Health · Fitness & Nutrition · 12 hrs ago
Diet changes and low-impact exercise may help manage osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis affects the joints and can make everyday activities such as walking or climbing stairs painful.
A review of nine clinical trials involving 898 people found that dietary changes were linked to less pain, better physical function and an average weight loss of 3.18 kilograms.
Calorie-restricted diets showed the clearest benefits, while the available results for Mediterranean diets did not show a clear improvement in pain or mobility.
Losing some weight may reduce pressure on joints such as the knees, hips and ankles.
Exercise does not always worsen joint problems, and suitable movement can help maintain mobility and strengthen supporting muscles.
Water-based exercise and chair yoga are low-impact options for people who find exercise on land difficult.
Diet and exercise are additions to medical care, not replacements, and the right approach depends on a person’s symptoms and overall health.
A review of nine clinical trials found that dietary interventions were associated with less pain, better physical function and weight loss in people with osteoarthritis.
The trials included 898 participants and examined several dietary patterns.
Calorie-restriction programs showed the most consistent benefits, while evidence on the Mediterranean diet was inconclusive for pain and mobility.
Rheumatologist Elaine Husni said low-impact movement can help preserve joint movement and strengthen supporting muscles.
Diet and exercise changes can be part of osteoarthritis care but do not replace medical treatment.
- Who
- People with osteoarthritis; the review included 898 participants.
- What
- A review found dietary interventions were associated with less pain, better physical function and weight loss. Low-impact exercise may also help manage symptoms.
- When
- Infobae published the article on 2026-10-12.
- Where
- Not stated
- Why
- The changes may help ease symptoms, improve mobility and reduce pressure on weight-bearing joints.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
This story does not have a timeline yet.
- Clinical trials reviewed
- 9 randomized trials
- Participants
- 898 people with osteoarthritis
- Average weight loss
- 3.18 kilograms across dietary interventions
- Calorie-restriction programs
- Average weight loss of 3.13 kilograms
- Journal
- European Journal of Clinical Nutrition
What people are saying
The idea that moving the affected area always worsens the condition is a myth.
A healthy diet and maintaining an appropriate weight can make a difference for people living with osteoarthritis.
Sources
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