Decades ago, researchers discovered that the Maoris, even in old age, enjoyed an excellent condition of their joints. However, this was only true for the Maoris living on the coast. In search of the cause, the researchers came across the green-lipped mussel, which played a significant role in the diet of the coastal inhabitants. Researchers discovered that the green-lipped mussel had a positive effect on the joints when they compared the eating habits of people living on the coast with those living inland. Furthermore, they found that the latter, with their preference for green-lipped mussels, were much less likely to suffer from inflammatory joint problems than their counterparts living further inland.