Boston University School of Medicine has researchers checking the eating habits of those with osteoarthritis of the knee. The people getting the most vitamin C (over 200 mg a day) were three times less likely to have the disease worsen than those who got the least vitamin C (less than 120 mg a day). Timothy McAlindon, the study leader says, “Vitamin C may also help generate collagen, which enhances the body’s ability to repair damage to the cartilage.” And he also recommends that people get at least 120 mg of vitamin C a day in their diets.

One little red acerola fruit contains 81 mg of vitamin C and is also recommended if you can find out. Ginger has also been reviewed recently in studies for osteoarthritis. It has shown promise in slowing or even reversing osteoarthritis. A Danish study watched 56 people with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis who had fresh or powdered ginger. It gave relief in 55% of the participants in the study for those with osteoarthritis and 74% of those with rheumatoid arthritis. Some say that is because it’s similar to asprin in its chemical structure and may block the formation of inflammation. You can try this by using a mild tea with 3 or 4 slices of fresh ginger in boiling water.