|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| health tips |
|
|
What are Joints?
Joints are the areas where two bones meet. Without healthy functioning joints our
movements become restricted. When joints become damaged through injury, disease
or excessive use one or more signs of inflammation set in. These include
redness, swollen joints warm to the touch, pain, stiffness or restricted
movement. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Protecting our Joints!
The need to look after our joints cannot be over-emphasized. Millions of people
suffer from joint complaints caused by one or more of the following likely
causes: genetic defects, obesity, musculoskeletal defect, injury and/or overuse.
Regardless of our age, occupation and current health status, we can adopt some
of these practices to maintain joint health: |
|
|
Maintaining a healthy body weight
Excess weight places stress on our joints bringing about more than the usual
amount of wear and tear. |
|
|
Keeping fit
Through appropriate exercise, especially those which strengthens the muscles
around joints. Strong muscles keep your bones from rubbing against each other
thus wearing down the protective cartilage. |
|
|
Good posture proper usage of joints
Avoid strain on your body brought about by prolonged poor posture. Change
positions regularly to avoid stiffness setting in on muscles and joints. When
lifting or carrying, spread out the weight to make use of the largest and
strongest joints. |
|
|
Listen to your body
Pace yourself with proper rest and activity. Do not ignore any abnormality,
stiffness, pain or swelling. |
|
|
Strengthening with the right nutrition
Antioxidants help fight free radicals which may be damaging to the joints. A
diet with Vitamin A,C,E, and selenium would encourage joint health. Certain
fatty acids, such as Omega-3s, are anti-inflammatory by nature and can reduce
swelling and discomfort too. In addition, the following components of joint care
supplements are found to be important in the maintenance and rebuilding of
cartilage and synovial fluids:
Glucosamine Sulphate, a natural amino-sugar found in the body is the
basic building block for cartilage glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). GAGs when linked
together form proteoglycans, the main substances that form the cartilage matrix.
Glucosamine Sulphate is thus essential for cartilage formation and repair.
Chondroitin sulfate is a proteoglycan itself and it helps maintain the
integrity of the joints and helps repair damage.
MSM (methylsulfonylmethane). MSM is a naturally occuring compound rich in
sulfur. It relieves discomfort, due to its anti-inflammatory effect.
Bromelain is recommended for those experiencing soft tissue inflammation
and swelling. |
|
|
Back To Top |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
bookmark this page
