Curing Ulcerative Colitis: My Journey to Health Through a Carnivore Diet
Curing Ulcerative Colitis: My Journey to Health Through a Carnivore Diet
My journey with ulcerative colitis (UC) began at the age of 21, a period of great promise and future potential. Winning a fluit competition and planning to study abroad, my health took a dramatic turn when I developed severe digestive problems that led to an almost fatal flare-up. Diagnosed with UC, I initially believed the prescribed steroids would heal me, but reality set in as the disease progressed, leading to two life-threatening flare-ups over the following three years.
Managing Ulcerative Colitis: From Medication to Acceptance
Over the years, I discovered methods to manage my severe flare-ups, including two drugs that suppressed my immune system and various diets during remission and flare-ups. Despite long stretches of feeling quite healthy, I eventually accepted the reality of being diagnosed with a chronic illness. Years later, I found myself fatigued, lacking motivation, with adult acne, psoriasis, and weakening muscles, a stark contrast to my youthful and energetic self.
The Unexpected Transformation
Three years ago, the unexpected happened. My last signs of inflammation in my colon were gone, my energy levels soared, and my skin issues vanished. I woke up eager to explore new skills, feeling better than I had in my teens. I credit my partner’s suggestion to reintroduce red meat to my diet as the pivotal turning point. Over three months, I transitioned to a low-carb, animal-based diet, resulting in a clean colonoscopy, leading to a period of true health.
My Current Regimen
Today, I follow a strict carnivore diet, feeling better than I ever have before. My UC symptoms are completely gone, my skin is clear, and I experience no brain fog. I wake up early, full of energy, and can focus throughout the day. My muscle mass increases, and I experience improvements in my mood and relationships. My life is no longer revolved around food; I eat only when hungry, and I have no cravings.
The Science Behind the Carnivore Diet
From nutritional evolution to the impact of plant-based diets, the carnivore diet aligns with the way our bodies are designed. Vets and zookeepers warn against feeding animals human foods, as they are designed to thrive on a diet rich in fats and proteins from animals. Over millions of years, humans evolved without lengthy exposure to plant fibers and carbohydrates. Sugars, even those found in fruits, are toxic to humans, and we can produce our glucose through gluconeogenesis. Seed oils are highly correlated with health issues, and plants contain more defensive chemicals than pesticides used on them.
What Someone with Colitis Should Eat
To achieve long-term remission and a life without medications, I recommend transitioning to a clean carnivore diet over 6-8 weeks. This involves consuming all animal products, including dairy, seafood, and processed meat, while avoiding sugars and seed oils. For those with autoimmune diseases like UC, it may be best to start with an only meat, salt, and water diet, adding electrolytes at the beginning of remission. Once you achieve remission and stability, you can slowly introduce additional animal products, being cautious with dairy and shellfish as these can be more sensitive. If you are already on medications, consider going off them after a period of success, provided you are committed to the lifestyle and diet.
My experience is a testament to the power of the carnivore diet in managing UC. Embrace a diet aligned with our evolutionary history and experience the profound benefits it can bring to your health.