#ints original

Here’s what happened: my coworker went to the dollar store on her lunch break yesterday and decided to get everyone a box of hot tamales. I LOVED hot tamales in high school but haven’t had them for years for several reasons. It was such a thoughtful gesture, so I opened the box and had a handful.

My stomach has been out of commission for over 24 hours. My heart rate has been elevated. I barely slept last night.

Three years ago, I worked hard to cut back on caffeine and completely cut out processed sugar in the form of candy. I did this because I realized that my POTS flares were tied to my sugar and caffeine intake, and I needed to prioritize my healthy, my body, and frankly my safety.

Three years without candy means that when it comes back, it will WREAK. HAVOK.

I’ve told this coworker before that I can’t do candy. That the occasional cookie or chocolate is fine, but I have to do it in moderation, with care and control.

She thought she was doing something nice. She had no malicious intent.

But please - if someone tells you they can’t eat something, don’t give it to them as a ‘treat.’ This isn’t a diet fad thing of “oooh, candy, I’m being so BAD.” This is about the health of my heart. You have no idea what that temptation is like. I failed, and now I’m hideously sick.