Rheumatoid Arthritis & Omega-3

A diet low in essential omega-3 fatty acids is likely to worsen symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential raw materials that your body uses to produce anti-inflammatory signals that balance the inflammatory response in your body. In rheumatoid arthritis, your immune system continually inflames your joints causing damage, pain and stiffness. Omega-3 deficiency may worsen the progression of the disease by allowing inflammation to grow unchecked and may have played a role in the origination of the disease.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease plaguing an increasing proportion of the aging population. The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is currently unknown. Rheumatoid arthritis predominantly affects joints, causing loss of movement, pain and damage to the joints. Fatigue, weakness and a low fever may also be present. Infection, genes and hormones may contribute to disease progression. Treatment usually includes anti-inflammatory drugs.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are a class of essential polyunsaturated fatty acids used by the body in the production of inflammatory-regulating molecules called eicosanoids. Omega-3 fatty acids produce primarily anti-inflammatory signals, whereas omega-6 fatty acids are used in the production of both pro- and anti-inflammatory signals. The modern diet is deficient in omega-3 but high in omega-6 consumption, possibly biasing the body toward chronic inflammation, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Omega-3 and Inflammation

Increasing intake of omega-3 fatty acids will not cure rheumatoid arthritis and does not replace prescription medications. However, a diet deficient in omega-3 fatty acids appears to worsen the progression of symptoms. Omega fatty acids are used to produce eicosanoids, the process that is inhibited by most of the anti-inflammatory medications used to treat arthritis. An omega-3 rich diet appears to be an important part of rheumatoid arthritis treatment.

Adding Omega-3 to Your Diet

Omega-3 fatty acids are found in high amounts in cold-water fish such as salmon, mackerel, halibut, sardines, tuna and herring and from plant sources including flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts and oils including canola, soy, pumpkin seed, flax and walnut. Adults should try to consume at least two servings of fish per week. Omega-3 supplements from fish oil or flax oil are available but should not make up more than 3 to 4 g of your daily intake. There is currently no specific recommended intake for omega-3 fatty acids, notes UMMC.

Rheumatoid Arthritis & Omega-3