Winters can impact the well-being of our bones. Here are some easy expert ways to keep bones strong during the season.
Here we explore some practical and enjoyable ways to keep bones strong and resilient during winter as shared by Dr. Aashish Chaudhry, senior consultant and head, department of orthopaedics and joint replacement, Aakash Healthcare:
Embrace the sunshine: Reduced exposure to sunlight leads to a decline in vitamin D levels in the winter season. Sunlight aids in calcium absorption, crucial for bone health. One must make efforts to spend time outdoors during daylight hours. Taking a short walk in the winter sun helps boosting vitamin D levels.
๐๐๐ฅ๐๐ง๐๐๐ ๐๐ข๐๐ญ: To maintain bone health, including the right nutrients is the key. Foods rich in calcium, such as dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods are must have. Magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin K ensures bone strength. A well-rounded diet is recommended by the experts.
Hydration: Never forget the importance of staying hydrated. Though its comforting to indulge in warm, comforting beverages during winter, but staying hydrated is crucial. Water helps transport nutrients to your cells and supports joint lubrication and thus a fundamental component for bone health. Even if you don't thirsty, ensure you consume an adequate amount of water.
๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ ๐ ๐ข๐ง ๐๐ง๐๐จ๐จ๐ซ ๐๐ฑ๐๐ซ๐๐ข๐ฌ๐: One mustn't neglect exercise altogether. If you can't step out because of winter chills, prefer indoor workouts such as yoga, pilates, or strength training. They not only contribute to bone health but also helps maintaining overall fitness and flexibility.
๐๐๐ซ๐ฆ ๐๐ฉ ๐๐๐๐จ๐ซ๐ ๐๐ฑ๐๐ซ๐๐ข๐ฌ๐: Be it an indoor workout or outdoor, warming up is crucial. Cold muscles are more prone to injuries, so a proper warm-up is important to prevent strains and sprains. One must spend a few extra minutes preparing our body for physical activity, to make sure that our muscles are ready for a proper workout session.
๐๐ง๐๐ฅ๐ฎ๐๐ ๐๐ฆ๐๐ ๐-๐ ๐ ๐๐ญ๐ญ๐ฒ ๐๐๐ข๐๐ฌ: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to bone health. Sources such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), chia seeds, and walnuts are loaded with Omega-3. These not only support bone density but also improves overall cardiovascular health.
๐๐๐๐ฅ๐ญ๐ก๐ฒ ๐๐จ๐๐ฒ ๐๐๐ข๐ ๐ก๐ญ: Excess body weight will strain your bones and joints, leading to various health issues. With the help of a balanced diet and regular exercise, one must keep the weight within a healthy range. This supports bone health and reduces the risk of developing conditions like osteoporosis.
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