In the early stages of RA my doctor prescribed me many drugs from methotrexate to Ibuprofen 800 to a long list of other drugs trying to gain control of the way the RA was ravaging through my body. There would be many times I would have to go in for cortizone shots, to get my knees drained of the overflow of synovial fluid (thats the stuff that develops around the joint making it difficult to walk or move). In going through this at the same time I was under a tremendous amount of stress, ending a 20 year marriage and dealing with all that involves as well as a teen experimenting with bad bad drugs... Then I was scheduled for surgery on my knee to clean it out, scrape it whatever they do, (I try not to listen to the details so I don't get nauseated). anyways, my aunt sent me some scientific research papers and told me to read them. These were three different surveys all based upon the theory that the reason there has been no "cure" for RA was because its food related. Based upon your diet, your body responds. I went on a bland diet, identified my "trigger" foods and for almost 10 years now I have managed my RA drug free and doctor free. I see the doc once a year just to ensure all is still cool but other than that I adapt and overcome the downfalls of already damaged joints. I live by the motto "use it or lose it" and do exercises to my ability level based upon how my joints work:) I was raised to believe where there is a will there is a way and life is too short to succumb to some stupid disease that wants to rob you of your youth way too early!! PS: my triggers are rich red meat such as prime rib or liver, etc. and rich dairy such as ice cream and french silk pie!! :( that one was a huge bummer but hey, I would rather walk than eat that stuff!!!
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Congratulations!! You had some daunting obstacles to overcome and succeeded.
Dr. Andrew Weil is a strong proponent of regular aerobic exercise, a low protein, high carbohydrate diet, eliminating milk and milk products, eliminating or reducing your intake of coffee and tobacco, and increasing your intake of omega 3 fatty acids to help control the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
You are living proof that it works!
Maryann
December 11, 2012 - 5:41pmThis Comment