NUTRITION FOR JOINTS AND LIGAMENTS
If you are concerned about how to maintain healthy joints and ligaments, then this article is for you.
Before moving on to the nutritional recommendations, I want to remind you that the health of our joints and ligaments is affected by:
- Our bodyweight. The heavier we are, the higher the load on the joints. First of all, I mean an excess of fat mass, which, unlike muscles, plays the role of a "dead" weight.
- Working weights. Although our sport is called weightlifting, it must be remembered that forcing the load will injure the ligaments and joints. Progressions must be adequate. Only lift the weight you can handle. It is very important to increase the load gradually. Professional planning of a training program and its variability are the key to athletic longevity.
- Technique of performing exercises. This is a very important factor, neglect of which not only creates unnatural stress on joints and ligaments, but can also lead to injuries. In many cases, chronic.
- Attitude to the signals of your body. Don't take the phrase "No Pain, No Gain" in a distorted context. A burning sensation in the muscles during exercise or Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness is normal. However, any sharp and aching pain, as well as any discomfort that you have not experienced before, is a signal from your body that something has gone wrong. Neglecting these factors increases the risks of developing problems associated with the musculoskeletal system.
The best diet for ligaments and joints
You may be surprised, however, there is no special diet for joints and ligaments. At least for healthy athletes. A varied and balanced diet - including as many whole foods and minimally processed foods as possible. That's what's most important!
The purpose of such nutrition is to provide the body with nutrients, while reducing inflammation, which is one of the key factors in the development of joint problems.
Medical professionals who study arthritis and other musculoskeletal health problems make similar recommendations and focus on specific nutrients and foods. These nutrients can play an important role in preventing problems.
Vitamin C
This vitamin plays a role in the formation of collagen, which is a key component of cartilage. It is also a powerful antioxidant, that is, it inhibits the negative effects of free radicals inside the cartilage. These radicals can damage the structure of the cartilage, leading to inflammation.
The best sources of vitamin C are guava, bell peppers, parsley, kiwi, broccoli, pomelo, papaya, strawberries, oranges.
Vitamin D and calcium
This vitamin plays a critical role in maintaining the structure and strength of our bones, and also contributes to maintaining healthy cartilage. Vitamin D also assists in the absorption of calcium, which is critical for bone health.
The best sources of vitamin D are salmon, herring, and mackerel.
The best sources of calcium are dairy products, sardines with bones, broccoli, kale, collard greens.
Omega-3 fatty acids
This class of polyunsaturated fatty acids helps reduce inflammation in the body.
The best sources of omega-3 s are salmon, trout, herring, mackerel, microalgae, as well as walnuts, flaxseeds, and linseed oil.
More water and fiber
Water lubricates the joints and provides them with structural support. In addition, it transports nutrients and removes metabolic waste products. This also applies to joints.
Fiber helps to reduce inflammation in the body. Its best sources are legumes, nuts and seeds, vegetables and fruits, and whole grains.
Less processed food
Excess sweets, soda and fried foods are not just unhealthy but they can also make you sick. The added sugar in our diets causes chronic inflammation which ultimately leads to joint pain or other serious health problems!
As you can see, nothing extraordinary. A balanced diet, maintaining a healthy body weight and a well-designed training program are 3 pillars that guard the health of our joints.
RELATED ARTICLES:
IS VEGETARIANISM COMPATIBLE WITH WEIGHTLIFTING?
HOW MUCH SALT DOES A WEIGHTLIFTER NEED?
You might be interested in:
olympic weightlifting program for masters
8 week olympic weightlifting program
