A Few Changes

As stated in my previous post, I am making some dietary changes. I have tried diets of all kinds before. I’ve even gone as far as to not call them diets, but a plan to eat healthier instead. I always fail. I think I may have tried to make too many changes too quickly, so a new approach is in order. I’ll change a few things at a time, giving myself (body & mind) a chance to become accustomed before moving on to another change. Makes sense right?

For some time now, I have removed sodas from my diet. Occasionally, at a restaurant I might have a root beer but for the most part I’ve been drinking Iced Tea. I’ve been using Splenda to sweeten my tea because I’ve been drinking it sweetened all my life. I’ve been cutting down the amount slowly so not to drive myself insane. LOL. Of course, I need to add more water to my diet so I’ll have a glass of water with every meal, instead of tea.

Since this dietary change is not only for weight-loss purposes but also for pain relief (from arthritis) I am drinking one 8 oz. bottle of Elations per day. Elations contains Glucosamine 1,500 mg and Chondroitin 1,200 mg for bone and joint health. It hasn’t helped with my arthritis yet but I’ll keep drinking it. What can it hurt, right?

Today, I purchased some All Natural Black Cherry Juice at the local Natural Foods store. Now when I say local, I mean 30 miles away. That’s local to us! It’s pure cherry juice with no added anything! I’ve learned that cherries have anti-inflammatory properties and that eating 12 cherries a day can help relieve pain. Ok, so I’m going to drink 6 oz. of cherry juice at least once a day. That would have to be equal to or greater than 12 cherries a day, right?

I think if I continue to make minor changes and give myself a chance to get use to one before making another change, I think I’ll be able to do it. I’ll have to let you know how it goes.

The Enemy I Must Face

I have just recently been diagnosed with arthritis in my spine, hips, legs, knees, ankles and feet. If that’s not bad enough, it’s spreading up my spine and is also invading my shoulders and neck. Along with this painful enemy comes much depression. I am not able to fully enjoy life… Laughter is in my heart but I cannot voice it as I once did. I’m not enjoying my grand babies as much as I should and it breaks my heart. I have a hard time doing all the things I once did so freely. My mobility is limited. I tire easily. I am discouraged, to say the least.

I have yet to find out which form of arthritis it is. When I do, I must create a plan of attack, with the help of my Dr., to reduce my constant pain, slow the progression, and strengthen my bones. Once my pain is reduced, then perhaps the depression will subside and I will start to enjoy my life again.

First though, I am doing as much research as I can. My time must be limited at the computer due to the constant pain. I will be trying many different things to help reduce the pain caused by my terrible enemy.

#1. More Exercise – Even if it kills me, I will try to do more.

#2. Change My Diet – Add more fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains.

#3. Use Essential Oils & Herbs – Massage oils, teas, supplements etc.

#4. Reduce My Weight – To reduce wear and tear on my bones & joints.

I will be blogging my journey through this; information, methods, drugs, herbs, essential oils, supplements…what works and what doesn’t…feelings, fears, people who help along the way…