Autoimmune Freedom Weekly Digest

Happy Friday! Welcome back to the Autoimmune Freedom Weekly Digest. This week, I’m excited to share a ginger and turmeric elixir recipe that could help ease arthritis symptoms. We’ll dive into what I’m listening to and reading. Plus, we will learn about a study that highlights the inflammatory effects of excessive sugar intake.

Rebecca’s Kitchen

Ginger and turmeric elixir: Discovering the anti-inflammatory benefits of ginger and turmeric has been a game-changer for me, especially when managing my arthritis symptoms. Here's a powerful elixir recipe: juice ginger and turmeric for a rejuvenating drink. It's potent, so you could add apple, orange, or carrot to balance the flavor. I aim for a 5:2 ginger-to-turmeric ratio, which a study found as the optimal combination.

Ingredients:

• Three or four 2-inch pieces of fresh turmeric (50 g)

• A large handful of fresh ginger (125 g)

• 1 lemon

• 1/2 tablespoon of flax oil

• Optional: 1 orange, apple, or carrot

• Fresh black pepper

Instructions: 

• Add the turmeric and ginger in a juicer. Optionally, include orange, apple, or carrot for added sweetness.

• Peel the lemon and add it to the juicer

• Just before serving sprinkle fresh black pepper and incorporate a source of fat to enhance turmeric absorption. Flax oil works well for its omega-3 richness, known for its anti-inflammatory benefits.

What I’m Listening To

Spare: This week, I started listening to the audiobook of Prince Harry’s memoir, Spare, narrated by the prince himself. His candid storytelling unfolds as an intimate journey through his life and challenges, delivering a thought-provoking and revealing account. I was particularly interested in checking out his memoir because it was ghostwritten by J. R. Moehringer, who was involved in two other memoirs that I’ve enjoyed: Open: An Autobiography by Andre Agassi and Shoe Dog by Phil Knight.

Mary's Gone Crackers: In the How I Built This episode featuring Mary Waldner, the co-founder of Mary's Gone Crackers, she shares how she created her gluten-free crackers after being diagnosed with celiac disease when she was 43 years old. I enjoyed learning about her pioneering efforts in the gluten-free market, well before its mainstream popularity as well as her dedication to filling the gap with tasty, whole-foods options. 

What I’m Reading

Gluten Freedom: This week, I began reading Gluten Freedom by Dr. Alessio Fasano. The book dives into the history of celiac disease, exploring scientific breakthroughs and personal stories. Dr. Fasano offers insights beyond celiac disease, exploring wider implications of gluten-related disorders. I am enjoying this read and learning a lot. 

Science Spotlight: Sugar and Inflammation

Findings from a 2022 study revealed something interesting: the correlation between excessive sugar intake and the onset of low-grade chronic inflammation and autoimmune disorders. The study highlighted the impact and related regulatory mechanisms of high sugar intake on autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Learning about this was really fascinating to me because I have noticed a connection. When I consume foods rich in sugar—whether it's refined options like coconut sugar or natural alternatives such as maple syrup, honey, or even dried fruits like dates—it tends to worsen my arthritis symptoms. Accepting this connection hasn't been easy, especially because I have a fondness for desserts and dried fruits. However, the relief from avoiding these triggers strengthens my resolve to keep them out of my diet.

Thanks for checking out this week's Autoimmune Freedom Weekly Digest! I hope this information empowers your wellness journey. Stay curious and tuned for more insights next week. Wishing you a fantastic weekend ahead!

Take good care,

Rebecca