There is never a bad reason to begin pursuing a healthy lifestyle. It keeps you fit and active and even gives your skin a healthy glow. Who wouldn’t want that, right?
But unfortunately, as you age, bone health becomes an even more pressing matter. It ultimately depends on a wide range of factors, but bone mass reaches its peak by the time a person reaches the age of 30. This means that there is actually a time limit to how much you can keep strengthening your bones.
Everyone in their 20s, take note! You still have some time to keep your bones strong and healthy. Keep these tips in mind to make the most of your time and help your bones stay young.
Consult a Doctor
Going to a doctor does not automatically mean that you’re sick. Even healthy people need to visit their doctor for regular checkups. Women are also more at risk for osteoporosis, so it is all the more important to know the condition your bones are in.
If you have existing bone issues or injuries, visiting the doctor detects fractures and disorders through x-rays and CT scans. Images produced with the help of injections via a Medrad device help determine the exact locations of problem areas.
Don’t ignore any aches and pains that you feel, especially since these could be due to bone-related problems.
Exercise Regularly
One great way to keep your bones healthy is to make good use of them. Of course, that means working out daily. Moving around keeps you limber, but weight-bearing exercises are particularly helpful because they work your bones to support your weight.
In addition to strengthening your bones, regular exercise also improves posture and can even help you gain better balance. Those with osteoporosis have to be particularly careful, though, as some exercises may pose more risks than benefits. Consulting your doctor remains the best call in these situations.
Have a Healthy Diet
Regular exercise and a healthy diet go hand in hand in strengthening your bones. The great news is that there are several ways to support your bones through your diet.
Eat your vegetables
Vegetables are like magic. They taste great (don’t let anyone tell you otherwise) and possess a wide range of vitamins and minerals. Among the vitamins it provides is vitamin C, which has antioxidant properties that help prevent bones from damage.
Spinach, sweet potatoes, and artichokes are also kinds of vegetables that have magnesium. Magnesium helps the body absorb calcium, which the body cannot produce on its own. Calcium strengthens bones and keeps your cells functional.
These are only a couple of the countless ways that vegetables supply nutrition to the body. Whatever you eat, don’t pick out your vegetables!
Have some more protein and calcium
As previously mentioned, calcium is a mineral that builds up the bones. In fact, the majority of the calcium stored in the body is found in your bones and teeth. The more calcium your body has, the stronger they get.
Dairy products such as milk and cheese are popular sources of calcium. Sardines and other fish where the bones are edible also contribute to better calcium intake.
Protein is intimately tied with calcium, in that the lower protein you have, the harder it is for the body to absorb calcium. If you want healthy bones, add some protein into the mix, too. Lean meats and poultry are great sources of this.
Drink less alcohol and caffeine
While indulging yourself every once in a while is okay, excessive intake of alcohol can contribute to bone loss. Really, too much drinking is just bad for your immune system as a whole. It also makes you more prone to injuries that could hurt your bones.
But all those cups of coffee don’t do you much good, either. Too much caffeine could have a similar effect in that they encourage bone loss.
If alcohol and caffeine are consumed without moderation, they increase the risk for osteoporosis. Make sure to stay within safe amounts, which is around three to five ounces of coffee daily and one or two alcoholic drinks a day.
Healthy Is Sexy!
No matter what anyone tells you about what a good body should look like, the simple truth is that being healthy is the real sexy. Nothing is more attractive than a person who takes care of their bones and knows how to take care of themselves, after all! Take these simple steps to strengthen your bones and live a healthier life.
