Survey reveals that up to 1 in 3 adults have poor mobility

THE National Recovery Plan (PPN) is being implemented in phases to help curb the spread of Covid-19 in Malaysia.

Nevertheless, the pandemic has led to unprecedented mental health problems¹ and affected the well-being of many, including Malaysians.

Since most people are stuck at home, the situation can cause a lot of stress, especially for those who are separated from family members and friends.

Not only that, the current restrictions on social activities also limit daily movement, which may affect musculoskeletal health in the long run, be it bones, muscles or joints.

A cause for concern is that such restrictions may lead to physical inactivity, while accelerating the development of sarcopenia among the elderly², according to a study. In fact, a mini survey conducted in Kuala Lumpur showed that up to one in three* adults have poor mobility.

Therefore, maintaining proper nutrition and physical activity are paramount to improving physical and mental resilience during this time.

That's why Anlene wants to encourage Malaysians to stay active and take care of their mobility, especially when it comes to their bones, joints and muscles.

ACTIVE LIFESTYLE, BALANCED DIET

A balanced diet and regular physical activity are important to minimise the risks of age-related conditions like cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline, as well as maintaining dental and bone health³.

Unhealthy eating habits can contribute to health issues like constipation, digestive disorders, obesity, alongside muscle and bone related issues like osteoporosis, osteomalacia and osteoarthritis³.

On the other hand, exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of illness and falls, improve mental health and well-being, strengthen social relationships and improve cognitive function⁴.

Physical activity is also important to maintain health and build resilience⁵ among those who are aging.

IMPORTANT TO SUPPORT MUSCULOSKELETAL HEALTH 

According to Fonterra Brands Malaysia assistant nutrition manager Liew Yen Lee, middle-aged adults and those who are older need to take care of their musculoskeletal health.

This is especially relevant when everyone may face challenges such as having limited access to move around or go out to get a proper meal. Hence, preparing nutritious food at home and staying as active as possible in the home space or living areas become very important. 

"Bones may start to deteriorate from as early as the 30s⁶ and bone density may reduce by up to 20 per cent⁷ as we age," said Yen Lee.

"Meanwhile, joint cartilage that acts as a 'cushion' between the joints may deteriorate significantly after the age of 40⁸. Muscle function may also become weak with a reduction in muscle strength of up to 29 per cent as age increases⁹.

"So, exercise regularly to maintain bone, joint and muscle strength, which helps maintain movement, flexibility, balance and quality of life whatever your age!" she added.

Yen Lee added that eating a balanced diet that is made up of nutritious food is also important to support the musculoskeletal health of adults. 

In fact, a recent study¹⁰ highlights the importance of regular exercise and drinking milk as part of a balanced diet among adults. 

The study found that individuals who took two glasses of milk added with Milk Fat Globule Membrane (MFGM), and important nutrients along with regular exercise, experienced twice the improvement in flexibility, three times the improvement in balance and 40 per cent more improvement in muscle mass compared to the control group.

ENJOY BETTER MOBILITY WITH A BALANCED DIET, ACTIVE LIFESTYLE

Anlene ACTIFIT 3X™ and GOLD 5X™ are specially formulated to provide adults with a bundle of important nutrients. A balanced diet consisting of important nutrients from various food sources is important to support musculoskeletal health.

Formulated for adults aged 19 years old and above, Anlene ACTIFIT 3X contains high calcium and protein, along with vitamins B2, B6, B12, C, D, E and collagen. 

On the other hand, Anlene GOLD 5X features the same nutrients, with the addition of MFGM Active™. It also comes with no added sugars, and is specially formulated for those aged 45 years old and above.

What sets this product apart is the unique ingredient, MFGM Active, which provides milk fat globule membrane (MFGM), a combination of fat and protein, supplying the body with similar components found in joint fluid.

Enjoy better mobility and freedom of movement today. Try Anlene ACTIFIT 3X (1kg) for RM34.65 or Anlene GOLD 5X (1kg) for RM38.90.

Both products are now available in major stores nationwide or on Anlene's official online stores via Shopee and Lazada.

For more information, visit their website or take the Anlene Move Check here.

Written by: Hanis Aliaa Hidzir

This article originally appeared on Harian Metro with rights to be republished on the New Straits Times.

*Based on a survey conducted in Kuala Lumpur involving 190 adults aged between 21-71 years, the study covered tests of grip strength, flexibility and balance. 

References:

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