How to keep joints healthy as you age

Joints provide us with the ability to bend, twist and move. They're what allow us to dance, throw a baseball, run and even do regular daily functions like buttoning a shirt, brushing our teeth and tying our shoes. As you age, you'll want those joints to maintain that same healthy function to allow you to participate in all the activities you enjoy.

How aging affects joints
Over time, natural wear and tear may start to affect the cartilage, or the cushioning, that acts as a shock absorber to prevent bones from grinding against each other. According to David Felson, professor of medicine at Boston University, cartilage thins as you age, which makes damaging a joint easier. Even minor injuries like the twist of an ankle can affect an older adult's joints.

Maintain an active lifestyle
A common misconception surrounding joint health is that keeping an active lifestyle will only lead to greater wear and tear on your joints. However, this isn't the case. Maintaining an active lifestyle can actually prevent the deterioration of joints. However, it is important to work out in safe manner. This means stretching before and after workouts, staying hydrated and keeping proper form throughout the exercise to prevent injury.

Take a joint supplement
It's never too early or too late to begin taking a joint supplement. It's an easy way to promote joint comfort so you can maintain an active lifestyle. Naturade FlexAid Joint Formula is a natural and safe alternative that is designed to support joint comfort and mobility. It contains Univestin, which is an all natural blend of two plants with antioxidant properties, and has been shown in clinical studies to reduce stiffness and improve mobility.

Build muscle
Everyone naturally loses muscle mass as they age. Therefore, if you don't work to keep that muscle, it's not going to stick around. According to CNN Health, if you don't have that muscle, it's your joints that absorb the pounding of daily living, contributing to more damage. Keeping a regular strength training regimen can help to build muscle over time. Adding more protein into the diet is also a great way to maintain and promote muscle growth. Naturade Pea Protein powder is an easy way to boost your protein intake. This all-natural protein derived from yellow peas tastes great and is available in both chocolate and vanilla flavors. Each great-tasting shake provides an excellent source of vegetable-based protein and is perfect for those needing any extra protein in their daily diet.

Eat a healthy diet
By keeping a healthy weight, you'll be taking excess stress off of your joints, especially your knees, hips and feet. A healthier weight may help to reduce the deterioration of joints. A healthy diet should consist of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein and dairy. Half of your plate should be filled with fruits and vegetables, half of your grains should be whole grains and you should consider switching to fat-free or low-fat milk. CNN Health also said that omega-3 fatty acids found in fish may help promote joint comfort and decrease inflammation.