Osteoarthritis affects at least eight million British people and is often referred to as ‘wear-and-tear’ arthritis because it usually happens in joints exposed to stress. People who are overweight often develop osteoarthritis in their knees and hips and the pain can be relentless.
One of the most obvious approaches to tackling arthritis is to suggest losing weight to relieve pressure on the joints. However, what your GP might not tell you is that your diet can play a huge role in reducing the symptoms of arthritis.
Dr Michael Mosley from The Fast 800 says: “I'm 64 and like many people my age I have early signs of osteoarthritis. It is in my right knee, where I damaged the cartilage many years ago.”
“I manage my arthritis symptoms using The Mediterranean diet. It’s a delicious way of eating and I never feel hungry. The Mediterranean diet is rich in nuts, olive oil, fruits, vegetables, oily fish, and legumes. It also includes a moderate amount of red wine which is unexpected for most! A number of studies in people with arthritis have shown that switching to a Mediterranean diet can reduce inflammation, pain, and improve mobility.”
The fruit, vegetables and legumes so frequently featured in The Mediterranean diet contain lots of prebiotic fibres that will feed ‘good’ bacteria. Oily fish, rich in omega-3, has been shown in trials to help prevent and reduce arthritis. You’ll also find decent amount of ‘good bacteria’ in foods like onions, garlic, asparagus, leeks and, particularly, Jerusalem artichokes.
For more microbiome-friendly and recipes designed to boost levels of anti-inflammatory good bacteria, take a look at www.thefast800.com where you will find some delicious choices.
Sue Barnard, 66 from Bedfordshire has been using The Fast 800 online programme to help reduce her weight and in turn as noticed a marked improvement on her arthritis symptoms.
Sue explains “I have been overweight, and sometimes obese, for most of the past 30 years. I tried a couple of the major weight loss programmes but I couldn’t sustain the weight loss and I was often confused by the science behind the eating plans. I wanted to achieve permanent weight loss and, more importantly, a healthy body. I have arthritis and the excess weight was having a real physical impact on my mobility.”
“The Fast 800 is great for me because there are so many fantastic recipes. My favourites are Tex Mex Chicken and Bean and Roasted Veg with Cumin and Goats Cheese. I try to have at least one meat free meal each week and the plan has converted my previously vegetable avoiding husband!”
Sue goes on to say: “As I started to lose weight, I felt able to start some stretching and pilates type exercises at home and have joined the gym in order to tone up and improve my stamina.”
“Since embarking on The Fast 800, I’ve lost 44.5lbs and I'm feeling great as I head towards my target weight of 10st 7lbs. I can now walk without my knees aching and swelling. I can climb the stairs without dragging myself up to avoid pressure of my arthritic knees. My arthritis hasn’t gone but the impact has certainly reduced hugely.”
