Joint health is becoming an increasingly important issue for adults of every age. In the US, more than 30 million adults have osteoarthritis—a condition which causes severe joint pain when cartilage around bones wears down and makes bones rub together.
It is very difficult to repair cartilage, so most doctors recommend prevention through nutrition and an active lifestyle.
Work It Out
Exercise is vital to maintain healthy joints. For those with joint pain, low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, tai chi and dancing are best. Strength training should also be incorporated in exercise since it helps strengthen the muscles surrounding the joints—protecting them from wear and tear.
Balancing Act
A balanced diet is also a key component of joint health. A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D can help maintain bone strength. Foods with high omega-3s also help keep your joints in tip-top shape. Other important joint health nutrients include:
- Glucosamine: a natural compound proven effective in building cartilage
- Boswellin: an herb used in Eastern medicine to help with joint and muscle swelling
- Borage oil: a powerful anti-inflammatory
Sources: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/magazine/issues/spring09/articles/spring09pg14.html
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