Most people who have fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) also suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), as the two conditions share comorbidity with each other. So, how do you to tell if you have fibro fog, chronic fatigue…or both?

About  80 to 90 percent of all chronic fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue sufferers female. Also, fibromyalgia sufferers share many of the same symptoms, such as severe chronic pain and mental exhaustion.

If that’s the case, then how does one tell the two conditions apart?

7 Reasons You Have Brain Fog…And What to do About It

Symptoms of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue

In order for you physician to diagnose CFS or FMS, you must exhibit some of the following symptoms:

• Extreme mental fatigue
• Muscle or joint pain
• Difficulty sleeping
• Unusual headaches
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Forgetfulness
• Lightheadedness

Suffering from Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue? B12 to the Rescue!

So we know what features CFS and FMS have in common, but what criteria do physicians use to tell them apart?

The basic difference is that fibromyalgia is that fibromyalgia involves specific pain points, while chronic fatigue has no rhyme or reason.

However, that’s only a rough description.

Factors that differentiate fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue

1) Statistics

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 5 million Americans suffer from fibromyalgia syndrome, compared with 1 million who suffer from chronic fatigue.  If you suspect you have one or the other, seek a fibromyalgia diagnosis first.

A rheumatologist often determines fibromyalgia, while an infectious disease specialist is more likely to diagnose CFS.

2) The substance P factor

Fibromyalgia patients have 300% more substance P, a chemical that your brain uses to spread pain signals throughout your body.  The more substance P your body emits following an injury, the stronger your body’s reaction to pain.

If you have fibromyalgia, then you suffer three times the amount of muscular pain or joint aches than people who don’t have chronic illness.

3) It’s in the zone

There are approximately 18 distinct pain points throughout body that signal fibromyalgia syndrome.  To receive a diagnosis, fibromyalgia sufferers must exhibit soreness in at least 11 of these specified zones.  Conversely, chronic fatigue patients have no connection with the 18 pain points.

How to Tell if Chronic Pain is Fibromyalgia: 18 Pressure Points

4) Chronic fatigue is viral

Chronic fatigue syndrome patients have higher levels of an antiviral enzyme, RNase L, leading experts to believe that CFS is the result of an autoimmune disorder following exposure to a virus.

While fibromyalgia often begins following an emotional trauma or physical injury, CFS generally appears because of a viral infection, like mono or the flu.  Chronic fatigue sufferers often complain of residual flu-like symptoms and sore throat, in addition to exhaustion following physical exercise.  CFS patients feel tired all day, even after sleeping a full eight hours.

Related reading:

100 Best Sites for Fibromyalgia or Chronic Fatigue Information

Staying Fit with Fibromyalgia: 13 Pain-Free Workouts

Why More Fibromyalgia Patients are Taking Tai Chi

15 Handy Household Tools for Chronic Pain Sufferers

Best Clothes for Fibromyalgia Pain- 6 Helpful Dressing Tips

Sources:

The Common Threads of Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome – Fibromyalgia Center – Everyday Health

Difference Between Fibromyalgia and Chronic fatigue syndrome | Difference Between |  Fibromyalgia vs Chronic fatigue syndrome

What is the difference between fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue?

Treat IBD naturally and deliciously by including these anti-inflammatory fermented foods in your diet.

There’s a war brewing in your tummy!

Whether you suffer from IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) or IBD (inflammatory bowel disease), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, you know that the best way to treat your tummy right is by following a diet rich in probiotic foods.

Probiotics are live microorganisms that occur naturally in aged foods, such as pickles and yogurt.  Consider them your allies in fighting your body’s war between good and evil! (bacteria-wise, that is.)

When it comes to promoting gastrointestinal integrity, the health benefits of probiotics are unrivaled.

Gut Bugs:Winning the Bacteria Battle

12 Great  probiotics

1- Yogurt

Yogurt is an old standby for people who understand the health benefits of probiotic foods, and for good reason.

Many brands of yogurt contain live cultures that keep your tummy calm and balanced, even after taking antibiotics.

Keep in mind that not all yogurts are alike- only the ones that are marked “active cultures” or “live cultures” on the label have potent probiotics.

2- Kefir

Kefir is a popular European drink that contains a mixture of goat milk and fermented kefir grains.  In addition to antioxidants, kefir is also rich in lactobacilli and bifidus bacteria.

3- Buttermilk

Buttermilk is a nourishing drink that adds creaminess and rich flavor to Ranch salad dressings, pancakes, and cornbread.  It is also an excellent source of probiotic cultures.

Natural Treatments for the Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease

4- Sour cream

Sour cream is a fermented condiment that contains healthy bacteria.  Use it sparingly, as it is high in fat.

5- Miso

Miso is a traditional Japanese condiment that consists of a fermented paste produced by soybeans, barley, or rice.  It adds a salty, smoky flavor to soups and sauces.

6- Tempeh

Tempeh is an excellent vegetarian source of vitamin B12.  Produced from fermented soybeans, tempeh is a meatier alternative to tofu and makes a satisfying centerpiece in vegan main meals.

7- Natto

Natto is another soy product featured in Japanese cuisine, containing bacillus subtilis.  It has a pungent quality that true lovers of vegetarian cookery enjoy.

8- Sauerkraut

This fermented cabbage began its gastronomical career as a popular German condiment; today, hot dog enthusiasts all over the USA delight in topping their frankfurters with tangy sauerkraut.

The 20 Do’s and Don’ts of the GERD Diet

9- Kimchi

Kimchi is a traditional Korean condiment made of assorted pickled vegetables.  Like sauerkraut, kimchi contains fermented cabbage, in addition to onions, carrots, and garlic.

Unlike sauerkraut, kimchi has a hot ‘n spicy kick to it.

10- Kombucha tea

Kombucha tea, a health food staple that contains live cultures, is an ancient tonic that promotes healthy gut bacteria.

11- Pickles

Dill pickles, bread and butter pickles, or half-sours: any way you slice them, pickled cucumbers are a tasty, crunchy source of gut-friendly probiotics.

12- Unpasteurized olives

Naturally fermented, unpasteurized olives have a unique, full-bodied flavor that is lacking in traditionally bottled pasteurized olives.  Like all olives, they are equally beneficial for heart health.

Related Reading:

15 Steps to Better Digestion

Crohn’s Disease Suggested Dinner Menu, plus Recipes

Ten Foods to avoid if you have Inflammatory Bowel Disorder

101 Helpful Sites for Kids ‘n Teens with Crohn’s (and their Parents)

On the Run with Crohn’s? 6 Ways to Ease Public Restroom Anxiety

Sources:

Top 10 Probiotic Foods to Add to Your Diet

Top Probiotic Foods You Are Not Eating | The Conscious Life

The Best Probiotic Foods | LIVESTRONG.COM

13 Natural Probiotic Food Sources

Diet experts advise eating these tasty foods that speed up your metabolism  for maximum weight loss.

If you’re trying to lose weight (and who isn’t?), then you don’t want to waste time eating foods that slow you down.

Including the the right foods in your diet is your recipe for ultimate weight loss.

Choose healthy foods that contain dietary fiber, antioxidants, and natural spices, such as cinnamon and chili peppers.

Here are 6 super snack foods that will help you stay on the diet wagon:

Fiery bean tostada with salsa

Eating a spicy meal with hot chili peppers just gives you a warm feeling inside.  According to researchers, capsaicin, the ingredient that puts the pep into the pepper, actually helps you use up calories and lose weight more efficiently.  Pair that with beans, which have cholecystokinin to naturally control your appetite, and dig in.

Word to the wise- corn tortillas have more dietary fiber and less refined ingredients than flour tortillas, so load up a corn tortilla with all the fixins.

Almond trail mix

Eat twelve almonds per day, and you’ll have an easier time sticking to your diet.  That’s because raw almonds have alpha-linolenic acid, a healthy ingredient that aids digestion.

Almonds also contain plenty of tummy-filling dietary fiber, so you won’t go hungry.  If you’re diabetic, then you’ll appreciate the insulin-controlling benefits of foods like almond butter.

Egg omelet

It’s a proven fact that eggs satisfy you- protein gives you a feeling of fullness that keeps you from binging later in the day.  Studies show that people who eat two eggs with whole-grain toast each morning have an easier time managing their weight than people who eat a bagel with cream cheese for breakfast.

Cinnamon toast

The USDA did some research that concluded that cinnamon helps you control your insulin levels after meals, which is great news for diabetics.

Sprinkle some sweet and spicy cinnamon on whole-grain buttered toast for a gratifying and healthy snack that will help you lose weight.

Apples and cheese

An apple a day keeps the doctor- and obesity– away.  Apples are loaded with natural sweetness, high fiber, and antioxidants, making them one of the best diet foods around.

And here’s a surprise- According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, full-fat cheese promotes weight loss more efficiently than its lower fat and nonfat alternatives.

Get the best weight loss benefits by combining a dollop of full-fat ricotta cheese with baked apple.  Don’t forget the cinnamon!

Green tea smoothie

Green tea contains antioxidants called catechins that boost your metabolism and help you drop pounds more efficiently.

Researchers from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville found that dieters who eat yogurt lose 61% more fat than dieters who don’t.

Make a healthy, low-cal metabolism-boosting smoothie with frozen yogurt, powdered matcha green tea, and frozen green grapes.  Yum!

Also read:

7 Days of Refreshing, High Energy Smoothies without Caffeine

10 Most Tempting Vegan Ice Cream Recipes

Crack the Iceberg Habit: 10 Green Leafy Veggies you’ll Love

Sources:

15 Foods To Help You Lose

7 Foods that Speed Weight Loss

20 best foods for weight loss: Food & Diet: Self.com

What are the best clothes to wear if you have fibromyalgia…especially when Muumuus are not an option?

Dress for success in spite of fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is an “invisible disease” that causes much suffering to its victims; fibro patients experience intense pain at the slightest touch, even in the absence of any discernable skin or muscular injuries.

Many sufferers also experience “fibro fog,” which may be a sign of chronic fatigue syndrome, a comorbidity of fibromyalgia.

7 Reasons You Have Brain Fog…And What to do About It

What are the symptoms of allodynia?

Allodynia is a specific condition in which fibromyalgia patients feel that their “clothes hurt,” an overreaction to sensations that are not painful to non-fibro patients, particularly in relation to clothing.  People in the fibromyalgia circle refer to it as “Princess and the Pea Syndrome.”

Common complaints are:

• Shooting pains in arms caused by wristwatches, rings, or bracelets
• Itchiness and skin irritation produced by wearing hot, manmade materials or tight, constricting clothing
• Painful pressure on ribcage or abdomen
• Sensitivity to sewn-on clothing labels and tags, or anything rubbing against the skin

100 Best Sites for Fibromyalgia or Chronic Fatigue Information

Which clothes are worst for fibromyalgia?

What works for some doesn’t always work for others…

You might be more comfortable in loose, flowing caftan, while other fibromyalgia sufferers prefer skintight stretchy leggings and a sports top.

When it comes to socks, tight diabetic hosiery might give you long-lasting relief from foot pain, but some people can’t stand the feel of tight or padded socks, and walk comfier in thin, no-show athletic socks.

6 helpful tips for dressing without fibromyalgia pain

1- Don’t get strapped down.

Tight bra straps and underwire shaping are the biggest causes for complaint among fibromyalgia sufferers.  Unfortunately, most of us cannot afford to go without.

For office clothing, consider wearing thick vests over comfortable cotton shirts, in lieu of form-fitting tops that require a shaping bra.

Check out JoAnn Fabrics- they sell a bra strap extender for just $1.99.  Some great alternatives to pokey wired bras are cotton sports bras, or Spanx Bra-llelujah! Wireless Front-Closure Bra.

2- Loosen up.

Tight button-down collars, stuffy ties, and tight jeans are not for you.  Around the house, it’s fine to lounge around in super comfy drawstring pants and oversized tank tops, but your boss will probably frown on flannel pajama pants as your new office attire.

Choose clothes that are comfortable, but not sloppy.  Long, breezy cotton dresses are acceptable in or out of the office, as well as rayon wide-legged trousers.

3- Waist not, want not.

If elastic waistbands are driving you nuts, then consider wearing low-riding bikini underwear instead of high-waist briefs.  For outerwear, opt for low-rise cotton pants paired with a longer-length top for tummy coverage.  Be on the lookout for clothing items that feature covered elastic waists.

Don’t be shy about investigating the maternity clothing stores; Maternity pants and skirts have a low elastic waist that tucks under the tummy, and are really comfortable!  In fact, many moms are reluctant to switch back to their old waist-hugging jeans.  Alternatively, you can get the same results from a pair of wide, drawstring pants.

4- Forgo fashion labels.

Clothing tags and labels are murder on the tactile-sensitive.  Many clothing manufacturers such as Old Navy and Hanes make nonirritating tag-free shirts, pants, and socks.

If ripping the tag out is not an option, hop on over to your neighborhood tailor, and she’ll be glad to carefully remove the tag without causing any damage to the fabric. In a pinch, you can also wear underwear, socks, or pajama tops inside out, and nobody need ever know.

5- Be kind to your feet.

Fibromyalgia pain is similar to diabetic neuropathy.  For that reason, many fibro sufferers find relief by wearing form-fitting diabetic socks. Other key features to look for are seamless toes and non-ribbed socks.  Comfortable shoes should be made of leather or cotton.

Some favorites include handcrafted loafers and sandals from San Antonio Shoes (SAS).

6- Drape yourself in comfortable fabrics.

Omit polyester, or any manmade clothing material, from your fashion wardrobe.  Instead, buy comfortable, breathable apparel made from natural fibers.

Check the clothing label (before ripping it out) for 100% cotton, silk, Tencel, rayon, or modal, in addition to 5% spandex.

WinterSilks is famous for their silky long underwear, but they also manufacture a full range of comfortable clothing for men and women.

Also read:

Staying Fit with Fibromyalgia: 13 Pain-Free Workouts

Why More Fibromyalgia Patients are Taking Tai Chi

15 Handy Household Tools for Chronic Pain Sufferers

Sources:

Poll: What Clothes are Worst for Fibromyalgia Pain?

Allodynia: Weird Pain Related to Fibromyalgia

How to Dress for Less Fibromyalgia Pain

A Checklist for the Symptoms of Allodynia

Stress-Free Trips for Children with Autism

Summer’s here. Now what?

It’s only the middle of the summer, and already your kids are climbing the walls looking for something to do.  If you are a parent of a child with autism, then you understand that your child finds comfort in structure.  If your son (or daughter) has spent the school year learning in a special education class geared towards children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), then he’s used to living by a rigid timetable with scheduled activities, naps, and mealtimes.  Your task is to provide a similar environment at home, while keeping up with your regular weekday routine, such as work, housekeeping, laundry, and local errands.  Support for Parents of Autistic Children

A little bit of structure can go a long way.

With a bit of planning, you can put together a day schedule of summer activities that meets both you and your autistic child’s needs.  Instead of planning long, overwhelming field trips that nobody will enjoy, take mini-field trips on assigned “family trip days.” Fill up the rest of your time slots with simple, inexpensive activities that are spaced far apart.  Allow for quiet spells, including your own “me” time.  Remind your child periodically what the agenda of the day is, in order to spare him of any surprises.  Have all your things ready the night before, including sunscreen, lunches and snacks, clothes, and craft materials, like paper, glue, markers, and child-safe scissors.

Here are 10 summertime activities that the whole family will enjoy:

1. See a sensory-friendly movie at AMC. Going to the movies can be stressful with small children, especially if you have children with special needs.  Why pay all that money on movie tickets and popcorn, when you know the dark room, the scary trailers, and the loud noises frighten your child?  AMC Entertainment offers special movie showings for families with autistic children.  The lights stay on, the volume is child-friendly, and your children can get up, move around, and talk without being shushed by angry moviegoers.  It’s like home, only with a bigger TV screen.
2. Visit your local science museum. Science and natural history museums offer many fun activities for children of all ages.  Yearly memberships are often inexpensive, and allow you the freedom to visit whenever you like.  In addition, you’ll receive notification of special events.  Ask your curator what the quietest hours are for the museum, and plan your visit accordingly.
3. Get a pool membership. All kids love the pool, and autistic kids are no exception.  Visit your local city council for a list of recreational pools in your area, including swim lessons.  Take advantage of pool time to practice some aquatic therapies for children with autism.
4. Explore nature. Go on a nature walk with your family.  Some parks feature special trails for the handicapped or stroller-bound.  Have a picnic lunch in a shady grove.  Collect pinecones, acorns, branches, and other natural artifacts, keeping away from poison ivy or state-protected wildflowers.  When you get home, prepare a nature craft for your kids to do while you wind down.  Give them some glue, strong cardboard, and glitter, and show them how to make a leafy collage of their park souvenirs.  Or, supply googly eyes and pipe cleaners, and see who can make the scariest pinecone creature.  6 Great Diets for Autistic Children
5. Make a memory album. Bring disposable or digital cameras on all your ventures, and end each week by assembling photo album pages to go into your summer memory book.  Autistic children in particular will benefit from the visual reminder of all the fun things they accomplished.
6. Visit your local library. Reading to your child is an essential tool for broadening their vocabulary.  Kids with ASD benefit greatly from story time, as it teaches them the words they need in order to better communicate.  Have an early dinner, and visit your library during the quiet evening hours.
7. Play musical games. Music therapy is an essential part of special education classrooms.  All children, whether autistic or not, enjoy moving to background music.  Encourage your children to express themselves through dance by leading them in musical games, such as Freeze Dance or Musical Chairs.
8. Make homemade play-dough. Autistic children require sensory experiences for brain development.  Commercial modeling clay can be expensive, so why not make it yourself?  The Ultimate Book of Kid Concoctions has dozens of simple science crafts you can do with your kids, including several formulas for play dough, including a scented clay made with applesauce, cinnamon, and white glue.
9. Wash your car. Sometimes, what adults consider as chores can be fun activities for kids, and running a “car wash” is at the top of the list.  You supply the buckets, suds, and cloths, and your kids can go to town while you supervise in the shade.  Alert your friends and neighbors, and invite them to participate.
10. Run in the sprinklers. If you water your lawn in the early morning or evening hours, send your kids outside to play tag under the watery sprays.  If you’re feeling adventurous, fill up a few water balloons and show them how to play Hot Potato.

Related reading:

8 Great Tracking Devices for Autistic Kids, GPS+

10 Great iPad Apps for Autistic Children

Special Needs for Special Pets: Animal Therapy Success Stories

Sources:

Autism: Summer Activities for the Autism Spectrum Crowd : Laura Shumaker : City Brights

5 Great Summer Activities To Do Outdoors With Your Kids | Autism Learning Felt

Leisure Activities For Kids With Autism | LIVESTRONG.COM

Activities For Kids With Autism | LIVESTRONG.COM

The Medford Sun – 10 inexpensive summertime activities for children with autism

Homemade Flavored Water that Rocks

Do you have a love-hate relationship with drinking water?

Many people do.  You need to drink more water during the summer season in order to avoid dehydration, that much is certain, but let’s face it- water is, well, plain.  Sometimes you want to quench your thirst with something that has some flavor- a little kick, a touch of sweetness, or just a cooling aftertaste.  Short of guzzling down sugary sodas, “energy drinks,” or highly concentrated fruit-ades, what other options are there?

Alternatives to soda

There’s no reason to feel guilty about craving flavored water, as long as you don’t substitute drinking water with sweet sodas, diet sodas, coffee, or caffeinated iced tea.  Stay hydrated while satisfying your sweet tooth by brewing up your own homemade flavored water, made with natural food ingredients.

Boost Energy Now! 20 Practical Tips for Fighting Fatigue

Below are 12 tips for increasing your water intake without sacrificing flavor:

1- Make it fruity. Fill up a pitcher of drinking water, and toss in some fresh fruit for added sweetness without the cavities.

Try it now: experiment with mixed berries, citrus fruits, or the spa special, sliced cucumbers.

2- Juice it. Instead of adding sweetened punch mixes, add some 100 percent natural concentrated fruit juice.  Apple juice concentrate makes an excellent sugar substitute for recipes that call for corn syrup or honey.

Try it now: Dilute one part pure mango juice with three parts water for an all-natural fruit-ade.

3- Pour in some bubbly. Sometimes you just gotta have something fizzy.  Resist the urge to grab a can of diet soda mindlessly from the cooler.  Plain club soda, seltzer water, or sparkling mineral water on ice is so much healthier, not to mention more refreshing.

Try it now: Make your own flavored seltzer.  Add grape juice or pineapple juice to a glass of sparkling water.

4- Ice, ice, baby. Ice-cold water tastes better than flat tepid water, hands down.  Keep bottled water in your refrigerator at all times.  Store a half-full bottle of water in the freezer for field trips; fill-‘er-up and you’ve got instant ice water.

Try it now: For parties, try something different.  Instead of regular, square ice cubes, invest in a few designer ice cube molds, and substitute fruit juice for water.

5- Drink herb tea. Commercially bottled iced teas are full of refined sugar, and many contain caffeine, which causes dehydration.  Make a jug of home-brewed decaffeinated iced tea, only leave out the sweet stuff.

Try it now: Boil a few cups of water.  Add several bags of herbal tea.  Allow to seep and cool.  Add ice and water, adjusting to taste.  Some flavor suggestions:  chai decaf, mixed berries, or lemon-chamomile.

6- Add a little electrolyte. Your body loses salty fluids when you perspire.  For that reason, many sports drinks contain small amounts of sugar, potassium, and salt.  Unfortunately, most electrolyte drinks contain too much sugar, in addition to food colorings and other additives.

Try it now: Make your own healthy sports drink by adding a small amount of salt and orange juice (a natural source of potassium) to your drinking water.

7- Great with grated ginger: Ginger extract is a healthy tonic that also adds a warm, spicy flavor to foods and beverages.  Beware, though, because ginger root is more powerful than it looks.

Try it now: Peel and grate a piece of ginger root.  Press fresh shavings through a garlic press.  Catch the extracted juice in a small bowl.  Add to warm or cool water, adjusting to taste.

8- Make a fragrant watery bouquet. Fresh cuttings of herbs add a festive, pleasing touch to iced drinking water without the need for sweeteners.

Try it now: Chop up a handful of pungent peppermint leaves, and toss them into a glass decanter of water for a stimulating, hydrating drink.  Other refreshing options are lavender-mint, lemongrass, and parsley.

Crack the Iceberg Habit: 10 Green Leafy Veggies you’ll Love

9- Vinegar water. Many health experts extol the benefits of drinking diluted vinegar.  Some believe that drinking apple cider vinegar is helpful for promoting weight loss and supplying vitamin C, vitamin A, and many B vitamins.

Try it now: Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or raspberry vinegar to a tall glass of fresh drinking water.

10- Red, red, wine. While drinking glassfuls of wine, or any other alcohol, for that matter, is not a great way to stay hydrated, there’s nothing wrong with adding a bit of wine to a glass of sparkling water for flavor.

Try it now: One part of sweet dessert wine mixed with two parts sparkling mineral water makes a delightfully light, low-calorie, low-alcohol wine spritzer.

11- Have a cuppa. A cup of broth, that is.  Sipping soup is another great way to increase your water intake in a way that’s flavorful and nutritious.  Thick, creamy chowders don’t count as a hydrating soup, though many are healthful.  To avoid dehydration while suffering from a cold or flu, drink plenty of soupy broths.

Try it now: Add a low-sodium bouillon cube to a mug of boiled water, for a quick cup-a-soup.  Better yet, stir up a fresh pot of chicken or vegetable soup with basil, oregano, and dill.

12- Take this one to-go. Have you ever gone to a party where the only drinks offered were sodas, beer, and tap water?  Times like these, it helps to have a packet of sugarless drink mix on hand.  While it’s not as healthy as the above-listed options, considering the artificial sweeteners and the food colorings, it’s still a vast improvement over syrupy colas with caffeine.

Try it now: Check your supermarket aisle for a selection of powdered drink mixes that contain aspartame, saccharine, or sucralose.  Many come in single-serving envelopes for convenience while traveling.

Also read:

7 Days of Refreshing, High Energy Smoothies without Caffeine

10 Most Tempting Vegan Ice Cream Recipes

Sources:

How to Make Homemade Flavored Water – Alternatives to Soda

Eight Natural Ways to Make Water More Flavorful | Wise Bread

7 Ways to Make Water Taste Better – Healthy Living – Everyday Health

Celiac-Friendly Treats to Make at Home

Trying to run a gluten-free household for patients of celiac disease can be daunting- not to mention, costly.  Many food manufacturers make outstanding snacks, mixes, and breads for people who are either allergic to gluten or suffer from gluten intolerance.  However good these packaged products are, they are still hard on your food budget.  Cooking your own meals at home is not only cost-effective, but it also puts the restrictive diet control back where it belongs- in your capable hands.

Gluten is a common ingredient in all products containing wheat, barley, corn, rye, spelt, Kamut and triticale. By stocking up on whole, gluten-free certified flours, like bean flour, potato starch, tapioca flour, and brown rice flour, you can make any of these tasty gluten-free  copycat versions of your favorite meals and snacks.

Can a Gluten-Free Diet Ease Symptoms of Fibromyalgia?

Eight gluten-free favorites you can make at home:

Not-Kraft Gluten-Free “Boxed” Mac and Cheese

Prepackaged gluten-free mixes are convenient, but let’s face it- they’re expensive.  Why pay extra for the paper packaging, when you can make your own version at home?   Save money and a tree at the same time.  In Adventures of a Gluten Free Mom, blogger Heidi shares her instructions for “boxed” gluten free mac and cheese that even your kids can make, using powdered cheddar cheese and your favorite gluten-free pasta.

“Allergy Free Foods” Gluten-Free Chicken Nugget Recipe

Instead of heading for the supermarket freezer aisle, make these crunchy, juicy copycat gluten-free chicken nuggets at home.  You’ll love the fresh taste, the healthy allergy-free ingredients, and the convenience of being able to adapt the recipe to your own liking or dietary needs.  Use the money you saved to splurge on dessert, like gluten-free ice cream.

Almost Bob’s Red Mill GF All Purpose Baking Flour

All-purpose gluten-free baking mix should be a staple in your gluten-free kitchen. Use it to make breads, cakes, cookies, and other recipes that typically contain white flour.  Bob’s Red Mill makes an excellent mix containing a blend of bean flours, tapioca, and potato starch.  In a pinch, you can make your own version at home, using these copycat instructions from the Gluten Free Cooking School.

Gluten Free Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix Copy Cat Recipe

The Jiffy brand cornbread mix contains white flour- not an option if you’re on a gluten-free diet.  This allergy-free, non-glutinous fluffy cornbread muffin recipe incorporates brown rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour.  See blogger Lisa Whitaker’s page, Extraordinary Life, for many more gluten-free copycat recipes that you’ll love.

“Odi’s” Gluten-Free and Vegan Bagels

These healthy gluten-free bagels are a delicious knock-off of a popular gluten-free bakery line of breads and treats.  These bagels take some time to make, but you’ll agree that it was worth the effort when you try them.  Set aside enough time to make a large batch of flavorful sorghum-buckwheat bagels, and toss a bunch in the freezer for later- if they even last that long.

Authentic Babycakes Bakery recipes

See Gwyneth Paltrow’s blog, Goop, for an interview with Babycakes owner, Erin McKenna.  In it, Erin gives away a few of her celeb-faved Babycakes recipes, including instructions for gluten-free Double Chocolate Chip Cookies, Lemon Poppy Teacake, Chocolate Cupcakes, and Vanilla Frosting.  Try these at home!

15 Gluten-Free Glitterati, from Aniston to Zooey

Gluten Free Samoa Girl Scout Cookies

In the Learning How to Cook…Gluten Free! Site, celiac disease-patient blogger gives shows you how she took a copycat recipe for the famous chewy Girl Scout cookie treat and made it her own by substituting gluten-free flour for all-purpose white flour.  Enjoy the all-American favorite cookie, topped with coconut, caramel, and a chocolate ribbon, without the gluten!

Cookie Dough Larabar Knockoff Recipe

Larabars are deliciously sweet, all-natural energy bars that will satisfy your celiac-sweet tooth.  Flavors range from Pecan Pie, Key Lime, and Carrot Cake to Chocolate Peanut Butter and Ginger Snap.  This Livestrong article tells you how to make your own Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Larabars, using fresh almonds, dates, and organic chocolate chips.

Related Reading:

Celiac Summer, Part 1:Plan a Fun and Gluten-Free Disney Vacation

Celiac Summer, Part 2: Gluten-Free Road Trippin’

Celiac Disease and Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Can eating beans prevent premature hair loss? You Bet! Here are some healthy diet tips to stop thinning hair!

Ever look down after taking a hot shower, and see a giant mop-worthy clump of your own hair clinging to the drain cover?

Relax- it happens to everybody.  Just be glad you noticed now, and not after spending a fortune on Rogaine, and other expensive hair loss remedies.

With a few simple changes to your diet, you can effectively turn back the aging process; at least as far as your hair health is concerned.

Including nutritious foods that contain vitamin B12, iron, and zinc will keep your hair lively, lush, and most importantly of all, present.

Here are five essential foods for  your hair:

Lean protein

One of the best nutrients for keeping a full head of hair is vitamin B12, which also extends your natural hair color.  Weak nails, sallow skin, and thinning hair are all evidence of vitamin B12 deficiency, in addition to fatigue, memory loss, and tingling in the hands and feet.  To avoid becoming deficient in vitamin B12, include plenty of lean protein in your diet.  Cottage cheese, fish, and lean cuts of beef are excellent sources of B12 that also boost hair growth.  Other great choices are eggs, chicken, and lamb.  If you follow a vegan diet, then you should take vitamin B12 supplements to avoid low B12 levels.

See On Becoming Vegan: Avoiding Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Others.

Iron

Iron is essential for producing oxygen-toting hemoglobin, making it a necessary ally for healthy hair, skin, and nails.

Dried fruits such as raisins, dates, and figs are dynamic sources of iron, in addition to tofu, dark leafy greens, and iron-fortified cereals.

For maximum absorption, pair iron-rich foods with vitamin C.  Think spinach salad with chopped strawberries, or date-nut shakes with Mandarin orange segments.

Zinc

Zinc deficiency is a common cause of male pattern premature baldness.  Zinc is essential for cellular regeneration, maintaining balanced hormone levels, and keeping your hair follicles strong- all of which significantly affect your hair growth.

Oysters are rich in iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, making it an optimal choice for healthy hair.  Other seafood dishes that have zinc are shrimp and clams.

Don’t like fish?  Meat, poultry, and nuts are also rich in zinc.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3s are healthy for the skin of your scalp, in addition to promoting hair growth.  Doctors often prescribe omega-3 oils to help boost hair growth following chemotherapy.

Flax seed is high in omega-3 fats and iron.  Sprinkle ground flaxseeds on salads and yogurt for a healthy boost of nutrients with a nutty flavor.  Salmon is also full of omega-3s; if you like canned salmon, choose the bone-in variety for extra calcium.

Silica

Silica is a nutrient that is essential for properly absorbing vitamins and minerals from food.  To benefit fully from foods that boost hair growth, you should include foods that contain silica.

Bean sprouts top the list as the most silica-rich foods.  Other selections with silica are cucumbers, bell peppers, and potatoes.

Related reading:

Ten Bites to Better Brain Power

7 Commandments for Taming Frizzy Hair

Vitamin B12 for Healthy Hair, Skin and Nails

Sources:

Foods That Prevent Hair Loss – FoxNews.com

How to slow or reverse hair loss with a healthy diet and nutritional supplements

Losing Your Hair? Eat These 9 Foods

Nervous about what to serve guests who are diabetic? Hosting a dinner party for guests with diabetes is no sweat if you follow these four simple rules…

Planning a dinner party can be overwhelming, even for the most confident of hosts…

Deciding which kinds of appetizers to serve, how much food to buy, and what to present as the main course can be daunting, even without taking into consideration one’s dietary preferences.

If you know that a guest is diabetic, you will need to make a few adjustments to your usual dinner routine, but not a lot.

Diabetics can eat the same kinds of foods as non-diabetics, only in smaller amounts and with limitations.

Mainly, try to limit foods that affect blood sugar levels, such as carbohydrates like sweet beverages and starchy white bread rolls. Encourage guests to help themselves to crispy vegetable sticks with dressing and sparkling water with fruit juice.

With careful planning, you can treat your guests to a delicious and diabetically healthy dinner party they’ll be talking about for years.

Type 2 Diabetes Often Undetected- Do You Have These Symptoms?

Here are 4 simple rules for planning a party for diabetic guests:

Step 1: Make it a six-course meal, or longer

Doctors warn diabetics not to eat a heavy meal in one sitting, but rather to eat small bites throughout the day, with at least an hour in between servings.

Greet your guests with a small, heart-healthy appetizer, preferably something that is low in carbs, like marinated artichokes and mushrooms.  Later, introduce a soup course, followed by a light salad.  For the main meal, serve your guests a selection of smothered chicken breasts, lean roast beef, or vegetarian stuffed squash.

Limit starchy pastas and rice to side dishes, and incorporate veggies like broccoli, carrots, and zucchini.

Step 2: Support their drinking habit

Diabetics need to drink plenty of water- it keeps their blood sugar down.  Refrain from buying cases of colas and the like- they’re just candy in disguise.  Instead, stock up on mineral water, plain seltzer, and sugarless iced tea.

In addition, in case their sugar level should plummet, station a few pitchers of fresh, pure orange juice around the room.

Diabetics, Take Heed

Step 3:  Use dessert plates…for every meal

Even if you’re not diabetic, a good rule of thumb for limiting portion sizes is to use small plates.  Seeing a lot of empty space on our dish makes us feel like we’re depriving ourselves.  Likewise, filling up our plate, however small, tricks our brain into thinking we’re getting more, and we’re more likely to feel satisfied later.

Step 4: Don’t skimp on dessert

Diabetics’ worst enemies are often the stuff of dessert tables- chocolate layer cake with fudgy ganache, tiramisu; even seemingly, innocent fruit pies promise to give you a sugar high in record speed.

Make a lovely presentation of grapes, melon, and berries.  Serve sugarless yogurt and light whipped topping on the side.  Follow up with some skinny wedges of assorted cheeses and coffee or tea.

Suggested Reading:

New Study: Diabetes Drug Metformin Causes Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Study: Gastric Bypass as a Cure for Diabetes?

Hot Celebs with Diabetes: How They Manage

Diabetics, Put On Your Walking Shoes

Sources:

Planning a Dinner Party for diabetics

Holly B. Clegg: 6 Ways To Make Dinner Parties Diabetic-Friendly

How to Plan a Dinner Party with a Diabetic Guest | eHow.com

Adult ADHD misdiagnosed as anxiety? Roughly, eight million adults have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and that number is probably greater, as very few men or women with ADHD ever receive a diagnosis.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health disorder that affects boys and girls equally.  Sixty percent of child ADHD carries into adulthood, regardless of sex,  accounting for 4.4 percent of all American adults, according to psychological research.

Is Purple Jell-O Giving your Kids ADHD? Here’s what the FDA has to Say about Food Dyes

Sadly, a disproportionately high number of adults who suffer from ADHD will ever see the connection, and an even lower percentage of women than men who seek mental health therapy are ultimately diagnosed with adult ADHD disorder.

Symptoms of adult ADHD include:

• Difficulty concentrating or paying attention
• Impulsive behavior
• Forgetfulness
• Difficulty following directions
• Lack of organizational skills
• Moodiness, anxiety, and depression
• Difficulty making work deadlines or long-term goals, procrastinates
• Gets easily distracted while reading
• Chronic boredom
• Habitually late
• Low self-esteem, pessimistic personality
• Tendency towards addiction to things such as gambling, food, drugs, shopping, or video games
• Eating disorders, seeking comfort in food
• Low tolerance for frustration
• Difficulty maintaining healthy relationships

Why is there a gender bias towards males in ADHD?

In female psychology, many factors exist that would complicate a diagnosis of ADHD.

Physicians often ascribe underlying ADHD symptoms, including low sense of self-worth, depression, frustration, and moodiness to “female problems.”  Often they’re correct in diagnosing stress, depression, or premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in their female patients, but they fail to catch any clues suggesting adult ADHD.

1. The myth of male ADHD

There is a public misconception that attention deficit disorder (ADD) and ADHD are male disorders.  As a result, women who experience ADHD symptoms are not likely to seek a diagnosis, and doctors who treat them are equally unlikely to suggest treatment for ADHD.

2.  It’s just anxiety

Adults and children with ADHD tend to suffer from anxiety or depression, as well.  Therefore, when women ADHD sufferers seek psychiatric help for their emotional problems, they receive prescriptions for anti-anxiety medication or antidepressants, but the question of ADHD medication, such as Ritalin or Concerta, is never considered.

Chronic Depression, Chronic Pain- It’s All the Same, say Experts

3.  Only children suffer from ADD/ADHD

For many years, people viewed ADD/ADHD disorder as primarily a children’s problem.  Only recently has adult ADHD caught the public’s eye, but the notion of grown-ups receiving ADHD medication is still far from mainstream.

4.  It’s just girls being girls

Girls, as a whole, tend to be more chatty, impulsive, and passionate than boys- characteristics that are typical of ADHD.  Therefore, it’s not unusual for young women who are hyperactive, overenthusiastic, or driven by their emotions to seek help for ADHD.

5.  Learning how to fake it

Women are very self-conscious of their social standing.  Likewise, girls with ADHD often learn certain defense mechanisms by the time they reach adulthood, effectively masking their social difficulties and feelings of awkwardness.  Nevertheless, problems with low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety remain.

6.  I am woman…

Today’s woman wears many “hats;”  she is expected to hold down a salary, keep the household clean and orderly, and be a nurturing parenting role model to her children and wife to her husband.  It’s no wonder, then, that women who struggle to make ends meet, despite suffering from ADHD, chalk it up to modern-day stress.

7.  Self-fulfilling prophecy

Women with ADHD develop a “learned helplessness.”  When things don’t go the way they’ve planned, or they have difficulty meeting others’ expectations or deadlines, they tend to just give up, blame themselves, and accept defeat.  The same attitude applies to seeking therapy- she dismisses the notion that change is possible.  This type of self-fulfilling prophecy becomes a vicious circle of failure and regret.

8.  It’s a PMS thing

Hormonal fluctuations cause moodiness, depression, and attention difficulties, thereby masking any underlying symptoms of ADHD in women who suffer from PMS, pre-menopause, or postnatal depression.

Got PMS? Let B Vitamins Ease your Pain

9.  Iron deficiency

Women are at high risk of suffering from iron deficiency caused by heavy periods.  Unless you take iron supplements, you could experience symptoms such as disorientation, memory loss, and other delays in cognitive behavior, especially if you also have a disposition for ADHD.

10.  It’s personal

Women who grew up in abusive homes may become adults who have personal problems socializing and generally “fitting in,” maintaining organizational skills, and accomplishing long-term goals.  Similarly, women with ADD or ADHD who have suffered from a traumatic experience or lack parental role models might never suspect that ADHD is among their many other social problems.

Related reading:

Adult ADHD Could Lead to Dementia

7 Reasons You Have Brain Fog…And What to do About It

Teen Mental Illness: Unnoticed, Undiagnosed in America

Sources:

ADHD in Women – Adult ADD/ADHD – EverydayHealth.com

ADHD: A women’s issue

ADHD in Adults – Symptoms, Causes, Types, Treatments, and More

ADHD: Suffering in Silence: Women With Adult ADHD – Mental Health Disorders on MedicineNet.com

ADHD Affects Women Differently: What to Look For, How to Fix It – Adult ADHD – Health.com