Especially as you age, you might start feeling more creaks and pains in your joints, I know I have! It is important to take care of these joints so you can keep doing the activities that you love through your entire life. Here are some key nutrients that can help to keep your joints feeling good! 

Collagen – A form of incomplete protein that provides structure in the body. We find this in our hair, skin, and nails, but it is also a major component in our joints. Increasing your intake can increase the internal synthesis of collagen and help keep your joints healthy. Try incorporating more jello, broth based soups, and bone marrow in your diet to improve collagen production. 

Vitamin C – We always hear about vitamin C with relation to our immune system, but it also plays an important role in healthy joints. Vitamin C is required for internal collagen production to happen. When both collagen and vitamin C are present, we are able to repair both skin and tissues. Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits as well as bell peppers, broccoli, strawberries, and kiwis. 

Nitric Oxide – This is a vasodilator that allows for increased blood flow and improves the delivery of nutrients throughout our body. Delivering more blood and nutrients will help with keeping all of your tissues (and joints) healthy and working at their best. Nitric oxide is found in highest quantities in beets, but is also present in foods like spinach, watermelon, and carrots. 

In addition to adequate stretching and physical modalities to promote joint health, it is important to make sure the foods you are eating support your goals. Adding some of these foods on a regular basis can promote overall joint health and minimize injury.