Hannah Fry

And so randomized controlled trials are basically the gold standard of scientific testing?

There was a big impact for both these groups with these different types of arthritis.

Yes.

scientists can get really excited about something that's like it's statistically significant but it's like a two percent change and so the scientists get really excited about it but it's like a normal person or patient you're like well that doesn't really going to change my life like does this actually make any difference to the symptoms and how they were going to feel after this

They were able to actually give up their medications, because you were talking about how serious this is.

Yes.

So that seems rather amazing.

The results of that study were remarkable.

Many participants didn't just feel a bit better.

Some improved enough to reduce or even stop certain medications under medical supervision.

So what does an arthritis-friendly way of eating actually look like in practice?

I asked Tomiko to break it down into something simple you could picture on your plate at home.

And she used a straightforward approach called the plate method.

Finding better ways to look after our joints is hugely important.

Pain doesn't just hurt in the moment.

It can stop us from moving, from doing the exercise and strength work that keeps us healthier for longer.

This year, I also learned that building muscle isn't only about getting stronger or changing how we look.

Muscle plays a crucial role in how our bodies handle blood sugar and inflammation.

My conversation with best-selling author and double board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Vonda Wright opened my eyes to how vital muscle tissue is for long-term health and independence, especially as we age.

So having more muscle doesn't just help you lift things.