Weight Loss Wins and PsA Struggles
Losing weight with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a journey filled with ups, downs, and unexpected turns. Let me take you through my personal experience and what I've learned along the way.
Spoiler alert: weight loss isn't a magic cure for PsA, but it does have its benefits.
My weight loss journey
I started my weight loss journey not out of choice but due to another health issue that made eating painful. Despite being overweight, the pain and physical limitations of PsA made losing weight through exercise nearly impossible.
In the past, exercise was my primary weight loss tool. Suddenly, I found myself shedding pounds, not through my efforts, but because eating became a challenge.
Let’s get one thing straight: losing weight is not a cure for PsA. I lost 55 pounds, but my PsA symptoms remain.
I still flare up and feel pain in the usual areas, which will likely persist regardless of my weight. I was at my lowest weight and was the most active I had been in my adult life when first diagnosed with PsA. This isn’t to say that weight loss hasn’t impacted my overall health—it has, in significant ways.
The benefits of losing weight
Lower A1C levels
My A1C levels have improved without significant dietary changes. The only major shift was giving up my daily soda habit when diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.
I was not prescribed medication because the digestive side effects would cause problems diagnosing my digestive issue. Thankfully, through weight loss and no more daily sodas, my diabetes is under control.
Improved blood pressure
My blood pressure is now so good that medical professionals are often surprised by the numbers. This is a huge win, especially given the cardiovascular risks associated with PsA.
General health improvements
Besides the metrics, I feel better in some aspects. Carrying less weight reduces the strain on my joints, even if it doesn’t eliminate the pain entirely.
Weight loss and PsA symptom management
Despite these improvements, my PsA symptoms have not significantly changed. I still experience pain and flare-ups, which is a stark reminder that weight loss isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for chronic illness.
One unexpected benefit of my weight loss journey has been the boost in mental health. Carrying less weight and seeing improvements in my blood pressure and A1C levels have given me a sense of accomplishment and control over my health, even if I am not in control. This mental boost is significant, as managing a chronic illness can often feel overwhelming.
Another important aspect to consider is the role of diet and lifestyle in managing PsA. While my weight loss wasn't intentional, it has highlighted the importance of a balanced diet. Reducing soda intake was a small change that led to significant health benefits, showing how even minor adjustments can make a big difference.
The realities of weight loss
Losing weight has undeniable benefits, but you need to have realistic expectations. It can improve certain health markers and reduce the strain on your body, but it might not drastically change your PsA symptoms. This is important to understand because setting unrealistic expectations can lead to disappointment and frustration.
It's also worth noting that everyone's PsA journey is different. What works for one person might not work for another.
Some people might see significant improvements in their symptoms with weight loss, while others, like myself, may not. The key is to find what works best for you and to celebrate the small victories along the way.
Weight loss has been beneficial for my overall health, but it hasn't drastically changed my PsA symptoms. This journey has taught me to appreciate the small victories and understand the complexities of managing a chronic illness.
If you've lost weight while dealing with PsA, I'd love to hear about your experiences. Did you notice any changes in your symptoms? Share your story, and let's support each other on this challenging journey.
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