As we know, we are getting closer to spring and the weather may get colder. Follow the methods to prevent osteoarthritis in cold weather.
According to the study, people with osteoarthritis who were deficient in vitamin D were significantly more likely to have knee pain and reduced performance than people with osteoarthritis who had enough vitamin D. These results were obtained regardless of each person’s weight. Obese participants in this study were more likely to suffer from vitamin D deficiency.
“Vitamin D deficiency can damage your knees in a number of ways,” said Dr. Tony Glover, one of the study’s authors and a professor at the University of Florida. First, vitamin D deficiency increases your inflammation, which in turn increases your susceptibility to osteoarthritis pain. Very low levels of vitamin D also increase bone resorption, which reduces bone quality.
“Vitamin D deficiency is a pervasive problem,” says Glover. In fact, a new study by the Journal of Nutrition Research found that approximately 42% of Americans are dangerously deficient in vitamin D. You get most of the vitamin D you need from sun exposure. So all of the problems associated with vitamin D deficiency usually occur in the winter, when most people do not get enough sunlight.
“A simple blood test requested by your doctor can determine if you are deficient in vitamin D,” says Glover Wetland. If you are deficient, taking a vitamin D supplement for several months can help you increase your vitamin D levels.
The chances of getting too much vitamin D are very low. However, the amount of vitamin D you need depends on your weight and body composition. Your body stores vitamin D in fat cells, which means that people who have more body fat need more vitamin D to reduce pain and reduce performance.
If pain and loss of mobility are not enough to worry about your vitamin D levels, remember that most research has found that vitamin D deficiency doubles the risk of dementia.
Source: Wetland