I recently overheard a conversation wherein one person complained of ongoing GI discomfort, and her friend “comforted” her with the information that it was normal for women her age (early 40s). That it was probably IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease), and easily managed with medications.
I’m sorry, but this is the kind of thing that drives me CRAZY! Labels like IBD, CFS, IBS, and so many others are not solutions, or even true diagnoses of an illness. They are ways of labeling the collection of symptoms people experience. Yes, these symptoms are common, but they are not normal!!!
As with many other illnesses, chronic inflammation is a major factor. Inflammation doesn’t “just happen”. That means that if we can identify what’s causing the inflammation, you can eliminate the symptoms.
That’s what I do every day in my office: I look for the underlying causes of people’s symptoms, at the most fundamental level, so that my clients experience not only symptomatic relief, but comprehensive systemic healing and improvements.
That means a clearer mind, more vitality, less breaking down of the body over time. After all, we don’t want our bodies breaking down long before we are finished using them. There’s not much point to longevity without health.
More examples of common but not normal:
- gaining 5-10 pounds each year
- debilitating menstrual periods
- losing your sex drive as you age
- needing to take pain relievers on a regular basis
- having gas or bloating after meals
- not being able to sleep through the night
- needing coffee to stay alert and focused
- struggling with cravings for sugars and carbs
I hope you are getting the idea! Just because it happens a lot doesn’t mean it’s inevitable, and it certainly doesn’t mean it’s normal. All of these issues, and many more, in fact most that I see, can be turned around faster than you might think.
We are designed to be healthy. All we need is the right information, guidance and support. And that’s exactly what I’m here for.
Fran Sussman Holistic Services 