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Hildur’s Health Journal:
Stories, Learning & Perspectives on True Healing.
Welcome to a space where I share my personal journey, the profound lessons I’ve learned, and the insights that have guided me and countless others to lasting wellness. Consider this more than just a blog – it’s my curated collection of findings, stories, recipes and practical wisdom accumulated over decades.
Here, you’ll gain my unique perspective, views, and everything I’ve encountered that I believe will be truly valuable for understanding your body and navigating your own healing journey.
Is it possible to recover from “incurable” diseases?
I have accumulated diagnoses my entire life and have been labelled with all kinds of autoimmune illnesses and other chronic conditions that have made life difficult and worsened over time. The message I received from doctors and other healthcare professionals was that I had incurable diseases that I would need to learn to live with. I should accept my lot and not be striving for recovery. They said it was just stress on my nervous system that made my symptoms worse. About 12 years ago, I was in such bad shape that I couldn’t sleep more than an hour at a time. I managed to stand upright for an average of only about two hours a day. I was bedridden in chronic pain, utterly exhausted, having daily migraine attacks, and my mental health had become very poor.
But fortunately, I never gave up searching for solutions. It was a long and strict journey, which led to improved well-being in intervals, but then everything would always slide back. Until ten years ago, when I finally managed to put together a program – after months of research and experimentation on myself – that resulted in me becoming completely symptom-free.
The main issues I suffered from were: widespread fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, chronic migraines, hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, hormonal imbalance, arrhythmia, weak immune system, and intestinal inflammation. In recent years, depression and anxiety were added to the list.
My primary symptoms were widespread body pain, tightness across my chest, rapid heart rate, extra and irregular heartbeats, poor sleep, recurrent infections, nearly daily migraines, extreme endurance fatigue, tiredness and lack of energy, muscle wasting and weakness, dry and itchy skin patches, dry eyes, mouth ulcers, scalp eczema, intense spinal pain following a compression fracture I sustained in a serious car accident many years ago, neck and shoulder pain from whiplash in the same accident, pain in fingers, shoulders, knees, hips, and severe pain under the heels. I had constant abdominal cramps, heartburn, bloating, colon spasms, and chronic constipation. I had an overactive bladder and recurrent urinary infections, constant pain around menstruation, very swollen and tender breasts, ovarian cysts, had surgery for nodules on my thyroid and a tumour was discovered behind the thyroid that was removed, and I underwent a cone biopsy due to grade 3-4 cellular changes. I had repeated infections in random places, and I could go on at length.
Today I am completely symptom-free – provided I stick to my program.
So, the question is: am I cured, or are the diseases just in remission? To me, it doesn’t really matter, because I have regained my energy, full work capacity, sleep like an angel, I am pain-free, digestion works like a well-oiled machine, I almost never get sick, and if I catch a cold or virus, I kick it in about a day instead of lying ill for days on end as I used to. My endurance surpasses that of a woman my age and my muscle strength has returned – something I was told would never happen – and my happiness level is understandably on a steady upward trend.
Today I would no longer receive any of my previous diagnoses, since many are based on symptoms that are no longer present, and inflammatory markers in my blood no longer test positive. From that standpoint, one could say that I no longer have those diseases.
However, I know that if I stray from my program, the old symptoms will creep back, and it wouldn’t take long before I became as ill as I was before. What I still experience today is that if I eat something I’m intolerant to, or stress becomes too high, a migraine creeps back in occasionally, but thankfully it is on rare occasions from daily occurrences before. So, I need to take migraine medication at times. All other medications have long been discontinued – fibromyalgia meds, sleep aids, antidepressants, antacids, anti-inflammatory drugs, strong painkillers, and more.
From my perspective today, all these diseases share a common root cause, and the way to overcome them is to restore certain bodily systems back into balance. With specific changes to diet and lifestyle, I’ve been able to support the body in returning to health.
I’m not saying this is a piece of cake – getting there requires a complete transformation in diet and lifestyle. But if more people took this path, it would have a huge impact on society and the healthcare system as a whole.
– Hildur M. Jónsdóttir
Help
Health Adviser and Founder of Hildur’s Health Mastery
The Tongue – A Window to the Organs
The body’s imbalance can be read in various ways. One can observe the condition of the skin, analyze health through the eyes, examine the nails – and then there’s the tongue. According to Dr. Gillian McKeith, the tongue is a kind of window to the organs. She says the tip of the tongue reflects the condition of the heart, and the area just behind the tip reflects the lungs. The right side of the tongue shows the state of the gallbladder, and the left side reflects the liver. In the center of the tongue lies the area that represents the stomach and spleen, and at the back of the tongue is the area linked to the kidneys, intestines, bladder, and reproductive organs. A tongue that indicates a healthy, balanced body is pale red in color, soft, and slightly moist. A very thin white coating is considered normal. Signs that something may be wrong include a tongue that is heavily cracked, has deep cuts, a thick coating, is swollen, shows red spots, or has sores. If there is a crack running down the middle of the tongue that does not reach the tip, it suggests a weak stomach and that digestion is not functioning as it should. If the tongue is uneven on the sides and shows teeth marks, this is a sign of nutrient deficiency. A sore tongue is a sure sign of nutritional deficiency, often a lack of iron, vitamin B6, and niacin. If you experience a burning sensation on the tongue, it may indicate a deficiency in stomach acid. If the tongue is swollen and even has a thick white coating, this indicates an excess of mucus in the body. It also shows a lack of good gut flora and likely an overgrowth of yeast. A tongue with transverse cracks, fine fissures, and grooves indicates poor nutrient absorption. A thick yellow coating on the tongue suggests a lack of healthy gut flora, and if this coating is at the back of the tongue, there may be something wrong with intestinal function. A red tip of the tongue is a sign of emotional trauma, high stress, or emotional strain.
– Hildur M. JónsdóttirHelp
Health Adviser and Founder of Heilsubankinn
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
I believe that Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is often a precursor to more serious problems or a side effect of an underlying imbalance that can lead to all kinds of illnesses and other health concerns. IBS itself is not a dangerous disease – it does not cause tissue damage or shorten life expectancy. But people with IBS often experience significant discomfort and reduced quality of life, and there is no single “cure” for it. This topic is very dear to me because I personally struggled with IBS from the age of eight – until I completely changed my diet and lifestyle. Today, through my own experience and my work with way over a thousand clients, I know that IBS is not just “in someone’s head.” It is a real physiological imbalance that can be corrected when we understand what’s behind it. So, what is IBS really? IBS is one of the most common digestive disorders in the world, affecting an estimated 10–15% of people, with women being twice as likely to be affected as men. An Icelandic study from 2005 indicated that the problem is far more widespread in Iceland (where I am from) – with around 30% of the population experiencing IBS symptoms. In the UK it is around 20%. We now know that it is not merely a stress-related condition as was often believed in the past. Instead, IBS is linked to imbalances in the communication between the digestive system, the nervous system, and the microbiome – the gut–brain–microbiome axis. When these interactions are disrupted, intestinal movements become irregular and the contractions of the digestive muscles lose rhythm. This can lead to low-grade inflammation, gas, abdominal pain, constipation and/or diarrhea. The good news is that no permanent tissue damage occurs – only a functional disturbance. This means balance can be restored and quality of life improved. It is also important to address IBS symptoms because people with IBS are at much higher risk of experiencing additional health problems, particularly mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, and other functional disorders such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and pain syndromes. They are also more prone to physical symptoms like headaches, back pain, and frequent urination. Poor nutrient absorption may lead to deficiencies, and complications such as hemorrhoids can occur, especially in IBS with constipation. What we know today about the causes of IBS Twenty years ago, IBS was almost a complete mystery. Today, we know it can be rooted in several key factors:
✔ Post-infection: IBS can follow gastrointestinal infections that disrupt the microbiome and immune function Every person’s root causes are unique, which is why the approach must be personalized, especially after elimination diets when it is time to tailor nutrition to the individual. Common Symptoms of IBS: Symptoms often worsen in connection to stress or hormonal changes and sometimes improve after bowel movements. The gut–nervous system connection The digestive system has its own nervous system – the enteric nervous system – often called the “second brain.” When we live in constant stress, the vagus nerve signals the body to slow digestion. This causes imbalances, gas, and bowel issues. That is why it is essential to support the nervous system with an anti-inflammatory diet and stress-reducing lifestyle changes, such as relaxation techniques and practices that lower stress levels. The role of diet Food is one of the most powerful tools for rebuilding healthy digestion, which is foundational for good overall health. The goal is to reduce inflammation, support the microbiome, and gradually restore digestive function – in line with each person’s current state. In my program “Hildur’s Health Mastery” we work on all factors needed to achieve lasting IBS symptom relief: There is a lot to consider when restoring the gut and correcting underlying imbalances. What you can begin right now, even before joining my program: Temporarily avoid: Supplements that may support healing: A holistic path to recovery There is no single magic cure for IBS. But when we support the body and nervous system, lower stress, and build a healthy microbiome – deep and lasting healing is possible. I have seen over and over again that when we remove burden, nourish instead of restrict, and provide the body with peace, it begins to heal. Healing the gut is not only about the food we eat – but about rebuilding trust in our body, one step at a time. Following these recommendations on your own can be challenging. With close guidance and support in our next course, you can experience real progress – join the waiting list here:
– Hildur M. Jónsdóttir 💛Help
✔ SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth): excess bacteria in the small intestine cause gas and disrupt motility
✔ Food intolerances: especially FODMAPs, histamine, gluten, and dairy
✔ Stress-related nervous system imbalance: chronic stress slows digestion, increases inflammation, and can contribute to leaky gut
✔ Low-grade inflammation & leaky gut: immune activity in the gut wall heightens symptoms
✔ Overuse of antibiotics or medications: can disrupt gut flora and weaken digestion
Bloating or abdominal distension
Abdominal pain and cramping, often after meals
Irregular bowel movements – constipation, diarrhea, or both
Excessive gas
Food sensitivities or intolerances
Fatigue and brain fog
Nausea or poor appetite
Headaches, anxiety, or sleep disturbances
• We first remove what triggers symptoms.
• We add nutrition in forms that do not provoke reactions, so the body receives the nourishment it needs for repair.
• We support the body’s healing process with stress-reduction so the stress response does not sabotage progress.
✅ Eat clean, whole, unprocessed foods
✅ Focus on gentle fibers, such as cooked vegetables, chia seeds, and ground flaxseed
✅ Include healthy fats, especially omega-3 from fish, flaxseeds, or algae
✅ Drink enough water, ideally between meals
🚫 Gluten and dairy
🚫 Processed foods
🚫 Sugar and sweeteners
🚫 Coffee, caffeinated beverages, and alcohol
Think of this as a restoration phase – a time to listen to your body and discover what it thrives on.
• Probiotics – certain strains can reduce gas and discomfort
• L-glutamine – nourishes and helps repair the gut lining
• Magnesium (glycinate or citrate) – supports relaxation and bowel movements
• Digestive enzymes – help break down food and improve nutrient absorption
• Milk thistle – supports liver function
• B-vitamins and minerals – essential for energy and nervous system balance
• Omega-3 fatty acids – reduce inflammation and improve motility
• Peppermint oil (or peppermint tea) – shown to relieve cramping and pain in IBS
(Always individualise — not everyone tolerates every supplement.)
Waiting List
Health Adviser and Founder of Hildur’s Health Mastery
It’s Not So Simple to Opt Out of Disability Benefits
When I finally got control over the chronic conditions and autoimmune diseases that had dominated my health and life for years, I began to consider declining the financial support I had been receiving from the state in the form of disability benefits. As I described in my previous writings, I had been so ill that I had effectively stopped being a proper participant in life. At my worst, I could only stand for about two hours a day, I couldn’t tolerate even light exercise – not even a short walk – and if I traveled abroad, I usually spent two days confined to my hotel room just recovering from the flight itself. After I developed a program that made me nearly symptom- and medication-free within six months, it took some time to trust that my recovery was here to stay. Once I regained my energy and endurance, pain-free life, and the joy and lightness that come with it, I slowly began to re-engage in life. Following such a prolonged illness, I was still constantly afraid of relapsing as I always had before. Being able to sit with friends in the evening without constantly worrying about having to excuse myself and go to bed because of pain or discomfort; sitting through an entire theater performance without popping pain pills every hour – and even being able to applaud at the end without triggering a migraine; carrying grocery bags from the car; having the energy to play with my grandchild and even run around with her – it’s hard to explain to someone who hasn’t experienced utter exhaustion and misery how much joy these small, natural things can bring. Gradually, I began taking on small projects here and there and assisting people who reached out after hearing about my healing journey. After I started earning income again, I submitted an income plan for the year to the Social Insurance Administration (Tryggingastofnun). I didn’t yet know how much I would earn, so I was cautious not to expect too much. However, I declared higher income than I had received in benefits, believing that my benefits would be completely cut since they were always talking about a ‘króna-for-króna’ reduction. What actually happened was my benefits only went down by about ISK 30,000 per month because I was receiving various supplements that were exempt from cuts. When I reached mid-year and saw that my work capacity continued to build and I was working more than a full-time load, I decided it was time to opt out of disability benefits. I first looked on Tryggingastofnun’s website for a form I could fill out to opt out of disability benefits—but found nothing. I then called their support line to ask how to proceed. They had very little information and seemed to have never encountered this question before. After much consideration by the person I spoke with and her colleagues, she told me I would need to submit a formal request, which would then be reviewed. At that moment, I realised it wasn’t as simple as I’d assumed. Then I wondered about the possibility that if I earned more income later in the year after opting out, would I have to repay the benefits I had already received? So I called again and spoke with another helpful representative. She informed me that even if I was removed from disability status, I would still have to repay any benefits received earlier in the year, if my later income exceeded expectations. I told her how odd it seemed, considering it would be a great saving for the state if I left disability rolls, and how discouraging this rule was. I argued that it would surely be in the state’s interest to let me draw a line and exit without penalties. She wholeheartedly agreed and suggested I submit a formal request and ask them to consider waiving the repayment. In the meantime, she recommended postponing my exit until the New Year so I would avoid complications at year-end. I decided not to draft all these formal requests right away, as I wasn’t sure I wanted to invest my precious new-found energy in this. I postponed action until the New Year and resolved to repay the administration if I exceeded my income plan. At New Year’s, I wrote a warm letter thanking them for the support I’d received during the past months when I genuinely needed it, but explained that I now had full work capacity, was nearly symptom-free from my former conditions, and felt I’d reached the end of that journey. I asked to be removed from disability status. After a short wait, they responded, encouraging me to move to a scheme where I would receive a single yearly payment based on my tax return, so I could let the disability claim expire and wouldn’t need to renew it if I chose not to. Of course, that approach is well-intentioned and no doubt aimed at my well-being. But there are other benefits to maintaining a disability evaluation that I believed I no longer needed, since I was fully capable of working and contributing to society. Therefore, the next step was to submit a formal request asking to be permanently removed from disability, and I am now waiting for their confirmation. It’s a long and stressful process for many to enter the disability system, often demoralising – and who would have thought it could be so complicated to exit it again?
– Hildur M. JónsdóttirHelp
Health Adviser and Founder of Heilsubankinn
What’s Behind a “Cortisol Detox”? And Why I Do Things Differently!
Lately, I’ve been seeing a lot of programs pop up promising a “cortisol detox.” They’re often aimed at people who are struggling with weight gain, poor sleep, low energy, or mood swings. The idea is appealing, right? That you could somehow flush out your stress hormones, reset your system, and feel balanced again. But here’s the thing: There is no such thing as detoxing cortisol in the way these programs often suggest. Let’s talk about what’s really going on – and why the approach I take is both gentler and more sustainable. Cortisol is a hormone produced by your adrenal glands in response to stress. It plays a crucial role in keeping you alert, regulating blood sugar, reducing inflammation, and managing your sleep-wake cycle. The problem isn’t cortisol itself. The problem is when your body stays stuck in “stress mode” for too long – with chronically elevated cortisol levels that disrupt your sleep, digestion, mood, and even your metabolism. Most of them include a mix of lifestyle changes that are actually very helpful, such as: So far, so good. These tools are not harmful – in fact, many of them are very aligned with what I teach. But here’s the issue… These programs often present themselves as a quick fix – a short-term reset that’s supposed to solve deep-rooted issues caused by long-term stress, inflammation, hormone imbalance, or gut dysfunction. They focus on symptom management, but rarely address the underlying imbalances that caused cortisol to spike in the first place. And when people don’t get the promised results in 7 days or 21 days, they feel discouraged. Maybe even broken. You are not broken. Your body is asking for care, not control. In my program, we don’t just chase symptoms or talk about “detoxing” hormones. We create the conditions for deep and lasting balance – from the inside out. This is not a detox. It’s a healing journey. And it’s not meant to be rushed. Because when your body has been stuck in survival mode for years, what it truly needs is not another crash plan or cleanse… it needs safety, nourishment, and consistent support. That’s what we do inside my program. And it’s how so many of my clients have found their way back to clarity, energy, and health – one small, supported step at a time.
– Hildur M. JónsdóttirHelp
First, what is cortisol?
So what do “cortisol detox” programs offer?
Here’s how I approach it differently
Health Adviser and Founder of Heilsubankinn
I truly appreciate you spending time with my reflections and learnings here on the blog. It’s a privilege to share this knowledge, and I believe deeply in the body’s profound capacity for healing. If anything you’ve read has resonated with you, know that a path to lasting wellness is possible.
As you navigate your health journey, remember that you don’t have to do it alone. I created Hildur’s Health Mastery to provide the comprehensive guidance and support I wish I had had.
I truly appreciate you spending time with my reflections and learnings here on the blog. It’s a privilege to share this knowledge, and I believe deeply in the body’s profound capacity for healing. If anything you’ve read has resonated with you, know that a path to lasting wellness is possible.
As you navigate your health journey, remember that you don’t have to do it alone. I created Hildur’s Health Mastery to provide the comprehensive guidance and support I wish I had had.
