5 Tips to Maximize Bone and Joint Strength Naturally

Here are my top five tips to maximize bone and joint strength naturally. Think of it as your bone and joint health regimen.

Tip One: Exercise Appropriately

While some types of intense exercise can put stress on the joints, regular moderate physical activity has been shown to improve bone mineral density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. To find out what types of exercises are appropriate for you, you can talk to a fitness trainer, a physical therapist or your doctor. Low impact weight-bearing, resistance training, yoga stretches and walking are some of the exercises commonly recommended.

Tip Two: Eat More Calcium-Rich Foods

When you think of calcium-rich foods, you may immediately think of dairy products. Low-fat dairy products can be a part of a balanced diet. Greek yogurt, for example, is an excellent choice because it is also rich in protein. Protein supports muscle strength and growth. Your muscles help to support and protect your joints and bones.

There are other calcium-rich foods that may be even more beneficial than dairy because of the antioxidants they contain. Antioxidants help protect against free radical damage that can cause joint and bone deterioration. Many antioxidants also have anti-inflammatory activity. Inflammation degrades collagen and elastin fibers that make up tendons, ligaments and other supportive body components.

Here are some "super" foods to include in your daily diet:

繚 Canned salmon-3 ounces provides 200 milligrams of calcium, plus protein and the potent antioxidant astaxanthin

繚 Broccoli-1 cup provides 90 milligrams of calcium, plus the antioxidants vitamin C, beta-carotene and vitamin E, along with the mineral magnesium which contributes to bone mineral density and the vitamin K which provides major protection against osteoporosis

繚 Turnip greens-1 cup provides 200 milligrams of calcium, plus vitamin C, Vitamin A and vitamin K

Tip Three: Be Sure to Get Plenty of Vitamin D

Vitamin D is sometimes called the sunshine vitamin. As we get older, the conversion of sunlight to vitamin D is less efficient. Many doctors believe that we need even more vitamin D as we age. Your body needs vitamin D in order to absorb calcium.

Tip Four: Take Fish Oil

Fish oil has natural anti-inflammatory activity and is beneficial for joint pain. Some brands also provide beneficial antioxidants such as lycopene, astaxanthin and coenzyme Q10. COQ10 may be particularly beneficial because it contributes to muscle strength and the amount present in the body decreases with age. The most effective form of coenzyme Q10 is ubiquinol.

Tip Five: Take A Multi-Nutritional Supplement

Multi-nutritional supplements naturally provide extra support for bones and joints. Not all supplements are the same, of course. The best ones for bone health contain the nutrients mentioned above (calcium, magnesium, vitamin D3, Vitamin K2, vitamin C) and mangosteen extract.

Mangosteen extract has been highly promoted as an overall health supplement. The value to bone and joint strength has to do with the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Mangosteen has proven to be a natural COX-2 inhibitor.

COX-2 is an enzyme that contributes to pain, swelling and inflammation. COX-2 inhibiting drugs have proven to be dangerous, although effective for pain relief. Mangosteen extract provides the benefits without the risks.

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