Hello, everyone! Welcome to another busy week … there's Election Day and the affiliated community dinners on Tuesday, winter sports start-ups for student-athletes, and much more! Pathfinder Produce is here to help everyone get through the week in a healthy way with lots of fresh and tasty produce. Stop by on Thursday at the Village Commons from 1 to 5 p.m. to stock up, and don't forget about our convenient online ordering!
This past weekend, my family gathered to celebrate Dad's birthday with a visit and meal at the old homestead. My sisters and their families, who live out of the area, frequently return here during the fall for hunting, and it's always a good time to visit and enjoy meals together.
My mom outdoes herself in the cooking department, with the traditional meat, potatoes, veggies, and all the trimmings. I have to remind myself to watch my portions as these comfort foods are always so enticing. I noticed one of my brothers-in-law, who is generally careful in his eating habits, was avoiding carbs à la Atkins … even though he's not at all heavy he said he wanted to trim a few pounds.
Dad enjoyed the birthday cake and presents he received – one gift was a pair of Smartwool® socks, which of course prompted some good-natured jokes about “Smart wool, sheared from sheep with exceptionally high IQs.” But more than the gifts, you could sense he really just loved having his extended tribe gathered round. He and Mom were in great spirits, with everyone lingering around their extra-long dining table (with a few others at the “not so little ones” table too).
Table talk focused on the sightings of deer, some politics, a portable sawmill my other brother-in-law had just purchased, and everyone's health. My son's recent experiences in watching a video of hip replacement surgery in his Anatomy and Physiology class led to discussions of one relative's hip surgery and complete recovery, probably 15 years ago – early days for that procedure. Modern medicine is a marvel and the advances of science in improving individuals’ quality of life is astounding.
Rheumatoid arthritis was also a topic … one of our oldest relatives has been recently diagnosed RA. While the person is feeling better with a change in daily medications, I was wondering if their doctor had made suggestions about eating better or exercise to fight inflammation. According to the Arthritis Foundation, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system – which normally protects one’s health by attacking bacteria and viruses – mistakenly attacks a person’s joints. This causes inflammation that makes the tissue that lines the inside of joints thicken and leads to swelling and pain.
While care for an RA diagnosis should be overseen by healthcare professionals, according to the Arthritis Foundation there are some measures people can also take:
· Improve your diet: Foods that are rich in antioxidants and can help. The Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes fish, vegetables, fruits, and olive oil, among other healthy foods can reduce inflammation. It’s also important to significantly reduce processed and fast foods that fuel inflammation. Losing a few extra pounds can also help relieve stress on tender joints.
· Supplements: Studies have shown that turmeric and omega-3 fish oil supplements may help with RA pain (however, talk with a doctor before taking these to discuss side effects and drug interactions).
· Quit Smoking: Smoking is linked to RA, particularly for longtime smokers, who actually have an increased risk for more-severe rheumatoid arthritis. Smoking decreases the effectiveness of some RA prescriptions, and can be a barrier to exercise activities that may help RA pain.
· Balancing Activity with Rest: Rest helps reduce inflammation and fatigue. Taking breaks conserves energy and protects joints.
· Exercise is helpful and should focus on low-impact aerobics or yoga, muscle strengthening and flexibility.
· Heat and Cold: Heating pads and warm baths can help soothe stiff joints. Cold can numb painful areas and help reduce inflammation.
· Topical Pain Relievers: Rub-on NSAIDs, salicylates or capsaicins are helpful in relieving RA pain.
· Natural and Alternative Therapies: Deep breathing, visualization, and other relaxation methods can help painful muscles relax. Massage can help reduce pain, improve joint function and ease stress. Acupuncture or acupressure may also be helpful. Maintaining a positive outlook is also helpful.
Until next time, be good to yourself, enjoy time with loved ones and friends, and take care!
Lori
