Arthritis prevention may be more achievable through proper nutrition, a lead specialist told GB News.
Double board-certified pain physician Dr Sheetal De Caria recommended dietary choices and vitamin supplementation as the optimal approach to managing the condition.
She told GB News: "I always recommend having your vitamin D levels checked annually, as vitamin D deficiency is common in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and can worsen their symptoms.
"For osteoarthritis, the wear and tear type of arthritis, vitamin D supplement has been shown to significantly decrease pain and improve function."
Arthritis are frequently deficient in vitamin D
GETTYDoctor DeCaria highlighted that findings from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons underscore the benefits of different supplements for arthritis.
"The ones with the best evidence, particularly for knee osteoarthritis, are turmeric, ginger, glucosamine, and chondroitin," she noted.
Different types of arthritis may benefit from specific vitamins, with vitamin B12 showing promise for treating symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
There is evidence that vitamin B12 may alleviate symptoms of the condition by strengthening nerve fibres, for example.
Vitamin C, on the other hand, supports collagen synthesis and reduces joint inflammation.
Dr DeCaria noted that vitamin K, on the other hand, can "prevent joint calcification and osteoporosis in rheumatoid arthritis patients".
"Eating a well-balanced diet is key," she emphasised. "I highly recommend a Mediterranean-style diet, rich in nuts and fruits and vegetables."
To maximise vitamin intake, Britons should aim to eat "the rainbow", meaning fruits and vegetables of various colours.
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Vitamin D supplementation may reduce pain in arthritis patients
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Dr DeCaria added: "Try to cook with spices, as many (turmeric, ginger etc...) are beneficial for arthritis and in reducing inflammation."
Almonds were highlighted as a particularly beneficial snack choice to appease arthritis symptoms.
"Grab a handful of almonds. Almonds can help arthritis due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
"In fact, a systemic review found that eating almonds significantly reduced blood markers of inflammation (CRP and IL-6)," DeCaria explained.
