Every October, two global health observances World Arthritis Day and World Osteoporosis Day remind us of the importance of maintaining healthy bones and joints. In Malaysia, the message is especially urgent. Recent statistics show that nearly 40% of the population struggles with bone and joint issues, a figure that continues to rise as the nation transitions into an ageing society.
There is a well-known saying: “bones age before the person.” Human bones are not simply rigid structures; they are living tissue made up of approximately 45% calcium carbonate and calcium phosphate, 36% collagen, 10% fat, 5% water, and 4% other substances. Calcium, the body’s most abundant mineral, plays the central role in keeping bones strong, with nearly 99% of it stored in bones and teeth.
As people grow older, bones gradually lose calcium. This process is accelerated by a decline in hormone levels, particularly sex and growth hormones, as well as a decrease in osteoblast activity the cells responsible for building new bone. The result is bone loss and reduced density, leaving bones fragile and prone to fractures, a condition known as osteoporosis.
In Malaysia, osteoporosis affects an estimated 15.3% of the population, with the prevalence increasing to 32.6% among individuals aged 71 and above. This is particularly concerning given Malaysia’s demographic shift towards an older population. According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), the proportion of citizens aged 65 and above is expected to rise from 8.1% in 2024 to 14.5% by 2040.
Often called the “silent disease,” osteoporosis typically goes undetected until a fracture occurs. Apart from ageing, other contributing factors include gender, ethnicity, family history, and lifestyle choices. Unfortunately, the average daily calcium intake among Malaysian adults remains alarmingly low at 490.3 mg, less than half the 1,000 mg recommended by the Malaysian Recommended Nutrient Intakes (RNI) 2017. Women over the age of 50 are advised to consume even more 1,200 mg daily.
Dietary adjustments can help address this gap. Calcium-rich foods such as dairy products, beans, and green leafy vegetables should be prioritised, while adequate sun exposure is essential for vitamin D synthesis, which aids calcium absorption. For those unable to meet their nutritional needs through food alone, calcium supplements are widely available. Organic forms such as calcium citrate, calcium gluconate, and calcium lactate are absorbed more effectively than inorganic options like calcium carbonate or phosphate. Ideally, supplements should be paired with vitamin D for optimal absorption and bone strength.
While bones provide structure, joints ensure mobility. The human body contains more than 300 joints, including those in the shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, and spine. Each joint consists of three critical components: the articular surface, the joint capsule, and the joint cavity.
As the body ages, joints undergo wear and tear. Cartilage becomes thinner, synovial fluid production declines, and bones lose toughness. These changes make joints more vulnerable to damage, inflammation, and conditions such as arthritis. In Malaysia, osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, affecting 10–20% of adults and nearly 27% of older individuals. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune condition, is less common but still affects about five in every 1,000 Malaysians.
Joint degeneration often leads to pain, stiffness, and swelling, which can significantly reduce quality of life. Ageing, obesity, excessive physical strain, and poor posture all increase the risk. Lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a healthy weight, practising proper posture, and engaging in regular, joint-friendly exercises like swimming or walking can help protect joints over the long term.
Beyond diet and lifestyle, nutritional supplements have gained attention for their role in supporting joint health. Among the most widely used are glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate, and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM).
Glucosamine, naturally found in synovial fluid, supports the formation of cartilage. However, its levels decline after the age of 40, reducing the body’s ability to maintain healthy joints. Since dietary sources are scarce, supplementation is often recommended. Chondroitin sulphate, on the other hand, promotes the synthesis of hyaluronic acid, aids in repairing damaged cartilage, and helps lubricate joints to improve mobility. MSM, a natural sulphur compound, supports the formation of cartilage and connective tissue while reducing inflammation, stiffness, and pain.
Many supplements on the market now combine these three ingredients to provide comprehensive support for joint comfort and flexibility.
Protecting bone and joint health is not only a medical concern but also a public health priority in Malaysia. As the population ages, conditions such as osteoporosis and arthritis will become more prevalent, carrying both personal and economic consequences. Taking proactive steps today—by maintaining an active lifestyle, eating a nutrient-rich diet, and making informed choices about supplementation can help Malaysians remain mobile and independent well into their later years.
In line with this growing need, Herbalife is preparing to introduce a new product traditionally used to relieve joint pain. The launch aims to give Malaysians another option to support their mobility and overall well-being, helping them stay active and enjoy life with greater ease.