The advancements in medical treatments, interventions, medications, care methods, and post-treatment support within the healthcare system result from extensive research. The high standard of care we benefit from today is not a sudden development but rather the outcome of years of dedicated efforts invested by healthcare professionals. Indian Association of Functional Medicine (IAFM) is a community that represents Functional Medicine Practitioners in India. Its mission is to promote the progress of science, research, education, and additional training within the field. Dr. Prritii, President of the Indian Association of Functional Medicine works passionately to help people reverse Diabetes while helping them have awesome gut health as she is on a mission to make India diabetes free through her initiative 'Peak Wellness Functional Medicine Clinic'. Dr. Prritii Nanda Sibal is also an author and motivating speaker to inspires people to heal themselves Inside Out.

During a candid interview with us, she provided insights into the industry, discussed the operational aspects of the organisation, and shared her future aspirations within the association.

Could you shed some light on your educational history? What inspired you to enter the healthcare field?

In my upbringing, there was a prevailing expectation for individuals to pursue a career in medicine or engineering, particularly within our family. My father strongly desired me to become a doctor and fortunately, I was underage for IIT entrance so I sat for the Punjab Medical Test (PMT), resulting in my selection. After approximately 20 years in corporate life, I transitioned back to the healthcare sector to address my own health concerns. Reflecting on it now, destiny seemed to play a role, pushing me towards a path I might have been trying to avoid – that of becoming a doctor/healer. Now when I connect the dots, I've come to accept and embrace this calling. I am blessed with two sons who are graduates of IIT Delhi and NLU Jodhpur. Their constant motivation and inspiration, coupled with unwavering support from my loving husband, fuel my drive in all initiatives.

Could you elaborate on your expertise as a Functional Medicine Specialist? How does your specialised knowledge benefit the individuals under your care?

Drawing from a background in both medicine and management, I specialise in functional medicine – a holistic approach that delves into the root causes of ailments, placing a substantial focus on belief systems, stress management, and lifestyle factors. Unlike conventional treatments, my approach prioritises patient well-being and swift recovery, acknowledging individual uniqueness and emphasising genetics, environment, and lifestyle. Epigenetics, highlighting genetic changes influenced by the environment, aligns with the functional medicine emphasis on food's role in activating specific genes. Considering prevalent nutritional deficiencies exacerbated by depleted soil and sedentary lifestyles, coupled with the impact of heavy metals and pesticides on overall health, my approach extends beyond symptom management.

Having successfully reversed my own diabetes, I comprehend the intricacies of the condition, addressing issues like memory loss, weight gain, fatigue, and hypothyroidism through a holistic functional medicine approach. Functional medicine, as I practice it, seeks to uncover and address the underlying causes of illness or dysfunction by focusing on factors such as nutrition, stress, genetics, and environmental exposures. Functional medicine, a patient-centred paradigm, values individual genetic makeup, environment, and lifestyle, recognising the body's interconnected systems. Practitioners, including myself, identify and rectify imbalances, fostering optimal function. Unlike relying solely on medications, this approach integrates personalised strategies - lifestyle modifications, nutrition, and stress management - facilitating natural healing processes.

In your view, what are the primary obstacles you face in your present position, and what measures do you implement to navigate and address these challenges?

The primary challenge lies in raising awareness and bridging the gap between healthcare and industry. Our mission is to create a diabetes-free environment and to achieve this, we actively seek strategic industry partnerships. By fostering collaborations, we aim to expedite our growth and collectively combat diabetes. Our commitment extends beyond individual efforts, recognising the transformative power of partnerships for meaningful change. Through these alliances, we aspire to leverage shared expertise, resources, and innovations for a comprehensive approach to diabetes. Addressing supplement availability is a gradual venture, and agriculture is the next area we plan to explore. I am dedicated to training nutritionists for improved gut health, working towards a diabetes-free India.

Share with us the major milestones you have reached in your professional journey to date.

Since 1994, my journey spans diverse roles, from corporate positions to pivotal involvement in getting Indian journals on PUBMED in 2008, expanding global content access. I transformed 50 Indian Institute of Engineers journals into an online format, ensuring worldwide reach. As Vice President at NOVA Speciality Hospitals, I expanded fertility chains and surgical centres, broadening healthcare access. Overseeing VLCC operations was a crucial learning phase.

Independently, I've assisted over 3000 individuals in reversing diabetes, collaborated with 40 type one diabetes patients, supported 5000 patients dealing with autoimmunity and gut health, and worked with 30 plus migraine patients, aiding in overcoming migraines. My ventures in the realm of supplements, focusing on Autoimmunity care, and another venture called Two Sisters play a crucial role in fostering community health by addressing specific autoimmunity needs.

Dr. Prritii Nanda Sibal, President, Indian Association Of Functional Medicine

With 29 years in healthcare, Dr. Prritii Nanda Sibal helps individuals reverse diabetes, manage cravings, and lose weight without hunger. Her expertise extends to improving cognitive abilities and addressing various health issues, including gut health, infections, allergies, and hormonal imbalances like PCOD, menopause, fibroids, mood disorders, and fatigue. Dr. Prritii Nanda Sibal is the creator of the Cyclic Keto framework and serves as the CEO of Mediskool Health Services. She also holds the position of President at IAFM and serves as a Director at A2P Wellness and Two Sisters Healthcare. Dr. Prritii Nanda offers three programs: 'Crush Diabetes,' 'Gutsy India Happy India,' and 'Peak Wellness Is Possible.'