
Our Unique Health Approach
What is Functional Medicine?
Instead of just managing symptoms, we take the time to listen, investigate, and uncover what’s really going on in your body.
Your genetics, lifestyle, and environment all play a role in your health, and we use this information to create a personalised plan that helps you feel better in the long term.
This is medicine designed around you—rooted in science, focused on lasting solutions.
What Problems Do We Treat?
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The gastrointestinal system is our major interface to the outside world. It is our first line of defence internally, the place where our first exposure happens and where we decide if we are immune-tolerant of the world or inflamed by the world.
We can work with you to investigate your gut health issues and uncover the real cause of your symptoms.
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At Lantern Clinic, we view common conditions such as PCOS, Endometriosis, and Perimenopause as signs of underlying hormonal imbalances rather than distinct, isolated conditions. Our approach delves deeper into the intricate hormonal pathways, analysing the complex hormonal cascade to uncover the root causes. We are fortunate to offer innovative, high-end hormonal testing, such as the DUTCH test, which provides detailed insights into hormone function. Dr. Kitova-John has extensive experience with body-identical hormones and natural menopause herbal therapies. At Lantern Clinic, you won’t just receive a prescription; you’ll be provided with a personalised solution and treatment plan designed to support your unique hormonal health.
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The human immune system is complex and powerful, constantly working to distinguish between friend and foe. The gastrointestinal tract, as the largest surface organ in the body, serves as a primary defence line, with a significant portion of the immune system concentrated there. However, this system doesn't always function perfectly. In autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism for example or rheumatological diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis), and autoimmune skin conditions (like psoriasis), the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, leading to chronic inflammation and damage. Increasing evidence shows a strong connection between gut health and these autoimmune disorders, suggesting that addressing gut health can be a key component in managing these conditions and improving overall health outcomes.
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At Lantern Clinic, we don’t accept that heart attacks (MI), strokes(CVA), or even dementia are simply down to bad luck. We take a functional approach, recognising the interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental factors, also known as the exposome. This includes lifestyle, diet, and stress—all of which play a role in cardiovascular health and, increasingly, in the progression of conditions like dementia. By addressing these influences through a holistic approach, we aim to reduce future risks and optimise your long-term health outcomes, offering personalised strategies to improve heart and brain health.
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Obesity and diabetes are complex conditions rooted in metabolic and hormonal imbalances. Obesity, in particular, drives insulin resistance, which not only increases the risk of diabetes but also raises the likelihood of cancer. Chronic inflammation often accompanies these imbalances, further complicating the picture. At Lantern Clinic, we take a functional approach, focusing on identifying the underlying imbalances, such as insulin resistance and inflammation. We utilise advanced functional testing, including Metabolomix and Theriome, to gain deeper insights into your health. By pinpointing key triggers and mediators, we aim to help the body regain balance, reduce inflammation, and support long-term health.
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Low testosterone and erectile dysfunction (ED) are common concerns that can significantly impact men’s health and quality of life. From a functional perspective, ED is often an early sign of cardiovascular disease, making it crucial to address the root causes early. At Lantern Clinic, we offer a holistic approach through our Testosterone-enhancing lifestyle program, delivering transformative results for men. This includes access to our Emsella treatment, designed to improve pelvic floor health and sexual function. Dr. Kitova-John has extensive clinical experience in sexual health and combines conventional medication, lifestyle modifications, and holistic health advice to provide comprehensive, personalised care for men.
Hallmarks of Functional Medicine
Patient-Centred, Relationship-Based Care
We see you as a whole person — not just a diagnosis. Functional Medicine begins by listening deeply to your story. We prioritise health as vitality, not simply the absence of illness. Your values, history, and goals guide the process, allowing us to co-create a care plan that reflects your unique biology and life circumstances.
Root-Cause, Science-Informed Healthcare
We don’t just manage symptoms — we ask why. Our team looks “upstream” to understand the complex web of genetic, environmental, emotional, and lifestyle factors that contribute to chronic disease. We use systems biology to connect the dots between your past and present health and uncover the root causes driving dysfunction.
Integrated Tools for Personalised Healing
Functional Medicine at Lantern Clinic blends the best of modern medicine with lifestyle-based, nutritional, and holistic therapies. Our goal is prevention, optimisation, and recovery — using every available tool to support your body’s healing potential. We integrate:
Advanced laboratory testing
Personalised nutrition and supplementation
Herbal and botanical medicine
Therapeutic diets
Mind-body techniques and stress management
Food as Medicine, Lifestyle as Treatment
At Lantern Clinic, we’ve seen firsthand that many chronic conditions can be prevented, treated, and even reversed with the right approach. Instead of just prescribing medication, Functional Medicine focuses on the power of nutrition, lifestyle, and personalised care to support long-term health. By addressing diet, movement, stress, sleep, and environment, we help you take control of your health naturally—without just masking symptoms.
How It Works
Functional Medicine takes a deep dive into your health to uncover the root cause of your symptoms, rather than just treating them.
Step 1: Understanding You – We take the time to listen, reviewing your full medical history, lifestyle, genetics, and environmental factors.
Step 2: Advanced Testing – We go beyond standard tests to assess gut health, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and nutrient levels.
Step 3: Personalised Plan – Your treatment is tailored to you, using nutrition, targeted supplements, lifestyle changes, and expert medical guidance
Step 4: Ongoing Support – Functional Medicine is a journey, not a quick fix. We help you make sustainable changes for long-term health and well-being.
By treating the whole person, not just symptoms, Functional Medicine empowers you to take control of your health and feel your best.
Real Stories, Real Results