Sugar and PMR

I do think that this all boils down to eating nutrient-empty or nutrient-low calories and sugar is the primary culprit--that and processed oils. Carbohydrates contain 4 calories per gram and fats contain 9 calories per gram. When most of your calories comes from sugar, white flour, oil/fat and other processed foods, your nutrient intake is severely diminished and thus, your health suffers for it. Yes, you can survive on those 26 nutrients, but you won't thrive. When I studied nutrition in college, we primarily focused on 26 esstential nutrients. Since then science has discovered that there are hundreds of essential nutrients (e.g., phytonutrients and omega-3 fats) that are equally essential, but perhpas required in smaller amounts. These nutrients are often times processed out of processed foods.

I am a "whimp" too. Anything to avoid the pain, including sugar. Yes "exercise" daily and great nutrition. Keep up the good work and optimism.

JP

I’ve noticed links to 1) sugar and 2) gluten. Small amounts don’t trigger noticeable reactions, but “small”’is a bite or two of a normal portion. My doctor has asked me to also avoid salt. I need to do it for my BP, but have noticed that not retaining water reduces pain in my hands. Figuring out that nutrition is a huge input to inflamation.

I do herbs, PMR slows blood flow so I take cayenne pepper in a glass of water every day, turmeric reduces inflammation so I drink turmeric tea. All the things I wat are to heal my body and mind. I think its important to find what works for you. I was on prednisone for 7 weeks and I've replaced it and all drugs with herbs

I'm trying to do as much as I can to keep my body healthy too, in an effort to reduce inflammation. I can't take turmeric because it upsets my digestion. Cutting sugar, red meat and processed/junk foods has helped, and I also drink green and peppermint teas, and take MSM. However, none of this has enabled me to stop taking prednisone, although I am working at tapering my dosage, very slowly, by 1 mg per month.

Whats MSM?

MSM is short for Methylsulfonylmethane, which is a natural compound found in some foods. As a supplement, it's often used in combination with glucosamine and chondroitin for arthritis and other joint issues, but it's also supposed to be helpful for PMR, according to my naturopath and some online research I've done. I have noticed some difference since I've been on it, although it took a couple of months to take effect. It's not a cure, of course, but I do find it helpful.

I am converting to a Keto diet - which eliminates actual sugar but allows a minimal amount of carbs and after 4 days I have noticed a difference - I have less morning aches and stiffness - it’s definitely a method to reduce morning aches and pain.

I agree, I actually use honey and maple syrup and have been okay with that

I did some reading on this MSM and it sounds better than chemical drugs. It appears to be all-natural and you can buy it right off the shelf.