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Research suggests simple changes like moving more and eating the right food could be the key to tackling the painful condition that affects 10 million UK adults.

Some 8.5 million sufferers have the most common form osteoarthritis which is caused by wear and tear on joints.

For decades it was thought to simply be part of growing old but now research suggests cases of arthritis could be rocketing because of chronically unhealthy lifestyles.

Ali Mobasheri, Professor of Musculoskeletal Physiology at the University of Surrey, said: Chronic diseases all have an inflammatory component and this seems to be driven by our sedentary lifestyles. We are moving less and our diets have changed we are basically sitting on multiple health time bombs. Arthritis can be accelerated if people are obese because it has a hugely negative impact on joints. The answer is to eat well, control weight and move more.

Joints need regular movement to work properly.

Arthritis causes stiffness, swelling, and tenderness when joints are moved generally in the knees, hips and hands.

It typically affects people over the age of 40 and was previously thought to be due to muscles weakening and the body being less able to heal itself, or the joints slowly wearing out over time.

Joints need regular movement to work properly

Professor Ali Mobasheri

But the major review found the onset of the incurable condition is not inevitable.

The search for new ways of treating debilitating complaints comes after research showed nearly half of all British adults now live with chronic back pain or arthritis.

Up to 28 million people, or 43 per cent of all adults, have been in pain for more than three months with the problem set to worsen as the population lives longer, according to a review of 19 previous studies involving 140,000 people.

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Just one in seven adults under 25 reported chronic pain compared with almost two-thirds of people over the age of 75.

Problems like lower back pain or osteoarthritis affect 35 to 51 per cent of adults, with women most likely to suffer.

Prof Mobasheris research, published in journal Nature Reviews Rheumatology, is a damning indictment of 21st century living where shocking levels of inactivity and diets loaded with sugars are believed to be the major culprits.

Crucially, his research identified a link between metabolism and osteoarthritis.

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Studies show weight gain can increase inflammation and exacerbate arthritis.

Metabolic changes, caused by a poor diet and sedentary lifestyles, reduce the bodys ability to use energy sources efficiently, forcing it to generate alternative sources.

The stress this places on cells leads to an overproduction of metabolic and inflammatory substances, which is difficult for the body to flush out.

Abnormal levels in the body leads to inflammation of the joints cartilage which impedes on movement and causes pain.

Prof Mobasheri, presidentelect of the Osteoarthritis Research Society International, said: For too long osteoarthritis has been known as the wear and tear disease and it has been assumed that it is part and parcel of getting older. However, this is not the case and what we have learnt is that we can control and prevent the onset of this painful condition.

It is important never to underestimate the significance of a healthy diet and lifestyle as not only does it impact upon our general wellbeing but can alter the metabolic behaviour of our cells, tissues and organs leading to serious illnesses. The best advice is to control weight and avoid eating excess sugar.

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Experts recommend we take at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week and eat five portions of fresh fruit and vegetables every day.

Dr Natalie Carter, of Arthritis Research UK, said: We agree that arthritis isnt a wear and tear condition but can be managed by a healthy lifestyle, supported by a good diet and regular exercise.

Being overweight can put more strain on the joints, increasing the likelihood of developing arthritis. We are continuing to invest in research that looks at how diet, exercise and a range of other factors can help to prevent and limit the pain caused by osteoarthritis.

Read the original:
Simple way to beat of arthritis: Balanced diet and exercise can help fight misery diseases - Express.co.uk

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