How Nutrition Affects Bone & Joint Health

Submitted By Reconstructive Orthopaedics of Central Florida

When it comes to bone and joint health, many lifestyle choices play a role in how healthy and functional they are. Exercising is critical for bone density and joint function, but too much can cause deterioration and injury. Smoking and excessive alcohol can lead to bone loss as well as other health conditions. And dietary choices are a critical component of our skeletal system’s health.

Inflammation is the root cause of disease and disorders. These underlying conditions include thyroid dysfunction, autoimmune disease, hypertension, high cholesterol, IBS, and fibromyalgia, and bone and joint conditions, to name a few. Additionally, Metabolic syndrome causes inflammation and weight gain. It is a condition in which the high insulin and leptin levels are resistant, causing blood sugar to be high, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, and visceral fat are significant risk factors for numerous chronic conditions. Obesity and being overweight leads to illness, and it also causes excessive wear and tear on the joints.

Many foods that contain chemicals, excessive salt, and sugar can cause inflammation to occur in the body. When the body is inflamed, it can exacerbate disease states, and it can also create degeneration of the joints and bones. A diet that lowers inflammation is critical for maintaining health. There are various types of diets to choose from, which are anti-inflammatory.

Adding in anti-inflammatory foods is essential but cutting out inflammatory foods is critical.

Three main food groups that contribute inflammation are gluten, dairy, and sugar. Individuals are unique with different genetics and conditions, so there is no magic diet that is beneficial for all, but there are specific foods that are anti-inflammatory foods.

• Green Tea—Full of antioxidants and polyphenols fights free radicals, contains EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which flushes out toxins and speeds metabolism
• Turmeric—Powerful anti-inflammatory
• Avocado—Healthy fatty acids help to lubricate internal and external organs
• Olive Oil—Contains heart-healthy fats and boosts thyroid function, which regulates metabolism and flushes out toxins.
• Coconut Oil—A medium-chain triglyceride that contains high levels of vitamin E, and it has potent antifungal and antibacterial properties
• Fatty Fish-Omega—3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory
• Bright vegetables (red peppers, carrots, purple cabbage)—Contain high levels of antioxidants, carotenoids, and vitamin c
• Leafy Greens—Full of vitamin K, which helps with arterial and kidney decalcification, as well as strong bones and teeth
• Berries—antioxidant-rich berries help to lower cholesterol, prevent gray hair, aids in weight loss and detoxification
• Fermented Vegetables (pickles, kimchi)—Packed with vitamins and probiotics helps regulate the microbiome (gut health).
• Beets—Help to detoxify your skin through antioxidants, which creates an anti-inflammatory effect
• Citrus—Vitamin C, which helps to trigger the production of collagen
• Cruciferous Vegetables—Promotes detoxification and collagen production through vitamin C, zinc, and selenium
• Coldwater Fish—Omega-3s inhibit leukocytes and cytokines, which cause the body’s inflammatory response
• Nut and Seeds—Source of good fats and have anti-inflammatory effects
• Supplements—Certain supplements can aid in flushing out inflammation

With joint conditions like arthritis and gout, some people are sensitive to nightshades, so avoiding potatoes, eggplant, tomatoes, and peppers can help to tamp down the inflammatory response.

Eating a diet rich in plants and lean protein with good fats is what patients should focus on. Don’t drink excessive alcohol and try to limit as much processed food as possible. If you don’t like vegetables, try making a smoothie with berries, nuts and vegetables. You probably won’t even taste the greens.

Bone and joint health is an intricate process that requires a multifactorial approach. It must be treated comprehensively. At Reconstructive Orthopaedics, we are concerned with our patient’s whole body of comprehensive care and work directly with the patients’ primary doctors and specialists for optimal healing, bone health, and overall wellness.

Reconstructive Orthopaedics Services Include:
• Partial and full knee replacements
• PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma)
• Viscosupplementation
• Hyaluronic injections
• Joint reconstruction
• Trauma/fractures
• Malunions/nonunion
• Degenerative conditions of knee and shoulder
• Hip, shoulder, and knee replacements

Reconstructive Orthopaedics is driven by a personal investment in the success of each and every patient. We demonstrate this by providing state-of-the-art orthopaedic care personally tailored to each patient’s individual needs, delivered with technical excellence. The goal is to improve function and restore the highest quality of life possible.

Reconstructive Orthopaedics is committed to the Ocala Community to bring a very unique skill set of care for the seriously injured and wounded to help patients regain and restore their lives so they may regain and maintain a purposeful and joyful life.

Reconstructive Orthopaedics is committed to supporting the Ocala Community by providing high-quality services through Orthopaedic and volunteer services, regardless of socioeconomic status, social status, religion, race, or sexual orientation.

Contact Reconstructive Orthopedics of Central Florida Today
(352) 456-0220
www.reconorthofl.com
1500 Southeast Magnolia Extension, Suite 104
Ocala, Florida 34471