The thing is, I’m really happy and content with how my life is going right now. I love being at home with my family, was accepted into graduate school and feel like my life is heading in a good direction.
As much as I’ve loved blogging these past 21 months, right now I’d rather just spend time with my family and friends. Who knows, I may be back at some point, but for now I need a long break.
Thank you all so much for reading! If you need to contact me, send an email to teaandchocolate98@gmail.com.
A while back I mentioned my stomach problems. Now that I’ve talked to my doctor and an allergist, it’s time for an update.
For new readers, I’ve had IBS for eight years now. I don’t mention it very often because really, no one wants to read about how badly my stomach hurts all the time. About 50-60% of the time after meals, I get very bloated, have stomach pains, constipation and this heavy rock-like feeling in my gut. Sometimes it gets so bad I can’t do much either than put on my stretchy pants and lie flat in my bed.
A few days ago, I saw an allergist regarding food intolerances. I was interested in hearing what she had to say about IgG vs. IgE testing. IgE tests are the conventional allergy tests for people who get severe allergic reactions. IgG tests identify allergies that are more similar to my symptoms (bloating, pain, etc.). Here’s more information if you’re curious.
Now, there is a ton of controversy over IgG tests. I am into evidence-based science, and was skeptical, but figured there was no harm in asking. Unsurprisingly, my allergist was strictly opposed and said there was no evidence that these tests gave accurate results. I ended up getting an IgE test since I was already there.
I think I need a little sun.
I got pricked 45 times for 45 foods. Looks painful, but it wasn’t that bad. It kind of tickled.
Fifteen minutes later, the only reaction I had was in response to the positive control. So I don’t have any “real” food allergies. Good to know, though I’m really disappointed. As any one else who suffers from IBS understands, I don’t care if I have to cut out certain foods for the rest of my life, if only I can feel better.
This brings me to my problem. I honestly kind of doubt the IgG tests mean anything. But at the same time, many people who get them and eliminate X foods do feel better. Maybe there’s something to it, or maybe it’s a placebo, but I start to wonder, does it really matter? IBS is not a life-threatening disease. It just disrupts people’s lives and makes them uncomfortable. No one knows what causes it. In 20 years, maybe we’ll find out that what we’re calling IBS is actually five different diseases, and we’ll have ways to treat each one. But for now, there just isn’t much we can do.
So is it really so bad that a placebo makes people feel better? That’s all I want. I want to experience “normal” hunger, and be able to eat without being afraid that I’m going to be in pain within the hour. I know it wouldn’t be treating the real problem, but at least I could live a comfortable life.
For now, I’m starting a detailed food journal, and thinking about going back on the low FODMAPs plan like I did last spring.
I know I said it didn’t work for me, but my condition was so awful last spring that I’m not sure anything could have helped. I’ve been encouraged seeing how much the low FODMAPs plan is helping Elise and others, so I might try it again.
What are your thoughts on the placebo effect and alternative versus traditional medicine? If any one has experience with IgG testing, I’m curious to hear what you think.
I’ve seen this survey floating around and thought it looked like fun. Here goes!
1) What is one of your favorite ways to spend a Saturday?
Oh man, I could go on about this. The perfect Saturday for me means waking up without an alarm, making a delicious bowl of oats, and fooling around on the computer with a mug of tea or coffee in hand. Usually I just browse the Internet, but sometimes I’ll play The Sims 2. Am I the only one who still plays that game?
“Carrot cake” oats with coconut butter
2) List your top three favorite TV shows.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer
True Blood
For a laugh…The Mighty Boosh
3) Would you rather be in pictures or take them?
Take them. My grandma was the photographer for my family, and we have so many wonderful pictures because of her. She died a few years ago, and I’d like to follow in her footsteps.
4) Why do you blog?
I love connecting with other people who have similar interests in health, nutrition and fitness. Not many people I know in person have those interests, so I’m happy to be a part of this community.
5) Share five websites that you visit regularly…
Gmail
Google Reader
Live Journal (I know, I still have one.)
Twitter
Yahoo News (AKA celebrity gossip and random Youtube videos)
6) If you could have lunch with one person from your Twitter list who would it be?
9) Which three material possessions would you struggle to live without?
LAPTOP.
iPod Touch (for checking Twitter and Google Reader between classes)
My food processor. Love that thing.
10) What’s your favorite drink?
Hot tea! Preferably black tea.
11) Do you enjoy cooking?
Yes! I do have a food blog, after all. I find it relaxing, and it’s a nice to do something else after working/going to classes.
12) Do you have children?
Uh, no. I don’t really want one either.
13) What are your favorite hobbies?
Reading, yoga, writing, cooking
14) Would you consider yourself to be shy or outgoing?
Shy. To be honest, it took a lot of courage just to start this blog. About a year and a half ago, it would take me 5+ minutes just leave a comment on another blog because I would worry about every little thing. So glad I got over that!
15) If you could change one thing about yourself, what would you change?
Well, related to the previous question, I wish I was more confident. But as I know from the last few years, it’s a long process, and I’d much rather gain confidence from life experiences than get it instantly. It’s an amazing feeling to be able to look back and see how far you’ve come on your own.
16) Who is your favorite actor/actress?
Hm, tough one. I like Johnny Depp, of course, and Nicole Kidman.
17) What’s the coolest thing you’ve done this week?
I started my second week of classes and went the dentist. Yeah, something fun needs to happen this weekend.
18) Do you live near your family or far from them?
I live WITH my family.
19) List three of your talents.
Writing. I prefer analytical or research writing over creative writing. I suppose that sounds boring, but I enjoy it. I was really proud that one of the essays I wrote in college got published in a journal.
Memory. For some reason, I’ve always been good at memorizing random facts and vocab words. My brain is a sponge.
Music. I’ve played the violin since I was eight and started piano in high school. I’m certainly not an amazing violinist, but I did get a chance to play with the band Kansas with my college orchestra.
20) What is your greatest attribute?
Gosh, this survey went from favorite TV shows to this? Okay, I’ll go with my perseverance. When I want something, I just go for it.
