Every October, World Arthritis Day and World Osteoporosis Day serve as reminders of the importance of safeguarding our bones and joints. In Malaysia, this issue is particularly pressing, with recent statistics showing that nearly 40% of the population is already affected by bone and joint problems. The rising trend is closely linked to ageing, making it a growing public health concern.
There is a saying that “bones age before the person,” and science supports this. Bones are a living tissue, composed of calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate, collagen, fat, water, and other substances. Calcium, which makes up the bulk of bone composition, is the body’s most abundant mineral, with around 99% stored in bones and teeth. However, as people grow older, calcium levels in bones gradually decline. This decline is worsened by reduced secretion of sex and growth hormones and decreased activity of osteoblasts, the cells that build new bone tissue. The result is a steady loss of bone mass and density, leaving bones more fragile and susceptible to fractures, a condition widely known as osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is sometimes described as a “silent disease” because it often goes undetected until a fracture occurs. Research indicates that 15.3% of the Malaysian population currently lives with osteoporosis, and the number rises dramatically to 32.6% among those over 71 years old. With Malaysia’s ageing population projected to increase sharply citizens aged 65 and above are expected to reach 14.5% of the total population by 2040. The risk of osteoporosis related health issues is expected to rise as well. Besides age, factors such as gender, ethnicity, family history, and lifestyle habits also play a significant role in determining who develops the disease.
Equally important is joint health, as the human body contains over 300 joints that allow movement and flexibility. Over time, joints naturally face wear and tear, with cartilage degeneration, reduced synovial fluid, and weaker bone structures contributing to conditions like arthritis. Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis in Malaysia, affects 10–20% of adults and nearly 27% of older Malaysians. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition, also impacts around five in every 1,000 citizens. These conditions not only cause pain and stiffness but can severely limit mobility, reducing quality of life as people age.
Diet and lifestyle choices play a crucial role in maintaining both bone and joint health. Calcium-rich foods such as dairy products, beans, and leafy greens are vital, as is sufficient exposure to sunlight, which promotes vitamin D synthesis and helps the body absorb calcium effectively. Unfortunately, studies show that Malaysian adults consume an average of just 490 mg of calcium daily, far below the recommended intake of 1000 mg for adults and 1200 mg for women over 50. Supplements can help bridge this gap, and organic forms like calcium citrate and calcium lactate tend to be absorbed more effectively than inorganic forms such as calcium carbonate. When paired with vitamin D and even vitamin C, calcium absorption and bone strength improve significantly.
For joint health, nutrients such as glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate, and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) have become widely recognised. Glucosamine supports cartilage structure, yet natural levels in the body decline significantly after the age of 40. Chondroitin sulphate helps with cartilage repair, lubrication, and reduction of inflammation within the joints, while MSM is known to ease stiffness, improve flexibility, and promote healthy cartilage and connective tissue. Together, these compounds form the foundation of many modern joint health supplements that help people stay mobile and reduce pain as they age.
Maintaining strong bones and flexible joints is not just a matter of comfort but of independence and long-term quality of life. As Malaysia continues to see a demographic shift towards an ageing society, proactive steps are essential. A balanced diet, regular exercise, healthy weight management, and the right nutritional supplements can make all the difference in preventing painful and debilitating conditions later in life.
Reflecting its ongoing commitment to holistic wellness, Herbalife will soon launch a new product designed to support joint health and relieve discomfort. With the right care and nutrition, Malaysians can look forward to staying active, strong, and mobile well into their golden years.