Researchers at the University of North Carolina say there’s evidence that losing a few extra pounds may help overweight people reduce their risk of developing osteoarthritis of the knees (OA).

The study looked at weight changes among more than 1,400 subjects who did not have OA in at least one knee for six years. They found that moderate weight loss, which was defined as losing a minimum of 5 percent of total body weight, helped decrease the likelihood of developing the debilitating disease.

"It was our hope that people who maintained weight would have reduced risk, but obesity is such a strong risk factor for OA, that maintaining weight showed no significant benefit," said lead researcher Lauren Abbate.

Scientists involved with the study point out that even moderate weight loss can be difficult for some to achieve. They suggest that people look at percentages of their total weight when making goals instead of shooting for an ideal number.

OA affects as many as 27 million Americans and is the most common joint disease among middle-aged and older people.

According to AAFP.com, nutritional supplements containing glucosamine, chondroitin, devil’s claw, turmeric and ginger are all believed to help treat OA.