From Chronic Pain to Marathon Laps: The Vegan Diet that Reversed Arthritis

Twenty years ago, during a summer game of sports with my kids, I injured my back. Initially, the pain seemed manageable, but by the end of the week, it worsened significantly. Other joints began to flare up, turning everyday movements into painful challenges.

The increasing pain made even the simplest tasks unbearable. I spent the entire summer bedridden, reliant on pain medication and unable to perform basic activities like walking or turning over in bed. The situation became so dire that I had to quit my job as a teacher, adding to the emotional strain.

Amidst personal struggles like a recent divorce and stress, I was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, an autoimmune disease that causes swollen and painful joints. My rheumatologist prescribed methotrexate, a potent immunosuppressant, leading to a decade of harsh treatments and frequent flare-ups that severely impacted my quality of life.

Frustrated with traditional treatments, I began investigating the link between diet and my condition. Although initially dismissed by my doctor, I persisted and discovered that certain foods exacerbated my symptoms. This exploration led me to experiment with an elimination diet, identifying specific triggers like red meat and eggs.

Inspired by my findings and a chance encounter with a vegan marathon runner, I decided to adopt a whole-food plant-based diet. Transitioning was challenging at first, but I gradually learned to create flavorful, nutritious meals. This dietary shift not only improved my health but also allowed me to reduce and eventually eliminate my medication.

Today, I am five years free of medication and in complete remission. Running marathons and participating in vegan communities have become integral parts of my life. As an ambassador for Running on Plants, I inspire others to explore plant-based diets, demonstrating that dietary changes can lead to remarkable health improvements.

My journey from chronic pain to vibrant health underscores the power of persistence and informed lifestyle choices. I encourage others facing similar challenges to educate themselves about their conditions and consider dietary adjustments. With dedication and support, it's possible to overcome significant health hurdles and embrace a fulfilling, active life.