Chris Kresser: Next question from Christy, “What role do you think nutraceutical protein powders and products are playing in Functional Medicine practice? I went to a detox event at a local Functional Medicine practice last night. It was put on by a nutraceutical rep and Functional Medicine practitioner for several patients of the Functional Medicine practitioner. There was a detox presentation given by the rep on toxins and detox, and then patients could sign up by purchasing the protein powder and supplements. The whole thing really rubbed me the wrong way, and I found myself asking how is this any different than the role of pharmaceutical companies and drug reps playing conventional medical practices? I’m curious what your philosophy on this is.”
Well, good question. I’m not a big fan. I don’t use those kinds of powders in my practice. I think there’s definitely a role for protein powder, in some cases, and I know some patients get good results with these detox powders. It’s just not—it’s never been part of my practice. I’ve never run programs like that with any consistency, and I think just getting patients to really focus more on the basics, eating a solid diet, changing their lifestyle and behavior, and then doing the Functional Medicine testing and treatment that we talk about is a better approach.