Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Quote of the Week: “Acceptance doesn't mean resignation; it means understanding that something is what it is and that there’s got to be a way through it." - Michael J. Fox
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Eileen Laird Descibes Her Healing Journey![]() Resources and treatmentsI knew there was no cure for RA, and that the medications prescribed were lifetime prescriptions. I also knew they came with potentially serious side effects, so I desperately looked for alternatives. It's logical to me that diet and lifestyle affects our health, so I searched for a dietary answer to RA.GAPS, Paleo and Wahls Diets![]() Short and long term resultsWithin a week, my flares started to diminish in number and intensity. Within a few months, flares were rare, and when they happened, they were moderate. After 5 months my progress plateaued, so I did the Paleo Autoimmune Protocol, which is an elimination diet designed to identify food intolerances. I learned I was intolerant to all nightshades* and dairy, and when I removed those from my diet, my flares disappeared permanently. To be clear, though, I’m not cured. I still have RA, and when I eat a food that is an inflammation trigger, I feel an immediate return of RA symptoms. However, I’m able to manage my symptoms through diet and lifestyle, without the need for any immunosuppressant, steroid or biologic medication. I’ve been doing this for over 2 years now. I work full-time. I’m physically active again. It has restored my life.Lessons learned on the journeyThe biggest lessons I learned are about strength and surrender. The strength was to survive the pain and take action to reclaim my health. Surrendering was to the reality that RA is part of my life. It’s not about giving up. It’s about accepting life in this moment, with the hope that the next moment will be better. Know that you have options. Medications absolutely have their place. However, if they aren’t working for you, or you’d like to reduce your dose over time, know that diet and lifestyle can have a powerful impact on how you feel. My blog, Phoenix Helix has information on how to get started.Food and lifestyle suggestions if you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis![]() Parting words of wisdomIf you are depressed or feel like nothing is working, You deserve to feel better than this. It’s time to try something new. The phoenix became a very powerful symbol for me, with its ability to transform and rise from the ashes. Never underestimate your ability to rise. |
- Tags: Arthritis Relief, Natracure Blog
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