As a personal trainer, I have always been passionate about health and wellness. But it wasn't until I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease, that I truly began to understand the importance of taking control of my health through my diet and lifestyle.
After years of trying various medications and treatments with little success, I turned to a plant-based diet and began incorporating resistance training into my fitness routine. The combination of these two lifestyle changes has had a profound impact on my Ulcerative Colitis, and I have experienced significant improvements in my symptoms and overall well-being.
In this blog post, I want to share my personal journey and the knowledge I have gleaned along the way, in the hope that it will inspire and empower others with similar conditions to take control of their health through diet and exercise.
My Ulcerative Colitis Journey
I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis in my late 20s, and for many years, I struggled to find a treatment that worked for me. I tried various medications, including anti-inflammatory drugs (Pentasa) and immunosuppressants (azathioprine, Infliximab / Inflectra / Remicade) , but they either had little effect or caused unpleasant side effects.
(Image showing me in hospital shortly after my diagnoses)
I was also following a typical Western diet, high in processed and animal-based foods, which I now know can contribute to inflammation in the body. Despite my best efforts, my Ulcerative Colitis symptoms persisted, and I often experienced abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and fatigue.
Turning to a Plant-Based Diet
It wasn't until I began researching the link between diet and chronic illness that I discovered the potential benefits of a plant-based diet for people with Ulcerative Colitis. Plant-based diets are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help to reduce inflammation in the body and improve symptoms.
I decided to give a plant-based diet a try, and within a few weeks, I noticed a significant improvement in my Ulcerative Colitis symptoms. My abdominal pain and diarrhea decreased, and I had more energy. I also began to experience fewer flare-ups, which had previously been a frequent occurrence.
I was amazed by the positive impact a plant-based diet had on my Ulcerative Colitis, and I have continued to follow this way of eating to this day. I focus on whole, unprocessed plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, and I try to minimize or eliminate processed and animal-based foods.
(Image showing a Plant Based Pizza with my daughter, Lily)
Incorporating Resistance Training
In addition to following a plant-based diet, I also began incorporating resistance training into my fitness routine. Resistance training, also known as strength training or weight lifting, involves using resistance to challenge the muscles and improve muscle strength, mass, and endurance.
I was drawn to resistance training because of its numerous health benefits, including improving bone density, reducing the risk of chronic diseases, and boosting mood and self-esteem. I was also interested in the potential benefits for people with Ulcerative Colitis, such as improving muscle mass and strength, which can be affected by the disease.
I started slowly, with bodyweight exercises such as squats and push-ups, and gradually progressed to using dumbbells and barbells. I also focused on proper form and technique to minimize the risk of injury.
I found that resistance training not only improved my physical fitness, but it also had a positive impact on my Ulcerative Colitis. I experienced increased muscle mass and strength, and my energy levels improved. I also noticed a decrease in my abdominal pain and an overall improvement in my quality of life.
(Image showing me during a resistance training session with Martin Hulbert in 2022)
The Importance of Lifestyle Factors
As I have learned through my own experience, diet and exercise are crucial factors in managing chronic illnesses like Ulcerative Colitis. While medication and medical treatment can be necessary and beneficial, they are not the only solution.
Incorporating lifestyle changes, such as following a plant-based diet and participating in regular exercise, can have a significant impact on symptoms and overall well-being. These lifestyle factors can also help to reduce the risk of developing other chronic conditions, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
It's important to note that everyone is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. It's essential to work with a healthcare provider and consider individual needs and preferences when making lifestyle changes.
For example, some people may find that a fully plant-based diet is not suitable for them, and that incorporating small amounts of animal-based foods can be beneficial. Others may find that a different type of exercise, such as yoga or swimming, is more suitable for their condition.
The key is to be open to trying different approaches and finding what works best for you. It may take some trial and error, but the effort is worth it for the potential health benefits.
Final thoughts
Living with a chronic illness like Ulcerative Colitis can be challenging, but it doesn't have to be a lifetime sentence of pain and suffering. By taking control of my diet and lifestyle, I have been able to significantly improve my Ulcerative Colitis symptoms and overall well-being.
I hope that by sharing my journey and the knowledge I have gained along the way, I can inspire and empower others with similar conditions to take control of their health through diet and exercise. Remember, everyone is different, so it's essential to work with a healthcare provider and find what works best for you.
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