Omega-3s may reduce osteoarthritis risk

In addition to talking to their doctor about a prescription to buy hyalgan, there are many things women can do to reduce their risk of osteoarthritis. While medications are important, so too are lifestyle factors.

For example, a recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Bristol in the UK showed that female guinea pigs were significantly less likely to develop osteoporosis when they were fed a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Compared to animals fed a standard diet, these guinea pigs had a 50 percent lower risk.

Dr John Talton, who led the investigation, said that most people's diets are deficient of omega-3s, and increasing consumption of foods containing these nutrients or taking dietary supplements could play an important role in supporting joint health, as well as other areas of well-being.

"Most diets in the developed world are lacking in omega-3, with modern diets having up to 30 times too much omega-6 and too little omega-3. Taking omega-3 will help redress this imbalance and may positively contribute to a range of other health problems such as heart disease and colitis," Talton said.