So I haveGraves disease?
I asked, and she confirmed that was likely.
I felt simultaneously relieved and disappointed.This call came after months of not feeling like myself.
Despite being a disciplined athlete, I struggled to keep up with my regular fitness routine.
I felt more fatigued than ever, and there were days that I couldnt finish a workout.
Read more to learn about how I managed my Graves' disease diagnosis.
They brushed it off because all my other blood work appeared normal and offered follow-up testing in three months.
I demanded follow-up testing and began searching for a specialist who could give me answers.
I hadjustbeen diagnosed, and I thought, Is this really my only option?
It works by reducing the amount of thyroid hormones my thyroid gland produces to restore normal thyroid function.
After all, my medication resolves my symptoms; it doesnt address the underlying disease.
Nutrition
As a dietitian, I viewnutrition as a crucial medicine.
I emphasize:
To help me maintain variety, I use Dr. Michael Gregers Daily Dozen app.
This ensures that I get theantioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support my bodys ability to function properly.
I also supplement my plant-based diet with vitamin B12, vitamin D, and omega-3 fats from algae oil.
Im also lucky to have a online grid of nutrition colleagues specializing in various areas, including thyroid health.
Ive been able to ask them questions and incorporate their advice into my day-to-day life.
I participate incardiovascular, high-intensity, and strength workouts for full-body fitness.
My routine has also taught me to make time for intentional rest amidst the hustle culture we live in.
Mental Health Support
Being diagnosed with an autoimmune condition is scary.
Physically, I felt awful at the time of my diagnosis, but it affected mymental healthas well.
I believe that letting those things go and finding deeper healing is integral to achieving remission.
How Did I Get Graves Disease?
Like many other people with a new diagnosis, I wondered how I developed Graves disease.
The etiology (cause) of Graves disease is unknown.
Researchers believe its likely sparked by genetic, environmental, hormonal, and immunological factors.
I have afamily historyof thyroid conditions, and I believe that genetics may play a role in my story.
My experience is not unique.
You never know what other positives will come out of it.
National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus.TSH test.
National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus.Methimazole.
USDA: FoodData Central.Nuts, Brazilnuts, dried, unblanched.
2021;5(8).
Song H, Fang F, Tomasson G, et al.Association of stress-related disorders with subsequent autoimmune disease.JAMA.
