Managing Diet and Exercise with RA A Cake Lover’s Guide

Managing Diet and Exercise with RA A Cake Lover's Guide

Living with RA: Balancing Health and Adventure

Introduction

Living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can be challenging, but it doesn’t mean that life has to be put on hold. Jennifer Holder, a community leader in the HealthyGrown’s Facebook RA group, proves that even with flare-ups, it is possible to maintain a vibrant and fulfilling life by finding a balance between health management and daily adventures.

The Power of Nutrition and Exercise

Holder emphasizes the importance of nutrition and exercise in managing her RA. She has noticed that certain foods trigger inflammation, while healthier options make her feel better. Taking care of her diet, monitoring what she eats, and staying active contribute significantly to keeping her RA flare-ups at bay.

Lifestyle Factors That Trigger Flare-ups

Despite being dedicated to nutrition and exercise, Jennifer Holder recognizes that there are times when a flare-up occurs. In her case, she has observed that it often happens when she neglects crucial aspects of her lifestyle, such as not getting enough sleep, not staying hydrated, and not paying enough attention to self-care. Given her hectic work schedule, it is crucial for her to prioritize sleep and diligently maintain her well-being to prevent flare-ups.

Dietary Sensitivities and Flare-ups

Holder reveals that although she tested negative for celiac disease, she may have a sensitivity to gluten. When she consumes foods rich in gluten, she experiences joint swelling and inflammation. She notices changes in her ankles and swollen knuckles. Going on vacation presents a challenge, as she tends to indulge in gluten-filled and sugary foods. As a result, upon returning, she occasionally experiences mild flare-ups. To combat this, she follows a strict diet, eliminating gluten and sugary foods. She often incorporates fasting and exercise to alleviate symptoms such as swollen joints, knuckles, and achy knees.

Exploring Nutrition as a Management Tool

In her journey with RA, Jennifer Holder has become an avid student of nutrition. She recognizes that nutrition is not solely about weight management, but also about overall health management. Recently, she has been diving into the benefits of magnesium and using it as a home remedy. Additionally, she acknowledges the potency of ginger and turmeric, which she incorporates into her daily meals. While these remedies have proven successful for her, she understands that individual experiences may vary.

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Conclusion

Living with RA does not mean giving up on adventures and experiencing life to the fullest. Jennifer Holder demonstrates that by prioritizing nutrition, exercise, and self-care, it is possible to manage flare-ups and enjoy the good things in life. Her journey sheds light on the significance of finding a balance between health management and maintaining an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

“For me, nutrition and exercise, those are the only things that really, truly work for me. I have to monitor what I eat. When I eat poorly, I notice a lot of inflammation. And when I eat healthier options, I feel better. My joints are not inflamed. So for me, nutrition is big and exercise as well.” – Jennifer Holder