Diet and exercise play vital roles
A balanced diet and regular exercise may not only have you feeling good and keep your body working at an optimal level, they can also help your bones are strong, provide you with the energy you need and help your body repair itself.
A healthy diet designed to achieve these goals should include:
- Plenty of fruit, vegetables, bread, cereals, lean meat or fish, legumes and dairy products
- An emphasis on foods containing calcium, magnesium, potassium and antioxidants to maintain good bone health
- Two to three daily servings of calcium-rich foods like milk, yoghurt, cheese or fromage frais
- Reduced amounts of caffeine, alcohol and salt as they may contribute to calcium loss
- Food that is low in fat
- Foods fortified with vitamin D such as margarines, fat spreads and oily fish
Regular light exercise can improve the strength of your muscles, your cardiovascular fitness and your overall well-being. The more energy you expend, the more your body gives you in return. You may also sleep better at night and be less susceptible to injury.
Supplements can make a difference
Glucosamine is a common dietary supplement that may be useful in helping joint flexibility and function. Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance which is found abundantly in the body, primarily in cartilage and synovial fluid, the lubricant in your joints.
The claimed benefits of glucosamine supplementation include help with the growth and repair of cartilage and support of joint mobility, suppleness and joint lubrication.
Managing joint pain