Fruits, Veggies Reduce Arthritis Risk

Individuals who consume a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may reduce their risk of hip osteoarthritis (OA), according to a new study published in BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. The findings also suggest garlic has a protective effect.

Researchers at King’s College London conducted a cross-sectional study in a large population-based volunteer cohort of twins, determining OA using plain radiographs and adjusting for age, BMI and physical activity. They also conducted in vitro studies examining the effects of allium-derived compounds on the expression of matrix-degrading proteases (MMPs) in SW1353 chondrosarcoma cells.

The dietary analysis (food questionnaires) revealed a specific pattern of dietary intake, that high in fruit and vegetables, showing an inverse association with hip OA (p=0.022); consumption of non-citrus fruit (p=0.015) and garlic alliums (p=0.029) had the strongest protective effect—alliums contain diallyl disulphide, which was shown to inhibit cytokine-induced MMP expression.

They concluded the data show a diet high in fruits and vegetables have a protective effect against radiographic OA, independent of lifestyle factors such as BMI. They further reported the action of garlic compounds on MMPs represents a possible mechanism of action.