A new study suggests theres another health benefit to shedding some extra pounds. Researchers at the University of North Carolina are saying moderate weight loss can reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis of the knees (OA).
The large study followed more than 1,400 men and women over the age of 45 without OA in at least one of their knees for six years. The subjects were divided into three categories based on weight change during the study time frame those who lost 5 percent or more of their total body weight, those who maintained their weight and those who gained weight.
Researchers say overweight participants who lost just 5 percent of their weight were less likely to develop knee OA, compared to people who maintained or gained weight.
“OA is painful and debilitating. Effective treatments are limited and theres not a cure. But if we can get people to lose weight we may reduce their risk and reduce the pain and disability associated with this condition,” said lead researcher Lauren Abbate.
OA is the most common joint disease affecting middle-aged and older people. It causes progressive damage to the joint cartilage and changes in the structures around the joint, which can include fluid accumulation, bony overgrowth and loosening and weakness of muscles and tendons, all of which may limit movement and cause pain and swelling.
Among the believed to help treat the condition are glucosamine, chondroitin, devils claw, turmeric and ginger, according to AAFP.com.