If you’ve been told that arthritis is irreversible... 

That pain and stiffness are just part of getting older... 

And that your only real options are long-term medications or surgery—you’re not alone.

In fact, this is one of the most common and persistent myths surrounding osteoarthritis (OA)—the most prevalent form of arthritis, affecting over 27 million Americans.

But here’s the truth:

New research suggests that arthritis isn’t just about “wear and tear.” It’s about inflammation. 

And that means you may have far more control than you’ve been led to believe.

A Different Path to Relief

In a recent study published in Pain Medicine, researchers looked at seniors with knee osteoarthritis and tested how different diets influenced both their pain and their internal oxidative stress—a major driver of inflammation and joint damage.

The participants were divided into three groups: one ate a standard diet, one followed a low-fat plan, and one followed a low-carb, anti-inflammatory diet.

The result?

The low-carb group reported significantly less joint pain and showed lower levels of oxidative stress—a marker of chronic inflammation. 

And when you consider how many painkillers come with risks—including dependency, gut damage, and immune suppression—this dietary approach becomes even more compelling.

So, What’s Really Causing the Pain?

We often associate arthritis with aging or excess weight. And while those can play a role, there’s another culprit that often flies under the radar: the food on your plate.

One animal study published in Disease Models & Mechanisms revealed that diets high in sugar and fiber increased signs of joint degeneration—even when weight remained stable.

In particular:

Sugar increased inflammatory markers in the joints

Fiber unexpectedly altered genes tied to cartilage repair and cell stress

While fiber can be beneficial in the right context, these findings show that when paired with sugar or consumed excessively, it might worsen joint health for some individuals.

That’s why focusing on the right foods is critical. 

For example:

🐟 Fatty fish (like salmon and sardines) deliver anti-inflammatory omega-3s

🥩Grass-fed meats and wild seafood support connective tissue repair

🥦 Low-carb, polyphenol-rich vegetables help reduce oxidative stress

By choosing foods that actively reduce inflammation—and cutting out those that worsen it—you’re giving your joints the environment they need to heal.

And remember...

It’s not just about what’s on your plate—it’s also about how you care for your body each day.

Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce pressure on your joints and help ease everyday discomfort.

And when it comes to movement, even the smallest actions can make a big difference...

Turn Knee Pain “OFF” With This Simple Exercise

A little known study by the National Institute of Health discovered a GENTLE type of “micro-movement” which decreases Knee Pain by 58%!!

You can do this type of movement without ever leaving your home, causing strain or breaking a sweat.

And here’s what’s most important…

Injury Prevention & Naturopathic expert, Todd Kuslikis M.P.A., recently created a brand-new FREE presentation…

There he’ll tell you everything you need to know about “micro-movements’…

And how to use his proprietary 5-min “F.G.K. Method” to get out of knee pain FAST.

To Your Health,
Healing Gourmet

References

Strath LJ, et al. The Effect of Low-Carbohydrate and Low-Fat Diets on Pain in Individuals with Knee Osteoarthritis. Pain Med. 2019 Mar 13. 
 

Donovan EL, et al. Independent effects of dietary fat and sucrose content on chondrocyte metabolism and osteoarthritis pathology in mice. Disease Models & Mechanisms, 2018.