Our population in Australia is ageing and along with that the rates of arthritis are increasing. In fact over a quarter of the population have been diagnosed with some form of arthritis, and it is the leading cause of disability. But is it just our increased age that is causing the problem, or is it something else as well? Are there things we can do to reduce the risk and the effects of arthritis?
Firstly, what is arthritis? Well, there are many different types of arthritis, but essentially they all involve our joints wearing and tearing earlier than they should, whether it is due to physical, chemical or emotional stress, or even an autoimmune disorder where the body attacks its own joints.
Many people consider their arthritis to be just normal ageing, but more often than not it is accelerated due to either these increased stressors or reduced bodily function. So if you want to reduce your risk of arthritis, here are some things that you need to consider.
Firstly, there are some physical things that you need to consider. Just like your car, if your joints aren't moving regularly or aren't aligned properly, they are likely to wear and tear faster. An Australian study has shown that older patients exercising at least 75 minutes per week felt fewer arthritis symptoms, whilst those who worked out for twice as long experienced even fewer problems. You may need to modify your exercise program to suit your individual condition and it would be wise to speak to a personal trainer who can generate an appropriate exercise plan.
As for the alignment of your joints, studies have shown that Chiropractic is not only the most sought after alternative for arthritis care but also the most helpful. Reducing the load on your joints is also important, so maintaining a healthy weight will also help to take some pressure off those aching joints.
In terms of diet, the general principle is that you want to provide all of the nutrients that your joints need whilst minimising the things that might irritate them. In terms of irritants, the ones that make the biggest difference when avoided seem to be sugars and grains, highly processed foods, highly sprayed foods and acidic foods (like alcohol and soft drinks), so avoid these as much as possible. In terms of requirements for your joints, getting plenty of fruits and vegetables (as raw as possible) is important, but getting the right fats appears to be even more so. Of particular significance is the ratio of omega 3 to omega 6 fats, so choosing healthy oils (like flax seed oil) and eating plenty of healthy (grass-fed, free-range) meats and fish is important. You should also ensure that you keep your joints well-hydrated, so drink plenty of pure fresh water - and if you are a smoker, you should consider quitting or at least reducing your intake.
Of course, don't forget the emotional element that is associated with arthritis. Studies have shown a link between your emotional state and the degree to which you experience your arthritis symptoms. So as with every other health issue on the planet, keeping a positive mind frame is very important. This will not only mean that you dwell less on your symptoms, but that you will actually heal faster too.
So look after your body physically, chemically and emotionally - it is the only one you have - and remember that the best time to start doing this is before you have any symptoms of arthritis.
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