Let’s talk about how to take care of your thyroid condition. One of the things that I appreciate the most about my thyroid condition is that it help me to grow. I am constantly learning and my research abilities have grown significantly.
1.Research is Key
On the flip side, there was so much information out there! I reviewed books, journal articles, material that I found in the doctor’s office, and I reviewed a TON of information on online forums. I wanted to make sure I understood what was going on because I didn’t want to a get a prescription and leave the office full of frustration.
I tried to understand contraindications (how drugs interact with each other that can cause bad things to happen) and what supplements I should take, if at a all. I read books about what foods I should eat and what not to eat. I tried smoothies and juices. I will never, ever, ever, ever fast again in life. My body doesn’t allow it…at all. I then decided that in I needed to watch my food more.
2. You are What You Eat
I read that diet was critical I reducing inflammation, so I decided to try more and more. I would cook with my dad and experiment with new foods. This curiosity also came in handy when I developed IBS, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome. I started a food journal. I wrote down what I ate, how I felt and how long did I last until the next meal. It was a very eye opening experience. Not only did I journal for my IBS, but I also journaled for my mental heath. It helped me get through the hard times after my initial diagnosis.
3. Exercise and Movement
It also helped that I exercised. Exercise is my go to thing that makes the world a better place. If I’m struggling with an idea…exercise. If I’m frustrated…exercise. If I am stressed out…exercise. This helped me cope with so much of what was going on and it showed:
-A drop in my blood sugar levels
-Lower cholesterol
-Lower blood pressure
-Improved thyroid levels
I tried yoga and meditation and it was fantastic (despite the typical gas that I would develop as a result of everything being so relaxed ::chuckles::).
Bonus Tip
My care team was amazing. My primary care, GYN, endocrinologist and GI doctors were fantastic. It helped that they worked together when needed and they respected each other’s work. We all agreed that I needed to continue to eat clean, mind my trigger foods (more on that in a later post), and continue to take my medication. When you are looking for an endocrinologist or someone on your care team, don’t be afraid to ask around. You can be selective of who you choose to work with. However, understand that it is a partnership. If you want to learn more on how to find an endocrinologist, watch my YouTube video here:
Key Takeaway
The biggest lesson learned throughout this process was to take things one step at a time. I had to learn how to manage my stress levels and that was the most difficult. I was in New York City at the time and that alone is stressful, but I managed. I developed amazing friendships, ate wonderful food and learned how to love/take care of myself.
I will be honest: some days were a dark cloud. My joints ached, I could barely walk a block and my stomach revolted against me, BUT it’s all about the journey. Some days you won’t feel well and that’s okay! Don’t let anything or anyone stop you from working on feeling your best. If that means you have to sit out an event/activity, it’s okay. Stop putting so much pressure on yourself.
Take a listen to my podcast episode on my full body approach to wellness here.
