Your joints go through considerable wear and tear over the years. As you get older, your risk of having joint pain or other joint problems, such as osteoporosis, can increase. Taking steps to maintain healthy joints now can help reduce your risk of having joint issues later on. The foods you eat play a role in your joint health, so it’s important to have a nutritious diet. The following nutrition tips can help you keep your joints in good condition.
Leafy Green Vegetables
Spinach, kale and other leafy green vegetables contain antioxidants, such as vitamin C, which promote collagen production in your body. Collagen helps keep cartilage tissue between the bones in your joints healthy. This helps lower the risk of having joint bones grind together when you move, which causes pain and inflammation. Leafy green vegetables also have calcium, which is an important mineral for keeping your bones, including your joint bones, in good health.
Fish
Salmon and some other types of fish have healthy fats known as omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats can help reduce joint inflammation symptoms, such as swelling and pain. They also promote healthy blood flow during exercise or other physical activities, which helps lower your risk of joint injuries.
Dairy Products
Milk, cheese and other dairy products contain high amounts of vitamin D and calcium for healthy bones. Keeping your bones strong and in good condition helps support healthy joints as you age. Keep in mind that some cereals and other foods are fortified with vitamin D and calcium, so you should be able to easily include these nutrients in your daily diet.
Nuts
Walnuts and other nuts provide a healthy source of protein, which helps keep your muscles in good shape. Healthy muscles in your joints can help reduce your risk of injuries. Stretching your muscles regularly and eating foods that support muscle health on a regular basis can help your joints stay flexible and lower your risk of stiffness.
Tea
Some types of tea, such as black tea and green tea, contain polyphenols. These antioxidants might help cartilage break down at a slower rate as you get older, which can protect your joints from inflammation symptoms, such as swelling and pain. Polyphenols might also promote bone health that helps keep your joints healthy.
Cherries
Cherries and other fruits, such as strawberries and blueberries, contain antioxidants that might help reduce joint inflammation. These antioxidants might also help lower the risk of cell damage that can affect your joints.
If you have joint pain that won’t go away or joint pain that’s getting worse, contact Huntington Orthopedics for an appointment. We can evaluate your joints and recommend treatment to ease inflammation.