Fibromyalgia, No Pain is the Gain

What is fibromyalgia? I’ve heard of more and more people say they have fibromyalgia or know someone who does. 

The American Heritage Dictionary defines fibromyalgia as

A syndrome characterized by chronic pain in the muscles and soft tissues surrounding joints, fatigue, and tenderness at specific sites in the body.

The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases states 

Fibromyalgia is a disorder that causes muscle pain and fatigue (feeling tired). People with fibromyalgia have “tender points” on the body. Tender points are specific places on the neck, shoulders, back, hips, arms, and legs. These points hurt when pressure is put on them. People with fibromyalgia may also have other symptoms, such as:

• Trouble sleeping
• Morning stiffness
• Headaches
• Painful menstrual periods
• Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
• Problems with thinking and memory (sometimes called “fibro fog”)

(Personal comment) I don’t suffer from fibromyalgia but the people that I know who do suffer from this condition are very concise and have no problem expressing themselves, either writing or speaking.

Here is an article from our health care fall 2006 magazine, ValleyCare Health System.

Doctors aren’t sure what causes fibromyalgia. They do know that about 90% of people diagnosed are women. If you’re one of them, here’s some good news. Research shows that exercise can reduce flare-ups. Staying active also may improve your ability to perform daily activities. Experts offer these tips:

• The best exercise choices are low-impact aerobic activities. These include walking, biking, and swimming.
• If you haven’t exercised for a while, start with just one or two workouts a week and build up to three or four. Short sessions of 10 to 30 minutes are best.
• Talk with your doctor before adding any resistance training or stretching to your routine. Anything that can strain your muscles may cause a flare-up.

Critical Reviews in Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Vol 17, No 1

New 100% Organic Herbs and Spices in Tins From Watkins

100% Organic Spices USDA Certified

Founded in 1868, America’s original natural products company has been the pioneer in spices and extracts for over 100 years. The same company that has brought you award winning all-natural Madagascar bourbon vanilla extract now introduces a new line of USDA certified 100% organic spices in trademark gold medal tins.

Why Organic?

Organic food differs from conventionally produced food in the way it is grown, handled, and processed. The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers this definition of organic food:

“Organic food is produced by farmers who emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance environmental quality for future generations. Organic meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Organic food is produced without using most conventional pesticides; fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge; bioengineering; or ionizing radiation. Before a product can be labeled ‘organic,’ a Government-approved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farmer is following all the rules necessary to meet USDA organic standards. Companies that handle or process organic food before it gets to your local supermarket or restaurant must be certified, too.”

Watkins will continue to offer our current line of Gourmet All-Natural Herbs and Spices while meeting the demands of the growing consumer base that prefers organic foods.

Organic Black Pepper – We have searched the globe and found the most flavorful pepper from Sri Lanka.

Organic Cinnamon – Our flavorful cinnamon from Indonesia is the best quality available anywhere.

Organic Nutmeg – The hard kernel of the peach-like fruit imparts a rich nut-like flavor. Watkins selects only the finest seed from Indonesia.

Organic Chili Powder – Our balanced blend of Chili Powder will be superior in any dishes you cook. Blended with quality spices from around the world.

Organic Cumin – Cumin is indispensable to Mexican and Southwestern cooking. The best seeds from Turkey are carefully sorted and ground to create the best finished product for your kitchen.

Organic Ginger – We have found the very finest ginger roots from Indonesia. They have been carefully dried to preserve their warm, spicy flavor.

Organic Dry Mustard – The pungency of the mustard is not released until it is added to water or another liquid. Watkins only uses the finest oil-rich North American mustard seed.

Organic Oregano – Watkins has chosen only select Turkish oregano, which has a strong flavor.

Organic Garlic Powder – Our garlic powder will enhance any dish needing great garlic flavor. We have selected only the best garlic from China.

Organic Paprika – Paprika is ground from dried red chilies. Watkins selects only the best Mexican variety, which is a brilliant color and is sweeter in taste.

Organic Sage – Sage is excellent in poultry stuffing and its flavor and natural tenderizing properties make it perfect for pork and other rich meats. We have found the most flavorful sage from Croatia.

Organic Parsley – We have selected only the finest parsley from Egypt to bring a bright flavor to any dish.

Organic Ground Cloves – Our ground cloves from Indonesia are one of the world’s most aromatic and important spices.

Organic Onion Powder – Our Onion powder will enhance any dish with delicious onion flavor. We have selected only the best onion from China.

Organic Thyme – We have selected only the finest thyme from Turkey to bring an irresistible flavor to any slow cooked dish.

Organic Basil – Our sweet basil is the most prominent of many varieties of basil. We sourced the very best basil from Egypt.

Organic Rosemary – Rosemary is a pungent combination of mint and evergreen and is best when roasting meats. Our rosemary is from Argentina and is the best quality available.

Organic Dill – Dill is best known for its use with fish and other seafood dishes. We have sourced the very best dill from Egypt.

Organic Curry Powder – Use small amounts to enhance and support other herbs and spices while cooking. Blended with quality spices from around the world.

Watkins Online Catalog

Virtual Jigsaw Puzzles

Exercise your mind with virtual jigsaw puzzles. This site has puzzles with a wide range of categories and difficulty levels.

http://www.dottysvirtualjigsaws.com/index.aspx

First Aid Guide from Mayo Clinic

The following web site provides information for medical emergencies. Always consult your physician as soon as possible for serious medical emergencies.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/FirstAidIndex/FirstAidIndex