DEAR READERS: I have received a number of wonderful responses to my Oct. 29 column on arthritic pain. Here are three that I felt were definitely worth sharing.
DEAR DR. BLONZ: I just read your advice to E.F with arthritis, and I have some more if you'd like to pass it along to him. First, I belong to a senior center where many elders visit. Many of us have arthritis and other sicknesses. We have 1,000 members, and many are well over 75 years old. So here are my suggestions: Visit your nearest senior center and join a group. Many offer exercise classes -- such as weights, yoga/balance, dance or walking -- where members enjoy learning, stretching and exercising the body. Many can do it all, while many others can only do a little, but it sure gets the body going.
Seek people with the same interests. Come and join a group in the morning for a cup of brew and talk with new friends. Or visit a club, like trivia, chess, books, poker, dominoes or even bingo.
Many of these centers, like mine, offer a nice lunch or dinner at a low price. Really handy to have a balanced meal or two. Or go to a basic cooking class; that really will help with your nutrition needs. If you don't have much money, there are still ways to do things. Believe me, I do. Many centers have transportation to and from your house; ask about it. Get more info from your nearest senior center. I hope this helps.
Dr. Blonz, your advice has taught me many things on how to live a healthier life. Thanks for listening. -- A.H.
DEAR DR. BLONZ: Today's column on superfoods helping arthritis is great and makes sense. I am 84 with three heart stents. I eat superfoods and walk to reduce stress. Progress is slow, but there is progress. Your columns are just what I need. -- C.B.
DEAR DR. BLONZ: This is to offer assurance to E.F. regarding arthritis pain. I'm 83 and also have arthritis in both knees. I have found that a good diet works far better to control pain. Along with exercise prescribed by my physical therapist, done every day, it has eliminated pain. I do have an occasional sharp pain, but it's gone by the time I can let out a yell.
My diet is made up almost totally of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and home-cooked meals AND a glass of wine with dinner. I do not eat ANY fast food; I really don't care for it, so that makes it easy. I can't agree with you more that diet should always be the first "medicine" in treating ailments. -- E.S.
Send questions to: "On Nutrition," Ed Blonz, c/o Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO, 64106. Send email inquiries to questions@blonz.com. Due to the volume of mail, personal replies cannot be provided.