Dr. Ioana Manahilova, DC

About Dr. Manahilova

Dr. Ioana Manahilova graduated from National University of Health Sciences in Lombard, IL. She continues to further her education through post-doctoral studies in both functional medicine and functional neurology. Additionally, Dr. Manahilova attended the University of Iowa where she received her Bachelor of Science in Human Physiology and a certificate in Global Health. During her undergraduate career she was awarded an international research grant to study the impact of diet on type II diabetes.  

Dr. Manahilova focuses on providing personalized integrative care while keeping your brain in mind. She enjoys managing an array of patient cases from autoimmunity to regulating blood sugar to stress and all other areas of brain health (migraines, traumatic brain injuries, dysautonomia, brain fog, etc.) She also helps those free of diagnosable ailments but wishing to optimize their health and sports performance.  

Q&A with Dr. Manahilova

What are you most passionate about professionally?  

Professionally: Being a lifelong learner, I am always exploring new research that can help my patients optimize their health. Medicine is ever evolving; therefore, it is my passion to evolve with it.  

What three traits define you? 

Committed, detail-oriented, and empathetic. I am always honest with others and myself. I understand that I don’t have the answer to every question and that is why I surround myself with exceptional practitioners and why I strive to continue learning and growing not only as a person but as a healthcare provider.  

What would you do even if you didn’t get paid to do it? 

I would have an animal sanctuary. All pets deserve a good home!  

What are you surprisingly good at? 

I am surprisingly good at picking up languages. I moved from Europe at a young age, and I have traveled the globe ever since (Europe, Southeast Asia, and North America). In fact, learning about and exploring different countries and their culture has brought me closer to people from all walks of life.  

What’s one thing you couldn’t live without? 

My support system: family, friends, and my rescue dog Zeus!  

What’s your biggest accomplishment? 

My biggest accomplishment is working since I was 15 (through high school, college, and my doctorate studies) and making time to travel the globe. These combined experiences have shaped the person I am today and have taught me many key life lessons. 

What do you do for fun in your spare time? What are your hobbies?  

I love all things outdoors. I am an avid snowboarder. A goal of mine is to go white water rafting. Additionally, I love trying foods from different cultures. If you have any recommendations or recipes, I would love to hear them! I am also reading at least 4-5 books at once, and I am always looking for something new and interesting to read.  

What problems do you consistently solve for your clients? 

Showing them how habits and mindset can positively impact their life. Each day 85% of our thoughts are the same as those of the day before! So, mindset matters more than most people think. 

Share something unique that most people don’t know about you.  

Before starting first grade, I taught myself English by watching Sesame Street, thanks Elmo! I then went on to take ESL classes in first grade and was transferred into advanced classes in second grade. I owe it all to the teachers who believed in me!   

What are you complimented on most in your work? 

Taking the time to explain complex topics, especially when it comes to the brain.  

What’s the weirdest job you have ever had? 

They have all had their moments! I’ve been a certified nursing assistant, a registered behavioral technician, a lifeguard, an anatomy teaching assistant, a lifeguard, a research assistant, and I have even worked in marketing!  

What’s the biggest proof that you’re good at what you do? 

When I hear the statement “this is my last hope” turn into “I am going to tell everyone I know about functional medicine.” It is my goal to continue to educate people on the importance of personalized medicine and integrative care. The body is a sum of all its parts, so healthcare should look at the person as a whole!