volume: twelve | issue: eleven

Because it is one of the most common neurological disorders globally, we felt it would be important to offer some information for those looking to learn more about this puzzling disorder.

What is Epilepsy?Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that affects the central nervous system. An epilepsy diagnosis often comes after two or more seizures that are not caused by another pre-existing medical condition. This means that the cause of epileptic seizures is unknown in most cases. Many people who have epilepsy live normal lives, although those who have seizures often cannot work or drive.

What Do Seizures Look Like?It is important to recognize the visible signs of a seizure so you can help others who may be seizing. Here are some common physical signs:

Absence: A person may look like they are daydreaming or even pass out.

Non-Purposeful Movements: The person may begin shaking, experience other involuntary movements, or repeat the same action multiple times.

Unusual Muscle Activity: Muscles may tense up or show a lack of movement or tone.

Difficulty Speaking: A person may have trouble speaking or stop making sense.

Breathing Trouble: The individual may have difficulty breathing or begin breathing heavily.

What Can You Do to Help?Although there is not much you can do to help during a seizure, there are a few things that can prevent further damage to the individual. During an episode, clear the space around the individual, help them to lay on the floor, and move them to their side to help with breathing. It is important to stay with the individual until the seizure is over. Do NOT put anything in the individual’s mouth. People CANNOT swallow their own tongue during a seizure, and putting things in their mouth can damage their teeth or jaw. Then, once they are responsive, calmly explain to them what happened. If the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, you should call 911 for further assistance.

Looking for more information? Reach out to us at healthyliving@wellness-partners.org or call 877.345.7775, and we’ll connect you with a nurse.

NOVEMBER

2020

November is Epilepsy Awareness Month

CONGRATULATIONS to our 3rd Quarter

Challenge Winners!

First Place ($300) Patricia Heideman, KanEquip

Second Place ($150) Connie Pearson, Chief

Third Place ($75)Todd Pikop, Chief

3RD

E P I L E P S Y Fast Facts:

• 2.2 - 3 million people in the U.S. have epilepsy.

• The cause of seizures is unknown in 60 - 70% of epilepsy cases

• 63% of patients are able to control their seizures with medication

Wellness Partners LLC | 106 West 3rd Street | P.O. Box 488 | McCook, NE 69001 | wellness-partners.org | 877.345.7775Wellness Partners LLC | 106 West 3rd Street | P.O. Box 488 | McCook, NE 69001 | wellness-partners.org | 877.345.7775

Pumpkin Chicken Chili Courtesy of @TheCleanEatingCoupleLooking for a healthy twist on traditional chili? Add some pumpkin! This Pumpkin Chicken Chili recipe not only tastes great, it’s good for you too!

Made in a slow cooker or instant pot with a few ingredients, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight, when you’re too busy to spend a ton of time in the kitchen. It is also Whole30-friendly, dairy and gluten free, and is ZERO points if you follow WeightWatchers.

It is delicious plain, but you can also serve it over rice or with some crushed tortilla chips for an extra treat!

G E T T H E R E C I P E :

https://thecleaneatingcouple.com/paleo-crockpot- pumpkin-chicken-chili/

When people carve pumpkins they often throw out the seeds without much thought, but did you know pumpkin seeds make a delicious, healthy, snack? Here are some fun facts about pumpkin seeds that could make you think twice before throwing them out this year:

High in Antioxidants - Antioxidants can reduce inflammation and help protect your body from many diseases.

Keeping Blood Sugar Down - Because pumpkin seeds are low in carbs and packed with plant protein they help to lower blood sugar.

High in Fiber - High fiber counts allow pumpkin seeds to help with heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

High in Magnesium - Almost 80% of adults do not reach daily recommended levels of magnesium, which can help with blood pressure, bone health, and heart disease.

Reducing Cancer Risk - Studies have shown that eating pumpkin seeds lowers the risk of colon and breast cancer.

For more information on healthy diets, email Marti at msiebrandt@wellness-partners.org, or call 877.345.7775.

Pumpkin SeedsA Healthy Fall Snack

F E S T I V E FA L L R E C I P E