When someone receives a diagnosis of an autoimmune disorder, it comes after enduring numerous tests, lab works, and procedures. After this exhaustive process, seeking solutions often leads to hearing the difficult news that there is no cure for autoimmune disorders, but management through lifestyle changes is possible.
For many autoimmune warriors, including myself, a crucial aspect of this management hinges on dietary choices, which profoundly impact our everyday lives. My journey began with this realization. Initially diagnosed, I felt as though my world had been turned upside down. One of the most profound adjustments I faced was redefining my relationship with food.
The path to understanding what to eat and what to avoid has been a multifaceted journey, marked by both challenges and triumphs. Here are the five stages that have shaped my food journey, each offering invaluable lessons in health, balance, and mindfulness.
Stage 1: The Panic Stage
Six months into my first pregnancy, I was diagnosed with ITP. My doctor didn’t mention much about dietary regulations. In the last two months, I started gaining a lot of weight and developed purpura, prompting me to research ITP online. I discovered dietary restrictions that I wish my doctor had mentioned earlier. Learning about the AIP diet threw me into a panic; most commonly included ingredients like grains, legumes, dairy, and nightshade vegetables (brinjal, capsicum, tomatoes, etc) were to be avoided. Honestly, reading about the AIP diet caused me more panic than the diagnosis itself.
Stage 2: The Elimination Stage
It took me some time to move past the panic and focus on starting small. I began by cutting out potential trigger foods to see if my symptoms improved. Gluten, dairy, and sugar were the first to go. Eliminating gluten and sugar was easy, but dairy was tougher. I kept curd, buttermilk, and occasional paneer dishes while avoiding milk, cheese, and other dairy products. This stage taught me discipline and the importance of listening to my body. Seeing improvements in my symptoms during this time motivated me to keep going.
Stage 3: The Fad Diet Stage
Desperate for a quick fix, I fell into the trap of fad diets. Detox diets, gluten-free diets, raw foodism and even juice cleanses—if it promised relief, I tried it. Each new diet came with its own set of rules and restrictions, adding to my stress. Some diets worked for a while, but none offered a sustainable solution. Also, cooking something for me exclusively and another thing for the family doubled up my work adding more stress. This stage was frustrating, as I was constantly chasing the next big thing, hoping it would be the answer. I learned that there are no one-size-fits-all solutions, especially when it comes to autoimmune disorders.
Stage 4: The Social Isolation Stage
As my dietary restrictions became more stringent, social gatherings became a source of anxiety. I often avoided eating out or attending events where I couldn’t control the food. When I did go, I brought my own meals or ate beforehand, which made me feel like an outsider. I missed the joy of sharing meals with friends and family. This stage was lonely, but it also made me realize the importance of a supportive community. I began to educate my loved ones about my condition, which helped them understand and accommodate my needs.
Stage 5: The Learning Stage
After the rollercoaster of fad diets and social isolation, I entered a phase of education and self-discovery. I read books, joined online support groups, and consulted with doctors specialized in autoimmune disorders. I learned about anti-inflammatory foods, the gut microbiome, and the role of stress in autoimmune conditions. Knowledge became empowering. I started to develop a more balanced approach to eating, one that was based on science rather than trends. This stage gave me a sense of control and hope.
Stage 6: The Trial & Error Stage
Armed with newfound knowledge, I began experimenting with my diet to find what truly worked for me. I reintroduced certain foods one at a time, carefully monitoring my body’s reactions. Some reintroductions were successful, while others were not. This process required patience and perseverance. I learned that my body’s needs could change over time and that it was essential to stay flexible. This stage reinforced the idea that managing an autoimmune disorder is a continuous journey of adaptation and listening to the body mattered the most.
Stage 7: The Mindfulness Stage
The final stage of my journey has been about embracing mindfulness and balance. I now approach food with gratitude and awareness, savouring each meal and recognizing its impact on my health. Practicing mindful eating, I pay attention to how foods make me feel and make choices that nourish both my body and mind. If I go out for lunch with friends, I enjoy it without fear, and the next day I go light on food. I’ve found a way to enjoy food again, without fear or guilt. This stage is about living in harmony with my condition rather than fighting against it. After years of trial and error, the best part is that I’ve finally settled on a diet that suits all three of us in our family, without compromising on health or taste.
In conclusion, my food journey after being diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder has been anything but straightforward. Each stage has brought its own challenges and lessons, shaping my approach to health and well-being. For anyone embarking on a similar journey, remember that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed, to make mistakes, and to seek support. Your path may be unique, but you are not alone. Embrace the process, learn from it, and find what works best for you.
Written as part of #BlogchatterFoodFest.
