Wayne Magazine Holiday 2017 | Page 47

D r. Drillings completed his orthopedic resi- dency at Northwestern University Medical Center in Chicago, and was a fellow in sports medicine at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. He was an assis- tant team physician for the Chicago Cubs, ORTHOPEDIC New York Jets and New SURGEON, CLINICAL PROFESSOR AT THE York Rangers. While UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND noting that exercise DENTISTRY OF NEW enhances health, he JERSEY says that as an orthope- ATHLETIC TRAINING EDUCATION dic surgeon, he sees PROGRAM MEDICAL a lot of patients DIRECTOR AT WILLIAM PATERSON UNIVERSITY who would be doing AFFILIATED WITH themselves a favor by CHILTON MEDICAL combining it with good CENTER IN WAYNE lifestyle habits. “When you eat better and are more active, you’re not only taking a load off your joints, but helping with your lung and heart health,” he says. Follow his advice, and even with a heavy sports regimen, you’ll have a better chance of staying clear of the orthopedist’s office. DR. GARY DRILLINGS PLAN FOR A HEALTHY DIET “It’s hard to eat well in this country, because we’re geared towards conven- ience,” says Drillings. Diet must-haves such as green leafy vegetables, crucifer- ous veggies like broccoli and cauliflower, nuts, seeds and berries provide needed antioxidants and nutrients, he says. Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D strengthen bones, while “red meat and cheese are known to be inflammatory, and can contribute to arthritis and gout.” Some studies, he says, suggest that keeping a food diary is an effective way to reduce personal food consumption. STAY STRONG “Most people reach their peak bone mass when they’re in their twenties,” says Drillings. “From that point on, you’re los- ing density, so you want to do everything you can before then keep it up.” Carving out 30 minutes a day for walking outside, going on the rowing machine, swimming or any kind of cardio exercise guarantees benefits. ■ WAYNE MAGAZINE HOLIDAY 2017 45