Even if you aren’t concerned about the health of your joints and bones, there are plenty of nutritious foods that will set you up for success in the future.
There’s so many good reasons to eat healthy, and better bones and joints is just one of them.
This article will explain what nutrients and foods will help you improve or maintain the health of your bones and joints.
If you have joint or bone issues or want to prevent them, consider incorporating these nutrients into your diet:
Omega-3 Fatty Acids – for fighting inflammation and the benefit of improving heart health. Find this in walnuts, flax seeds, and fatty fish such as tuna, salmon, herring, and sardines.
Calcium – It not only helps with bone strength and health, it can also help blood circulation and muscle control. When we don’t eat or drink enough calcium, our bodies steal it from our bones and make them weaker, leading to osteoporosis. Find calcium in dairy products, almond milk, spinach, kale, and fortified cereals.
Vitamin D – It is calcium’s best friend because you need it to properly absorb calcium. You can get Vitamin D from sunlight, fatty fish, fortified juices, fortified milks, eggs, and some cereals.
Vitamin C – This vitamin helps with joints, immune system, and reduces risk of inflammatory arthritis. It is not recommended to take too much, but be sure to get enough. Find it in most fruits such as mangos, strawberries, oranges, pineapples, and grapefruit.
Anthocyanins – Antho what? These are antioxidants that lower markers of inflammation. They are found in red and purple fruits such as most types of berries and cherries.
Polyphenols – More antioxidants that help with joint inflammation and reduces breakdown of cartilage in the body. It also may help with fighting infections and improve bone strength. Find this in black, oolong, green, and white teas, and especially in powdered green tea leaves.
Diallyl Disulfide – Yet another strange one to name. This might fight off enzymes that damage cartilage. It may help prevent osteoarthritis. Find this in garlic, leeks, and onions.
These foods and nutrients can help you be much healthier overall, so it pays to seek them out and eat them regularly. Your bones, joints, and body will thank you.
