In a recent study, researchers followed 2,757 people with mild to moderate osteoarthritis in at least one knee.

After an average of four years, those who reported eating a “prudent” dietary pattern—that is, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, whole grains, and beans—had a lower risk of worsening arthritis, as measured by X-rays and by reported pain, stiffness, and disability scores.

But although researchers took other factors into account, it’s still possible that something else explains why arthritis progressed less in healthy eaters.

What to do

Aim for a healthy diet. Even if it doesn’t slow your arthritis, it can lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.

Photo: stock.adobe.com/Monkey Business.