18% Less Osteoarthritis with Allium Veggies, One Study Found
We love leeks, garlic, onions, shallots and other allium vegetables for the pungent flavor they lend to so many recipes -- but recent research suggests another reason to load up on allium vegetables: possible protection against osteoarthritis.
British researchers rounded up 654 sets of twins (average age 59) and compared a detailed assessment of dietary habits with x-rays of hips, knees and hands. Overall, a diet rich in fruit and vegetables was linked to significantly lower incidence of osteoarthritis (as indicated by less cartilage between the joints and more bone spurs). In particular, a high intake of allium vegetables translated into an 11% lower osteoarthritis risk.
