You can lead a healthier lifestyle and help decrease some of your A.S. symptoms and frequency of flare ups by following these steps.
1. Exercise
[iframe src=”http://giphy.com/embed/NnwBN2NdkVx5K” width=”500″ height=”237″ frameBorder=”0″ webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen][/iframe]Exercising and stretching regularly can help keep you flexible and decrease your A.S. pain.
2. Sleep in
[iframe src=”http://giphy.com/embed/wabHYyI8CQ0hy” width=”500″ height=”337″ frameBorder=”0″ webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen][/iframe]Help avoid fatigue and more frequent flare ups by getting plenty of sleep on a regular sleep schedule. You can use pillows for support and alignment.
3. Refrain from drinking (or smoking)
[iframe src=”http://giphy.com/embed/GrnubHYtJ0ogg” width=”500″ height=”270″ frameBorder=”0″ webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen][/iframe]Not partaking in alcohol or cigarettes can have several health benefits such a more balanced digestive system(from not drinking) and a lower risk for heart attack and stroke(not smoking) which a study has shown patients with A.S. to be more predisposed to.
4. Don’t eat too much sugar
[iframe src=”http://giphy.com/embed/VTXzh4qtahZS” width=”500″ height=”362″ frameBorder=”0″ webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen][/iframe]Eating a lot of sugar, and its subsequent effects on insulin levels, has been known to trigger flare ups.
5. Don’t get stressed
[iframe src=”http://giphy.com/embed/LM7frysC0UxwY” width=”500″ height=”222″ frameBorder=”0″ webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen][/iframe]It is believed that those with autoimmune diseases are more likely to suffer flares when they’re stressed. So kick back and relax!
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All GIFs and featured image sourced from GIPHY
