Chapter 1: A Legacy of Health Challenges

Reflecting on my family history, I can’t help but wonder about the genetic gifts passed down to me. My grandfather and uncle both succumbed to heart attacks at a young age. If the blood tests we have today had been available back then, their elevated LDL and triglyceride levels would have been alarming. My father battled asthma in his youth, and after a near-fatal encounter with Scarlet Fever, his asthma mysteriously vanished. My mother faced a range of health issues, including severe hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

It seems I inherited a bit of everything! For years, I sought help for my myriad aches and pains, only to be told nothing was wrong; I was labeled a hypochondriac. However, when my sister received a fibromyalgia diagnosis, I finally found clarity about my own symptoms.

In the late 80s, after the introduction of statins, a cholesterol test revealed elevated levels in my body. Despite trying statins, I experienced adverse effects and ultimately discontinued their use.

Before I embraced a healthier lifestyle, I struggled with obesity and was reliant on numerous medications. I discovered old receipts from 2007, totaling over $256 for prescriptions, including simvastatin and various others.

My journey into alternative medicine began as a teenager when traditional methods failed to alleviate my recurring headaches. A chiropractor's adjustment brought significant relief after a few sessions.

Working in the pharmaceutical industry opened my eyes to the profit-driven nature of healthcare, further encouraging my shift towards holistic practices.

Section 1.1: Dietary Discoveries

Regardless of whether I followed a vegan or standard American diet, my triglyceride levels remained high, and my HDL was disappointingly low. While my blood pressure was manageable, it could have been better, and I frequently dealt with foot pain.

Eliminating dairy improved my asthma, except for instances when transitioning from cold to warm environments after exercise. However, I adapted by either avoiding cold workouts or using a mask, which turned out to be a silver lining during the pandemic.

Ten years of suffering from Lichen Sclerosis prompted me to explore dietary solutions, leading me to a low-oxalate diet that drastically reduced my discomfort.

Subsection 1.1.1: The Low-Oxalate Approach

Through trial and error, I embraced a low-oxalate, whole-food diet that has transformed my well-being. My meals typically include grilled meats, fresh salads, and a delicious Arbonne Chocolate Simply 1 shake. I'm grateful to afford organic, grass-fed options.

By simplifying my diet, I avoid excessive oxalates without the constant mental strain of tracking every meal's content. Recent research hints that oxalates may play a role in various health issues, including arthritis and fibromyalgia.

Chapter 2: Current Health and Well-Being

The first video titled "NO MORE SHAME: My Body & Health Journey" sheds light on personal transformations and the emotional aspects of health changes.

The second video, "My Health Is Slowly Declining...And I Have No Answers For 4 Years (My Post Covid Vaccine Story)," explores the struggles many face with health uncertainties.

Today, my cholesterol levels are high, but my other health markers are satisfactory. I continue to consume dairy for its natural calcium benefits, primarily enjoying organic string cheese.

My holistic routine includes Juice Plus+ supplements and Vitamin D3, along with a commitment to natural personal care products. Daily exercise and quality sleep are also key goals, even if achieving them consistently is a challenge.

At 73 years old, I take minimal medications: levothyroxine for my thyroid and a low dose of losartan for blood pressure. On occasion, I may use acetaminophen or Celebrex for minor issues.

With health restored and manageable diets, life has become much more enjoyable.

In closing, here's a haiku to encapsulate my journey:

With good health restored,

Diets easily maintained,

When aches disappear.

©2023 Nancy Oglesby | All Rights Reserved (Seriously, who’d want the rights if not me? LOL)

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