Hello world!
In this first post, I’d like to come clean about something. I have terrible, terrible eating and exercise habits. I have let myself become sick partly because of neglect and partly because I didn’t have a whole lot to work with to begin with. The combination of my poor immune system and food allergies with my terrible, terrible choices has gotten me to this point.
At the age of 31 1/2, I am about 50 pounds overweight. I have a Candida overgrowth, which I am primarily responsible for. Letting this go on has created Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in my system. I have acne, canker sores, dry skin, dry mouth, the list goes on and on.
Over the course of the last seven years since I first suspected that I had Candida, the thought of going through the diet and die off has been two overwhelming. Two pregnancies and countless sleepless nights later, this condition has nearly taken over my body. I am not yet bed ridden, but I know that if I continue down this path I am going to end up there.
Although I have other extenuating circumstances that lead to the diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, I believe that Candida is a major contributor to my symptoms. CFS is not “curable” but it can be exacerbated or limited by the choices we make. My diet and supplement regimen may never get rid of my symptoms 100% – but it will get me a heck of a lot closer.
Along with my diagnosis of CFS and Candida, my doctor also surmised that I had a wheat allergy as well. I know for a fact when I cut out wheat I feel a lot better. The Candida diet means no sugar and no dairy, so the recipes and resources in this blog will be under those guidelines.
What will you find in this blog? This is partly for accountability. I know that during the weeks that I’ve remained wheat, sugar and dairy free that I’ve felt so much better. The brain fog that effects my memory is lifted from my head and I feel like I can actually function without needing a nap. But making these changes is not easy. I’ve fallen off the wagon one too many times. I now see the promised land of energy and vitality, and I don’t want to get sidetracked this time.
I hope that a second purpose for this blog will be inspiration. It was very discouraging when I first became diagnosed with CFS because most of the resources out there were focused on getting disability payments or having a pity party for yourself. Yes…I went through a pity party time of my own. I felt like no one understood what I was going through and I felt helpless. But then I realized that I could either try to find a solution or just lay down and die a slow death. I’m choosing the former, and I hope to inspire others to do the same. Our journeys won’t be identical because everyone’s circumstances are unique, but we can learn from and inspire one another.
Finally, I hope this blog will become a resource for those who have CFS, Candida or food allergies. It’s tough to make drastic changes to your eating habits and lifestyle without having resources to back you up. If you’re feeling lonely in your choices and your path, here is a place to draw strength and information you need to make these changes.
To your health!!