Ep 131 Fighting Back: Tim Kaufman's Battle against Obesity, Ehlers Danlos and Chronic Pain Part 1

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Tim Kaufman, our guest on this episode, was battling with a weight of over 400 pounds and the agonizing grip of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. He succumbed to opioid, alcohol, and food addiction to cope. Tim's story is a testament to the power of unwavering determination and lifestyle changes, as he managed to shed over 200 pounds and is now essentially pain-free. His journey offers a beacon of hope for those wrestling with similar struggles.

Growing up on a dairy farm and an avid hunter, a whole foods plant-based diet was not part of his upbringing. Like many, he was very active in his younger years. He discusses how pain medication became a double-edged sword, bringing temporary relief but also escalating his chronic pain. But this episode isn't just about the struggles but the fight. Hear how Tim, armed with a changed diet and small exercises, began to turn the tide against the disease.

In the final stretch of our conversation, we confront the unforgiving realities of living with chronic pain and fibromyalgia. Tim's experience illustrates how a whole food, plant-based diet, and lifestyle changes can significantly manage these debilitating conditions. As your hosts, we invite you to join our community and stand together in the battle against chronic pain and fibromyalgia. After all, every new journey starts with a single step.

Joy Lenz

Fibromyalgia 101. A list of fibromyalgia podcast episodes that are great if you are new and don't know where to start. 

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When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*