Our doctors at Texas Joint Institute have stressed the importance of weight and healthy eating on the joint condition. Taking off even one pound can result in a major impact to lessen the pressure off of an arthritic knee. And with so many people choosing to focus on wellness and nutrition at the start of the year, this is a perfect time to be mindful of your diet in order to reduce pain and increase overall health.
So what better diet to try than the MIND diet.
MIND stands for Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurogenerative Diet, and in addition to helping you manage your weight, it has been found in a study at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s by about 35-53% (depending on how closely participants followed diet recommendations). By combining the Mediterranean diet with the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) eating plan, the MIND diet was created as a way to improve brain health. That is why this diet can provide an added bonus to those seeking a plan to lose weight and improve joint function.
What does the MIND diet include?
- Leafy green vegetables
- Berries
- Nuts
- Whole grains
- Fish and poultry
- Beans
- Wine (in moderation, and preferably red)
What does the MIND diet exclude?
- Butter
- Margarine
- Red meat
- Fried foods
- Cheese
- Pastries
While the definite impact of the MIND diet on the prevention or delay of dementia has not yet been proven, most medical professionals believe it is one of the healthiest eating plans for people looking to achieve overall health and wellness.
So, if you have personally resolved to eat better and focus on health, remember--it can be good for your mind and your joints. And if you are looking for more information with specific joint pain or symptoms, give us a call at Texas Joint Institute so we can work on an individual plan that works for your unique needs.