Building strength, even with Cushing’s, so I can be there for my daughter

Note: This column describes the author’s own experiences with diet, exercise, and supplements. Not everyone will have the same response. Consult your doctor before starting or stopping a therapy or health regimen.

Nothing has motivated me to focus on my health more than having a daughter. I look down at my perfect little baby and know I want to be here for her as long as possible. I will never be completely healthy, but many people with Cushing’s disease live long and happy lives, and I’m determined to be part of that group.

Cushing’s disease caused me to develop severe osteoporosis and muscle atrophy, meaning my arms and legs are very weak. I’m trying to rebuild strength so that I can always hold my daughter, no matter how big she gets.

I’m starting small, taking vitamin D and other supplements known to support bone growth. Osteoporosis is not curable, but it is treatable. I’m also working out again — carefully. I go swimming, as the buoyancy of the water helps to cushion my bones and muscles, then stretch in a sauna or a warm pool.

Building strength is not a sprint; it’s a lifestyle. In the past, I rushed the process, going straight to lifting weights or running, and I ended up hurting my body. Strength comes from caring for your body, not just working out.

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Supporting my overall health

I’m also working to lose weight and reduce inflammation. This is extremely hard with Cushing’s because of the disease’s effects on hormones and insulin. I have been intermittent fasting while on Cushing’s treatment, and I’ve lost 9 pounds so far. I’ll stop eating for the day at 5 p.m. and wait 16 hours to eat again. I still drink tons of water and only fast three or four days a week. Keep in mind that it’s important to talk to your doctor before making any dietary or lifestyle changes.

I’m eating healthier, too. In general, I’ve always eaten healthily, but when I’m sick and need something fast, I’ll sometimes resort to microwavable food. Now, I’m trying to choose more nutritious options, such as oranges, salads in a bag, or roasted vegetables. These require less than five minutes of prep work and are more nutritionally dense than mozzarella sticks and chicken nuggets.

I do not count calories, as I’ve struggled with an eating disorder in the past because of Cushing’s disease. Altogether, I’ve gained 130 pounds from my tumors, and the shock of it made me think there was something wrong with my mental strength instead of with my body. Therefore, I choose foods based on nutritional value, and I eat if I’m very hungry, even when I planned to fast. Starving myself is not a way to become healthy, and it won’t reduce inflammation. If anything, it can make it worse.

I don’t expect to be the strongest or healthiest mother on the planet. But to be here as long as possible, I have to put my health first. My baby needs me.

You can also follow my journey on TikTok and YouTube. 

Note: Cushing’s Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Cushing’s Disease News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Cushing’s.