customer spotlight

April 2019

This segment is meant to inspire those who are on their own healthy diet or lifestyle journeys. For some people, diets and lifestyles are not by choice, and this can be very limiting. For others, it is a struggle to stick with a commitment they have made to change their old habits and better themselves. Whether by choice or not, at Mr. Spice we want to make sure a lack of flavor isn’t the reason for giving up on a certain diet.

We hope these stories from others who share the same journeys and struggles provide some motivation to keep striving toward your own goals.

This Month’s Story

Why did you choose this particular diet and lifestyle?

“A year and half ago, after battling stage 2b cervical cancer, I was diagnosed with several conditions including stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease or CKD. My treatment included chemotherapy, internal radiation, and external radiation. After my initial treatment, I needed to have surgery to deal with complications. A few months after this surgery I became extremely ill and was hospitalized for nearly a week. I was in kidney failure due to side effects from cancer treatment and surgeries. My team put a plan together that included medication and lifestyle changes to keep it at bay-and remain in the mid level range. Based on my blood work, the main thing my nephrologist  wanted me to watch was my sodium intake.”

What are the most difficult obstacles that you face?

“At first it didn't sound like a big deal. I would just skip the salt shaker, right? How hard can it be? Well....it's really hard. Salt is in EVERYTHING!  Initially I was overwhelmed by reading food labels, giving up some of my favorite things, and just the limited choices in general. I was discouraged to be learning so much about kidney and heart health and the fact that 26 millions Americans have CKD and 17 million have heart disease, yet the choices of low sodium products is SO LIMITED.

I continued to focus on what I COULD eat-limiting dining out and sticking to mostly lean meats, fruits, and vegetables. This has helped me keep my CKD symptoms and blood work steady at stage 3. I still struggle with regular exercise due to complications from surgeries - however, I am learning that living with a chronic disease is about finding your niche, and what works for you. I am committed to moving more when the pain is minimal and finding ways to make my food taste great. That's where Mr. Spice has really been a life saver.”

Has mr. spice helped you in any way?

“The Mr. Spice line of sauces are so delicious that I never feel like I'm missing out. I love that I can trust that they are little to no sodium, as well as the fact that they are not loaded with sugar, AND they are organic! It's been a huge WIN for me. I use them as dips, marinades, and everything in between. It's hard to choose a favorite, but I think right now I would have to go with the Thai Peanut. It means so much that there is a company out there making tasty sauces that are healthy and affordable. I don't have to give up my favorite foods, thanks to Mr. Spice!”

- Holly Lawson

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