Ending Fibromyalgia with Natural Options

Aloha,

I feel it is important for us to take a moment and recognize how amazing our bodies are when they function at full capacity. Unfortunately, our bodies are not perfect and I feel it is worst when we know something is wrong and cannot do anything about it. In previous blog posts, I have talked about copper toxicity and fibromyalgia, however, I wanted to share my own experience on this topic.

A few weeks ago I had terrible bone pain, so I went into my oncologist for scans to determine what it could possibly be. In my mind, I thought cancer had returned and began preparing for this reality. As each scan returned one by one, every one was was negative only showing arthritis and a bulging lumbar (which I knew about for many years). I think I was in complete shock that no hidden issues were found! Fortunately, I made plans for the worst, but hoping for the best. It was such a relief to have these clear results. But my question then became, what was causing this amount of pain?

After talking with my aunt (since she experienced similar pain), I learned I may have too much copper in my body resulting in copper toxicity. Generally, copper toxicity causes fibromyalgia flare-ups so I started to take Copper Balance along with VARS Glutathione. During the first few days, I felt so much better as the pain became barely an ache and later was completely gone. After such a great improvement in a few days, I now understand my body is very sensitive to foods high in copper (basically my entire diet). 

Fibromyalgia is a widespread illness that can be improved and controlled with diet. For this reason, a Facebook group ‘End Fibromyalgia with Natural Options’ (Private Group & Open Group) is being launched to help those who experience struggle with fibromyalgia. On these pages, there will be recipes to choose from, support groups to interact with, and communities to share ideas.

I hope my story, along with these new Facebook Groups, will help you find answers and support to ease the pain you face on a daily basis. I applaud you for not allowing fibromyalgia to to control your life and always remember someone is there to help live a happier life!

Keep going, you got this! 

Melissa

Leading Causes of Death in 2018

Aloha,

This week I researched the top medical issues of the United States. A few surprised me as over the years many causes repeated several years in a row. I believe knowledge is power and understanding what runs in your family, along with symptoms, may help you find the needed treatment now. Below are ten of the leading causes of death in the United States.

1. Heart Disease

2. Cancer

3. Chronic Lung Disease

4. Stroke

5. Alzheimer's

6. Diabetes

7. Pneumonia

8. Kidney Disease

9. Accidents

10. Suicide

It was eye opening while compiling this list of how many of these causes could have been addressed with the recent advances in medicine. A great option to learn if you are predisposed to any of these conditions is through a genetic test. Personally, I used 23andMe, but several genetic companies can help you find answers. Your primary care physician doctor can look at the results and discuss preventative treatment. These preventative treatments can help prevent serious health risks and help control symptoms that follow. Along with these preventative measures, regular use of vitamins, exercise, healthy diet, and reduced alcohol consumption can help in avoiding problems.

Now is a great time to start preventative treatments as they align well with New Year’s Resolutions. Have the mindset to live your best life through a healthier lifestyle by resuming your program and meeting with your doctor regularly. It is better to learn more about your body rather than waiting to have a chronic issue emerge. Be sure to look into getting a genetic test performed to understand where you can start your preventative self-care now.

Keep smiling and live your best life!

Melissa

Holidays and Diabetes

Aloha,

I thought a lot this week about what to write and researched several great topics. However, I kept coming back to the holiday season and all the delicious foods we eat during this time. I know it can be difficult to control eating everything at the office, at home, or the amazing feasts from Thanksgiving to Christmas.

During this time, I try to be mindful of portion control and remember it is fine to sample a little of everything. I also tend to worry about loved ones who suffer from diabetes and wonder how they control their urge to eat sweets during the holiday season.

My father was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes a few years ago and follows a strict program to keep his sugar levels low to avoid insulin shots. He takes Metformin to help control his sugar cravings, exercises regularly, and watches what he eats. He does a good job following his program by cutting out sodas and avoiding the sweets he used to indulge on.

I visited him to see his progress with his new lifestyle to be healthier and avoid the daily blood checks and insulin shots. I was concerned as the holiday season is when I can go into a sugar coma and I am not diabetic. I asked how he manages to get through this time of year and he responded, “You know it's discipline in watching what you eat and making sure you are exercising.” He loves his cookies, so finding sugar-free cookies, to satisfy his cravings, helped with his weight loss and keeping his sugar levels under control. As for the other holiday dishes, he can have a little of something sweet as long as he doesn’t go overboard.

This conversation with my father made me realize how we can make healthier lifestyle changes by limiting our sugar intake. I started watching the amount of sugar I eat or drink. I gave up my normal Dr. Pepper for a Cherry Coke Zero instead. My new favorite treat is sea salted dark chocolate covered almonds that curb my chocolate craving. Through these changes, I am making choices that will benefit my health, even if they are baby steps! 

There are many choices we can make during the holiday season. You do not need to deprive yourself of your favorite holiday treats as long as it is in moderation. Keep to your exercise routine and drink lots of water. Do not make a healthier lifestyle a New Year’s Resolution, but a habit! This year, make your New Year’s Resolution a bucket list item instead!

Keep smiling,

Melissa

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