Antioxidants in rapberries may provide a significant amount of support for joint health, according to a new study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

For the study, researchers from the University of Rhode Island tested the effect of polyphenols, a type of antioxidant, on joint tissue in a laboratory setting. They also assessed the effects of supplementing rodent diets with the antioxidants.

The results from both trials showed that polyphenols are an effective substance to support joint health. Still, further investigation in humans is needed to determine whether or not these benefits directly translate.

While these studies need to be conducted before antioxidants can be forcefully recommended, there is a good deal of evidence to suggest they may have a benefit. The researchers said that polyphenols have been shown in previous investigations to control inflammation, which is one of the main causes of joint health problems.

Raspberries are among the best sources of these inflammation-fighting polyphenols, but individuals may also be able to find them in common nutritional supplements. This may be an effective strategy for supporting joint health.