Inulin improves knee osteoarthritisEffect of prebiotic fiber on physical function and gut microbiota in adults, mostly women, with knee osteoarthritis and obesity: a randomized controlled trial.
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We examined the potential benefits of inulin, a type of prebiotic fiber, for improving the physical function and overall well-being of adults with knee osteoarthritis and obesity. Over six months, 54 participants, mostly women, were randomly assigned to take either inulin or a placebo while undergoing several performance tests, alongside monitoring their pain levels, body composition, gut health, and metabolic markers.
Our findings revealed several encouraging results. Those who received inulin showed greater improvements in certain physical performance tests compared to those taking the placebo. Notably, we observed a reduction in trunk fat among the inulin group, and there was a trend suggesting they experienced less knee pain as well. Interestingly, the gut microbiota analysis highlighted changes in beneficial bacteria, particularly an increase in Bifidobacterium, which was linked to better physical performance.
The changes in serum metabolites further underscored the positive effects of inulin, with enhancements in certain metabolic processes. While these results are promising and suggest that prebiotics could offer a new avenue for managing knee osteoarthritis in individuals with obesity, more extensive trials are necessary to confirm these findings. Overall, this study strengthens the case for considering dietary fibers, like inulin, in arthritis treatment strategies.
Knee relief
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Excellent osteoarthritis treatment. This pretty much cured my knee osteoarthritis—evidence suggests FOS is very effective—so I can't recommend it highly enough. It also tastes pleasant and is affordable! For effectiveness, take at least 10g (4 tsp) daily; there may be some gas initially, so start slowly.