My Battle with Ulcerative Coltis

18 October 2015 by Mick Wilson

Coming from a sporting background, I have always been active and I ate reasonably well.

That's why I was so surprised when I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis (UC). At the time I was only 25 years old and impressively fit.

After my diagnosis I managed my condition with moderate to little care, as I thought I was above the 'illness' and it would pass with time. After living with the illness for roughly a year, I suffered a terrible flare up which was relentlessly painful. Eventually it led to me being hospitalised and ultimately, the removal of my large intestine.

I don't know if you can imagine what it's like to be a 25 year old athlete with the world at your feet, waking up in hospital after that operation.

I was scared and didn't know what would become of my life. I had so many questions like: What do I eat? How does my body function now without my colon? I was depressed, both physically and mentally.

I was introduced to a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, who recommended a nutritional and supplementation program. I responded really well to it and started to feel more like my old self.

My NTP suggested that I study nutritional therapy myself, and I agreed.

My studies with the NTA have provided me with invaluable knowledge about the foundations for optimal health.

Starting with a nutrient dense whole food diet, proper digestion, recognising blood sugar status, minerals and fatty acids balance and the importance of hydration.

I'm fit again, travelling the world and enjoying myself, and I would like to use what I know to help others save themselves from Ulcerative Colitis.

I now know that had I listened to the signs from my body: blood in my stools, abscesses in the groin region and mouth ulcers to name a few; my operation could have been prevented. I just kept trucking on with life, eating as healthily as I could being as positive as possible.

Not showing my body the respect it deserved made me pay severely.

I hope to be able to raise awareness of Ulcerative Colitis and help people understand how to have a life in spite of it.

Watch this space!

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