My journey with Gaucher disease inspired a new path forward

My interest in nutrition began when I started noticing how much food affects how I feel — not just physically, but mentally and emotionally, too. Learning about the connection between diet, inflammation, and overall wellness opened my eyes to how much influence we have through the choices we make each day.

Living with Gaucher disease, I’ve always had to be aware of my body in ways most people don’t, but understanding how food could support my health gave me a new sense of hope, curiosity, and control.

I began really looking into the mind-gut axis and learning about how the foods I was eating were affecting inflammation, and whether that might help explain why, even with all of my treatment, I still felt ill and fatigued. Through this research, I began making small, mindful changes: eating more whole, nutrient-dense foods, cutting back on processed ingredients, and paying attention to how certain foods made me feel.

These weren’t dramatic shifts at first, but over time, they made a real difference. My energy improved, my mood felt more balanced, and I began to experience a deeper connection between what I ate and how I lived. It was empowering to realize that something as basic as food could help me feel stronger, calmer, and more grounded in my body.

Recommended Reading

July 16, 2025 Columns by Rivka Silver

A holistic approach to healthcare helps me live well with Gaucher

With this new knowledge, I wanted to make a real impact on others. I decided to enroll in a health coach certification program because I wanted to learn how nutrition, movement, sleep, and mindset all work together to support long-term health. The program offered a deeper understanding of how the body functions and what it truly needs to thrive. It was challenging at times, especially balancing coursework with daily life, but also deeply fulfilling. Each lesson reminded me that healing isn’t about perfection; it’s about consistency, compassion, and listening to what our bodies truly need.

Completing the certification feels like a major milestone, but also the beginning of a new chapter. I didn’t go through the program just for myself; I did it because I want to give back. My goal now is to become a health coach for others living with Gaucher disease and chronic illness — to offer guidance, empathy, and practical tools that can help them take charge of their well-being and rediscover what’s possible for their health and happiness.

This journey has taught me that healing is never one-size-fits-all. It’s a lifelong process of curiosity, growth, and self-compassion. I hope that by sharing what I’ve learned, I can help others in the Gaucher community feel empowered to explore their own paths toward health one small, meaningful step at a time.

Note: Gaucher 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 Gaucher Disease News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Gaucher disease.

Print This Page