For those suffering from TMJ Disorder, changing to a softer, easier-to-chew diet, could mean a switch to a healthier way of eating.
This won't be true, of course, if one indulges in a steady stream of milkshakes and margaritas!
Softer diets generally don't have as much meat in them as standard fare. Meat is not at all bad for a person, but the amount of meat that Americans eat tends to be excessive. Meat is not needed on a daily basis, for one thing. Despite the plea to "show me the meat," many types of meat, especially processed meats, are laden with chemicals, preservatives, and hormones.
When one cuts back on meat, there is a tendency to fill the plate with some form of pasta. Pasta also is not bad for one...in moderation. Instead of pasta, one should try to fill one's plate with vegetables. Cooked vegetables are almost always easy-to-chew. While many people prefer their vegetables raw, this is usually not possible for the TMJD sufferer. Buy vegetables in season, preferably organic, and you may see the pounds drop in addition to the jaw improve.
Because of the economic downturn, many people tend to cut back on fresh produce because, in all honesty, it's expensive. However, buying vegetables in season will help with this cost; in addition, try growing some in patio containers or in a backyard garden. It's amazing how much better something seems to taste when one has raised it oneself!
Don't like vegetables? There's surely one you like...just eat it.
If, however, fresh vegetables are just not affordable, a good substitute is beans. Beans are cheap, versatile and...EASY-TO-CHEW. Besides being filled with protein, they're also a great source of fiber.
The key in all of this is to try to approach a softer diet with a positive mindset. Think of the benefits you'll derive from this way of eating, and don't focus on what you think you're missing out on.
You Can Conquer TMJ: Ideas and Recipes (Moonlight Mesa Associates) is a good resource for anyone looking for healthful, easy-to-cook, easy-to-chew, mostly one pot/pan meals. It's available at amazon.com.
