I take quite a few medications. Medications have side effects and even if I don’t have the side effects now, what if I get them later. I pray I never get them. And I try to take not take what I don’t need or what I can do without. I am well informed, thanks to my rheumatologist and my own “need to know” personality. Because how would I know what to look for if I don’t read about my medication? I also have this mindset, “If I am taking these different medications and eating decent or somewhat healthy, then maybe these medications will have less of an effect on my organs and body than if I don’t eat better.” I hope that makes sense. It does to me. Give my body a chance is what I am saying.

Is it difficult to eat healthy? Yes. Pain can make me just want to eat anything that gives me a good dopamine hit. It does not help that I am an emotional eater, too. And going through the trenches in life can wreak havoc on my diet. Nevertheless, I continue to make as many healthy choices as I can while still enjoying baking and trying new things. I am learning not to bring all of the things I like into my home. For example, it’s fall. I want the apple cider doughnuts and the candy corn. “It’s either one or the other, Nicole!” (Me to myself). And since there may be other things like ice cream or cookies the rule is one treat per day if I must but I try to go days without. Key word is “try”. It’s ice cream by the serving size or a homemade cookie for that day. If I eat it in the middle of the day, I don’t get to have ice cream or another cookie later. The struggle is real! Out of sight out of mind works. All unhealthy snacks in a container in the pantry or in the pantry on the second shelf and not sitting on the counter or table sending subliminal messages like, “eat me”.

I have slowly made the transition back to eating a plate for diabetics and these things help with my Rheumatoid symptoms. If my diabetes is not in check, it sets off my rheumatoid pain. It once was a vicious cycle. If I have pain, I eat and then when I eat, I have more pain. Diabetes creates inflammation and so does Rheumatoid. So does the other two health issues I have. So, eating better and healthier, controlling my emotions through meditation, prayer, therapy and mindfulness helps tremendously. Especially, when I am fully on board and committed.

I eat home more. When I am out, most of the time I choose wisely and sometimes I enjoy myself. That is balance to me. I have come a long way and I am improving. I like to cook and cooking healthy does not mean bland food. At least, not in my world. I like fresh produce and I have numerous recipe books. So, if you are bored cooking the same things, explore! Pinterest, healthy YouTube cooking channels, blogs, etc. are available to us. I incorporate vegan meals as well. Juicing and smoothies made at are regularly done in home. It’s less sugar when you do it at home than at some of the franchises. I found that out the hard way.

~Nikki