The National Recovery Plan (PPN) was implemented in Malaysia to help curb the spread of Covid-19.

Many people around the world have suffered from unprecedented mental health problems, and it may be the same for Malaysians as well.

With everyone staying at home during these uncertain times, being apart from friends and family members can take a huge toll on one’s well-being.

On the other hand, current restrictions on social activities limit movement, which in turn may affect musculoskeletal health, namely bones, muscles and joints.

Studies show that these restrictions may lead to physical inactivity, as well as accelerate the development of sarcopenia among the elderly.

That is why regular exercise and a balanced diet are paramount in improving your overall physical and mental resilience during these trying times.

Anlene encourages all Malaysians to remain active and to prioritise their physical well-being, especially by taking care of their bones, joints and muscles.

Why a balanced diet and staying active matters

Unhealthy eating habits can contribute to constipation, digestive problems, obesity, as well as muscle and bone related issues such as osteoporosis, osteomalacia and osteoarthritis.

Incorporating a healthy diet and regular exercise into your lifestyle minimizes risks for age-related health conditions. For example, it may help to reduce the risks of developing cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline while protecting dental and bone health.

Physical activity is also vital for staying healthy and resilient, especially for the elderly. For example, regular exercise reduces the risk of diseases and falls, improves mental and physical health, increases social engagement and improves cognitive function.

Staying active and good nutrition are important to support musculoskeletal health

According to the Assistant Nutrition Manager of Fonterra Brands Malaysia, Liew Yen Lee, both the elderly and middle-aged adults must take good care of their bones, joints and muscles, which makes up their musculoskeletal system.

“Our bones may start to deteriorate from as early as our 30s, and bone density may decline by up to 20% as we age.

“Meanwhile, our cartilage (the ‘cushions’ between joints) may deteriorate significantly after our 40s.

“Muscle function may become weak, which can be contributed by a reduction in muscle strength of up to 29% as we grow older.

“So, practise regular exercise to maintain strong bones, joints and muscles to improve your movement, flexibility, balance and quality of life at every stage of your life,” said Liew.

Liew added that a balanced diet consisting of nutritious food will also help support an adults’ musculoskeletal health.

A recent study highlights the importance of exercising regularly and consuming milk as part of a balanced diet for adults.

According to the study, individuals who consumed 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 a 40% more improvement in muscle mass compared to the control group.

Enjoy better flexibility and mobility with a balanced diet, active lifestyle

Both Anlene ACTIFIT 3X™ and GOLD 5X™ are specially formulated to provide important nutrients for the body. Consuming a balanced diet consisting of important nutrients from various food sources is vital to support musculoskeletal health.

Adults aged 19 and above can enjoy the goodness of Anlene ACTIFIT 3X, as every glass contains high calcium, high protein, vitamins B2, B6, B12, C, D, E and collagen.

Anlene GOLD 5X meanwhile, is scientifically formulated with the nutrients mentioned above, MFGM Active™ and comes with no added sugars, making it a smart choice for those aged 45 and above.

MFGM Active, the unique ingredient in Anlene GOLD 5X, contains a combination of fat and protein, which provides similar components as those found in joint fluid.

Start off an active lifestyle today by purchasing Anlene ACTIFIT 3X (1kg) for RM34.65, or Anlene GOLD 5X (1kg) for RM38.90.

You can find these products in stores nationwide, or online via Anlene’s official stores on Shopee and Lazada.

Take the Anlene Move Check Quiz to test your “move” age, or head over to their website for more information.

This article is sponsored by Anlene.

This article originally appeared on Harian Metro with rights to be republished on Free Malaysia Today.