00:00

As a board-certified internist, I am experienced with chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiac, inflammatory, gastrointestinal, and autoimmune diseases. I also treat fatigue, weight gain, hormone imbalances, and gut dysfunction, such as bloating and gas.

Can I benefit from functional medicine if I don’t have a chronic illness?2023-06-26T04:26:56+00:00

Absolutely! In addition to treating illness, functional medicine also emphasizes prevention for health maintenance.

Is Dr. Shimizu a primary care provider?2023-06-26T04:27:17+00:00

No, I am not a primary care provider. I will work with you as a functional medicine consultant to address the cause of your chronic health problems and discuss them with your primary care provider if necessary.

Who can Dr. Shimizu See?2023-06-26T04:28:15+00:00

Dr. Shimizu is licensed to practice Internal Medicine (adult medicine) in the state of Hawaii.

Do you prescribe medications?2023-06-26T04:28:31+00:00

Yes, when necessary.

Do you recommend supplements and herbs?2023-06-26T04:28:48+00:00

Yes, when necessary.

What about laboratory testing?2023-07-03T17:40:38+00:00

I review the traditional labs obtained by your primary provider, such as cholesterol levels and blood counts. Depending on your health goals, I recommend further testing. Some examples are specialized metabolic tests, gut health, environmental toxins, or food sensitivity tests. Some of these specialized testing are not covered by insurance and are out-of-pocket.

What is the cost of these services? Does insurance cover it?2023-07-03T18:17:03+00:00

Functional medicine is considered complementary alternative medicine; not all insurance plans cover this service. You will pay at the time of your visit, and I will provide a superbill for you if you wish to submit the claim to your insurance or apply to your flexible spending accounts (FSA). We currently accept traditional Medicare.

Rates:Initial visit (60 minutes): $300 – Second visit (45 minutes): $225 – Follow-up visits (20 minutes): $100 – Initial Visit Package (first three visits included): $700

How do I get started?2023-06-26T04:29:56+00:00

Go to Olena Center’s online scheduler to schedule an initial appointment. (make this a click here) You will complete health questionnaires and upload available medical records before your appointment. During the first visit, you and I will discuss your health history, family history, diet, and lifestyle habits. I will review different approaches to your health and make some suggestions for change at this time. I may also recommend laboratory testing. The second visit is generally 1-2 months later. At this time, I will evaluate your progress and further personalize your care plan. I may recommend additional dietary changes, supplements, lifestyle changes, and possibly medications. The timing for additional follow-up visits will depend on your customized plan.

What is required?2023-06-26T04:30:17+00:00

Just your desire to reach optimal health and openness for change.

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