Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease characterized by ulceration of the inner layers of the colon and rectum. Common symptoms include weight loss, abdominal pain, anemia and rectal bleeding. Anti-inflammatory drugs help to alleviate symptoms, although people with severe ulcerative colitis may require surgery. Omega-3 fatty acids may also help to reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Consult your doctor before taking omega-3s, and don't take them in place of prescription medicines.
Properties
The two forms of omega-3 fatty acids are known as eicosapentaenoic, or EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA. Both are polyunsaturated fatty acids, the so-called "good fats." The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center notes that omega-3 acids may have a number of therapeutic effects and may play a role in the treatment of a number of conditions including cancer and high cholesterol. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) adds that they may also make certain prescription ulcerative colitis medicines more effective.
Sources and Administration
Fatty fish such as salmon, herring, tuna and mackerel are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. However, you may prefer to take a fish oil supplement. Linseed oil also contain small amount of EPA and DHA. UMMC suggests taking a fish oil supplement containing 3.7 g of EPA and 2.2 g of DHA daily. However, you should check with your doctor before taking this amount, as consuming more than 3 g of fish oil daily may cause side effects.
Efficacy
Evidence to support the role of omega-3 fatty acids in the treatment of ulcerative colitis is mixed. The results of a study published in the "European Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology" in May 2010 show that omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, offer protection against ulcerative colitis. However, a review of data from nine clinical studies published in the January 2011 issue of "Inflammatory Bowel Diseases" concludes that there is insufficient data to support the use of omega-3 fatty acids as an ulcerative colitis treatment.
Safety Considerations
Taking less than 3 g daily is likely safe, according to MedlinePlus, but side effects may include belching, heartburn, loose stools and nosebleeds. Taking more than 3 g daily may not be safe, as it may affect your blood's ability to clot. Taking fish oil to obtain omega-3 fatty acids may not be suitable for everyone. For example, its use is contraindicated in a number of conditions including HIV and diabetes. It may also interfere with the action of other drugs, including the birth control pill and antihypertensives.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ulcerative Colitis
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Omega-3
- MedlinePlus: Fish Oil
- "European Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology"; Dietary n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and the Aetiology of Ulcerative Colitis: A UK Prospective Cohort Study; S.John et al.; May 2010
- "Inflammatory Bowel Diseases"; Maintenance of Remission in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Using Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses; D. Turner et al.; January 2011
Member Comments