Eating broccoli may help stave off osteoarthritis, according to a study conducted at the University of East Anglia in England. This is because nutrients found in the vegetable help prevent compounds that lead to joint degeneration.

Osteoarthritis is a disease that causes gradual destruction of joint cartilage, especially in the hands, hips, spine, knees and feet. Currently, the only treatment options to arthritis sufferers is pain relief medications or joint replacement surgery.

Previous studies have found that broccoli consumption contributes to protecting the body against certain types of cancer, but this trial will be the first to determine the vegetable’s effects on osteoarthritis.

Researchers will observe how sulforaphane, the vegetable-based nutrient, affects the joints. The team hopes that increasing the level of this compound in the blood stream will improve joint health.

Ian Clark, lead author of the study, stated that “developing new strategies for combating age-related diseases such as osteoarthritis is vital – to improve the quality of life for sufferers but also to reduce the economic burden on society.”

Individuals who are looking for another natural alternative to preventing osteoarthritis may benefit from eating cherries, as a study conducted by researchers from the U.S. Agricultural Research Service found that adding the fruit to one’s diet may protect against developing joint degeneration.