How to Regenerate Cartilage Damage

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Last update: 25 May, 2015

Cartilage tears are common. They may be very painful, but research now suggests that your diet can help to regenerate the cartilage at a much quicker rate.

Cartilage helps to support areas of the body, such as the outer ear, nose and joints. It is very flexible, though some areas – like the knees – are very sensitive, and prone to getting injured more easily. People who exercise are amongst the most likely to get injured, but elderly people are affected, too, as the body begins to deteriorate as it ages.

How does cartilage regenerate?

Cartilage can regenerate faster if you don’t have a good diet. Arthritis is a very common condition, which affects many people over 40. You can get arthritis in the knees, wrists, elbows, ankles and shoulders. You will need to consume the right foods to ensure your cartilage tissue regenerates at a faster rate.

Lysine is an important amino acid for quick regeneration of cartilage. Lysine is responsible for calcium absorption and collagen production. It also improves tendon strength and the skin’s appearance.

Cartilage regeneration studies

A study undertaken by the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) showed that a lysine deficiency can delay the growth of damaged tissue.

For every kilo of body weight, you should consume 12 mg (milligrams) of lysine. This will help the body rebuild cartilage at a quicker rate. Foods that contain a lot of lysine include:

legumes
cod
red meat
beer
eggs
soy
cheese
nuts
yeast in beer
gelatin.

Vitamin C is extremely important for the body’s defenses. It can also maintain collagen production by keeping the blood oxygenated and transporting it to your arteries. This ensures that your body supplies the injuried area with the essentials it needs to rebuild itself.

A vitamin C deficiency can stop injuries from healing. Humans also need over 75 mg (milligrams) per day to continuously heal the body. Foods containing high levels of vitamin C include: