Metabolic Balance® Nutritional Programmes

Personalised Nutrition Within an Integrated Clinical Approach

Metabolic Balance® is a structured nutritional programme that uses a patient’s medical history, health measurements and blood-test results to generate an individualised food plan.

At The Health Equation, the programme is not used as a stand-alone diet or rapid weight-loss solution. Gerry incorporates it within a wider clinical assessment that considers metabolic health, existing medical conditions, medication, hormonal influences, gastrointestinal function, sleep, stress, breathing, physical activity and the patient’s ability to make sustainable changes.

The programme may be considered for patients seeking support with weight management, metabolic health, blood-sugar regulation or the development of a more structured and sustainable approach to eating. It may also provide nutritional support for selected patients using, or considering withdrawal from, GLP-1 medications under appropriate medical supervision.

What Is Metabolic Balance®?

Metabolic Balance® was developed in Germany by Dr Wolf Funfack, a physician specialising in internal medicine and nutritional medicine. It is now used internationally by trained practitioners and coaches.

Following clinical assessment and blood testing, the patient’s information is entered into the official Metabolic Balance® system to produce an individualised list of foods, portion sizes and meal combinations.

The programme is based around ordinary whole foods rather than meal replacements, shakes or heavily processed diet products. Its structured principles include:

• Three meals each day.
• Defined intervals between meals without routine snacking.
• A varied intake of protein-containing foods.
• Vegetables, fruit and other individually selected carbohydrate sources.
• Appropriate dietary fats.
• Adequate hydration.
• Gradual transition from a more structured initial phase towards a sustainable long-term eating pattern.

Although the food plan is generated individually, successful implementation still requires clinical interpretation, appropriate coaching and adaptation to the patient’s medical needs, preferences and daily life.

Why Personalised Nutrition Matters

General nutritional guidance can provide a useful starting point, but people differ considerably in their health, metabolism, medication, food preferences, activity levels and capacity to make dietary changes.

Factors that may influence an individual’s nutritional needs and response to food include:

• Blood-sugar regulation and insulin sensitivity.
• Body composition and metabolic health.
• Liver, kidney and gastrointestinal function.
• Hormonal and reproductive health.
• Inflammation and existing medical conditions.
• Medication and nutritional supplements.
• Sleep, psychological stress and breathing behaviour.
• Physical activity and exercise.
• Food allergies, intolerances and personal preferences.

Personalisation does not mean that every food response can be predicted precisely from a blood test. Rather, the Metabolic Balance® plan provides an individual structure that Gerry interprets within the wider clinical picture and adjusts where clinically appropriate. Regular review helps determine whether the programme remains suitable and whether measurable health markers are improving.

Gerry’s Experience with Metabolic Balance®

Gerry introduced Metabolic Balance® into his clinical practice in 2008 after training with German colleagues involved in the early development and teaching of the programme.

His background in osteopathy, functional nutrition, applied pathophysiology and integrated medicine enables him to consider the nutritional plan alongside the patient’s wider health rather than focusing solely on weight loss.

Gerry has used Metabolic Balance® with patients presenting with a wide range of metabolic and nutritional challenges. He has also lectured and provided clinical education for other practitioners on incorporating the programme safely and appropriately within healthcare practice.

At The Health Equation, progress is evaluated through clinical review, body measurements and, where appropriate, repeat laboratory testing. This allows recommendations to be based upon the patient’s response rather than assumed benefits.

Who May Benefit from Metabolic Balance®?

The programme may be considered for adults who would like structured and individualised support with:

• Weight reduction or long-term weight maintenance.
• Insulin resistance, prediabetes or type 2 diabetes alongside appropriate medical care.
• Metabolic syndrome.
• Raised cholesterol or triglycerides.
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or other metabolic liver concerns.
• Persistent hunger, food cravings or habitual snacking.
• Irregular eating patterns and difficulty maintaining previous dietary changes.
• Reduced energy associated with nutritional or metabolic factors.
• Preserving nutritional quality and muscle health during medically supported weight loss.
• Establishing sustainable eating habits after GLP-1 medication.
• Improving general metabolic health and reducing future risk.

Metabolic Balance® is not automatically suitable for every patient. Medical conditions, medication, pregnancy, eating-disorder history, nutritional requirements and the ability to follow a structured programme must be considered before starting.

Patients with diabetes or other conditions affected by dietary change may require medication review and ongoing monitoring by their GP or relevant medical specialist. Prescribed medication should never be reduced or discontinued without appropriate medical supervision.

Starting with a Diagnostic Consultation

New patients considering Metabolic Balance® should first book a 60-minute Diagnostic Consultation with Gerry.

This consultation is used to:

• Review the patient’s medical history, symptoms and health priorities.
• Consider previous dietary approaches and reasons they may not have been sustainable.
• Review current medication and nutritional supplements.
• Assess weight history, body composition and metabolic risk.
• Explore sleep, stress, breathing, exercise and gastrointestinal function.
• Review previous blood tests and investigations.
• Identify any contraindications or need for additional medical assessment.
• Decide whether Metabolic Balance® is the most appropriate nutritional approach.

Metabolic Balance® will not necessarily be recommended simply because a patient requests the programme. Where another form of nutritional, medical or psychological support would be more suitable, Gerry will explain the alternatives.

For established patients whose health has already been assessed, a shorter programme-entry consultation may be appropriate. The initial Diagnostic Consultation for new patients is separate from the Metabolic Balance® programme fee.

Blood Testing and Clinical Assessment

Where the programme is considered appropriate, a fasting blood sample is arranged using The Health Equation’s extended GAJ2 haematology and biochemistry profile.

The profile assesses a range of clinically relevant markers, which may include:

• Full blood count.
• Blood-glucose regulation.
• Liver and kidney function.
• Lipid profile.
• Inflammatory markers.
• Iron status and selected nutritional markers.
• Electrolytes and proteins.
• Other metabolic indicators.

The results are used in two complementary ways. Relevant information is entered into the official Metabolic Balance® system to generate the individualised food plan. Gerry also reviews the complete results clinically through a Functional Blood Analysis, considering recognised pathology, results outside the reference range and potentially meaningful patterns within the wider clinical context.

Abnormal or unexpected findings may require further investigation, GP involvement or specialist referral before the nutritional programme begins. Blood testing is not used to claim that every food response or health problem can be identified directly from laboratory results.

Creating Your Individualised Nutrition Plan

Following assessment and blood testing, the relevant clinical information is entered into the official Metabolic Balance® system in Germany. An individualised plan is then generated, usually within a few working days.

The plan includes:

• A personalised selection of foods.
• Recommended portion sizes.
• Protein choices and meal combinations.
• Guidance on vegetables, fruit, carbohydrates and dietary fats.
• Meal timing and intervals.
• Fluid intake.
• Instructions for progressing through the different phases.

Gerry reviews the plan before discussing it with the patient, ensuring that it is considered alongside their medical history, laboratory findings, medication, preferences and practical circumstances.

The programme requires preparation and active participation. The aim is not perfect adherence indefinitely, but an initial period of structure followed by the gradual development of informed and sustainable eating habits.

The Four Phases of Metabolic Balance®

The programme is organised into four phases. Their duration and application may vary according to the patient’s health, goals and clinical response.

Phase 1: Preparation

The first two days provide a short transition into the programme using simple, lighter meals. This helps the patient prepare practically and psychologically for the more structured phase that follows.

Phase 2: Structured Adjustment

For at least 14 days, the patient follows the individual food list, portion sizes and meal-timing principles closely. Meals are based upon the foods specified within the personalised plan.

This initial structured period allows the patient to establish a consistent eating rhythm and observe changes in hunger, energy, digestion, weight and other relevant symptoms. Exercise recommendations may be modified temporarily according to the individual’s health and energy.

Phase 3: Relaxed Adjustment

Additional foods and greater flexibility are introduced gradually. The patient learns how different choices affect appetite, energy, digestion, weight and general wellbeing while retaining the central principles of the programme.

Exercise can usually be developed progressively during this phase, taking account of physical capacity and recovery.

Phase 4: Long-Term Maintenance

The final phase focuses on applying what has been learned in ordinary life. The aim is not permanent rigid adherence, but a sustainable pattern of eating that can accommodate work, family life, travel, social occasions and changing health needs.

Patients may return temporarily to a more structured phase if they feel that previous habits are returning or their health circumstances change.

Nutritional Support During and After GLP-1 Medication

GLP-1 and related medications—including Wegovy, Mounjaro and Ozempic when prescribed for diabetes—can produce substantial weight loss and improve blood-glucose regulation in appropriately selected patients. However, reduced appetite and food intake can also make it more difficult to obtain adequate protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals.

Some of the weight lost may be lean tissue rather than body fat. Nutritional quality, resistance exercise and the preservation of muscle therefore require particular attention during treatment.

Weight regain is common after GLP-1 medication is discontinued, particularly if sustainable eating and activity patterns have not been established. Metabolic Balance® may provide a useful structure for selected patients by helping them:

• Maintain regular, nutritionally balanced meals.
• Prioritise adequate protein and whole foods.
• Reduce habitual snacking.
• Recognise hunger and satiety more clearly.
• Preserve muscle through appropriate nutrition and exercise.
• Develop a sustainable eating pattern that is not dependent solely upon appetite suppression.

Decisions about reducing or stopping GLP-1 medication must be made with the prescribing clinician. The nutritional programme supports this process but does not replace medical supervision, and it cannot guarantee that weight regain will be prevented.

Metabolic Balance® Programmes at The Health Equation

The Health Equation offers two levels of Metabolic Balance® support. The most appropriate option will depend upon the patient’s previous experience, health needs, degree of clinical monitoring required and preference for ongoing support.

Level 1: Three-Month Modified Programme

This shorter programme may be suitable for:

• Previous Metabolic Balance® participants who would like to restart.
• Well-motivated patients who are confident working independently.
• Selected patients using or transitioning from GLP-1 medication under medical supervision.
• Patients who do not require repeat GAJ2 blood testing at the end of the programme.

The programme includes:

• A 30-minute programme-entry consultation for established patients.
• The initial GAJ2 fasting blood profile.
• A Functional Blood Analysis.
• The personalised Metabolic Balance® nutrition plan.
• One 60-minute plan and results consultation.
• Three 30-minute progress consultations, usually around weeks 2, 4 and 12.

New patients must first complete a separate 60-minute Diagnostic Consultation to establish whether the programme is clinically appropriate.

Level 2: Six-Month Standard Programme

This more comprehensive programme may be appropriate for:

• Patients undertaking Metabolic Balance® for the first time.
• People with more complex metabolic or nutritional needs.
• Patients who would benefit from closer clinical support and accountability.
• Those for whom repeat laboratory testing would provide useful objective monitoring.
• Patients seeking a longer period in which to establish sustainable dietary and lifestyle changes.

The programme includes:

• A 30-minute programme-entry consultation for established patients.
• The initial GAJ2 fasting blood profile.
• An initial Functional Blood Analysis.
• The personalised Metabolic Balance® nutrition plan.
• One 60-minute plan and results consultation.
• Six 30-minute progress consultations, usually around weeks 1, 2, 4, 8, 12 and 24.
• A repeat GAJ2 blood profile.
• A repeat Functional Blood Analysis to compare relevant markers and assess progress.

New patients must first complete a separate 60-minute Diagnostic Consultation. The six-month programme provides more opportunity to monitor progress, address difficulties and adapt recommendations as the patient moves towards long-term maintenance.

Monitoring Progress and Outcomes

Progress is assessed individually and is not based upon weight alone. Depending upon the patient’s starting point and clinical priorities, monitoring may include:

• Weight and waist circumference.
• Body composition and preservation of muscle.
• Blood pressure.
• Blood-glucose regulation.
• Lipid profile.
• Liver and inflammatory markers.
• Hunger, satiety and food cravings.
• Energy, sleep and digestive function.
• Exercise capacity and recovery.
• Ability to maintain the programme in everyday life.

Some patients experience meaningful weight loss, improved metabolic markers and greater control over eating patterns. Others may achieve more modest changes or require a different approach.

Results cannot be guaranteed and will vary according to the patient’s underlying health, medication, starting weight, consistency, activity, sleep and other regulatory influences. Where progress is less than expected, Gerry will reassess the clinical picture rather than assuming that the patient has simply failed to follow the programme.

Additional Clinical Support

Nutrition is only one influence upon metabolic health. Where relevant, Gerry may recommend additional assessment or support addressing:

• Breathing pattern and respiratory regulation.
• Sleep quality and possible sleep-disordered breathing.
• Physical activity, resistance exercise and cardiovascular fitness.
• Psychological or behavioural factors affecting eating.
• Menopausal, endocrine or other hormonal influences.
• Gastrointestinal symptoms and digestive function.
• Pain, injury or physical limitations affecting exercise.
• Medication that may influence appetite, weight or metabolism.
• Nutritional deficiencies or other abnormalities identified through blood testing.

This may include capnometry and heart rate variability assessment, individual exercise guidance, osteopathic treatment or referral to a GP, medical specialist, clinical psychologist, psychotherapist or other appropriately qualified practitioner.

The aim is to identify and address relevant obstacles to progress rather than treating nutrition or body weight in isolation.

The Metabolic Balance® App

Patients undertaking the programme can use the Metabolic Balance® app to support planning, organisation and progress between consultations.

Depending upon the current version and programme access, the app may provide:

• The patient’s personalised food list and portion guidance.
• Meal ideas and recipes.
• Shopping support.
• Progress tracking.
• Practical reminders.
• Guidance for eating away from home or travelling.
• Access to programme information.

The app can be a useful practical aid, but it does not replace clinical review or individual coaching. Questions about symptoms, medication, abnormal blood results or significant changes in health should be discussed directly with Gerry or the appropriate medical clinician.

The Health Equation Clinical Audit

The Health Equation previously reviewed the progress of 20 patients undertaking Metabolic Balance® within the practice.

At three months:

• Average weight loss was approximately 7.5 kg.
• This represented approximately 9% of average starting body weight.
• Patients generally presented with multiple health concerns rather than seeking weight loss alone.
• Some patients taking medication at the beginning of the programme reported that medication had subsequently been reduced or discontinued by their prescribing clinicians.

These findings represent a small retrospective practice audit rather than a controlled clinical trial. They describe the experience of this particular patient group and cannot predict the outcome for an individual patient.

Any alteration to prescribed medication must be made by the patient’s GP or relevant medical specialist. The purpose of repeat assessment is to identify objective changes, support appropriate communication with the medical team and ensure that nutritional changes remain safe.

Video: Managing Metabolic Syndrome

This video explains The Health Equation’s integrated approach to metabolic syndrome, including the use of clinical assessment, blood testing, personalised nutrition and ongoing monitoring.

The anonymised patient information is shared with the patient’s consent to illustrate how multiple metabolic risk factors—including weight, blood-glucose regulation, blood pressure and type 2 diabetes—may be considered together.

Individual outcomes vary, and the case should not be interpreted as a guarantee of similar results. Metabolic Balance® supports appropriate medical care but does not replace GP or specialist management of diabetes, hypertension or other metabolic disease.

Click on the image below to down load our Metabolic Balance Brochure

Starting a Metabolic Balance® Programme

New patients interested in Metabolic Balance® should begin by booking a 60-minute Diagnostic Consultation with Gerry. This allows him to assess whether the programme is appropriate and whether any further investigation or medical input is required before starting.

Existing patients whose health and clinical history are already known may be able to begin with a shorter programme-entry consultation.

Following assessment, Gerry will explain:

• Whether Metabolic Balance® is suitable.
• Which programme level is most appropriate.
• The blood testing required.
• What the programme includes.
• The likely practical commitment.
• The programme fees and any additional costs.
• Alternative nutritional approaches where relevant.

There is no obligation to proceed following the initial assessment. Any recommendation will be made through shared decision-making and based upon the patient’s health, goals and preferences.