Hit Day 40 Of My Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle!
Reflecting as I end day 40 of my anti-inflammatory diet!
First off, I want to thank everyone who has reached out over the past 40 days. Sometimes making a huge life adjustment can feel isolating and overwhelming, and I have actually had the opposite response and feel so supported.
This journey has shown me, clear as day, who’s on my team, cheering me on, and who I need to cut from my circle because there’s no room for negativity or bad energy in my life moving forward.
Over the past nearly six years, I’ve eaten anti-inflammatory foods for a couple of weeks at a time, so when I started this journey, I had high expectations for how I’d feel. I have a vivid, clear-as-day memory of a burst of energy, dancing in our kitchen with my family, and that’s what I’m striving for.
About two weeks into my new lifestyle, I felt a definite increase in energy levels. I can now make it through my day without needing to sit because I’m winded—a symptom of severe inflammation. That’s how I know my inflammation is naturally down, and my lab numbers confirm it. I’m now on day 40 and have increased energy, but I’m not where I want to be… yet. I’m trusting the process.
Over the past 40 days, I’ve focused on eating whole foods and anti-inflammatory foods. I’ve eaten nearly the same foods every day to stay on track: eggs with fruit for breakfast, cucumbers and fruit for snacks, and a salad with anti-inflammatory dressing (created by master chef Brett!) for dinner. All before 5 p.m. to incorporate intermittent fasting, allowing my body to heal.
Since starting 40 days ago, I’ve lost 13 pounds naturally. I aim to work out more, but it takes effort to get moving, and I’m getting there. I’ve refilled my ice bath and started incorporating it. Honestly, I’ve also begun doing things I used to love, like making my daughter a massive piñata, to bring a smile back to my face and rediscover myself after letting this disease control my life for the past 5½ years.
This is quite the journey. I’m excited to see my wins. I’m eager to feel my losses and learn and grow from them.
#healthjourney #vasculitis #antiinflammatorydiet #antiinflammatorylifestyle #cleaneating
An anti-inflammatory lifestyle focuses on consuming foods that reduce chronic inflammation, which is linked to many health issues such as arthritis, vasculitis, heart disease, and autoimmune conditions. Key elements include whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and eggs, which are rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients that help repair and protect the body. Intermittent fasting, as practiced before 5 p.m. in this journey, is scientifically recognized for promoting cellular repair and reducing systemic inflammation by giving the digestive system rest periods. Furthermore, regular physical activity, even gradual increases as stated, helps reduce inflammatory markers and improves cardiovascular health. Ice baths and cold therapy support inflammation reduction by constricting blood vessels and decreasing metabolic activity, which can accelerate recovery and reduce pain. Mental and emotional well-being play a crucial role in health journeys like this. Eliminating negative influences and surrounding oneself with a supportive community are essential for sustaining motivation and reducing stress-induced inflammation. Sustaining this approach long term can lead to significant health benefits, including lower inflammation levels as confirmed by lab results, enhanced energy, weight loss, and improved quality of life. Patients with conditions like vasculitis may particularly benefit from tailored anti-inflammatory diets combined with lifestyle modifications. For those considering this lifestyle, consulting healthcare providers to personalize dietary changes and monitor inflammation markers is recommended to ensure safety and effectiveness.
