Personal experience in starting the journey and key easy health changes I made
Now that I provided you with a brief overview of my background, I would like to delve into the specifics to elaborate on each step I took and how it positively impacted me and my health.
To start with, one important point I want to emphasize is that I am not extraordinary or possess any special abilities. Firstly, everything I have done or am currently doing is within your reach as well. I am not flawless either. Secondly, there are times when I also struggle to adhere strictly to my diet or experience “off days” where I have cravings, lack of sleep, or simply don’t feel motivated to exercise. This is completely normal and something we all go through as humans. Moreover, it’s crucial to show self-compassion and forgive yourself during these moments. Just do your best and you will see results. The good news is that with time, it becomes easier. But it doesn’t mean you will never deviate from the path you wish to follow. Be gentle with yourself and make a return whenever and however you can. Your body and mind will respond to the changes regardless.
Doing the research
As I mentioned in a previous blog post, upon receiving the results of my blood tests and discovering the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies, I began conducting research online to explore natural methods for improving my health. During my search, I came across the Phoenix Helix and Autoimmune podcasts. Here, individuals shared their experiences of successfully managing their illnesses through dietary changes and lifestyle adjustments. Inspired by their stories, I made the decision to follow a similar path.
Being someone who is inclined towards numbers, I tend to eagerly review my blood test results even before consulting with the doctor (if possible). So, after undergoing the blood tests for the extensive list of antibodies, I found myself repeatedly checking the result page multiple times a day (I admit, it may seem a bit excessive). The wait for the results lasted a couple of weeks, which led to me constantly refreshing the page in anticipation. Throughout this period, I experienced unusual pain in my fingers and wrists, leading me to believe that I might have been dealing with rheumatoid arthritis. This autoimmune and inflammatory condition causes swelling and discomfort in the affected areas. Consequently, I found great resonance with the discussions on rheumatoid arthritis in the Phoenix Helix and Autoimmune and You Podcasts.
My diagnosis and it’s possible effects
However, after receiving the comprehensive results of my blood tests and consulting with my immunologist, I discovered that I actually had “only” been diagnosed with Antiphospholipid syndrome. This autoimmune disease is characterized by abnormal blood clotting. In addition to having a genetic predisposition to blood clotting, specifically due to the presence of Leiden V and MTFH genetic mutations, it is possible that this condition played a role in my struggles with conception and maintaining a pregnancy.
While it cannot be stated with absolute certainty, it is evident that a blood clotting disorder can impede the development of the fetus by obstructing the flow of blood and nutrients to it. Furthermore, having such a condition for an extended period of time may also have a negative impact on ovarian reserve. Consequently, it is crucial for women with this condition to promptly begin taking heparin and aspirin throughout the entire duration of pregnancy, as well as after giving birth, in order to prevent blood clots.
Even after any surgical procedure, individuals with this syndrome or those with the genetic mutation of Leiden V should undergo a course of Heparin injections for a certain period of time. In my personal experience, following a surgery to remove uterine fibroids, I had to administer Heparin injections for a duration of two weeks. Additionally, whenever I embarked on fertility treatments, I would continue injecting Heparin throughout the entire treatment process, as the hormonal medications involved could potentially lead to blood clotting. This implies that even during the periods when I was taking birth control, I should have been following the same protocol, although I was unaware of this at the time. Fortunately, I was fortunate enough to have avoided any adverse events during those years.
Upon discovering my diagnosis, it did not alter my determination to proceed with the AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) and lifestyle changes. This is because I recognized that these approaches were applicable to all autoimmune diseases and even inflammation in general. It is now widely understood that inflammation serves as the foundation for various autoimmune conditions. Therefore, the key “secret” lies in adopting an anti-inflammatory diet and lifestyle.
The decision that changed everything
I was filled with immense motivation and a strong desire to give my body a chance to heal itself and recover my overall health. At that point, I was feeling incredibly unwell: I had experienced significant weight gain, poor sleep, high levels of stress, and an overall sense of unhappiness and discomfort in my life.
Consequently, I made the decision to fully commit and implement all the necessary changes simultaneously. However, I understand that this may not be feasible for everyone, and I empathize with those who may find it challenging to adopt all the changes at once. Rest assured, even if you gradually incorporate these changes, they will still have a positive impact on your health and overall well-being. The key factor, regardless of whether you choose to go all-in or take it step by step, is to be patient. You will not experience immediate perfection or a sudden cure. However, you will begin to notice improvements, big or small, which will serve as motivation to continue on this journey
In my personal experience, I observed significant improvements in my overall well-being. I noticed a reduction in bloating, improved sleep quality, and increased energy levels. The results became apparent rather quickly. After three weeks of adopting this new lifestyle, my inflammatory markers returned to normal levels, and I no longer experienced any pain in my fingers. Looking back, I now realize that the finger pain I had been experiencing was a result of the inflammation present in my body. Additionally, I later discovered that this type of pain is a common symptom across various autoimmune diseases, regardless of the specific condition
The key easy changes I made were as follows:
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- Adopting an AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) diet and eliminating all foods that I had intolerances to, which involved a substantial list.
- Incorporating daily fasting for 15-16 hours (now that I have more information I will also tell you what I have learned after reading Mindy Pelz’s book “Fast like a girl“, as it emphasized the importance of fasting in a way that aligns with female hormonal patterns)
- Establishing a consistent sleep schedule to ensure a minimum of 8 hours of quality sleep each night, while also ensuring the bedroom was completely dark.
- Practicing meditation every morning upon waking, as well as throughout the day whenever possible. Additionally, before bed, expressing gratitude.
- Committing to daily exercise, regardless of the circumstances. Initially, this involved taking long walks in the morning and evening.
- Making a conscious decision to not succumb to stress, both in the workplace and in personal life. Although challenging, it is ultimately a decision to prioritize well-being and recognize that continuous stress is detrimental to health.
- Working on mindset and cultivating a belief that change is possible. It is crucial to realize that you do have the ability to take control of your life and make the necessary changes for your health. Setting clear goals and understanding the reasons behind wanting to make these changes and prioritize your well-being is essential.
In the upcoming blog posts, I will delve into each of these significant changes in detail.
