For me, incense used to remind me of mornings at church, where the scent made me feel a bit nauseous… But in my quest for well-being, I decided to explore traditional incense to improve the health and atmosphere of my home. Here are the 6 varieties of HEM incense I plan to try in the coming weeks, depending on my needs for purification, relaxation, and well-being. Dragon's Blood   Traditional Use: Purification and protection against negative energies. Potential Benefits: Mood enhancement and stress reduction thanks to its powerful aroma. Other Uses: Used in the production of inks, varnishes, and for its healing properties. White Sage   Traditional Use: Energy cleansing and space purification for a harmonious home. Potential Benefits: Stress reduction and mood improvement. Other Uses: Used in traditional medicine for its healing properties. Lavender    Traditional Use: Relaxation and improved sleep quality, ideal for a restful evening. Potential Benefits: Anxiety and stress reduction, with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Other Uses: Skincare, aromatherapy, and even in cooking for unique recipes. Palo Santo   Traditional Use: Spiritual purification and meditation for a calm mind. Potential Benefits: Mood enhancement, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. Other Uses: Perfect for aromatherapy, crafting, and skincare. Frankincense   Traditional Use: Spiritual and religious practices, meditation. Potential Benefits: Anti-inflammatory properties and support for mental health. Other Uses: Ideal for cosmetics, aromatherapy, and oral health. Sandalwood   Traditional Use: Meditation and relaxation in spiritual practices. Potential Benefits: Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, positive effects on mental health. Other Uses: Widely used in cosmetics, aromatherapy, and the perfume industry. How to Purify Your Home with These Incense Sticks To clear negative energies, light Palo Santo or White Sage, let the smoke spread, and walk through each room, focusing on the corners. Open the windows to release unwanted energies while focusing on a positive intention, like inviting peace. Each of these traditional incense sticks offers unique characteristics, whether for spiritual purification, relaxation, or addressing physical and mental conditions. Their use varies depending on cultural traditions and personal preferences. What’s your favorite incense? Share your experience in the comments! ⭐  Recommendations I bought these HEM incense sticks on Amazon, and they are perfect for starting an aromatic journey.

November 2024. A secret recording surfaces and Campbell's VP, a guy named Bally, gets caught saying what he really thinks about his products: "We have shit for fucking poor people. Who buys our shit? I don't buy Campbell's products barely anymore. It's not healthy now that I know what the fuck's in it." Ouch. The guy literally admits he doesn't eat his own food because he knows what's in it. Meanwhile, we're being told it's convenient, quick, affordable. Cool. The backlash was massive, obviously. But beyond the scandal and comments, it raises a real question: what exactly are they feeding us? Spoiler alert: it's not pretty. 😬 Welcome to the wonderful world of food additives 🧪 In Canada, about 450 food additives are authorized. FOUR HUNDRED AND FIFTY. In organic products? Only 55 are allowed. That tells you something about what they put in the rest, doesn't it? And guess what? Nearly half of the calories Canadians consume come from ultra-processed foods. We're literally eating chemistry. Here's what I found on the shelves. Artificial colors: pretty but toxic 🎨☠️ The United States just asked manufacturers to eliminate eight artificial colors. Seven of them are still perfectly legal in Canada: allura red, tartrazine, sunset yellow FCF, brilliant blue FCF, indigotine, citrus red, and fast green FCF. These dyes have been linked to cancer development in animals and hyperactivity in children. In Europe, products containing them must carry a warning: "may have adverse effects on activity and attention in children." In Canada? No warning. Nothing. Nada. 🤷‍♀️ Where to find them: Candy, colored cereals, desserts, drinks, brightly colored yogurts. What to watch for on labels: Allura red (Red #40) Tartrazine (Yellow #5) Erythrosine (Red #3) Sunset yellow FCF (Yellow #6) Brilliant blue FCF (Blue #1) Preservatives: BHA, BHT and friends 🧫 Health Canada classified BHA as a high priority for human health due to its carcinogenic potential. BHT is considered a moderate priority. BHA causes cancer in laboratory animals according to international organizations. These products can also cause allergic skin reactions and act as endocrine disruptors. But hey, at least your cereal stays crunchier longer, right? Where to find them: Cereals, nut mixes, chewing gum, butter, processed meats, dehydrated potatoes. Nitrites and nitrates in deli meats are another story. They become dangerous when they transform in your body. Health Canada sets limits, but they're still there. Sulfites can cause reactions that look like allergies: burning sensations on the face, headaches, nausea, chest pain. Found in wine, alcohol, dried herbs, dried fruits, even some cereals. MSG: my personal enemy 😤 Monosodium glutamate (MSG) can cause burning sensations on the face, headaches, nausea and chest pain in some people. Me? I had a vasovagal shock because of spices that contained it. You can read my full story here. The worst part is that MSG hides everywhere under different names: Monosodium glutamate Hydrolyzed proteins Yeast extract / autolyzed yeast Glutamic acid Hydrolyzed vegetable proteins Or even just "seasonings" or "spices" Where to find it: Soups (hey Campbell's! 👋), frozen meals, salad dressings, chips, sauces, broths. The weird additives we really shouldn't be eating 🚫 Titanium dioxide: Banned throughout the European Union but authorized in Canada. Added mainly for aesthetic appearance. You know, to make it look appetizing. Mainly in candy and gum. Azodicarbonamide: Found in yoga mats and synthetic leather shoes. Also in your bread. Banned in Europe because it breaks down to form carcinogenic chemicals during baking. In Canada? Perfectly legal. Aspartame: The free amino acids in aspartame attack brain cells, creating toxic cellular overstimulation. But it's zero calories, so it's good for your figure! 🙃 Phosphoric acid: Used in soft drinks. Also used to prevent rust on cars. Yes, you read that right. Associated with kidney problems and osteoporosis in women. Aluminum sulfate: Used in pools and gardening. And also in certain foods. At high doses, associated with risk of dementia or Alzheimer's. The trap of "artificial flavors" 🍓🧪 You see "artificial flavors" on a label? Here's the problem: we never really know what it hides. It could be a single additive or a mixture of several hundred chemicals. For example, artificial strawberry flavor can contain nearly 50 chemical ingredients. FIFTY. To imitate a strawberry. How to decode a label (if you're interested) 🔍 Ok, now that we know what's hiding in our food, here's how I scan a label quickly: 1. I look at the ingredient list first (not just the nutrition facts) 2. Personally, when I see these words, I put the box back: Color numbers (Red #40, Yellow #5, etc.) BHA, BHT Monosodium glutamate (or its disguises) Artificial flavors Hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils Azodicarbonamide Titanium dioxide 3. My simple rule: If I can't pronounce an ingredient or if the list is as long as my arm, I pass. 4. Ingredients are listed in descending order. If sugar is in the first 3, it's often not a good sign. What I think 💭 Campbell's VP doesn't eat his own products because he knows what's in them. Now we know too. I'm not saying we need to become paranoid and make everything at home (lol, who has time?). But at least we can read labels. Make informed choices. Stop being fooled by marketing that tells us it's "natural" or "healthy" when it's loaded with junk. It starts with knowing what's really hiding on the shelves.

Let me tell you right away:My cast iron pans have never looked like they came straight out of a Pinterest board. They’ve got lighter patches, little battle scars, a seasoning that’s not perfectly uniform… basically: they live their life. But they get better every single month.And that’s exactly what’s going to happen to yours too. 1. Progressive Re-Seasoning (a.k.a. the magic transformation) Even if your pan is already used, a little patchy, or not very cute, you can turn it into a shiny, non-stick black queen in just a few weeks. Deep clean (hot water + stainless steel scrubber) Dry it perfectly on the stovetop Super-thin layer of coconut or olive oil everywhere(Use the oil you want — I stick to coconut or olive for practical and allergy reasons.) In the oven, upside down, 1 hour at 220–230 °C (425–450 °F) Let it cool inside the oven Repeat 2–4 evenings in a row You’ll see: pale spots darken, sticky zones disappear, and that black gets darker than your morning coffee. 2. Daily Care (the real secret to pans that age like wine) This is where the magic happens:the 2 minutes after each cooking session. Quick version (when you just want to go to bed) A splash of very hot water for 15 seconds Scrub with stainless steel scrubber or brush Quick rinse 2 minutes on the stove to dry 3–4 drops of coconut or olive oil → wipe with a paper towel Done. Seasoning-boosting version Coarse salt + stainless steel scrubber on the hot pan → matte black 3 drops of oil → instant glossy black Do this 3–4 times and say goodbye to beige and sticky areas. 3. The basic rules (the ones that save pans) No dishwasher No soaking No thermal shock A bit of rust? Don’t panic :stainless steel scrubber + a tiny re-seasoning = fixed. Cast iron isn’t fragile. It’s just a little drama queen if you leave it soaking too long 😆 💛 In short A “perfect” cast iron pan doesn’t exist on day one.But with a quick 2 minutes of love after each meal, it becomes: darker smoother more non-stick And in a few weeks, you’ll catch yourself sliding an egg in there just for the fun of watching it surf. You? Do you love your cast iron pans?

It’s November. Quebec is grey, wet, cold, and honestly… not the most inspiring vibe. It’s 2°C today, soon it’ll drop to -10°C, and then February will show up with its usual -30°C like it owns the place. Winter here is a whole personality. I’m still here — for how long, who knows. One day I’ll probably escape to a warm country year-round. But for now, I’m trying to make myself feel better with what I can control. Since cutting sugar and eating more on the carnivore side, my body has been thanking me: I walk better, stairs don’t feel like Mount Everest anymore… little improvements that matter. And through all my research, there’s one thing that kept popping up: Lion’s Mane. For years, I’ve seen people — especially women with MS like me, and also not on medication — talk about it with respect. They say it helps, that their mind feels clearer, that the brain fog eases up a bit. It always intrigued me… but I didn’t want to add yet another supplement to my list. Now I’ve trimmed my routine down to the essentials: NeuroPrime Vitamin D3-K2 And my bio-identical hormones (hello menopause 😅). But something’s still missing. I write a lot, and I don’t like when my brain decides to freeze mid-sentence trying to remember a basic word. So today, I finally ordered: 👉 Real Mushrooms – 120 Lion’s Mane capsules 🌿 Why I finally decided to try it Let’s be honest: There will never be big clinical studies on Lion’s Mane. Why?Because you can’t patent a mushroom. No patent = no million-dollar funding = no big studies. Like all natural products, what we have is: small studies, animal research, and real-life experiences. And honestly, the testimonies from women living the same reality as me matter way more than “cold science” that says “we’re not sure yet.” 🍄 Benefits people report (and why it grabbed my attention for MS) Based on what we know + what real users share: ✔ Less brain fog People often say their mind feels clearer, sharper, more present. ✔ Nervous system support Lion’s Mane stimulates NGF (nerve growth factor), which helps nerve repair and protection.For MS, even a small nudge in that direction is welcome. ✔ Better overall well-being Some feel emotionally more stable, with steadier energy during the day. ✔ Anti-inflammatory effects Useful for MS — and many autoimmune conditions. ✔ A little boost for memory Very handy when you write a lot… and still lose words mid-flow 😅. ⚠️ What people say — good and not-so-good Because nothing is magic. ⭐ Positive comments Better focus Less brain fog More stable energy Mentally clearer Better mood ⚠️ Negative comments No effect at all (it happens) Digestive issues if taken on an empty stomach Anxiety if the starting dose is too high Some people even feel more tired (yep, the opposite reaction exists) Bottom line: every body reacts differently. ✨ What MS users often notice People with MS who use Lion’s Mane often mention: clearer mental focus, steadier energy, less “mental fog,” and a smoother day overall. It’s not a miracle — but if it gives me even a 5% improvement, I’ll take it. I’m going to test it, slowly as always, listening to my body.And I’ll come back with honest thoughts — the good and the not-so-good. And now I’m curious: Have you ever tried Lion’s Mane? Did it help you? Brain fog, energy, mood… tell me everything in the comments. We help each other — especially when winter in Quebec tries to break our spirits 😂💛

Yesterday was my 58th birthday. It was a totally normal Tuesday: lunches, dinner, driving around like a taxi, and answering birthday messages on Facebook between two errands. I replied to everyone one by one. If someone takes a minute to wish me a happy birthday, I’m going to take a minute to say thank you. But this morning, my body reminded me that even good things can be draining. My legs are stiff, and they burn a little. I’m moving, but with that slightly “robot-like” walk. Today, even standing takes more energy than usual. A Reminder of Change Today, my body reminded me of a reality I’ve known for a while: I’m no longer the Lili from OnMagasine. The one who spent entire days chasing coupons, deals, flyers, Facebook pages, and alerts. Always ready, always “on,” always sharing before everyone else. I’m not her anymore. And GOOD. That version of me took me far. She taught me discipline, resourcefulness, and grit. But she also burned me out, stretched me thin, and emptied me. Embracing Evolution Now, I live with a body that sometimes stops before my mind does. I’m learning that it’s not a failure. It’s just… evolution. I no longer have the energy to hunt deals every week, and I don’t want to put that pressure on myself anymore. Not because I don’t care — I do. But because I want to save my energy for things that truly nourish me: talking about health, food, well-being, real life, and real body-listening. A Shift in Focus I want to connect, talk, and share. Not run. Not drain myself. If I keep building FitFuelChronicles, it’s to create a place you visit with your morning coffee, without stress. Not a place where I kill myself to post a special on bacon for $2.97. I don’t know exactly where this new version of me will take the site, but I know I want to be real. Accepting My New Self Today, being real means accepting that I’m no longer the Lili I used to be. I’m a new version. Slower, yes. But a thousand times wiser. You wanna ride with me? Finding Balance in Life As I navigate this new chapter, I realize the importance of balance. Life is not just about hustle and productivity. It’s about enjoying the journey and savoring each moment. Nourishing Connections I want to foster connections that are meaningful. Conversations that matter. Sharing experiences that resonate. This is the essence of what I want to build. Prioritizing Well-Being It's essential to prioritize well-being over relentless pursuit. I want to focus on what truly enriches my life and the lives of others. This shift in mindset is liberating. The Journey Ahead The journey ahead may be different, but it’s filled with potential. I’m excited to explore new avenues and discover what this new version of me can achieve. Conclusion In embracing this change, I invite you to join me. Let’s explore together, share our stories, and support each other on this journey. Life is too precious to rush through. Let’s savor it, one moment at a time. --- I’m looking forward to what lies ahead. Are you ready to embark on this adventure with me?

For years, cannabis helped me with menstrual pain. And let’s be honest… it wasn’t always the right strain. But when MS showed up in my life, I started looking for what could actually  help me. I used to go to a small dispensary in my town. It was perfect: I could buy small amounts, try different strains, and figure out what calmed my legs or my neck. That was the beginning of my real hands-on research. And then one day, the government decided to shut down all the dispensaries — right before the official opening of the SQDC. They clearly wanted everything to go through their own system. So suddenly, no more small, friendly place where I could see what I was buying… and there I was, standing outside in the cold, waiting in a long line for cannabis I couldn’t even look at before paying. Huge boxes with tiny, dry buds at the bottom. Not exactly what you want when you’re just trying to calm your body. Harvest summer 2025 That’s when I decided to be autonomous: I applied for my permit so I could grow my own cannabis. At least I can choose my strains based on terpenes, based on what works for me . In my situation, it’s simply the best option… and honestly, it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. Let’s be real: if you use 3.5 g or 5 g per day, store prices make absolutely no sense. The “cheap” stuff at $4.20 per gram adds up fast. Good strains at $10 per gram? That’s $35–50 per day. Who can afford that when you’re sick and uninsured? Not me.And that’s me calculating with flower , because it's the cheapest option. If we start talking about oils , prices explode even more. Meanwhile, MS medications can cost thousands  of dollars… and those are fully covered. But cannabis — the thing that actually helps me stay functional — gets zero reimbursement. Growing my own supply costs me about $150–200 per batch, plus the $125 to renew the permit (and a five-minute phone call with a doctor… MS is for life, but the permit isn’t, apparently). At least this way, I’m autonomous. I can try things: flower, creams, infused butter, homemade products… and I’ll talk more about all of that in future articles. In the end, I take care of my health the same way I take care of my plants: with patience, with instinct… and without letting anyone decide for me what’s good for my body. I’m curious — do you use it too? Flower, edibles… or your own homemade mix?

When you get a diagnosis like multiple sclerosis, life shifts. But for me, it was also the moment I decided to take the reins back — in my own way. 💛 I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at 50. Honestly, I believe my first symptoms started in my twenties. You can’t go back… so I decided to look forward. In June 2017, my family doctor told me she wanted me to see a neurologist because she suspected MS. I was with my partner that day — we share the same doctor, so we always go together for our yearly checkups. She had me do a simple little test : feet together, arms out, eyes closed. OMG. I felt like I was on a ride! I lost my balance and she had to catch me. Then she started typing frantically on her keyboard…I knew something was wrong. What I didn’t know yet was that she had already noticed me walking down the hallway — with one foot dragging behind. It was like a flashing sign saying “MS alert!” When I got back to the car, I immediately searched online. I found a questionnaire called “Do you have multiple sclerosis?” My score: 9 out of 10. But you know what? I was relieved. Finally, there was a name for all those symptoms I’d been told were “in my head.” For years, I went to doctors and they said everything looked fine…But I was going through a bottle of Extra Strength Tylenol every month. I knew getting an appointment would take forever — I’m from Québec, and our system has been overloaded for at least 30 years! 😅 I’ve always been the curious type, someone who likes to understand things. So I dove into research. I read, I explored, and I discovered testimonials, forums, and people talking about food, inflammation, natural approaches… a whole world of others searching — just like me — to feel better. I started with the simplest and most accessible thing.I didn’t have the budget for an infrared sauna in my living room, so I began by changing my diet. I followed the Wahls Protocol. At the same time, I discovered The MS Gym, a workout platform designed for people living with multiple sclerosis. I started moving differently, learning my limits, and reconnecting with my body.And honestly, I managed to get rid of a neck pain I’d had for 30 years — one that was always blamed on swimming and computer work. And then, revelation: within just a few weeks, my symptoms eased up. Fewer cramps, less pain, fewer “MS hugs.”And on top of that… I was losing weight at a crazy pace! A pound a day at one point. 😅I went from 150 pounds (68 kg) in the summer to 115 ponds (52kg) by the following spring. Four months later, I finally met the neurologist. He told me I needed a lumbar puncture because, according to him, I was “too old” for an MS diagnosis. I told him about my new way of eating, and he said: “Yeah, that’s just a trend.” That’s when I knew. The best person to take care of my case was me. Since then, I’ve kept adjusting how I eat. I’m closer to a carnivore-style diet now, and I keep listening to my body. I still don’t want medication — the side effects scare me more than my symptoms do. I don’t need to add more to the list. The only time I agreed to a treatment that didn’t feel right was the COVID vaccine…And let’s just say my body made its opinion clear. I had a flare of symptoms I had previously managed to eliminate through my lifestyle and nutrition. That’s when I truly realized how much my choices directly affect my symptoms — in both directions. I’m not saying this is the right path for everyone. But it’s mine. And it keeps me standing. 💛

I was talking with a friend who, like me, has multiple sclerosis.What fascinates me is how wildly different the symptoms can be from one person to another. We can have the same diagnosis and still live completely different realities.For her, it’s the heat that drains her.For me, it’s the cold that locks everything up.And around us, it’s something else again — numbness, fatigue, pain, or sometimes… almost nothing. MS isn’t a single story. It’s thousands of versions of the same word. La température : mon déclencheur numéro un Cold gets to me. As soon as the temperature drops, my body tightens up. My legs stiffen, like everything inside me freezes. Hot water, on the other hand… that’s my reset. It loosens everything, gives me back some movement, a bit of softness. People often say heat makes MS symptoms worse — and it does, for many.But not for everyone.I’m definitely one of those who function better when it’s warm. Nerve sensations Electric shocks, tingling, numbness…Sometimes they appear out of nowhere, sometimes right after a bit of effort or stress. It’s like the current isn’t flowing properly through the wires. The body becomes unpredictable — one day everything’s fine, the next a leg just stops cooperating. You learn to dance with it, to stop panicking. The invisible fatigue MS fatigue isn’t just being tired. It’s a weight that sits in your whole body — sometimes right from the morning, for no reason. It can last for hours or disappear suddenly. It’s frustrating, especially when from the outside, you “don’t look sick.” Focus, memory, and the mind Some days, words slip away. You search for a name, a sentence, a simple memory. It feels like a little fog drifting through your head. It often goes hand in hand with fatigue, heat, or stress.I’ve learned to be gentler with it: if my brain slows down, it’s because it needs space. Tone and stiffness Cold locks me up; warmth releases me. That shifting tone is like an inner barometer — it tells me where I’m at. When everything tightens, I know it’s time to slow down, stretch, and breathe. What we put in our bodies matters too Not everyone reacts the same way to what they consume.Certain foods, smells, or products can wake up symptoms, while others calm them down. Over time, I’ve learned to listen.When something triggers a reaction, I take note — without judging or forcing myself. It’s not an exact science; it’s a kind of listening.Every body has its own language. The wheelchair image When people hear “multiple sclerosis,” many picture a wheelchair right away.It’s often the first image that comes to mind. But the reality is much broader than that.Some people need one, others never do.And even for those who use it, it’s not always — sometimes only for long distances or tougher periods. MS isn’t all or nothing.There are countless shades between “I walk” and “I can’t walk,”and we don’t talk enough about those shades. In summary People often talk about “MS” as if it’s one single illness.But in truth, there are as many kinds of MS as there are people living with it. Lesions don’t tell the whole story.Our days, our seasons, our choices, our emotions — all of that changes how it shows up. What I’ve learned is that the most important thing is to listen to my body.Food, stress, warmth, rest — it all matters.And the more I listen, the better I get at avoiding flare-ups and keeping my balance.

Autumn has settled in here in Québec, and like every year, I’m looking for simple ways to help my body get ready for winter. I’ve always known that some spices offer more than flavour — they can actually support our health. Cloves are one of them. In Ayurvedic tradition (an ancient form of natural medicine from India), cloves are considered a warming spice. They’re said to boost circulation and chase away early cold symptoms. Modern research shows they contain eugenol, a natural compound with antiseptic and antioxidant properties. Here’s how I use them: 💧 You can add a few to any herbal tea you like, or steep 2 or 3 cloves in hot water with a bit of honey and lemon.🍃 I personally like adding them to my mint tea, but everyone can choose the flavour they enjoy most. 🍲 Sometimes I add a few to broth or even to apple compote. If you make your own broth (like the one I shared here on the site), toss in a couple of cloves while it simmers — it adds a nice depth of flavour. Simple, natural, and it warms you right up. 🪄 Quick Tip : Some say good cloves should sink, but that’s not always true. The best test is the scent — if it’s warm, strong, and slightly spicy, your cloves are still full of life 🌸 Sources of inspiration : 🔗 Passeport Santé — Clou de girofle : propriétés et bienfaits 🔗 Ayurveda For You — Uses of Clove in Ayurveda 🔗 Healthline — Clove Benefits and Uses

When the cold comes back (again) I don’t know about you, but as soon as fall arrives, I start feeling cold again.And not just outside. My nose is cold, my hands are cold, my feet are frozen… even indoors.Sometimes I just make a cup of hot water (yep, plain water) and press it to my nose.It feels like it melts the chill. I could laugh about it, but honestly, it gets annoying.So I try to find simple ways to stay warm. Nothing scientific — just real life stuff. My weight changed, and so did my body For a long time, I carried more weight — up to 180 lbs, and I was 209 lbs when I gave birth to my first. (I’m 5’1’’.) Today I’m around 115 lbs (about 52 kg), and I feel good at this weight.Sure, I’ve got a bit of a belly (I’m 57, let’s be honest lol), but it’s nothing like before. I started feeling colder when I lost weight while doing the Wahls Protocol.Even now that I eat carnivore (not religiously, just mostly), I still feel the cold a lot. What actually helps me (without going nuts) A cup of hot water (or herbal tea), several times a day. That alone helps. My hot bath in the evening, with Epsom salts. Non-negotiable. Moving a bit. If I sit too long, my feet turn into little ice blocks. Good socks. Real ones. Wool. Not cute — warm. Listening to a meditation or just relaxing while the water heats up. Going outside without a coat for 5–10 minutes when it’s cool (not freezing). I’m from Quebec — I can handle it. 😄 And the infamous cold shower? They say ending your shower cold activates brown fat. Honestly? I hate it. My legs start shaking if it’s too cold. So no, I don’t rinse off with freezing water.I’m not a Nordic warrior. 😅 Sometimes I lower the temperature a bit at the end, just so I don’t come out too limp.And even then — not every day. What about you? Got any real cold-fighting tricks that work? Tell me in the comments or message me on social media.I’ll do a little post soon with your ideas (and tag you if you want).We all freeze a little differently — so let’s share what works! 💐

If you live with an autoimmune disease, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis, or if you want to improve your health, the Wahls Protocol might catch your interest. Created by Dr. Terry Wahls, a professor at the University of Iowa, this diet was born from her battle with MS, diagnosed in 2000. After years of struggle, she designed an anti-inflammatory diet that helped her regain energy and mobility. Its principles also apply to other autoimmune diseases by targeting inflammation and gut health. In this article, I explain what the Wahls Protocol is, its benefits, its challenges, and share my personal experience. What is the Wahls Protocol? The Wahls Protocol is a dietary approach that prioritizes whole foods, eliminates processed products, and incorporates stress management to reduce chronic inflammation. Designed for MS, it also supports other autoimmune diseases through its focus on nutrients. It comes in three levels: Wahls Paleo Plus: Very strict, it limits sugars, emphasizing non-starchy vegetables, proteins (fish, lean meat), and healthy fats (coconut oil, avocado). Wahls Paleo: More flexible, it includes low-glycemic fruits (berries) and starchy vegetables (sweet potatoes). Wahls Diet: The most flexible, it allows sweeter fruits and starchy vegetables. Why Does It Help Autoimmune Diseases? Autoimmune diseases are characterized by chronic inflammation that disrupts immunity. The Wahls Protocol works by: Providing nutrients: Green leafy vegetables, rich in vitamins, support the nervous system. Protecting cells: Healthy fats (olive oil, omega-3s) reduce inflammation. Balancing the microbiome: Fiber from vegetables and fruits strengthens gut health. By eliminating processed foods, the diet can calm autoimmune reactions. Learn more on Dr. Wahls’ website . Benefits and Drawbacks Benefits Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, helpful for MS, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis. Nutrient-rich: Prioritizes foods high in vitamins and minerals. Flexible: Three levels to suit your needs. Gut health: Supports a balanced microbiome. Drawbacks Strict: Advanced levels require discipline. Cost: Supplements and fresh foods can be expensive. Variable: Results differ for each person. Medical supervision is advised. My Experience with the Wahls Protocol I followed the Wahls Diet and Wahls Paleo to better manage inflammation. After a year, I lost 18 kg, regained energy, and felt lighter. But persistent bloating and the high cost of supplements, which strained my budget, led me to stop. I continued a bit by eliminating foods that caused bloating, and this anti-inflammatory diet showed me that you can support your body against autoimmune diseases. How to Get Started? Choose a level: Start with the Wahls Diet, which is simpler. Stock up: Buy green vegetables, proteins (eggs, fish), and healthy fats (avocado, olive oil). Plan: Prepare meals in advance to stay organized. Consult: Talk to a doctor to tailor the diet to your autoimmune disease. FAQ Is the Wahls Protocol suitable for all autoimmune diseases? Yes, its anti-inflammatory approach helps with MS, lupus, and more, but consult a professional. How long until results? Some notice changes in weeks, but it may take 3-6 months for significant results. So, Tempted by the Wahls Protocol? The Wahls Protocol is an appealing option for managing autoimmune diseases with healthy eating. Have you tried an anti-inflammatory diet? Share in the comments! ⭐ Recommandations To better understand the Wahls Protocol, I recommend the book The Wahls Protocol by Terry Wahls. It details the principles and provides practical tips.