In the UK, more than 10 million people have arthritis or similar conditions that affect the joints, with osteoarthritis being the most prevalent type. This represents about one in six people, and while it is more common in older individuals, arthritis can affect people of all ages, including children.
Whilst the primary treatments include lifestyle modifications such as exercise, physiotherapy, and medication, there remains no cure, with surgery potentially necessary in severe cases. Nevertheless, there are additional measures you can take to ease your symptoms, including altering your dietary choices. Doctor of Physical Therapy Dr El Mohandless (@drelmohandess) revealed to his 255.4k followers on TikTok that there’s an ingredient you can incorporate into your diet to help with the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
“One of the best natural remedies for arthritic pain and swelling is extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) as it has a compound called oleocanthal that has been scientifically proven to block the same inflammatory pathway as certain medicines like ibuprofen without any of the side effects,” he explained.
The nutritionist suggested incorporating a “couple of tablespoons to your meal every day,” which could provide a remarkably straightforward solution to help tackle symptoms.
According to arthritis.org, extra virgin olive oil “has also been studied for its protective benefits in inflammatory autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.”
The website went on to state: “Human, animal and lab experiments have shown that the polyphenols in EVOO effectively combat inflammation and improve arthritis symptoms in joints and throughout the body.
“Some experts believe EVOO is the primary reason the Mediterranean diet helps prevent a host of chronic diseases, although the exact amount required for effectiveness has not been determined.”
The site also dispelled misconceptions surrounding extra virgin olive oil’s storage life, cautioning that it can deteriorate in particular circumstances.
It “shouldn’t be refrigerated” but does “start to go rancid when exposed to light and air”.
They recommended shoppers purchase “small amounts you can use within a month or two of opening”.