Courtesy of MyPyramid.gov

Maintaining a healthy weight places less strain on your joints, this can lead to reduced pain and increased energy and mobility. Being overweight increases the load placed on joints such as the knees, and has been associated with cartilage damage and bone enlargement.³¹ Weight loss of even 1 pound can reduce the load exerted on the knee with each step taken, which can make a big difference when you add up the thousands of steps you take per day.³²

Eating a balanced diet is important to maintain overall health and can help you control your weight and the stress on your joints.