The Secret: The Beneficial Side Effects of Reducing ``inflammation.

Looking Back: How Being Diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis at 38 Changed My Life for the Better

At first, it might sound strange to say that being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at age 38 was one of the best things that ever happened to me. Trust me, I was devastated at the time. I thought my life as I knew it was over. And in many ways, it was — but back then, I could only see it in a negative light.

After some time to process the diagnosis and the treatment options my rheumatologist offered, I decided to turn away from conventional treatments. Instead, I started exploring what were then considered unconventional and alternative ways to treat my autoimmune disease.

Now, over two decades later, having reversed all my symptoms, I want to share the daily routine that transformed my life — and some surprising positive side effects that I never would have expected if I hadn’t been diagnosed.

I truly believe life gives us tests, and how we respond shapes our future. If I’d chosen the standard pharmaceutical route, my story might be very different. Or if I hadn’t developed rheumatoid arthritis and just kept going down my original path at 38, I doubt I’d be the vibrant, excited, and younger-feeling woman I am now, well into my 60s.

The Positive Side Effects of My Journey

1. Freedom from Debilitating Chronic Pain

Describing the pain of rheumatoid arthritis is almost impossible. There’s the sharp, burning pain that feels unbearable, followed by a dull ache like you’ve been beaten with a stick. Everyday tasks feel exhausting, and your body can feel trapped in a deep, heavy fatigue. Joints swell so much you can’t wear your favourite shoes, stiffness limits playing with your kids, and by the end of the day, even romantic moments feel impossible.

The amazing thing is — all that pain disappeared once I adopted my daily healing routine. Slowly but surely, I reversed my nightmare and ended up in the best health I’ve ever known.

2. Healthy Skin and Hair — A Beautiful Bonus

As a mature woman, one side effect I truly appreciate is how healthy my skin and hair look. My skin shows very little wear and tear, without any needles or expensive treatments, and my hair is as thick and vibrant as it was in my teens.

I could credit good genes (and I’m lucky to have some), but I’m convinced the real secret is keeping inflammation low. Eating clean proteins, loading up on antioxidants, healthy fats, and staying well hydrated all play a huge part. Adding stress reduction and exercises that improve circulation has helped nourish my skin and hair from the inside out.

3. No Chronic Conditions and No Need for Medication

It’s shocking that nearly 70% of the UK population take at least one prescription drug, and over 90% of people over 50 rely on medication for chronic conditions. The top three are proton pump inhibitors, statins, and beta-blockers. The UK, US, and Canada are among the highest consumers of these drugs—not something to be proud of.

I watched both my parents start multiple medications in their late 40s and 50s, until it looked like they had their own pharmacy! My husband and I have made it a priority to stay ahead of health issues. After our latest check-up, I’m proud to say we both avoid regular medications — bucking the trend.

4. No Menopausal Symptoms

The menopause symptoms many dread somehow skipped me entirely. At 55, I actually asked my doctor if it was normal to have no symptoms at all. Blood tests confirmed I wasn’t even perimenopausal yet, and we planned to follow up a year later.

Thanks to the pandemic and moving house, that follow-up got delayed until I was 59. When I finally had the tests, I learned I had quietly gone through menopause—without any symptoms!

A hormone nutritionist later explained that she recommends an anti-inflammatory diet to reduce menopausal symptoms. Since I had already lowered my inflammation to reverse rheumatoid arthritis, it seems that as a side effect, my menopause passed completely symptom-free.

I hope my story encourages you — no matter the challenges you face, there is hope, and sometimes life’s biggest hurdles bring unexpected gifts.