Arthritis can take many different forms. Osteoarthritis, the most common form of the disease, affects around eight and a half million people in Britain. But over the years, a body of research has learned that there are foods that can help soothe symptoms. Olives have particularly shown promise.
Foods that contain anti-inflammatories and antioxidants are especially good for arthritis. Olives are one of these foods.
Consuming olives, as well as derivatives like olive oil and olive leaves, can be used to slow the progression of arthritis, a review of many studies suggests.
The review found that a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory called Hydroxytyrosol in olive oil could help with the “survival” of special cells that produce and maintain cartilage.
The cells they protect are called chondrocytes and they help to move nutrients into the cartilage tissue from nearby blood cells.
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Although there is a lot of evidence that olives can help when added to your diet. But they should be eaten as part of a healthy, balanced diet.
“Eating a balanced diet and having a healthy lifestyle such as regular physical activity, not smoking, not drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can have a huge impact on arthritis and our health in general,” explains the charity Versus Arthritis.
With high wait times for many arthritis treatments, it can be difficult to deal with arthritis pain.
The charity Versus Arthritis has a helpline that can be reached on 0800 5200 520.
