PG . 22
FEATURE ~ EQUINE HEALTH
ARTHRITIS AND JOINT ISSUES WITH RIDERS
CHOCOLATE SEED BALLS
Osteoarthritis ( OA ) is a degenerative joint disease which leads to disability and pain . It is more common in women and the most prevalent form is found in hands . This can be associated with genetics , ageing , trauma and metabolic dysfunction related to obesity .
The gut microbiome dysbiosis is linked with metabolic syndrome and inflammation .
The causes related to this include :
• Poor lifestyle which leads to unhealthy food choices , low energy and obesity derived gut dysbiosis .
• A build up of bad microbiota from poor lifestyle choices such as sugar , alcohol , stress , sedentary lifestyle , smoking , high salt intake , fatty foods , high red meat consumption , dairy and wheat .
• The build up of adipose tissue around our middles that secretes pro-inflammatory cytokines ( small proteins that affect the immune and inflammation response ).
The importance of prevention of arthritis and treatment strategies if you suffer from it . This can be done by improving diet and lifestyle which will assist your gut microbiome and help with reducing adipose tissues .
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO ASSIST
Well the good news is that horseback riding can be beneficial for arthritis . It provides distinctive movements improving range of motion , pain , mobility , balance and strength . Horseback riding can improve your quality of life . When we do incorrect movement this can add additional pain and stress on our joints but when you are riding a horse you will move to the gait of the horse which will allow your body especially your lumbar spine to move more correctly and lessen pain .
Serves : 10-12 Preparation Time : 15 minutes Cooking Time : NA
INGREDIENTS : 1 ½ cups raw walnuts ( halves and pieces ) ½ cup raw cacao powder ¼ cup whole linseeds ¼ cup sesame seeds 8 medjool dates ( pitted and coarsely chopped ) ¼ tsp vanilla 2 tbsp filtered water Pinch of salt Desiccated coconut for rolling
METHOD : 1 . Combine all ingredients , except coconut , in a food processor and process until it resembles a dough-like consistency .
2 . Roll into medium-sized balls between your palms and coat with coconut . Enjoy immediately , refrigerate or freeze ! Take them with you to events or lessons .
Make an appointment with a Naturopath to to see how they can assist you .
There are many natural therapies , dietary and environmental changes that can be made to help your body heal .
AUSTRALIAN QUARTER HORSE ASSOCIATION - www . aqha . com . au