Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease characterized by inflammation of the intestinal tract. Although the exact cause of Crohn's disease is unclear, the University of Maryland Medical Center states that it may be caused by a faulty immune system. The severity of Crohn's can vary but common symptoms include vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea and weight loss. Crohn's is incurable but medicines such as sulfasalazine and mesalamine help to alleviate symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Dietary supplements may also play a role in the management of Crohn's disease. Omega-3 may help to reduce inflammation in Crohn's sufferers, although evidence to prove it is effective is limited. Talk to your doctor before incorporating omega three into your Crohn's treatment plan.
Properties and Potential Benefits
Omega-3 is a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid. In fact, there are two types of omega-3 fatty acids known as eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, both of which may play a role in the treatment of a number of ailments including asthma, depression, hypercholesterolemia, cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering cancer centre notes that omega-3 fatty acids may exert anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals, such as dialysate leukotriene B4.
Sources and Administration
Oily fish such as tuna, mackerel, cod-liver and herring are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. However, omega-3 fatty acids are commonly obtained through fish oil supplements, available as a liquid or in capsules. Flaxseed and linseed oil also contain small quantities of omega-3 fatty acids. The UMMC website suggests taking 2.7 g fish oil daily to help fight Crohn's-associated inflammation. Check with your doctor whether this dose is suitable for you.
Scientific Evidence
Evidence supporting the use of omega-3 fatty acids in the treatment of Crohn's disease is mixed. The results of a clinical trial published in the December 2005 issue of the "World Journal of Gastroenterology" found that omega-3s help to maintain disease remission in patients with Crohn's disease. However, patients in this trial took amino-salicylic-acid alongside omega-3 fatty acids, so it is difficult to know whether omega-3s have the same effect when used alone. An analysis of data from four clinical studies, published in the April 2007 "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews," concludes that although omega-3 fatty acids help to maintain Crohn's disease remission, there is not enough evidence to recommend them as a routine treatment for Crohn's disease.
Safety Considerations
Taking up to 3 g of fish oil daily is likely safe according to MedlinePlus. However, it may cause side effects including loose stools, bad breath, nausea and diarrhea. Taking more than 3 g daily may not be safe as it may make your immune system less effective and hinder blood clotting. Its use is contraindicated in several conditions including diabetes, hypertension, liver disease and bipolar disorder. It may also interact with other medicines including anti-hypertensive drugs, anticoagulants and contraceptives pills.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Crohn's Disease
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Omega-3
- "World Journal of Gastroenterology"; Usefulness of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation in Addition to Mesalazine in Maintaining Remission in Pediatric Crohn's Disease: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study; C. Romano et al.; December 2005
- "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews"; Omega 3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil) For Maintenance of Remission in Crohn's Disease; D. Turner et al.; April 2007
- MedlinePlus: Fish Oil
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