With all of the advancements in healthcare, there is still a great deal of misunderstanding about what it means to be healthy. The average person’s diet does not always provide them with everything they need to stay strong and avoid chronic illnesses. The human body is a complex machine, and it requires the proper fuel to function. For this reason, orthopedic doctors recommend that their patients adopt good habits in their lives early on. One way you can do this is by making sure you are eating the right foods!
1. Green Leafy Vegetables
Vegetables are one of the best foods to keep your muscles and bones healthy. The leafy green vegetables are rich in vitamins A, C, K, and B. They also contain calcium which promotes strong bones and teeth, as well as magnesium which helps with moods. This class of food is composed of Broccoli, brussels sprouts, spinach, romaine lettuce, kale, bok choy, and collard greens.
2. Fish
Fish contains Omega-three fatty acids that are good for inflammation and pain relief. They also include Vitamin D, which is required by the body to absorb calcium from foods you eat. Fish with high mercury levels should be avoided because this toxin can affect your nervous system if consumed in large amounts. Good choices include salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines, and trout.
3. Meat-free foods
To have healthy bones and muscles, it is also good to add soy products to your diet. These include tofu, tempeh, and seitan which are all made from soybeans. Soybeans contain a high amount of protein which helps build muscles and bones as well as iron to help red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body. Other meat-free options that promote healthy muscles and joints include lentils, black beans, kidney beans, peas, and quinoa. Try switching out one or two meals per week with these alternatives for an easy way to boost orthopedic health.
4. Fruits
Fruits are packed with Vitamin C and magnesium, which help the body absorb calcium. Berries like strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and cranberries contain antioxidants that help to repair damaged cells throughout your body. Some fruits like oranges have high levels of citric acid that can be good for people suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis because it makes it harder for the body to absorb calcium. Fruit juice is not a great choice because most store-bought juices contain too much sugar and also lack fiber which is essential in keeping you healthy.
5. Dairy Products
Your bones and muscles need Vitamin D to stay healthy, and dairy products are one of the best sources. You should try to consume low-fat or non-fat milk instead of whole milk because it has less saturated fat that can damage your heart over time. Dairy products like yogurt and low-fat cheese are also rich in Vitamin D as well as calcium.
By including these foods in your diet, you can ensure that your body is getting the proper nutrients it needs to function properly and avoid future health issues. Orthopedic doctors recommend consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, and meat-free products at least three times per day, every single day of the week!
