Daisy Ridley, the actress who brought the character Rey to life in the recent ‘Star Wars’ trilogy, is making headlines again, but this time it’s about something personal—her health. In a candid interview, Daisy revealed that she has been diagnosed with Graves’ Disease, an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. This isn’t the first time Daisy has spoken openly about her health; she has also shared her experiences with endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
What Is Graves’ Disease?
Graves’ Disease is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, causing it to produce too much thyroid hormone, a condition known as hyperthyroidism. This disorder was first identified by an Irish physician named Robert Graves in the 1800s. People with Graves’ Disease often experience a range of symptoms, including:
– Fatigue and muscle weakness
– Rapid or irregular heartbeat
– Tremors
– Increased appetite paired with weight loss
– Anxiety, irritability, and mood swings
– Frequent bowel movements
– Bulging eyes and swelling around the eyes (known as exophthalmos)
While the exact cause of Graves’ Disease isn’t fully understood, factors like genetics, stress, and family history are thought to increase the risk of developing the condition.
Daisy’s Experience with Graves’ Disease
Daisy Ridley was diagnosed with Graves’ Disease in September 2023, but it wasn’t until recently that she opened up about her experience. Initially, she believed her symptoms—such as mood swings, fatigue, and a rapid heart rate—were due to the stress of playing a demanding role. However, after consulting with her endocrinologist, Daisy realized that her symptoms were more serious and related to Graves’ Disease. She described the feeling as being “tired but wired,” often feeling irritable without understanding why.
Lifestyle Changes for Better Health
In response to her diagnosis, Daisy made several changes to her lifestyle. She’s been a vegan for years, but after learning about her condition, she also decided to cut gluten from her diet. While she isn’t overly strict about it, she has noticed that reducing gluten helps her feel better, particularly in managing inflammation.
Daisy’s wellness routine now includes practices like infrared saunas, cryotherapy, and acupuncture. She even carries a piece of rose quartz with her, believing in its ability to promote self-love and emotional calm. “I do a fair amount of the holistic stuff, but I also understand that it is a privilege to be able to do those things,” Daisy remarked.
The Importance of Mental Well-being
For Daisy, staying active is crucial not just for her physical health but for her mental well-being as well. She views her workout sessions as a time to focus on herself and relieve stress. “It’s an hour just for me, and it’s my time to do what I need to do to make myself feel good,” she shared.
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