“Bundle Up in Spring, Let Cold in Autumn” – Don’t Overdo It
“The spring bundle up, autumn let cold” is a folk saying believed by elders to strengthen the body. However, medical experts argue this practice not only fails to boost health but may actually trigger joint diseases.
Joint diseases are not acute conditions; symptoms worsen with sudden temperature changes. In natural environments, dropping temperatures cause constriction of blood vessels in multiple body areas, slowing local blood flow and increasing synovial reaction. Thus, cold, damp conditions exacerbate joint problems.
Experts advise: To prevent osteoarthritis, promptly dress warmly when temperatures drop to keep joints protected; choose suitable exercises, avoid joint twisting and excessive load-bearing activities; increase intake of high-protein and high-calcium foods; and spend more time outdoors enjoying sunlight.