Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing pain, swelling and reduced mobility. A progressive joint disorder, rheumatoid arthritis may eventually destroy the affected joint if left untreated. However, anti-rheumatic drugs and anti-inflammatory medicines may help to slow disease progression and reduce symptoms. Omega-3 fatty acids may also help to reduce inflammation, although they should not be used in place of prescription drugs. Get medical advice before incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into your rheumatoid arthritis treatment program.
Properties and Potential Benefits
Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fatty acids, sometimes referred to as "good" fats. There are two omega-3 fatty acids known as eicosapentaenoic acids and docosahexaenoic acid, both of which may play a role in the treatment of a number of disorders, including cystic fibrosis, depression, cardiovascular disease and schizophrenia. The University of Maryland Medical Center adds that it may alleviate joint discomfort in rheumatoid arthritis,but that that there is no evidence that it can prevent joint damage.
Sources and Dosage
Fatty fish such as trout, cod liver, herring and mackerel are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. However, taking a fish oil supplement, either in capsules or as a liquid, is a common way of obtaining omega-3s. The UMMC website notes that up to 2.6 g of fish oil daily is sometimes used to alleviate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. However, this dosage is only intended as a general guideline -- ask your doctor whether it is appropriate for you.
Effectiveness
An analysis of data from 17 clinical studies published in the May 2007 issue of "Pain" show that taking omega-3 fatty acids for three to four months helps to reduce joint pain and stiffness in patients with inflammatory joint disease. In addition, research findings published in the May 2008 issue of "Rheumatology" show that patients taking omega-3 fatty acids were able to reduce their dose of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Safety Considerations
Taking a fish oil supplement as a source of omega-3 fatty acids is likely safe for most people, according to MedlinePlus, although it may cause mild side effects such as bad breath, body odor and loose stools. Taking more than 3 g daily, however, may not be safe as it may increase the risk of bruising and bleeding and may hinder the body's ability to fight infection. Fish oil is contraindicated in a number of conditions, including depression, diabetes, hypertension and liver disease. It might also interact with other medicines you may be using, including the birth control pill and antibiotics.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Omega-3
- "Pain"; A Meta-Analysis of the Analgesic Effects of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation for Inflammatory Joint Pain; R.J. Goldberg and J. Katz; May 2007
- "Rheumatology"; Cod Liver Oil (N-3 Fatty Acids) as a Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug Sparing Agent in Rheumatoid Arthritis; B. Galarraga, et al.; May 2008
- MedlinePlus: Fish Oil
Member Comments