1. Accept the Limits of Osteoarthritis Prevention
Osteoarthritis is unavoidable to some degree, but you can reduce its severity by taking care of your joints. Osteoarthritis can be demonstrated in almost everyone over the age of 40, though people may not become symptomatic for several decades. Athletes and others who overuse and stress their joints may develop symptoms at an earlier age; this is evidence that avoiding excessive trauma can help prevent osteoarthritis. If you experience any joint pain with activity, stop at once and allow your body to rest and repair before continuing. Avoid repetitive, prolonged use of any joint, or occupations that require repeated hammering, shoveling or other high-impact activities.
2. Maintain Healthy Circulation
Our bones are constantly breaking themselves down and rebuilding anew. In order to do this, the bones need a steady supply of nutrients. These nutrients are delivered to the bones via circulation. When our circulation is impaired because of high cholesterol, diabetes or atherosclerosis, nutrition of the bones may suffer. If the circulation does not deliver needed nutrients, the ability of the joints to rebuild and repair is impeded, and arthritic degeneration may progress more rapidly.
3. Eat a Healthy Diet
Our bones, cartilage and joints are a living mineral, protein and glycoprotein complex that is continuously remodeling and recycling itself. In order to continue this process of ongoing recycling, we must consume the proper nutrients. A diet lacking in basic vitamins and nutrients may impair the body's ability to rebuild, repair and regenerate the joints.
Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to provide important nutrients. Limit coffee and alcohol, which cause the body to waste important minerals. Ensure that your digestion is strong enough to absorb the nutrients from the foods you eat. If you experience pain, gas or bloating after meals, it may be a sign that you are not digesting your food well, and a physician can help determine if you might benefit from dietary changes or from using hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes. If bowel movements are too rapid and are chronically loose, you may not be able to absorb nutrients out of your food optimally. A doctor can help determine if you have irritable bowel and if dietary changes or medications are in order. Medications such as beneficial bacteria (acidophilus, lactobacillus), digestive enzymes and hydrochloric acid may improve assimilation of minerals and nutrients and be part of a holistic protocol to support bone regeneration and prevent osteoarthritis.
