Weight control is extremely important in delaying the onset of arthritis and in reducing pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Therefore, eating a well-balanced, calorie-controlled diet is a must for arthritis sufferers.

As well as eating to maintain a healthy weight, there are certain foods that may help improve the symptoms of arthritis.

Munch like a Mediterranean. A Mediterranean diet – a diet high in fruits, vegetables, legumes and olive oil – may help improve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Over a period of three months during a Swedish study, significant improvements were seen for sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis, including less pain and less inflammation.

Zest and zinc. Results from a separate study also suggest that citrus fruits and zinc supplements may play a role in improving the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers found that those who had included higher levels of citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruits, in their diet over a number of years had a decreased risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. Those who took zinc supplements were also at a decreased risk.

One of the authors of the study, Dr James Cerhan of the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, is cautious, however, about recommending you rush out and buy zinc supplements, saying that further studies are required. What he does recommend is including more fruit and vegetables in your diet. "Here's another reason to eat your fruits and vegetables," he says. "Not only can they protect you from chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease, but now they may also prevent rheumatoid arthritis."

Fit fats. Certain types of polyunsaturated fat, particularly Omega 3 fatty acids, have a mild anti-inflammatory effect which can help ease symptoms of arthritis. Fish are a rich source of Omega 3 fats. Generally, the oilier the fish the greater the amount of Omega 3 fats. For example, sardines and salmon are good choices.