This Zebra's Diet and Exercises

Like many of you fellow Zebras, I have many doctors that I see for many other diseases and medical conditions that are not directly related to CVID, (Common Variable Immune Deficiency). My most problematic condition is in my back. Then my lab work came back and I was told I might be having more medical problems. But, as you may know, things can get better with the right treatment plan.

A few months ago I finally was able to see an orthopedic/spinal surgeon. It was a visit that I won’t forget too soon. The internist went over my MRI of my back and explained everything. I found out that I do not need back surgery. Instead, I need to have epidural injections in my low back on a regular basis. The following week I had another epidural that hit the mark. I went from severe pain and difficulty walking to having minimal pain and walking so much better!!!

A few weeks after that I saw my general physician. She told me that my labs results were high in many areas. This was a first for me. I had never had high sugar, triglycerides, and cholesterol before. She put me on a diet plan that has no ‘porky pig’, anything from a cow, and no sweets such as cakes, cookies, pies, fruit juices, bread, and so on. She also recommended that I begin to exercise.

A few years ago a doctor put me on a vegetarian non-fat diet for about three months. This was before I had my gallbladder removed. My boyfriend helped me with that diet by cooking me tasty stir-fry’s and Indian food. I found that diet to be fine and it sure did help reduce my gallbladder attacks.

So these new diet restrictions aren’t as bad as the diet I had prior to my gallbladder surgery. This leaves me on a diet that is pretty much only lean white meat and veggies. I can still have chicken. I am permitted fish, but I am allergic to a lot of fish. To make this diet exciting and fun, I have had Thai food, Vietnamese food, Indian food, and Chinese food. There are lots of delicious chicken and veggie dishes from cultures around the world, you just need to try them.

My exercise plan is an adaptation from my physical therapist’s plan which I was given last year. This plan includes simple exercises for my whole body; arms, legs, shoulders, abs, back, etc. To get cardio in my workout I use my Gazelle by Tony Little. My Gazelle machine is a simple non-impact type of walking /skiing machine. I love exercising on it because it doesn’t hurt my back and other joints like how other exercise equipment does. This is important, because like other Zebras, I too have a lot of pain in my joints such as my knees and back. I began working out

by doing simple 10 reps for each exercise and an easy pace on my Gazelle for 10 min. I increased my reps and time on my Gazelle as I was comfortable with, but pushing myself just a little. Currently I am doing 30 reps each on my exercises and 20 min. at a medium pace on my Gazelle. Please note that on my bad days, such as those near my IVIG, I still try work out, but at an easy pace or for shorter periods of time.

To all the other Zebras out there, please talk to your doctor about what exercises your can do. There are TV programs such as Sit and Be Fit (on PBS) that are very low impact you may be able to do. If you want a Gazelle like I have, you can order one or try to find one at a used sports store. I found my gazelle at the Salvation Army for only ten dollars. Also, ask your doctor about seeing a physical therapist. They can develop a personalized plan for you that takes into consideration all your medical issues.

It’s been about six weeks now that I have been working out and dieting. I feel stronger, my pain is less and my endurance and stamina have increased. I am fitting into my clothes better and being able to do more things. I have lost 12 pounds so far. I am going to keep working out as long as I can. My back doctor hoped that my epidural would last for about three month or more. So, while I can, I am going to continue my diet and exercise regime.

I know that many of you are tired and fatigued most of the time. I know about the aches all over and how it makes you feel icky. Your joints hurt and the Fibromyalgia pain is all over too. It seem like there’s no way you can exercise. However, there is a way- it takes just one step at a time. So come on Zebras, let’s show them just how strong our dazzle really is!

Many hugs and best wishes to all.