Imagine finding it hard to wiggle your hips, bend your elbows, flex your ankles or simply bend over to pick your shoes up off the floor? For many people with poor joint health, it's a daily reality.
Healthy joints are crucial to mobility and keeping yours in shape should be a priority - whether you're 25 or 75.
Poor joint health can be brought on as we age, with injury, and from carrying too much weight, which can all cause strain on the cartilage and fluid that cushions the joints and prevents our bones from rubbing together.
Thankfully, the human body has an amazing ability to repair itself, so if you're suffering from a niggly knee, stiff back or crook neck now, it's time start treating your joints with a little love.
1) GET MOVING
When we move our bodies we encourage synovial fluid (which reduces joint friction) to move too, and when we move our joints in a safe and full range of motion we're naturally helping the lubrication process. Just five to 10 minutes of joint mobility movement each morning is a great way to start.
2) HAVE BALANCE IN YOUR WORKOUTS
Make sure to balance your high-impact cardio training with low-impact exercises to help strengthen your muscles as well as protect your joints. Rowing machines, treadmill walking, stationary bikes and swimming are all great low-impact ways of getting your heart rate up.
3) TRY FOAM ROLLING
Incorporating foam rolling into your weekly exercise is a cost-effective way to keep your body mobile. Along with improving joint mobility, this process helps to release muscle tightness and encourage flexibility in connective tissue.
4) SUPPORT YOUR HARD WORK WITH A SUPPLEMENT
Glucosamine is one of the building blocks of cartilage, so supplement your joint-strengthening activities with Go Healthy GO Glucosamine 1-A-Day. This complete, high strength joint care formula in a convenient 1-A-Day capsule dose supports comfort of joint movement, bone growth and repair.
5) LOAD UP ON HEALTHY FATS
Boost your intake of Omega 3 fatty acids, found in foods such as salmon and flaxseed, to support healthy joint function. Avocado, walnuts, pecans and sardines are all nutrient-dense sources of omega 3 fats and make a delicious addition to salads, or as part of a healthy snack.
GO Healthy is proudly made in New Zealand from select imported ingredients. Always read the label and use as directed. Supplementary to a balanced diet. GO Healthy, Wellington. Available exclusively in pharmacies and health stores.
