It’s that time of year we’re all starting to think about healthy resolutions in 2024, but what if you’re battling constant, chronic, or even mysterious health issues?
Trust me, I know exactly how overwhelming and frustrating it can be. My own journey with lupus took me through a wild rollercoaster of confusion and countless tests before finally getting an official diagnosis.
It seemed like I was chasing my tail, going from one doctor to the next, and trying all sorts of holistic remedies. But guess what? The breakthrough moment didn’t come from any fancy specialist or the latest medical trend.
Nope, it was a matter of doing all the right things, trusting in God, and keeping faith that finally made a real difference.
Today, I’m thrilled to share that I’ve gone from taking 13-14 medications down to just one! I don’t claim to have all the answers, but here are a few tips that changed the game for me…
Chronic Diseases Start With You
Yes, we inherit autoimmune or chronic disease genes from our parents – it’s already in us! While this may seem disheartening, it’s important to note that gene expression is a complex process influenced by many external factors and lifestyle choices.
Say what? Gene expression refers to the way our genes are turned on or off based on environmental cues. In other words, we can potentially influence the activation of these disease-related genes through healthy or unhealthy lifestyle behaviors.
Unfortunately, I learned this lesson the hard way. My autoimmune genes were triggered when I overworked my corporate gig + Ironman training, which led to extreme burnout and illness.
Although I cannot rewind time or turn off the genes that have been turned on, I’m grateful for the lessons learned and motivators that drive me to maintain healthier living habits today and into the future.
If You’re Battling Mystery Symptoms, Do This
Cut Dairy & Gluten
If you didn’t know, dairy and gluten are two of the most inflammatory foods, especially for those battling autoimmune diseases.
Now, it’s important to remember that symptoms and inflammation can vary from person to person, known as bio-individuality. While one person might get a rash, another might get nauseous – making it even harder to nail down the root cause.
But hey, here’s the good news: it’s easier than ever to eliminate these troublesome foods from our diets, thanks to the abundance of alternatives and substitutes now available. (When I first went gluten-free in 2013, there were barely any options!)
Today, some of my go-to choices include Kite Hill for creamy dips and cream cheese, any almond or coconut milk (though oat milk is still best avoided), and I can’t get enough of Nut Thins gluten-free crackers and snacks.
Oh, and I have to share this amazing recipe for a gluten-free bread swap by Maria Emmerich – I bake a fresh loaf of it every week! Check it out here 🙂
Ditch the Sugar
Ok, we already know that sugar is not a healthy choice… but did you know that sugar has a sneaky way of fueling inflammation in our bodies?
Not only that, but there’s scientific evidence linking sugar consumption to the promotion and feeding of cancer cells. Yikes!
It’s pretty mind-blowing stuff!
Sugar also has a hold on our brains, lighting them up in a similar way to addictive substances. It also wreaks havoc on our gut and brain, messing with their ability to regulate and function properly.
And when our bodies can’t heal and stay healthy, things can quickly go downhill….
Decrease Your Carbs (At least for a little while….)
This might have been one of the most eye-opening discoveries along my journey… But I learned that sometimes, we need to drop the carbs (at least temporarily) to allow for maximum healing.
I know we learn that fruits and veggies are some of the best things for us, but for those whose bodies are already compromised, plant toxins can add to the frey.
Plant toxins can potentially impact individuals with autoimmune diseases by triggering immune responses and promoting inflammation.
- Lectins, found in certain plants, can bind to sugar molecules in the body and trigger immune reactions.
- Glycoalkaloids in nightshade vegetables may contribute to increased intestinal permeability (Leaky Gut!), potentially leading to immune reactions.
- Histamine levels from veggies can trigger many people
Now, I’m not talking about going on a restrictive low-carb diet forever – that’s not sustainable. But one of the fastest ways to healing can be through an animal-based diet for a couple of months.
While I’m not 100% animal-based anymore, it was during this time that I experienced a major shift in energy and healing.
Exercise (But Not Too Much)
I used to think that pushing myself to the limits and exercising super hard was the only way to get fit. But I’ve learned the hard way that going overboard with exercise can actually backfire and cause health problems, like turning on those autoimmune genes I just mentioned!
When we constantly stress our bodies with intense workouts, it ramps up cortisol levels over time, which can harm our overall health. (I completely burned out my adrenals and lost all my hormones…)
I’m a walking reminder that exercise isn’t all about doing more and more and MORE!
But that doesn’t mean we should give up workouts altogether. Even something as simple as walking can do wonders. No fancy equipment or gym membership needed; just step out the door and start walking.
Stop Stressing (And Do Something You Love)
I remember when I was in the middle of battling lupus and chronic migraines, everyone would tell me to just relax and that it was probably just stress. It used to frustrate me so much that I wanted to punch them in the throat!
But the truth is, it becomes a never-ending cycle. Stress takes a toll on our health, which in turn stresses us out even more because we’re sick.
It took a lot of therapy for me to change the narrative in my mind and realize that it’s okay not to be productive 24/7.
So, where do we start? You don’t have to carve out an hour of quiet time every day to start reaping the benefits. You can try something as simple as a 7-minute devotional, like the one I found. It’s a simple way to begin your new chill routine.
Pro tip: They say that our childhood interests can reveal what truly brings us joy as adults. For me, as a kid, I loved swimming and rollerblading. I enjoyed being active, always on the move, and the sense of freedom those activities gave me.
Today, not much has changed. I still find the most happiness in being outdoors, running in nature. It’s all about finding what fills your cup and doing more of that.
Most of all, be easy on yourself – this is the time to embrace slow living lifestyles!
The Wrap – Fighting Mystery Symptoms
No doubt, navigating chronic diseases is never easy. I want to emphasize that I don’t claim to have all the answers, but I can share what has helped me and led to my healing and remission.
Each person’s journey is unique, and I understand the challenges you may face. I genuinely pray for all of you on your own healing paths and hope that one day I can hear your testimonies, someday too.
Remember, I’m here cheering you on every step of the way.
With love,
Jules
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