Nutrition and Health
Have you made any changes to your diet (such as vegan, paleo, gluten free, etc.) as a way of managing your symptoms?
If so, what are your favorite recipes and meals to make?
Okay, I'll get this party started!
I went vegan quite some time ago (not for health reasons) and when I manage to eat vegan I find that my chronic pain condition improves TREMENDOUSLY! It took about 3 months for me to see a difference - and my family actually commented on it before I really realized it. They saw a big increase in my energy and I guess I was "complaining" a lot less about my pain!
Anyway, here are some of my favorite sites for getting recipes:
OhSheGlows.com
VeganRicha.com
MindBodyGreen.comI really like preparing Indian cuisine - I like my food spicy! I try to add in turmeric and ginger as much as possible to help with reducing inflammation.
I did the Whole30 Program (http://whole30.com/) and then ended up going entirely gluten free. It made a huge difference in my pain and my overall energy. It took a little while to see the benefit (I actually felt worse when I started it before I felt better for some reason) but interesting now if I have a slip-up I feel lousy within a day or so. I'm now trying to really cut down on my caffeine intake (5 cups a day eek) and trying to swap out my starbucks for green tea 😀
I believe nutrition is the "missing" link that is given little attention in the management of the pain of PSA. I finally went to a holistic doctor who in a matter of days has helped me. I have some food allergies but have gotten very strict with my diet - no wheat, no sugar, no caffeine, no beef, no nightshade foods (these are inflammatory), added supplements such as magnesium, sulphur and boswella complex to help decrease the inflammation in my body. Amazing results for me and down 8 pounds. It's not easy but once you begin to feel the renewed energy and lessening of pain and inflammation it's all worth it. Remember to ask your own doctor before adding supplements since some can work against arthritis meds. I take Stelara injections every 3 months and am approaching my one year mark since diagnosis. I must be honest that the dietary changes gave me more relief than the Stelara, but the Stelara is needed to prevent further joint damage.
Smnyc, it's wonderful to read that the changes you have made have made a difference for you - so pleased for you!! Thank you so much for sharing!
I am totally new to this. I have ached so much over the past year that I have done nothing but sit, eat and feel sorry for myself....and run to doctors trying to find out what's wrong. My rheumatologist "thinks" I have PsA, but told me I need an eye exam before he will prescribe any meds. Of course the ophthalmologist is booked out 30 days! Meanwhile, I am wondering if I should try some changes to my diet. I don't know where to start and I don't want to give up meat or wine, if that's not necessary. Are there any basic changes that seem to help most people with PsA? I don't know what my triggers are since I hurt every single day. Any help would be appreciated. Where should I start? Thanks!
Hi there and welcome to the community!
In my experience, most find it's easier to make dietary changes gradually. I'd first recommmend removing dairy - there are great substitutes I'd be happy to recommend.
I'd also recommend checking out this site: nutritionalfacts.org - it's a doctor who talks about science behind food and health.
I know a few members have talked about an anti-inflammatory diet and there are books on the topic.
Can anyone weigh in on that? Thanks!
