In this episode, Vanessa Vanderhoek and Daniel McInerney discuss the normalisation of symptoms that are often brushed off as common, exploring the importance of recognising these signs as potential indicators of underlying health issues. They delve into the transition from identifying symptoms to uncovering root causes through functional medicine, emphasising the role of health literacy in empowering individuals to advocate for their own health. The conversation also covers the distinctions between integrative, functional and conventional medicine, and the significance of methylation and nutrigenomics. Finally, they speculate on the future of health systems and the integration of technology in personalised medicine.   To download the free symptom assessment, click here: https://vanessavanderhoek.clickfunnels.com/symptoms   The key takeaways Normalising symptoms can lead to overlooking serious health issues. Recognising the difference between common and normal symptoms is crucial. Functional medicine focuses on identifying root causes rather than just treating symptoms. Health literacy empowers individuals to take charge of their health. Integrative medicine combines conventional and functional approaches for better health outcomes. Methylation plays a key role in detoxification and energy production. Nutrigenomics helps understand how genetics affect health and nutrition. Technology will play a significant role in future health systems, but human interaction remains essential. Asking the right questions is vital for uncovering the true health story.   Chapters 00:00 - Normalising Symptoms: A Common Misconception 03:30 - Understanding Root Causes of Health Issues 06:05 - The Role of Functional and Integrative Medicine 09:39 - Navigating Health Literacy and Patient Advocacy 14:20 - The Importance of Methylation and Nutrigenomics 24:12 - The Future of Health Care: Integrating Technology and Personalisation   To connect with Vanessa Vanderhoek, follow her on Instagram @thehealthygutnutritionist, YouTube @thehealthygutnutritionist, Facebook @thehealthygutnutritionist, and through her website www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com.   To connect with Daniel McInerney, follow him on LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/daniel-mcinerney, and through his website www.leadforward.com.au.   Keywords health, wellness, functional medicine, symptoms, root causes, integrative medicine, health literacy, methylation, nutrigenomics, vitality