Keys to managing autoimmunity
In the transition phase of your healing journey, it's crucial to explicitly mark the point of full restoration and provide clear instructions for the next steps. Here are some key points to emphasize, many will sound familiar, keeping with my recurring themes of decentralized systems working together:
Autoimmunity is a manageable condition, not curable. The immune system has a memory function, so feeling better doesn't equate to a cure but rather indicates successful suppression of autoimmune activity. The goal is to maintain this suppression and keep the autoimmune response dormant.
Unlike a house party cleanup, where you can revert to normalcy afterward, managing autoimmunity requires consistent adherence to dietary and lifestyle changes. Every autoimmune flare poses a risk of damage, making precision and consistency essential in maintaining stability.
Diversify your diet with a range of enjoyable, compliant foods. This not only supports oral tolerance but also makes it easier to adhere to the plan long-term, minimizing the risk of boredom-induced deviations.
Boredom is a significant obstacle to adherence. Recognizing this challenge and building a routine around expanding your repertoire of compliant foods can help maintain consistency.
Understand the distinction between foods to avoid entirely and those to substantially reduce. Complete avoidance is necessary for foods triggering antibody responses, while others require moderation.
Have alternative compliant options readily available for moments of temptation. Redirecting cravings toward compliant choices is easier than resisting off-plan foods.
Improved health serves as evidence that your tissues can function at a higher level. Use this baseline as a reference point to monitor any deviations and continue applying successful strategies.
Let go of the notion of inherent sickness and embrace the potential for sustained improvement. Understanding the evidence of your progress can positively influence your outlook and commitment to long-term health.
By internalizing these insights and implementing them into your daily routine, you're poised to reinforce and prolong your progress in managing autoimmunity effectively.
