My pleasure @cathy5161
Navigating integrative or functional medicine in the Western world on our own requires caution, based on my experience. While there are qualified practitioners, unfortunately many charlatans exist. Both my mother and I once fell for questionable integrative doctors who charged more than our conventional physicians. Indeed, the protocol prescribed by this integrative neurologist I have been to in the past was exhausting, the same as your experience.
After these experiences, when an integrative doctor charges more than my neurologist, it immediately raises a red flag, prompting me to cancel. Fortunately, the hospital he in São Paulo (Brazil) where my current doctor practices is beginning to integrate conventional and complementary approaches, particularly for cancer patients. My father, for instance, receives Reiki sessions during his cancer treatment at this hospital. Though not curative, these sessions help him relax and improve his well-being.
Your post reminded me of some wise advice given me by my previous neurologist: "Let's try one thing at a time, otherwise we won't know what's working and what isn't."
Based on your last post, I feel you have had many experiences with functional medicine. Do you have any suggestions for identifying legitimate integrative medicine doctors and avoiding those who might be unqualified or exploitative?
Chris (@santosha)