Osteoarthritis is a common condition characterized by damage to the cartilage, the tissue that cushions the body's joints. As a result, the bones are able to rub together which causes pain and swelling. Although it can affect any joy in the body, it usually affects the knees, hips and hands. It is most common in people older than 50 and is more likely to affect women than men. If you suffer from this condition, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medicines and painkillers. You may also require physiotherapy and in some cases, surgery. Omega-3 fatty acids may help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms, however, scientific evidence to prove they are effective is limited. Consult with your doctor before incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into your treatment program.
Properties and Sources
Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid. There are two main forms known as eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, which according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, may exert anti-inflammatory effects. Oily fish such as tuna, mackerel, herring and salmon are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. You can also obtain omega-3 fatty acids by taking a fish oil supplement. Flaxseed oil and linseed oil also contain omega-3 fatty acids but only in small quantities. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that taking 1 tbsp. of fish oil daily may help to reduce inflammation. Confirm with your doctor that this dose is safe for you.
Efficacy
Few clinical studies have examined the role of omega-3 fatty acids in the treatment of osteoarthritis. However, the results of a laboratory-based study published in the July 2009 issue of "Osteoarthritis Cartilage," show that omega-3 fatty acids reduced the expression of proteins that play a key role in the development of osteoarthritis. Earlier research published in the August 2002 issue of "The Proceedings of the Nutrition Society," found that omega-3 fatty acids reduce the degradation of cartilage cells, leading the authors to conclude that they may play a role in the treatment of degenerative joint disease.
Side Effects
Taking a fish oil supplement as a means of obtaining omega-3 fatty acids is likely safe, according to MedlinePlus. However, side effects may include heartburn, belching, loose stools and bad breath. Taking more than 3 g daily, however, may be unsafe as it could increase the risk of bleeding and may also compromise your immune system. It may also increase your cholesterol levels. Some fish may contain environmental pollutants, including toxic heavy metals. As such eating large quantities may be unsafe.
Contraindications
Fish oil supplements are not suitable for everyone. Do not take a fish oil supplement if you have liver disease, depression, diabetes, hypertension or HIV as it may exacerbate your condition. Fish oil may interact with several other drugs that you may be taking including birth control pills, anticoagulants, some anti-hypertensives and the drug, orlistat. It may also reduce your vitamin E levels.
References
- NHS Choices: Osteoarthritis
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Omega-3
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Osteoarthritis
- PubMed.gov: Relative Efficacies of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Reducing Expression of key Proteins in a Model system for Studying Osteoarthritis
- PubMed.gov: Effects of n-3 Fatty Acids on Cartilage Metabolism
- MedlinePlus: Fish Oil
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