The common cause of disability in over 46 million Americans is arthritis. Two thirds of the people that suffer from arthritis are under the age of 65 and more than 60% are women. Arthritis is a breakdown of cartilage which protects the joints. When the cartilage starts to breakdown, the bones begin to rub causing swelling, inflammation, pain and stiffness. Researchers expect the percentage of Americans that suffer from arthritis to increase by 40% as baby boomers age. Reasons for joint inflammation are broken bones, autoimmune disease, infection, previously injuring joint, repetitive action, general wear and tear.
These are only a few of the reasons why, there are many more. There are different types of arthritis and it can occur at any age in men and women. The symptoms that many feel are joint pain, inflammation, stiffness or reduced ability to move joint, you should visit your physician. Now, we can prevent this. We don’t have to suffer from this condition and if you do, you can reduce the aches and pains you may feel. There are simple and easy ways to prevent arthritis and keep ourselves healthy. Here are a few tips that will make all the difference in your body.
SUNFLOWER SEEDS
They are a source of selenium. This is an antioxidant that will get rip of free radicals before they attack your joints. Make sure to add them to your diet along with Brazil nuts and mushrooms.
STIMULATION
Exercise, move around, tone those muscles and boost blood flow to the joints. This will strengthen and improve your joints. Although cycling is a repetitive motion, it actually helps thicken the cartilage in the hips and knees.
WEIGHT
They have found that weight does affect the joints, such as the knees and hips. 30% of those that suffer from arthritis are due to their weight. Just by losing 15 pounds, it will make all the difference. It will cut the risk in half regardless of what your actual weight is.
VITAMIN D
It’s as simple as taking 600 to 800 IU a day. The higher your intake of vitamin D the better, it will lower your risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
PROTEINS
Cut out red meat and eat healthier protein such as fish, poultry, eggs and beans. Red meats actually cause inflammation which will damage the joints.