The effect of different dietary approaches on osteoarthritis symptoms Original paper
In this meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, reduced-calorie diets improved symptoms of osteoarthritis.
This Study Summary was published on June 3, 2025.
The study
The meta-analysis included 9 randomized controlled trials with a total of 898 participants. In 8 of the trials, the participants had knee osteoarthritis and either overweight or obesity (1 trial did not provide this information).
Reduced-calorie diets improved pain (3 trials) and physical function (4 trials) and reduced body weight by 3.1 kilograms/6.8 pounds (3 trials).
In 1 trial, a reduced-calorie diet with various purportedly anti-inflammatory components — which is covered in detail in this study summary — improved pain and physical function and reduced body weight by 3.2 kilograms/7 pounds.
Several other diets (Mediterranean, low-fat, and low-carbohydrate) were assessed, but evidence for these diets was limited to 1 to 2 trials each and showed no clear effects on pain or physical function.
If you do not have an account, please click here to create a free account.
If you want to stay on top of the latest research, .
The results
Get free weekly updates on what’s new at Examine.
This Study Summary was published on June 3, 2025.
References
- ^Shahid A, Thirumaran AJ, Christensen R, Venkatesha V, Henriksen M, Bowden JL, Hunter DJComparison of weight loss interventions in overweight and obese adults with knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized trials.Osteoarthritis Cartilage.(2025 Apr)