Tips for Healthy Joints

Soreness, stiffness, tenderness joint pain can have a direct impact on quality of life. Fortunately, there are a number of proactive steps that incorporate all-natural solutions to help improve joint health and overall wellness.

Joint pain is one of the most common health concerns. It affects 30 percent of U.S. adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Not surprisingly, joint pain prevalence increases with age. Forty-two percent of adults 45-64 years old, and about one-half of adults 65 and older, have experienced recent joint pain, the CDC reports.

Here are four ways to improve and even eliminate joint pain in the knees, hips and ankles:

*Eat for joint health: Key nutrients that help with joint health, mobility and lubrication are healthy fats like omega-3s. Replace some of the usual protein in your diet with fish wild salmon, tuna, sardines, anchovies, etc. Aim to do this at least twice per week."

*Be sure to add supplements: Omega-3 fats can support joint health, but often people don't get enough through the foods they eat. Supplementation is a good option for people who suffer from joint pain.

*Try to maintain a healthy weight: Make physical activity a regular part of your day. The stronger your muscles, the easier it will be to move comfortably. Above all, this will help relieve some of the common pains in the joints.

*Don't forget to stay physically active: One of the most common misunderstandings about joint pain is that rest is helpful. Appropriate physical activity should be part of a daily joint-health routine, but it doesn't require joining a gym or hiring a trainer. Start with simple steps, like standing instead of sitting, walking as much as possible, swimming at a pool, etc. Basic movements can keep weight in check and maintain joint and muscle integrity.

Joint pain and soreness is common. By taking a few simple steps at home, you can dramatically change how you feel and how you move, so you can live to the fullest every day.