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5 Tips for Healthy Bones this Halloween

Posted on October 30th, 2017 by Orthopaedic Specialty Group

Vampires, zombies, and skeletons — just some of the Halloween costumes that have stood the test of time. Sure, one reason why skeletons are so popular is because you can pull off the last-minute look with just a bit of face paint and a black t-shirt. But we think it’s because our skeletons are just fascinating! Together, these 206 bones work together in perfect harmony to help you do everything from driving to trick-or-treating — so it’s important to show them some love this year!

Skeleton and bones Halloween

Sugar-free and low-sugar candy alternatives.

Halloween is by far the biggest day of the year for candy. But all of that sugar can have potentially harmful effects on growing and adult bodies. Instead of candy this year, try handing out popcorn, fruit snacks, or oatmeal cookies. Or, swap out some of your little one’s candy for these healthier alternatives if they return home with pounds and pounds of candy.

Soak up the sun.

Especially in the fall, when the sun is down as early as 5:30 p.m. some days, getting a healthy amount of vitamin D isn’t always easy. But just 20 minutes of sun exposure every day is enough to meet your recommended daily dose of vitamin D.

Choose vitamin-rich foods.

If you really can’t get outside much, there are other ways to get vitamin D! The other main way is through your diet. Fatty fishes, egg yolks, and fortified cereal are just a few ways you can add more vitamin D to your diet.

Take on weight-bearing exercises.

Healthy adults can strengthen their bones (and muscles) by challenging themselves with weight-bearing exercises. Running, jogging, dance, and other highly aerobic exercises all build stronger bones. If you have osteoporosis or arthritis, it’s best to start off with more gentle workouts, like walking or using an elliptical.

Don’t smoke and keep drinking to a minimum.

Alcohol and cigarettes affect nearly every part of your body — including your bone density. To protect your bones, as well as lungs, liver, and heart, you should never start smoking (or quit if you do) and drink no more than one alcoholic drink a day.

If you suffer from bone or joint pain, help is available from Orthopaedic Specialty Group. With four convenient locations throughout Fairfield County and two urgent care centers, we are there when you need us, where you need us. Call (203) 337-2600 to schedule an appointment or contact us online.