Arthritis may be classified into over a hundred distinct forms. Each kind develops in its own unique fashion. However, all kinds can lead to function loss and joint deformity, and are painful to experience. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) claims that more than 54 million adults in America have arthritis. This number is expected to grow to 78 million in 2040, becoming the leading cause of disability in the United States. Even though joint disease is more prevalent among older adults, anyone can get it. In fact, it was found that around 300,000 children and even babies have arthritis. While some things are out of your control, such as your family history, gender, and age, a few healthy practices can help with preventing arthritis. Many of these habits, like practicing a healthy diet and exercising, also aid in the prevention of other diseases.
Eat Your Omega-3s
Eat an omega-3-rich fish meal twice a week, such as trout, salmon, mackerel, or sardines. Wild-caught fish is usually preferred as compared to farmed fish. Omega-3 fatty acids have also been demonstrated in studies to lower RA joint activity.
Furthermore, if you are a vegetarian or vegan, look for non-fish omega-3 sources. Such sources include flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts; plant oils; fortified eggs and juices, as well as soy beverages. Additionally, omega-3 supplements come in a range of dosages as well.
Manage Your Weight
Your knees must sustain the weight of your entire body. As such, obesity or being overweight might have serious consequences for them. With each stride, the impact on your knee increases by 30 to 60 pounds if you’re just 10 pounds overweight. Additionally, obesity has been linked to an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Obese people are up to approximately 4.6 times more likely than moderately obese people to develop knee arthritis. As such, diet and exercise can both help you lose weight and keep it off. If you are having trouble losing weight, cognitive behavioral therapy can assist you, too.
Avoid Injury
Over time, your joints may begin to deteriorate as they experience wear and tear. When your joints are injured, such as when playing sports or in an accident, the cartilage in your joints can be damaged, leading them to wear out more quickly. To avoid injury, always warm up before playing sports and use the right safety equipment. To protect your knees, wrists, and elbows, wear knee, wrist, and elbow protection.
Treat Any Infections
When bacteria and viruses make you sick, they do more than just make you cough and sniff. Some of these germs might infect your joints and cause arthritis. These bacteria often enter the bloodstream and go to the joint or joint fluid. For instance, Septic arthritis, often known as infectious arthritis, is a painful joint condition caused by bacteria. This kind of arthritis can be treated with antibiotics. Respiratory infections, such as colds and the flu, have been linked to the development of RA. An abnormal immune response is likely to be triggered by the infection, leading to autoimmune illness. Hence, it is vital to treat any infection before it leads to further complications.
