Sunday, May 19, 2013

Positive client update...

A client of mine has severe arthritis that can cause debilitating pain when left unchecked. 2 months ago I got him to try a gluten free, low sugar diet for one week - with the promise that his stomach would be a little flatter by the end of the trial week. ( Sidebar: if you go gluten free for even a week and then eat a bowl of pasta, you will be at least slightly constipated for 24-48 hours, and also feel sluggish for about a day. Part of the reason a low gluten, low sugar diet will help flatten your stomach is that you will eliminate waste and toxins more effectively.) Once said client completed a week and saw/felt positive results from the diet week, I then added a a pharmaceutical -grade fish oil and Pharma-grade Vitamin D twice a day. We then added a 3rd day of weight training and a 45 minute session on the Pilates Reformer while eliminating cardio (besides an occasional spin class). Weight training days are circuits comprised of multi-joint lifts, core strengthening movements and balance/mobility work. 2-4 exercises per circuit, with 1- 1 1/2 minute rest periods. We keep things moving throughout the training which helps relieve the need for him to do "cardio days". The results thus far: lost 7 lbs, much improved hip mobility, HUGE improvement in ROM of the mid-thoracic spine, +25 on bench, + 40 squat and most importantly has cut the frequency of medication in half and doesn't have to deal with the pain associated with inflammation. I'm not a doctor and you should never change meds or dosage without consulting your doctor. I just wanted to share the positive experience of one person.