When I began creating my website, my main intention was to reach those who are on a unique, challenging journey to find health. The pathway to healing is far from easy and comes with so much frustration, uncertainty, and trial and error. Those who choose to embark on this journey commit to the ultimate act of self-love. While I enjoy sharing my story with all of you, I feel it's extremely important to emphasize that each story is unlike any other. For this reason, I'm going to use this page of my site as a space for my followers and fellow health-seekers to share their important, life-changing stories. My vision for this space is to build a community of supportive, understanding individuals who possess the drive and dedication it takes to embark on this journey.
I will also be sharing some of your TSL testimonials- your kind words keep me going. Many thanks to all my beautiful, strong followers! You're rockstars :)
I will also be sharing some of your TSL testimonials- your kind words keep me going. Many thanks to all my beautiful, strong followers! You're rockstars :)
Your Stories...
From a fellow LEAP MRT goer:
Thank you for your sweet words and amazingly inspiring story, you seem like a very special person I could be good friends with. We have a lot in common when it comes to the "sensitive life." I am studying to be a Registered Dietitian who will specialize in this area, much needed! I drive my self crazy trying to figure out why I never felt normal like my sister or friends. Well what is normal, but you know what I mean...I just took my food sensitivity test with MRT, after basically telling my Doctors and Nutritionist what I found through my self studies to probably be a major link to my health issues at the young age of 23. Luckily I was blessed to fall upon a local RD who knew cellular level nutrition, looking for the major imbalances and using the lab results to begin to heal (food as medicine first also my motto)! She was amazed how out of balance and inflamed I was at my age but said with perseverance I will heal. At this point in my life, I had started my health battles at age 13 with anorexia, I did not fear anything she said about a hard to follow plan. I just would do it all my best to give my body a chance to mend the destruction I placed upon it and our society added to it (antibiotics, artificial sweeteners, pressures to look a specific way etc.).
My food sensitivities: wheat, vanilla, scallops, tilapia, cod, tomato, zucchini, bell pepper, milk, tea, tapioca, garlic, lettuce, parsley, orange, pineapple, apple, candida, yeast, and maybe a couple others...So I've been gluten/dairy free but candida has taken over and now I'm on a phase by phase plan based on the MRT and to help rebalance my body. I also decided to test for bacterial overgrowth for peace of mind. From my initial gluten/dairy free I naturally lost 15 lbs. that was needed and lots of inflammation. I'm off my thyroid medication, hormone cream, and now praying for peace and wellbeing while I phase out the additional hidden food sensitivities.
It is scary at time, I fear anything may become an allergy and may cause me to fall back, but all I can say is I'm much better thus far than before. Before I had crazy food cravings and could not ignore the urge to binge eat. So, I'm thankful my food addiction (candida sugar cravings) are 75% gone. However, 15 years of eating my typical American high carb fat free low calorie diet and over exercising plus birth controls, and antibiotics will take time to rebalance. My dream is of course to finally maintain a healthy weight, feel good first and most important of all, feel confident enough to be a beautiful stable wife, and be well nourished enough to give birth to a healthy baby!
What I've learned in the past 8 months is staggeringly different than what I thought I would ever be doing/knowing about Nutrition today. It is truly complex, but very powerful information that I love learning about. I have to continue to heal, but while I heal I will share my knowledge. Very soon I will be specifically helping my patients seek their own path of what eating real foods that work for their unique self is all about. I can't wait! Patience, humble heart, and thankful mind, I can't believe how the food sensitivities were so directly related to my years of eating issues. Though, my pain may feel more intense these first few weeks of elimination, I can never compare it to when I had thoughts of not living another day. The control and power food can have over your whole "being" is crazy, but each day we chose to be thankful for another chance, and another time to smile at the things in life you really care about.
The food can no longer be my pleasure when my choices are so limited, and my foodie boyfriend can barley keep his lips shut about it all...but remember you do it all for you and for how you want to feel. There soon will be release, a lift that lasts, and less restriction/anxiety, and you will appreciate it all that much more.
"If you never felt pain then you would never appreciate or know what pleasure felt like."
Food is Medicine,
Lindsay
Thank you for your sweet words and amazingly inspiring story, you seem like a very special person I could be good friends with. We have a lot in common when it comes to the "sensitive life." I am studying to be a Registered Dietitian who will specialize in this area, much needed! I drive my self crazy trying to figure out why I never felt normal like my sister or friends. Well what is normal, but you know what I mean...I just took my food sensitivity test with MRT, after basically telling my Doctors and Nutritionist what I found through my self studies to probably be a major link to my health issues at the young age of 23. Luckily I was blessed to fall upon a local RD who knew cellular level nutrition, looking for the major imbalances and using the lab results to begin to heal (food as medicine first also my motto)! She was amazed how out of balance and inflamed I was at my age but said with perseverance I will heal. At this point in my life, I had started my health battles at age 13 with anorexia, I did not fear anything she said about a hard to follow plan. I just would do it all my best to give my body a chance to mend the destruction I placed upon it and our society added to it (antibiotics, artificial sweeteners, pressures to look a specific way etc.).
My food sensitivities: wheat, vanilla, scallops, tilapia, cod, tomato, zucchini, bell pepper, milk, tea, tapioca, garlic, lettuce, parsley, orange, pineapple, apple, candida, yeast, and maybe a couple others...So I've been gluten/dairy free but candida has taken over and now I'm on a phase by phase plan based on the MRT and to help rebalance my body. I also decided to test for bacterial overgrowth for peace of mind. From my initial gluten/dairy free I naturally lost 15 lbs. that was needed and lots of inflammation. I'm off my thyroid medication, hormone cream, and now praying for peace and wellbeing while I phase out the additional hidden food sensitivities.
It is scary at time, I fear anything may become an allergy and may cause me to fall back, but all I can say is I'm much better thus far than before. Before I had crazy food cravings and could not ignore the urge to binge eat. So, I'm thankful my food addiction (candida sugar cravings) are 75% gone. However, 15 years of eating my typical American high carb fat free low calorie diet and over exercising plus birth controls, and antibiotics will take time to rebalance. My dream is of course to finally maintain a healthy weight, feel good first and most important of all, feel confident enough to be a beautiful stable wife, and be well nourished enough to give birth to a healthy baby!
What I've learned in the past 8 months is staggeringly different than what I thought I would ever be doing/knowing about Nutrition today. It is truly complex, but very powerful information that I love learning about. I have to continue to heal, but while I heal I will share my knowledge. Very soon I will be specifically helping my patients seek their own path of what eating real foods that work for their unique self is all about. I can't wait! Patience, humble heart, and thankful mind, I can't believe how the food sensitivities were so directly related to my years of eating issues. Though, my pain may feel more intense these first few weeks of elimination, I can never compare it to when I had thoughts of not living another day. The control and power food can have over your whole "being" is crazy, but each day we chose to be thankful for another chance, and another time to smile at the things in life you really care about.
The food can no longer be my pleasure when my choices are so limited, and my foodie boyfriend can barley keep his lips shut about it all...but remember you do it all for you and for how you want to feel. There soon will be release, a lift that lasts, and less restriction/anxiety, and you will appreciate it all that much more.
"If you never felt pain then you would never appreciate or know what pleasure felt like."
Food is Medicine,
Lindsay
I call this one: 25 feeling like 95.
Hey!
I just read your story on your blog and it really hit home for me! I have a lot of seasonal/ household allergies that I found out about / got tested for my senior year in high school (aka 7 years ago). In college my lips were swelling up randomly, sometimes after I ate, sometimes when I was just sitting in my dorm room. I went back to my allergist and he tested me for some household chemical allergies and food allergies. The test results were not very conclusive and I never got clear results "well you sort of had a reaction to hair dye, peas maybe almonds and hazelnuts...blah blah blah." And I never really thought more about it. Back then and all thru college I was getting allergy shots for my seasonal allergies/ dog and cat etc allergies every week, three shots a week. After college I stopped the shots bc they didn't seem to be helping much and I really didn't like the idea of putting chemicals in my body that I'm known to be very allergic to, all in hopes that it "might" lessen my allergies. So long story short, I never did much with that food allergy info I got, I continued to eat almonds, peas...everything. Never having a gastrointestinal reaction (or so I thought), occasionally very random and rarely my lips would still swell but I never put the pieces together.
Also in college I developed endometriosis (a very painful menstrual related disease for which I have had to have surgery for) out of nowhere!! Also I have been getting reoccurring skin infections, I attributed it to Ghana. While I was there I got an infection, needed IV antibiotics and eventually healed and came home. Since then I get a small cut or what appears to be a small pimple that then turns into a huge swollen infection needing antibiotics etc. it's happened probably 12 times since 2010 since I've been back from Ghana. But who knows maybe these health issues have to do with underlying food or chemical sensitivity?!
Recently I have been trying so hard to change my eating habits and lifestyle because frankly, I'm just miserable. I feel like crap all the time, constantly tired, chronic constipation, gained like 25 pounds since graduation 2 years ago...and all those other health issues I talked about above. I just want to tell you that your blog opened my eyes and gave me hope that maybe once and for all I can turn this all around! Maybe it is all related to the lifestyle I'm living and maybe I too can make a change!
I should probably add to my list of ever growing medical concerns...I have asthma, and I have degenerative disc disease in my spine. In 2008 I herniated 3 discs in my back without injury or anything, requiring immediate emergency back surgery...what the hell 20 year old goes thru that!?? This girl and since then I've suffered what I like to call "flare ups" sometimes my back hurts so bad I can't walk, can't sit, can't twist bend lift...nothing! Somedays I literally feel like a 25 year old trapped in a crippled 95 year old lady's body it's hard and I think part of my weight gain since college has been depression related. I hate that I'm 25 and have been thru so much (I won't say suffered bc that's a harsh word) but I've lived thru many things that most people my age really shouldn't have to worry or think about. I'm sure you can relate!
I was wondering if you can tell me who you saw for a nutritionist because first thing first I want to go have extensive food and chemical sensitivity testing done! I would appreciate and welcome any type of advice you have to give!!
Thank you so much! You are an inspiration!!!!
Hey!
I just read your story on your blog and it really hit home for me! I have a lot of seasonal/ household allergies that I found out about / got tested for my senior year in high school (aka 7 years ago). In college my lips were swelling up randomly, sometimes after I ate, sometimes when I was just sitting in my dorm room. I went back to my allergist and he tested me for some household chemical allergies and food allergies. The test results were not very conclusive and I never got clear results "well you sort of had a reaction to hair dye, peas maybe almonds and hazelnuts...blah blah blah." And I never really thought more about it. Back then and all thru college I was getting allergy shots for my seasonal allergies/ dog and cat etc allergies every week, three shots a week. After college I stopped the shots bc they didn't seem to be helping much and I really didn't like the idea of putting chemicals in my body that I'm known to be very allergic to, all in hopes that it "might" lessen my allergies. So long story short, I never did much with that food allergy info I got, I continued to eat almonds, peas...everything. Never having a gastrointestinal reaction (or so I thought), occasionally very random and rarely my lips would still swell but I never put the pieces together.
Also in college I developed endometriosis (a very painful menstrual related disease for which I have had to have surgery for) out of nowhere!! Also I have been getting reoccurring skin infections, I attributed it to Ghana. While I was there I got an infection, needed IV antibiotics and eventually healed and came home. Since then I get a small cut or what appears to be a small pimple that then turns into a huge swollen infection needing antibiotics etc. it's happened probably 12 times since 2010 since I've been back from Ghana. But who knows maybe these health issues have to do with underlying food or chemical sensitivity?!
Recently I have been trying so hard to change my eating habits and lifestyle because frankly, I'm just miserable. I feel like crap all the time, constantly tired, chronic constipation, gained like 25 pounds since graduation 2 years ago...and all those other health issues I talked about above. I just want to tell you that your blog opened my eyes and gave me hope that maybe once and for all I can turn this all around! Maybe it is all related to the lifestyle I'm living and maybe I too can make a change!
I should probably add to my list of ever growing medical concerns...I have asthma, and I have degenerative disc disease in my spine. In 2008 I herniated 3 discs in my back without injury or anything, requiring immediate emergency back surgery...what the hell 20 year old goes thru that!?? This girl and since then I've suffered what I like to call "flare ups" sometimes my back hurts so bad I can't walk, can't sit, can't twist bend lift...nothing! Somedays I literally feel like a 25 year old trapped in a crippled 95 year old lady's body it's hard and I think part of my weight gain since college has been depression related. I hate that I'm 25 and have been thru so much (I won't say suffered bc that's a harsh word) but I've lived thru many things that most people my age really shouldn't have to worry or think about. I'm sure you can relate!
I was wondering if you can tell me who you saw for a nutritionist because first thing first I want to go have extensive food and chemical sensitivity testing done! I would appreciate and welcome any type of advice you have to give!!
Thank you so much! You are an inspiration!!!!
I can remember a couple of things from my childhood about dairy; that's how far back it goes. Then when I was in my 30's I was diagnosed with IBS. I mainly ignored it. Approx. 10 years later it really began to nag. Why do we deny these things? I retired at 62 because I hurt inside. Had my gallbladder removed and the "SHTF". They said go eat what you want...what a deal! Everything was running on through, so I went back. They sent me to a specialist. All I got there was: no alcohol, no dairy, and not too much of the sweets. OK. I complied, but it still didn't take care of it. I visited Rebecca Wood on the net. She is really good! I went on the detox diet and ate only meat, fruit, and veg. for 3 weeks and then again for another 3 weeks. When finished I had added NOT ONE THING. I am sensitive to everything else. If anyone know s what to do, I'd appreciate it.
Hi there! I was recently diagnosed with allergies/sensitivities to a bunch of things, the worst one being bakers and brewers yeast. I've been getting really overwhelmed and a little upset trying to figure this all out and I just wanted to say I am so excited to find your blog! I have one over at lotsoflittlevictories.com but I don't post that much. Just wanted to reach out and thank you for sharing!
TSL Testimonials
You all should know that your kind words of encouragement are what keep me going on my toughest days. The Sensitive Life community is everything I could have ever imagined it to be. I love providing all of you with support and the resources you need, but you guys do just the same for me! I appreciate all of you.
Dear Meag,
I have wanted to email you for a while...Deb Konkle gave me your link and I wanted to tell you how much I have been enjoying your blog and how helpful I have found it (especially your post on giving up sugar - my biggest challenge!). I am still in the early stages of my LEAP diet and have not yet started to integrate foods back into my diet so I can't help you here. I just wanted to say thanks and that I hope you are well and that you make your plans to move to Italy a reality! Do it ! I am 45 w/three girls (which is awesome) but once you are married w/kids, it is much harder to pursue your dreams (especially ones of moving to another country!). So do it and be well!
Hey Meag!
Just finished reading a bunch of stuff on your Facebook page and blog. I am so obsessed with everything! I just wanted to let you know how much I loved your page and how AWESOME your blog is! The page is SUPER informative and I've already learned a ton! I sent the article about the Naked brand of drinks to my parents and some friends, and was surprised about the Chobani one! Anyway, just wanted to let you know. Hope you're doing well!
Hey! Just wanted to say I think what you are doing with your new blog is totally kickass! good for you!
Hey Meag!
I know it's been FOREVER, but I just had to tell you how much I've been enjoying your new blog! I traveled to Sicily in college and was totally enamored by the whole culture and experience as you were, so it's been so fun to follow along as you describe your journey.
I've also been learning SO much from your TSL blog! Congrats on turning such a personal struggle into something so positive! I started my blog, which ironically is likely mostly about food you aren't able to eat, about 2 years ago and have loved keeping up with it as both a creative and professional outlet. I've gotten away from it recently, as life can so often get in the way, but I wanted you to know that you're inspiring me to get back on the bandwagon!
I know this note is SO random but as a fellow blogger and Italy-lover I think it's important to pass on encouragement and give credit where credit is due! Thanks for sharing! Hope all is well!
Hey Meag,
I know your away on an incredible vacation!! but I wanted to maybe connect with you when you come home. My doctor is suggesting I go on an elimination diet and after reading your incredible, touching blog I think you could be a great source of support from your experience! I don't have celiac (well waiting for test results) but my body hates me every time I eat a meal! I look forward to hearing from you! LOVE LOVE all your pics from your trip!!
I have wanted to email you for a while...Deb Konkle gave me your link and I wanted to tell you how much I have been enjoying your blog and how helpful I have found it (especially your post on giving up sugar - my biggest challenge!). I am still in the early stages of my LEAP diet and have not yet started to integrate foods back into my diet so I can't help you here. I just wanted to say thanks and that I hope you are well and that you make your plans to move to Italy a reality! Do it ! I am 45 w/three girls (which is awesome) but once you are married w/kids, it is much harder to pursue your dreams (especially ones of moving to another country!). So do it and be well!
Hey Meag!
Just finished reading a bunch of stuff on your Facebook page and blog. I am so obsessed with everything! I just wanted to let you know how much I loved your page and how AWESOME your blog is! The page is SUPER informative and I've already learned a ton! I sent the article about the Naked brand of drinks to my parents and some friends, and was surprised about the Chobani one! Anyway, just wanted to let you know. Hope you're doing well!
Hey! Just wanted to say I think what you are doing with your new blog is totally kickass! good for you!
Hey Meag!
I know it's been FOREVER, but I just had to tell you how much I've been enjoying your new blog! I traveled to Sicily in college and was totally enamored by the whole culture and experience as you were, so it's been so fun to follow along as you describe your journey.
I've also been learning SO much from your TSL blog! Congrats on turning such a personal struggle into something so positive! I started my blog, which ironically is likely mostly about food you aren't able to eat, about 2 years ago and have loved keeping up with it as both a creative and professional outlet. I've gotten away from it recently, as life can so often get in the way, but I wanted you to know that you're inspiring me to get back on the bandwagon!
I know this note is SO random but as a fellow blogger and Italy-lover I think it's important to pass on encouragement and give credit where credit is due! Thanks for sharing! Hope all is well!
Hey Meag,
I know your away on an incredible vacation!! but I wanted to maybe connect with you when you come home. My doctor is suggesting I go on an elimination diet and after reading your incredible, touching blog I think you could be a great source of support from your experience! I don't have celiac (well waiting for test results) but my body hates me every time I eat a meal! I look forward to hearing from you! LOVE LOVE all your pics from your trip!!