Everything you need to know about Functional Medicine

What is Functional Medicine?

Rather than treating individual symptoms, Functional Medicine focusses on optimal function of the entire body and its organs. It is designed to address the underlying causes of disease using a systems-oriented approach in a collaborative doctor-patient partnership. A great deal of time is devoted to understanding the conditions and history in which the disease manifested. Genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors all have a direct influence on long-term health and chronic health issues.

What is Dr. Clegg’s method?

Dr Clegg predominately utilizes the Kalish Method, which is a functional medicine lab based health approach focussing on addressing five common conditions – fatigue, weight gain, depression, digestive problems and female hormone imbalances – through restoring the three main body systems: hormones, digestion and detoxification.

How is Dr Clegg’s method different from other practitioners?

Conventional medicine generally has a poor understanding of these five common chronic conditions of weight gain, fatigue, depression, hormone imbalances and digestive problems. The majority of doctors focus on supressing symptoms through drugs and surgery rather than correcting the root cause of disease.

Most medical doctors also don’t know how to treat a disease process at the subclinical stage. This refers to a disease that isn’t yet showing any recognizable symptoms. The lab tests do show imbalances and these biomarkers that are out of the ideal range are usually best treated with micronutrient replacement or by correcting a hormonal imbalance. People in this stage cannot be prescribed any drugs so they are usually dismissed and told everything is normal and to wait until they become more ill so a certain drug can be prescribed.

What is Dr Clegg’s success rate for someone who suffers from “Adrenal Fatigue” (HPA axis dysregulation)?

Dr Clegg uses the exact protocols and supplements as prescribed by Dr Kalish. These protocols have been used on 1000’s of patients worldwide with great success. These programs however are heavily dependent on the diligence of each client. The supplement program is responsible for 50% of the improvements, the other 50% comes from the lifestyle changes that each client must commit to in order for them to successfully recover. Dr Clegg is committed to assisting and empowering his clients in their health journey, this website is designed to provide the information and resources for them to help achieve their goals.

How long does it take to get results?

Results vary from person to person depending on the severity of their health complaints. Some people feel dramatic improvement within the first month, others can take three months to start to feel noticeable improvements. Our standard programs last a minimum of six months. Remember, you didn’t just lose your health overnight, years of stress or poor lifestyle choices can cause considerable damage, and it will take time for your body to heal and repair. Most of our clients on average feel 10-20% improvements each month as long as the program is adhered to.

How quickly can I get an appointment?

We encourage clients to book at least 1 week in advance.

What happens in the initial consultation?

Once you have made an appointment over the phone or via email you are welcome to fill out the relevant history form online. The forms are found under the ‘Forms’ tab on this website. The forms must be filled out at least 48 hours prior to the initial consultation. We also ask that you fill out the credit card details form and send via email any previous tests you have had within the last 2 years.

The initial consultation lasts approximately 45 minutes. Dr Clegg will review your health history and make recommendations for lab tests and any relevant lifestyle changes.

How long are the consultations?

Initial new client consultations are 45 minutes. Follow up lab result consultations can be schedules for 30 minutes if you have 1 -2 tests or 45 minutes if you have 2 – 4 tests. Existing client follow up consultations can be scheduled for 15, 30, 45 or 60 minutes.

Do you offer phone consultations for people outside of Sydney?

Yes, Dr Clegg has many clients from interstate and NZ. Go To Webinar is the preferred method for consultations and calls are recorded for your convenience.

How many lab tests are required per person?

The number of labs recommended depends on your individual situation, the type of health complaints and the length of time that you have been struggling with these health complaints. The more labs you complete the more information can be gathered that can help in your treatment protocol. The number of labs generally ranges from 1 – 4.

How long do the lab tests take to come back?

Two of the labs we use are located in the US meaning that it can take up to 3 weeks to receive your lab results. During the time it takes to receive the results Dr Clegg will work with you to address the four important lifestyle factors of sleep, diet, meditation and exercise. The lifestyle changes can be implemented quite quickly which will help the healing process.

Can I just order these tests from my medical doctor?

Dr Clegg uses specialized functional medicine lab tests from smaller lab companies which the majority of medical doctors do not use due to restraints from Medicare. Australia is a small market and many of the tests have to be shipped to labs in the US such as Precision Analytical and Genova Diagnostics. Some local labs do run CDSA tests so it’s best to check with Dr Clegg whether or not these tests are suitable.

What laboratories does Dr Clegg use and why?

From years of practice and clinical research Dr Clegg has learned that the accuracy and quality of the laboratories which are used in the testing procedure is key to delivering great outcomes for his patients. It is no point using an inferior laboratory that is not as accurate or sensitive as other laboratories which are available. Quality is not equal across all lab companies, many times a “normal” test comes back from other labs when there is in fact many “functional” problems which are identified from out lab companies. These are not replacements for regular medical tests and the lab tests are designed to diagnose any pathology or disease process. We are attempting to detect problems with the functioning of organ systems prior to the onset of a disease. This is commonly called a “sub-clinical” state.

What type of lab tests are required?

Depending on the type of test, the samples used are either saliva, urine or stool. All tests are completed by the client through easy home collection methods in the comfort of your own home. Dr Clegg generally does not order blood tests if required he will advise on the tests that may be required.

What are the fees for consultations?

New patient initial consultation: 45 minutes for $265
Lab result approximate consultation time for 1 – 2 labs: 30 minutes for $150
Lab result approximate consultation time for 3 labs: 45 minutes for $225
All follow up consultations are in 15 minute time blocks.
15 min: $75
30 min: $150
45 min: $225
60 min: $300
All consultations will be billed for the actual time used.

How much do the lab tests cost?

Depending on the lab test, the cost is $150 - $550 per lab kit and you can always start a program just by ordering a single test.


The new patient consultation is an assessment of your health and recommendations on which lab tests will be required to understand the state of your body systems. It does not include any follow ups, test kits or supplements. It does include extensive wellness resources including e-books and handouts.

What types of payment does Dr Clegg accept?

Methods of payment are: Eftpos, Visa, Mastercard, American Express or cash

How does Dr Clegg bill his clients?

Payment is due at the time of consultation. A credit card number is required to be on file with our office prior to the consultation. The credit card authorization form is found on this site under the “Forms” section.

Are the lab tests covered under Medicare?

No, unfortunately these tests do not qualify for a rebate under Medicare.

Can I claim anything under my private health insurance?

Yes, in most cases you can claim a benefit through your private health insurance.

How much time do I have to cancel or change a scheduled appointment?

If you are unable to keep your scheduled appointment, please notify our office at least 24 hours before your appointment or you may be charged for that appointment. As a courtesy you will receive a reminder email one day in advance.

What supplements are used to support adrenal fatigue?

Depending on the results of your lab tests, Dr Clegg uses the protocols as outlined by Dr Kalish. For the exact supplements please enquire with the clinic. Patients can also access specific information regarding each product in the patient portal accessed through this website.

How long are the programs that Dr Clegg recommends?

Initial programs range anywhere from 3 – 6 months depending on the degree of your health condition.

How often should I retest?

While retesting isn’t required, it is a recommendation that you retest at the 6 month mark to measure improvement and adjust protocols if needed. Once a client has achieved their desired health results, yearly testing is recommended to ensure your body systems continue functioning at their best

What is Dr Clegg’s background?

Dr Clegg is a chiropractor by training. He has been practicing for over 16 years and his focus has been on functional medicine for the last 5 years.

Is Dr Clegg an MD?

Dr Clegg is not a medical doctor; he does not service medical emergencies, diagnose or issue treatment protocols for any specific diseases. If you have a medical emergency, you must contact your GP or dial 000

Can I email Dr Clegg with any questions/concerns?

Dr Clegg is happy to answer brief questions that you have about your protocol or symptoms via email. If it is a complex question which requires further back and forth communication, Dr Clegg will recommend scheduling a 15 minute consultation.


We completely understand that for many people prioritizing a wellness plan requires major life changes. Getting other household members on board with the lifestyle changes can help with you adhering to the program. There is also plenty of material in the patient portal to help your health journey. Please reach out to our clinic for further support when needed.

What is in the patient portal?

All of our patients have access to the patient portal where you can access your lab results, programs, supplement information, diet resources, and other material that can be helpful for making the lifestyle changes regarding meditation, sleep and exercise.

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Dr. Adrian Clegg



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