The Institute for Functional Medicine’s Annual International Conference

In May, I had the pleasure of attending The Institute for Functional Medicine’s Annual International Conference in Las Vegas. This event is the largest functional medicine conference, boasting 1,200 attendees. For many participants, this was their first introduction to functional medicine education. Notably, 20% of the attendees were international physicians interested in bringing the American functional medicine model to their countries, which made me appreciate our access to American lab and supplement companies even more.

I participated in a small group pre-conference session led by Dr. Jeffrey Bland and Dr. Mark Hyman. In this intimate setting, we explored cutting-edge research on enhancing the immune system’s ability to defend against and recover from illness and dysfunction. Drs. Bland and Hyman shared thoughts, anecdotes, and reflections on the evolving landscape of healthcare and the role of functional medicine in shaping a healthier future. I was also front row for the recording of Dr. Hyman’s Podcast, “The Doctor’s Farmacy,” featuring a discussion with Drs. Hyman and Bland. If you listen to any functional medicine podcast, this is the episode to catch!

Dr Bland and Dr Hyman

Podcast Link:

I was also selected to attend an exclusive and private lunch with Drs. Bland and Hyman after the pre-conference session. The opportunity to share a meal with two of the biggest leaders in functional medicine was incredibly exciting!

Pictured: Drs. Bland, Sebby, and Hyman

The 2024 Institute for Functional Medicine Annual International Conference explored new paradigms in medicine, providing clinicians with innovative approaches for optimizing health at every level of care. The broad range of topics included a muscle-centric approach to perimenopause, reevaluating protein requirements, the vagus nerve, genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, longevity, oral microbiome, phytobiome, circadian rhythm optimization, pediatric nutrition, regenerative farming, and a functional medicine approach to macular degeneration.

One of the highlights was a luncheon where Halle Berry (yes, the actress!) spoke about her personal health challenges with diabetes and menopause, which she has successfully managed through functional medicine. She has been an active voice for menopausal women and has supported gut health as a primary focus during perimenopause and beyond.

After such informative and inspiring conferences, I plan to spend the summer catching up on reading and reviewing the newest information. In the fall, I will attend a few more conferences that I participate in annually. My passion for natural and functional medicine drives my motivation to be a lifelong learner so I can best treat YOU! I will continue to stay at the forefront of the latest research and hone my clinical skills. I hope you enjoyed reading my reflections on this recent conference!