Two fatty acids are dietary essentials in humans. Linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid, is used in the production of prostaglandins. Linolenic acid is an omega-3 fatty acid found in plants; it is a precursor for other omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA, which are also found in fish oils. Omega-3 has many health benefits, which include anti-inflammatory effects. This essential fatty acid may therefore offer some relief in some forms of arthritis.
Arthritis Types
Arthritis, which literally means inflammation of the joint, exists in two major varieties. Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, is the most common type of joint disease. It results from "wear and tear" and involves the progressive erosion of cartilage. Though the term implies inflammation, there is little or no inflammatory component. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disorder that may affect several tissues but principally attacks the joints. Unlike OA, RA is an inflammatory condition.
Omegas and Inflammation
The prostaglandins, formed from omega-6 fatty acids, are involved in the pain and fever in inflammation, which can worsen with excessive omega-6 in the diet. Aspirin and ibuprofen relieve these symptoms by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins. By this same effect, omega-3 can also reduce the pain and fever associated with inflammation.
Sources
Omega-3s are found in fatty fish like sardines. Considering the degree of pollution in many oceans, alternate sources should be sought. Walnuts are often cited for their omega-3 content, but walnuts contain much more omega-6. Leafy green vegetables and seeds such as flax and chia are possibly better sources of omega-3. Individuals with insulin resistance may be deficient in the enzyme necessary to produce DHA and EPA. A simple blood test can confirm deficiencies. Ask your doctor.
Treatment
The primary objectives in treating rheumatoid arthritis are reduction of inflammation and pain. To this end, medications such as ibuprofen -- an NSAID -- and steroids are often prescribed, but have a wide range of side effects including stomach and kidney toxicity. An analysis of 17 randomized, controlled clinical trials undertaken by the University of Maryland suggests that omega-3 fatty acids, along with conventional therapies such as NSAIDs, may help relieve joint pain associated with this form of arthritis.
Warning
Generally, Western diets contain excess dietary omega-6 fatty acids, which are found abundantly in vegetable oils including olive, canola and soybean oils, and in grains and grain-fed meat. Omega-6 compete with the formation of products derived from omega-3. Therefore, it is wise to reduce consumption of these pro-inflammatory fats, or consider supplementing your omega-3 intake in pill form. The acceptable range for linolenic acid is 0.6 to 1.2 percent of total calories. On a 2,000-calorie diet, this amounts to roughly 20 calories, or around 2g.
References
- "Biochemistry"; Champe et al.; 2005
- "Pathologic Basis of Disease"; Kumar et al.; 2005
- "Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment"; Stephen J. McPhee; 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- "Eat for Health"; Joel Fuhrman, M.D.; 2008
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