Ep. 39 | From Standard Medicine to Functional Practice for Kingdom Purposes with Dr. Ben Edwards

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Dr. Ben's Transformative Journey: Embracing Functional Medicine for True Healing

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, few stories resonate as deeply as that of Dr. Ben. His shift from conventional medicine to functional practice highlights the shortcomings of traditional approaches while illuminating a path toward healing that aligns with the God-given ability of our bodies to restore themselves. Let’s explore Dr. Ben's experiences and the pivotal moments that shaped his medical philosophy.

The Shortcomings of Conventional Medicine

Dr. Ben began his medical journey on a conventional path, inspired by his family of esteemed doctors. He pursued education at UT Houston Medical School, training at top institutions like MD Anderson Cancer Hospital. In his early career, he strictly adhered to the symptom-treatment model, diagnosing illnesses and prescribing medications. However, he quickly became disillusioned as he realized that this approach often left patients stuck in a cycle of temporary relief without true healing.

Despite following the established protocols, Dr. Ben noticed something troubling: while patients might receive symptomatic relief, many were not genuinely getting better. They continued to suffer from chronic issues, and he witnessed an alarming trend of young children presenting with adult diseases like type 2 diabetes. This pattern revealed a critical flaw in the conventional model, which often ignored the underlying causes of these health issues.

A Life-Changing Revelation

The turning point in Dr. Ben’s journey came when his nurse practitioner, Shane, experienced a remarkable transformation. Shane had celiac disease and reported a cure after following the guidance of a holistic doctor he met at a bed and breakfast. Witnessing Shane eat gluten without adverse effects was an eye-opening moment for Dr. Ben, prompting him to question the limitations of conventional medicine and explore alternative healing methods.

Dr. Ben began to delve into holistic theories and practices. Through rigorous study and firsthand experiences, he discovered that many chronic diseases are not true diseases but consequences of inflammation and other underlying issues often overlooked by conventional practices. This realization sparked his belief that our bodies possess incredible healing capabilities, designed by God, when supported by the right lifestyle choices.

Aligning with God-Given Healing Abilities

Dr. Ben shifted his focus to the four pillars of health—nutrition, hydration, movement, and peace—which he believes were revealed by God. He understood that by addressing these foundational aspects, patients could unlock their innate ability to heal. Instead of merely managing symptoms through pharmaceuticals, Dr. Ben advocated for holistic methods that align with the body’s natural healing processes.

This shift was not without its challenges. Embracing a new model of care meant facing skepticism from the conventional medical community and dealing with financial pressures in a system that favored quick fixes. Ultimately, Dr. Ben was asked to leave the county clinic where he had worked hard to build a thriving practice.

Finding Freedom in a New Approach

Despite these setbacks, Dr. Ben found freedom in his new approach to healthcare. He began prioritizing quality over quantity, spending more time with fewer patients. This allowed him to address the underlying issues that contributed to their health challenges. By focusing on lifestyle changes and natural supplementation, he was able to guide his patients toward true healing—one that recognizes and nurtures their God-given ability to restore balance and health.

A unique aspect of Dr. Ben's practice is his integration of faith and spirituality into healthcare. He believes that true health encompasses emotional and spiritual well-being alongside physical wellness. This holistic approach not only helps cure diseases but also nurtures wholeness in patients, reflecting the divine design of our bodies.

Challenging the Status Quo

Dr. Ben’s journey also confronted the challenges posed by the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Standing firm in his principles, he faced criticism for questioning universal protocols like mask mandates and advocating for strong immune health through natural methods. His commitment to educating his patients about holistic health, rooted in faith and integrity, remained unwavering.

Conclusion: A Testament to Faith and Healing

Dr. Ben’s story is more than a transition from one medical practice to another; it’s a journey of discovery, faith, and the relentless pursuit of true health. His dedication to integrating functional medicine with holistic and spiritual principles serves as an inspiration for healthcare professionals and anyone seeking a deeper, more comprehensive understanding of health and well-being.

Thank you, Dr. Ben, for sharing your journey. We look forward to witnessing the continued impact of your work and the lives you touch through your holistic approach to medicine, reflecting the incredible healing potential bestowed upon us by God.

Connect with Dr. Ben:

• Instagram: @drbenedwards 

Connect with Allison:

• Instagram: @allison_and_wellness

• Facebook: allisonandwellness

• Website: www.allisonandwellness.com

WELCOME TO WHAT THE GUT

Are you a busy mom seeking balance and wellness? Join me on this journey towards vitality and holistic health. I understand the challenges of juggling endless tasks while striving for a healthier life.

In this podcast, we dive into the nitty-gritty of everyday struggles. From battling fatigue to navigating gut health, I'm here to offer holistic solutions. Say farewell to feeling overwhelmed and let's bring in that vibrant life you've been craving.

I'm Allison, a Holistic Health and Wellness Coach. I've been right where you are, facing the same hurdles. Through faith and functional medicine, I reclaimed my gut health, energy, and well-being. Now, I'm on a mission to help other moms break free from exhaustion and prioritize their health.

This podcast is your haven, providing actionable insights, functional medicine expertise, and tailored lifestyle strategies. Let's unravel the secrets together, empowering you to thrive in motherhood while nurturing your well-being, guided by faith.