Health Discoveries in General Health News
Garlic and onions may play role in osteoarthritis prevention
January 10, 2011
A diet high in allium vegetables - including garlic, onions and leeks - may lower levels of hip osteoarthritis, a UK study has found.
The study by researchers at King's College London and the University of East Anglia involved more than 1,000 female twins, including many who had no symptoms of arthritis.
The participants' diets were assessed and x-rays were taken of their hips, knees and spines. Those who maintained a healthy diet and consumed fruits and vegetables that contained alliums showed less osteoarthritis, particularly in their hip joints.
In laboratory tests, the researchers also focused on a compound within garlic called diallyl disulphide, which appeared to limit cartilage-damaging enzymes.
"While we don't yet know if eating garlic will lead to high levels of this component in the joint, these findings may point the way towards future treatments and prevention of hip osteoarthritis," said Dr. Frances Williams, of King's Department of Twin Research.
Exercise and aquatic classes for people with arthritis are sponsored by facilities within the North Shore-LIJ Health System in cooperation with the Long Island Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation.
The study by researchers at King's College London and the University of East Anglia involved more than 1,000 female twins, including many who had no symptoms of arthritis.
The participants' diets were assessed and x-rays were taken of their hips, knees and spines. Those who maintained a healthy diet and consumed fruits and vegetables that contained alliums showed less osteoarthritis, particularly in their hip joints.
In laboratory tests, the researchers also focused on a compound within garlic called diallyl disulphide, which appeared to limit cartilage-damaging enzymes.
"While we don't yet know if eating garlic will lead to high levels of this component in the joint, these findings may point the way towards future treatments and prevention of hip osteoarthritis," said Dr. Frances Williams, of King's Department of Twin Research.
Exercise and aquatic classes for people with arthritis are sponsored by facilities within the North Shore-LIJ Health System in cooperation with the Long Island Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation.