If there is ever a time we need to have extra joint support and mobility it is during the festive season. 

Our naturopath’s top 3 tips for improving joint health are: 

Load up on Omega's

Omega rich foods are proven natural anti-inflammatories, relieving stiffness and joint pain in a similar way to Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). Being consistent with your supplements is key, so if you have just started be sure to keep taking your supplements consistently for best results. Don't rely just on your supplements, increasing your dietary intake of Omega-3s will also assist - opt for chia seeds, walnuts, flaxseeds and wild caught Salmon (if you can find this!). 

Reduce inflammatory foods

Foods that are notorious for exacerbating joint pain and stiffness are the ones we tend to have more of over the festive season. Become conscious of foods that you are eating which may be linked to more stiff pain - avoid night shades (eggplant, potatoes, tomatoes, capsicum), high purine foods (beer, foods containing yeast, canned foods), sugar and processed white foods. Opt for natural anti-inflammatory foods including spices (cinnamon, ginger and turmeric), whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds, fruits and vegetables and hemp seed oil.

Get your sleep

Sleep deprivation has been proven to exacerbate joint pain. Painful joints can also cause sleep deprivation. Break the vicious cycle by focusing on getting quality sleep. A cup of chamomile tea and a high quality botanical sleep supplement - avoid melatonin which can leave you feeling groggy and disrupt your body's circadian rhythm. Try TheraNight+ to get you falling asleep and staying asleep naturally.