Diet and Nutrition

Diet

One of the primary causes of orthopaedic problems in the United States is obesity. The ligaments and articular surfaces sustain damage while trying to support a disproportionate amount of weight and supporting muscle mass for a frame. Balance and agility is also compromised with increased weight, often times resulting in a fall or twist that causes damage to ligaments and cartilage. The staff at the Sanders Clinic focuses on the core problem while also addressing the limb “at risk.”

Until increased weight is addressed, the strengthening benefits of the program cannot be fully realized. Once current eating habits and health considerations are assessed, a nutritional plan will be designed. This nutritional plan will focus on a well balanced diet of grains, vegetables, fruits, milk, meat, and beans. Fats, needed in much less quantity, should be obtained mostly from sources like fish, nuts, and vegetable oils. Of course, there is no one “right” diet for everyone. The specific requirements for each patient will be determined based on age, body size, genetics, activity level and environmental training conditions, as well as intensity, duration, and frequency of activity. Most recreational and professional athletes alike are malnourished. While their daily caloric intake may be more than sufficient, they’re not feeding their muscles and connective tissue the necessary types of nutrients to sustain their strength. This not only affects endurance and performance, but invariably leads to increased injury as well.

Nutrition

The right nutrients play a significant role in preventing the breakdown of connective tissue-strengthening tendons, ligaments and cartilage. They are necessary in the preservation of joints and bones. The right combination of antioxidants and nutrients rich in zinc, selenium, flaxseed oil, magnesium, alpha lipoic acid, and L-Carnitine not only heightens the function of all interconnected parts of the body, but also increases an individual’s endurance and optimizes the immune system.