Fall is one of the more popular seasons because, and for a good reason. The temperatures are crisp, meaning you can break out your favorite sweaters. Leaves are also falling on the ground, making for picturesque scenery. It also marks the start of the holiday season.
However, as you get deeper into fall, the days become shorter, so it’s darker earlier. Plus, it’s inching closer to winter, and it will become a lot colder. The drastic change in weather isn’t ideal for anyone suffering from joint discomfort. But there are a few ways to support your joints during the fall. Check them out below.
Take Collagen Powder
You may have heard about collagen but are unsure what it actually does. Collagen is a protein in your body and one of the main components in the connective tissue around your body. You can get it from certain foods such as:
- Chicken skin
- Beef
- Pork
While you can get it from certain foods, there are also supplements like collagen powder that you can take to increase your body’s amount. Studies show that some benefits include:
- Relieving joint discomfort
- Supports firmer and more supple-looking skin
- Promotes heart functions
Maintain a Healthy Weight
When it gets colder outside, the last thing you want to do is be outdoors for longer than necessary. Pajamas and comfort food are calling your name and will likely be staples throughout the colder months. The issue is the more you do this, the stronger the possibility of putting one extra weight. More bodily weight mass means more pressure on your joints, which can have lasting effects.
While it can be tempting to stay indoors, try exercising as much as possible. The routine doesn’t need to be extensive; you can go for a 30-minute walk, a light jog, or cycle for 15 – 20 minutes. It would help if you also tried eating more fruits and vegetables to have a balanced diet. Doing some form of exercise coupled with healthy eating habits can help you maintain a healthy weight.
Build Muscle Where You Can
Another way you can keep your joints healthy is through strength training. It helps joint stability, removing the possibility of certain injuries happening during the fall. You don’t need to go to the gym to build strength; you can do exercises at home.
Consult your healthcare provider for exercise tips if you have weaker joints due to specific conditions. They can outline a plan to help you build muscle and keep your joints healthy. As a result, you can support your joints while enjoying the beautiful season.
Take Additional Supplements
As mentioned above, collagen powder is a supplement with plenty of benefits for your body. But it’s equally important to ensure your body meets its nutritional requirements. Sometimes it can be challenging to get the necessary nutrients because of lifestyle factors.
You can meet those needs with the help of supplements. Taking health products like calcium and vitamin D is excellent for joint support. Your age, activity levels, and diet will depend on your bodily needs. However, the best way to make sure your body gets what it needs is by eating a balanced diet. Supplements should help, not be a dietary replacement.
Watch Your Posture
Protecting your joints from weakening should be your priority. That’s why it’s essential to watch your posture when standing, walking, or sitting. It would help if you tried to keep your body as straight as possible.
Keeping your shoulders and back straight can reduce extra stress on your joints when walking. Furthermore, keeping your body upright is imperative if you work a desk job. Prolonged slouching can negatively impact your joints. To help ease some pressure on your body, walk around for a few minutes every hour.
Treat Injuries immediately
Whenever you have an injury, it’s essential to take care of it right away. If left too long, you might face further setbacks in your recovery. Joint injuries are more severe because there can be damage to cartilage, which is what your body needs to ensure everything moves freely.
So if you’re ever injured, visit your healthcare provider as soon as possible. The quicker you get diagnosed, the faster you can start treatment and recovery.
Support Joint Health by Taking Care of Your Body
Colder temperatures signal the start of the holiday season. They should also remind you to focus on your body even more. Instead of letting your joints weaken during the fall, incorporate some of the suggestions above.
Take collagen powder and additional supplements to help with joint support; exercise regularly and add a strength program to help your muscles. Lastly, maintain a good posture and treat injuries to keep your body in the best condition. These small changes will help your body during the fall.
