Most traditional doctors don’t do this testing because they don’t have the experience or training or are too busy or skeptical to invest the time to learn.

Typically, any blood work that is requested from a lab that’s on your insurance plan is covered. However, you may also take Functional Medicine tests, which include urine, stool or saliva kits that you take home, and/or have blood drawn at the Center and generally these things are not covered by insurance. Prices vary depending on which test you take and reimbursement depends on your insurance.

While The Blum Center for Health doesn’t accept insurance, we are happy to provide you with the appropriate documentation and properly coded forms for you to submit to your insurance company. Most patients with out-of-network benefits, who satisfy their deductible, are reimbursed.

The Center is open Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 5 pm and Friday from 9 am to 3 pm. On Saturdays, we’ll be open for special workshops.

During your initial visit, which will last from 1 to 1.5 hours, the clinical nutritionist will ask you questions about your medical history, family history and personal lifestyle. She will also review any recent blood work (so bring this with you), a one-day food diary that you should keep prior to your appointment and any herbs, supplements or medicines that you take regularly (so please make a list of these or bring the actual bottles with you). This will provide a full picture of your nutritional lifestyle that will help her create your nutritional program.

Dr. Blum and Elizabeth have an integrative approach to practicing medicine. The treatment plans they create combine Western medical practices, such as prescription medications, with what are sometimes considered “alternative” or “integrative” approaches like nutrition, supplements and stress-management techniques. As a result, Dr. Blum and Elizabeth understand the medications you are on and can work with you as a complement to your current medical regimen. That said, if you are interested in getting off some or all of your current medications, Dr. Blum and Elizabeth will work with your prescribing doctor toward this goal. They will never change your existing medication; your prescribing doctor will change it if he/she sees you don’t need it anymore. For example, as you and Dr. Blum or Elizabeth work towards lowering your cholesterol, your levels will drop lower and lower on lab testing. Then, you (or Dr. Blum/Elizabeth) can talk to your doctor about reducing your cholesterol-lowering medication.

After the second visit, you can expect to come back in one month to review your progress on the program. This and future visits should last no more than one hour. At this point, your individual medical condition and program will determine the frequency or need for follow up visits.

Native to Peru, quinoa has become known as a superfood because of its high nutritional value. This grain-like food contains a balance of essential amino acids and is a good source of dietary fiber and minerals. Small like rice but lighter and nutty, quinoa goes great with vegetables, tofu, tempeh and lean meat, poultry and fish. It can even be used in baking.

This is a great one-pot meal that you can whip up for a party or stash in the freezer for those chilly winter days. The mix of beans make this high in protein and fiber and the spices are loaded with healing properties. Top the chili with slices of avocado for some healthy fat or serve it over brown rice.