Easy-to-Cook and Easy-to-Chew

Here's a great way to start September off! A free, nutritious recipe that's guaranteed easy-to-cook, easy-to-chew for people suffering from TMJ Disorder, myofacial pain and swallowing disorders. This is a meal, in fact, that everyone will enjoy!

Yvonne's Mexican Chicken and Rice

Ingredients:

1 can chicken broth

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 1/2 cups chopped onion

1 1/2 cups chopped green bell pepper

3/4 cup uncooked, non-instant brown rice

1 can kidney beans

1 can (10 ounce) chicken, drained and broken up with a fork

1 small can (2 1/4 oz) sliced black olives

• In a saucepan combine the broth, cumin, pepper, onion and bell pepper
• Heat this to boiling
• Stir in the rice and reduce heat
• Cover and simmer on low until rice is at desired doneness
• Add the beans and chicken. Heat completely.
• Stir in the black olives and serve

This is fabulous topped with sour cream. Eat the real stuff...not that pretend goop.

Remember that most cases of TMJD will resolve by themselves give time and a softer diet.

This is one of many healthful recipes that are easy-to-cook and easy-to-chew that can be found in You Can Conquer TMJ: Ideas and Recipes and One Pot Galley Gourmet. Both books can be found on amazon.com and at www.rlcoffield.com.

Is There a Relationship Between Amalgams and TMJ Disorder?

Is there a link between amalgam (dental "silver" fillings) and TMJ Disorder? The possibility is there.

While not everyone who has TMJ Disorder has amalgam fillings, many people do, so amalgam fillings cannot bear the total blame for all cases of TMJ Disorder. We already know that facial/jaw injuries account for many cases of TMJD. Grinding and clenching account for almost all of the other cases of TMJ Disorder. Could it be that grinding and clenching are caused by the toxins in one's mouth?

Mercury is TOXIC

Despite the fact that most people refer to amalgam fillings as "silver" fillings, the fact is that one of the main ingredients of amalgam is MERCURY. Mercury is one of the most toxic substances known to man. There have been many studies showing the deleterious effects of mercury on people, yet fillings containing mercury have been permitted in people's mouths of all places. Small amounts of mercury may be leaked, through sensitive, delicate tissue in the mouth, or through swallowing, into one's system. It is known that mercury affects the nervous system. It seems possible that this continuous attack on one's nervous system could result in stress to the body. We know that stress is a major contributor and/or result of TMJ Disorder.

We are continuously forewarned not to consume many species of fish because of the levels of mercury in them, yet mercury is placed in people's mouths!

Removal

An increasing number of people are opting to have their amalgams removed and replaced by fillings composed of other, nontoxic, material. Will this solve one's TMJ Disorder though? This is not certain since no studies, to date, have been done on this. It may certainly improve one's health, however, although one must remember that mercury does not readily leave one's body, but "stockpiles" in one's liver, kidneys and brain. The mercury that does leave the body may be contributing to the poisonous waters on our planet as it is flushed down the toilet.

Many dentists are now opting not to use amalgams on their patients. Unfortunately, there are those who will argue that amalgam fillings are safe, and they will repeat studies done on sheep who had teeth filled. Sheep exert 500 times more pressure on their teeth when they chew, yet they showed no sign of mercury toxins. Sheep, however, do not eat the variety of foods that people eat, nor do they place items in their mouths which could stimulate the mercury to release vapors.

Treatment

Each person must ultimately decide for himself/herself on this issue. Many people who have their amalgams replaced with other dental materials express an overall improved state of well-being. It is important, however, in considering the causes of one's TMJ Disorder, that one might give the use of amalgams strong consideration as a possible source of bodily stress that can exacerbate or cause TMJD, despite the current lack of scientific studies on amalgam and TMJD.

It is vital, when dealing with TMJ Disorder, that one proceed cautiously and not make rash decisions that may have permanent, devastating consequences. Removing amalgams is not a procedure that should cause irreversible damage, but rather may contribute to one's health and well being.

Is Your Case of TMJD Caused by Another Problem?

The more medical professionals wrangle over the cause of TMJ Disorder, the more puzzling this disorder becomes. While facial/jaw injury, hyperextension of the jaw, clenching and grinding tend to be the leading culprits causing this malady, other research suggests that, at least in some cases, TMJ Disorder may be a byproduct of stress and/or other physical ailments. In some instances, one might wonder what comes first: Does TMJD cause stress...or... Does stress cause TMJD? Both questions can be answered with a resounding YES. However, numerous other conditions can contribute to the development of TMJD.

Many chiropractors blame spinal misalignments for causing TMJD. Indeed, some INSIST that spinal/neck problems are the only cause of TMJD. And many TMJD sufferers have commented that their chiropractor rights the problem for them when their jaws begin creaking, popping, crackling and aching. Unfortunately, the answer to this condition is just not this simple since many have tried chiropractic help to no avail.

Basically, any condition that causes the body stress can exacerbate TMJD. This can be something as serious as a malignancy, to a simple reaction to a vaccination, to allergies. A blood test can also show one's degree of internal inflammation.

Even exposure to electro-magnetic waves causes bodily harm and stress which can manifest itself in many ways, some even fatal. Are you wearing a cell phone glued to your ear? Do you work long hours on a computer? Is your home situated near a transformer or other high electro-magnetic producing machinery?

Before spending inordinate amounts of time and money trying to cure this condition, one might first consider attempting to find out WHY the condition developed. Once the underlying cause itself is addressed, the TMJD may readily resolve itself with time and a softer diet. Ideas for dealing with TMJD can be found in You Can Conquer TMJ: Ideas and Recipes.