How to Keep Your Joints Flexible
People often only consider the functionality of their joints when they start experiencing problems in later life. However, it is wise to take care of your joints from a younger age: prevention is better than cure. If you can move freely, you can make the most of life. How do you ensure your body remains flexible so you can enjoy life to the fullest for as long as possible? In this blog, we will explore joints and what you can do to keep them in good shape, both for your current and future self.
For many, movement is taken for granted. Smooth movement is not possible without our joints. Joints consist of two or more bones connected to each other. At each end, there is cartilage that protects the bones. Surrounding the joint is the joint capsule, which includes synovial fluid (for joint flexibility) and ligaments. Ligaments are made of connective tissue, where fibres act like glue to hold everything together. When all of this is well maintained, you can move freely. Sounds good? Read on to learn what you can do to keep your joints flexible.
How to Stay Flexible
1. Keep Moving
Movement, or rather the small shocks it causes, ensures that cartilage is nourished and remains supple. By movement, we don’t mean you need to follow an extensive workout routine, but rather that you stay active in a way that suits you, whether it's walking, playing tennis, or something else. Don’t see room to move more? Look for opportunities to make small changes: do some squats while brushing your teeth, take a walk after dinner, or do half an hour of cardio three times a week.
2. Take Extra Supplements When Necessary
For flexible joints, vitamins such as Vitamin C and manganese are essential. Vitamin C plays a role in the production and maintenance of healthy cartilage. Manganese contributes to the normal formation of connective tissue. You can find these nutrients in Vitaminstore’s GlucoChondro MSM. Additionally, Boswellia, an extract derived from the resin of the Boswellia serrata tree, can help keep joints flexible. Vitaminstore’s Boswellia complex consists of the patented AprèsFlex® with a Boswellia extract standardised to 20% AKBA per capsule. This is the most effective Boswellic acid found.
3. Eat for Flexibility
While dietary supplements can provide extra support, a good foundation is important. There is no magic pill. However, there are various nutrients that can contribute to keeping joints flexible. Think of products rich in calcium, which are found mainly in dairy products, but also in grains and certain vegetables (such as broccoli, kale, and Brussels sprouts). It’s important to combine this with sufficient Vitamin C and D: these vitamins help the body absorb calcium better. Vitamin C is found in vegetables, fruits, and potatoes. Some good options include cabbages, peppers, citrus fruits, kiwis, berries, and strawberries. You can produce Vitamin D yourself with the help of sunlight, but it is also found in oily fish. Sunlight in the Netherlands is not always sufficient, so consider taking an extra Vitamin D supplement, such as this extra strong variant.
Curious about which dietary supplements can further support you in getting the most out of life? Take the online vitamin test or get in touch with our orthomolecular specialists, either in-store or via the chat.
Written by: Caya Kerkhof
