Wouldn’t it be nice if bodies didn’t age? Why can’t they remain youthful, springy and free of agonizing pain? Instead, people get older, and they face undesirable physical changes. Wrinkles appear. Skin isn’t as firm as it used to be. Weight is harder to maintain, and joints don’t hold up as well as they previously did. If you’re living in your senior years, you may be complaining about knees that ache and bent fingers that you can’t get straight. Although not wholly reversible (it’s hard to fight off age), some methods slow the process down and bring some relief. Here are four methods to keep in mind.
Reduce Inflammation
Many seniors develop arthritis, a condition in which they experience pain and swelling in their joints. This state occurs for several reasons. Usually, the cartilage between the bones breaks down, leaving bones to rub against bone. Without a cushion for protection and comfort, these areas may become inflamed and experience discomfort. This development may occur throughout the body, although fingers and knees (because of their frequent use) certainly are more common. Consider CBD capsules as an answer. Available in pill form, this substance is derived from the cannabidiol plant. The oil, unlike marijuana, is free of psychoactive ingredients. The natural byproduct of cannabis seeds, this product works to reduce inflammation and, thus, soothe aches.
Watch Your Weight
It makes sense that more density means more force. The more you weigh, therefore, the more impact it has on your body. Additional pounds stress the body and joints, creating pain and aches. With more years under your belt, the body doesn’t function the same. The metabolism slows down, unable to manage carbs and calories as efficiently as in the past. It’s essential to follow a nutritious diet, concentrating on lean proteins and veggies. Processed foods and alcohol are extra calories and are hard for the system to digest. It’s best to eat small meals and stick to whole foods.
The Mediterranean diet centers around this concept. Fill the plate with whole grains, lean protein and vegetables. Fruit is good as well. Watch the salt intake and avoid anything manufactured.
Stay Hydrated
Cartilage holds the bones together. When it’s gone, they rub against one another, much like two rigid boards moving roughly over each other. The goal is to maintain as much of this cartilage as possible so that the tissue remains intact and the joints don’t touch. The answer here is water. Cartilage consists of 80 % water. When that doesn’t exist, it’s not as strong. Consume up to 60 ounces a day–more if your body truly struggles. Grab an oversized water bottle. They are available in stores. Fill it up once a day so that you know exactly how much you’re drinking. Finishing the bottle is a significant feat that you should appreciate.
Avoid too much caffeine as that counters the other choices. Coffee, teas and sodas pull out the moisture. Thwart thirst to fight off the agony.
Skip the Tobacco
Most people realize that smoking could lead to cancer; however, it’s not commonly known that the same act increases joint inflammation. A cigarette, therefore, could be causing joint pain. It’s best to forgo the indulgence.
Stretch the Muscles
Because joints and muscles may get tense, it’s good to nurture them. Take part in a yoga class or spend 5 to 10 minutes stretching each day. This technique is good in the morning or before a long walk. Starting something cold turkey puts your body at risk. Instead, using stretches permits more mobility and flexibility. It also eases the area into the workout. This action lubricates the joint so that it can do more and react less.
Proactive approaches may mean improved response and recovery, so if you’re having a hard time with joint pain, think about your body and what it requires. Supply it with the proper nutrients and ease it into exercise. These tools may bring you the peace and relief you desire.
