Arthritis: Four fruits full of potassium that could protect joints - expert

As part of the research a group of participants with RA experienced less pain after taking a potassium supplement for 28 days, compared to those who didn't.

The paper says: "In the potassium group, 43.75 percent of the patients met the criteria of 33 percent lower pain intensity compared with 6.25 percent in the placebo group at day 28.

"Also, 31.25 percent of the patients in the intervention group achieved moderate responses, according to the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology criteria.

"The corresponding percentage for patients receiving placebo was 6.25 percent.

"Potassium supplements appeared to decrease pain intensity."

Also it is possible to buy potassium supplements, Dr Morrison specifically recommended four fruits to add to your diet that could help raise potassium levels.

"Good sources include bananas, melons, oranges and apricots," she said.

One hundred grams of banana contains 358mg of potassium, whereas the same amount of melon has 267mg.

One hundred grams of oranges has 181mg of potassium and apricot has 259mg.

However, dried apricot is more potassium rich with 100g containing 1,162mg.

Almost nine million people in the UK suffer with osteoarthritis - making it the most common form of the condition.

It mainly affects joints in the hands, knees, spine and hips.

Arthritis© Express.co.uk

Rheumatoid arthritis is the second most common and occurs when the body's immune system targets affected joints, causing pain and swelling.

Initially it compromises the smooth cartilage lining of the joint, making movement more difficult and leading to pain and stiffness.

Symptoms of arthritis will depend on the type, but can include:

Reference: Daily Express: Fiona Callingham