Did you know vitamin D plays an important role in healing after joint replacement surgery?
Vitamin D is essential to our health. Our bodies can only absorb calcium when vitamin D is present, so we need it for healthy bones. Vitamin D also fights inflammation and supports immune health and muscle function.
Here are some ways that you can increase your vitamin D levels prior to joint replacement surgery
- Soak up some sun. We get about 90% of our vitamin D from exposure to the sun. Just 5-15 minutes of sunlight exposure two to three times a week will help boost your vitamin D.
- Nutrition. Consume foods and drinks that are rich in vitamin D. Salmon, eggs, and mushrooms are foods high in vitamin D. Cow’s milk, cereals, and instant oatmeal are usually fortified with vitamin D.
- Supplements. Vitamin D supplements are another way to boost your levels if you aren’t getting enough vitamin D naturally. According to the Mayo Clinic, the recommended daily amount of vitamin D is 600 IU for people under the age of 70 and 800 IU for those over 70.
Boosting your body’s natural healing before joint replacement surgery will help you be confident and ready for surgery.
Dr. Andrew Ehmke is a board-certified and fellowship-trained joint replacement surgeon specializing in robotic-assisted and minimally invasive hip and knee replacement in Chicagoland.
Dr. Andrew Ehmke
Dr. Andrew Ehmke is a board-certified and fellowship-trained joint replacement surgeon specializing in robotic-assisted and minimally invasive hip and knee replacement in Chicagoland.
Tags: Joint Replacement, Vitamin D, Nutrition, Dr. Andrew Ehmke
