Did you know that 75% of Americans walk through their days chronically dehydrated?1 Dehydration negatively impacts every system in the body. People often choose coffee, tea, or sodas over water, contributing to dehydration. Water delivers nutrients to our organs and cells.
Our joint cartilage is composed of about 80% water.2 Water appears as a gel (synovial fluid) that cushions and lubricates your joints. We experience more pain and friction when dehydrated since our body cannot produce adequate synovial fluid.
Decreased water volume in the body can cause chronic inflammation. Water promotes healthy blood volume, which allows nutrients to move through your blood and into your joints. Stay hydrated to ensure healthy soft tissue, cartilage, and joint function.
Electrolytes are an essential component of hydration. Electrolytes are a mixture of potassium, magnesium, sodium, and calcium. Coconut water, Gatorade, and electrolyte tablets in our water are convenient ways to stay hydrated and electrolyte balanced. There are also many foods that we can eat that can contribute to overall hydration. Here are some fruit and vegetables that are water-rich and increase hydration:
- Cucumbers
- Watermelon
- Oranges
- Spinach
- Celery
- Tomatoes
Joint pain might indicate that it is time to consult an orthopedic doctor. Don't put up with the pain! To optimize your lifestyle and improve your comfort, we can find the right joint pain treatment together.
The physicians at South Palm Orthopedics are committed to providing the highest orthopedic care level to every patient each time. Our physicians' team provides an advanced level of care, integrating the newest cutting-edge surgical and nonsurgical techniques with proven traditional methods of treatment.