Here are some easy tips for joint health based on the latest scientific research on nutrition, exercise, and energy healing.
You can combine these tips with your doctor’s care and pharmaceuticals.
Nutrition
Omega 3
Research shows that roughly 1g/day of omega-3 fatty acids can help slow and prevent osteoarthritis.
You can eat salmon or other fatty fish once a week, or take omega-3 supplements.
Supplements should contain both EPA and DHA, two types of omega-3 fatty acids. (The third common type of omega-3, ALA, is found in plants, and has not been shown to be effective for osteoarthritis.)
Here are several well-reviewed options on Amazon:
Fish Oil
- Nature Made Omega 3 (2 daily)
- Sports Research Omega 3 (1 daily)
- NOW Omega 3 (2 daily)
Plant Oil (with EPA and DHA)
- Zenwise Health Omega 3 (2 daily)
- Testa Omega 3 (2 daily)
Vitamin K
Research shows that a deficiency of vitamin K can lead to osteoarthritis.
To ensure you have enough vitamin K, eat leafy greens, and / or take a supplement or multi-vitamin with 100% recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamin K.
Here are several well-reviewed options on Amazon:
If you take blood thinners, talk with your doctor before starting vitamin K supplements.
Disclaimer: Healing Lab doesn’t sell or endorse any nutritional products. Links provided for informational purposes only.
Exercise
Tips for healthy exercise:
- Minimize impact. Walk, swim, or bike. Don’t run.
- Heat before, ice after, for up to 20 minutes each.
- Move gently. Warm up 5-10 minutes.
- Seeing redness or swelling? Slow down.
- Sharp pain, or more pain than usual? Rest.
- Sore two hours later? You overdid it. Do less next time.
Talk with your doctor or physical therapist before starting a new exercise program.
Want more? The Mayo Clinic has an excellent guide on exercise for arthritis.
Looking for resources in Berkeley? Here’s a list of senior centers with exercise classes.
Energy Healing
Energy healing works with the body’s natural energy field, or chi, to promote the body’s natural healing.
Researched since the 1970s, energy healing has shown excellent results in many studies, including for arthritis with no side-effects. Learn more
Here’s what to look for in an energy healer:
- Arthritis specialist. Like selecting a doctor, look for an energy healer who specializes in your condition.
- Money-back guarantee. You want someone you can trust, who stands 100% behind their work.