Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for the body's function and have many potential health benefits. These include boosting both brain and cardiovascular function. However, there is some evidence that omega-3's may also contribute to immune health and may help control the symptoms of some autoimmune disorders. These include both rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3's are essential fatty acids that the body needs in order to function. They are called essential fatty acids because, unlike many other vitamins and nutrients, the body cannot make its own omega-3's. Instead, we have to get our daily allowance from the foods we eat or by taking supplements. Omega-3's are found naturally in many types of fish as well as some nuts and plants. Walnuts, olive oil and soybeans, and coldwater fish like tuna or mackerel are all rich sources of different omega-3 fatty acids.
The Immune System
Omega-3's may help control the symptoms of some autoimmune disorders. When you have an autoimmune disorder, parts of your body essentially attack itself, causing illness. Omega-3's are known to play a role in reducing inflammation in the body, which is often a characteristic of autoimmune diseases. The use of fish oil and other omega-3's in the treatment of arthritis, lupus and inflammatory bowel disease is under research, and initial results look promising. Omega-3's may also play a role in improving the body's immune response to certain chronic conditions. The evidence regarding this is a little less specific. Omega-3's have been shown in some smaller studies to decrease the risk of certain cancers, including breast, prostate and colon cancers. Whether this is due to a boost in immunity or other factors, however, is not yet clear.
General Health
While there may not be much evidence suggesting omega-3's can prevent you from getting sick, there is plenty of research on their role in your overall cardiovascular and brain health. Per MayoClinic.com, the strongest evidence for the use of fish oil is for its role in reducing high blood pressure and high triglyceride levels. While not directly linked to the immune system, omega-3's can prevent certain secondary complications of cardiovascular disease, such as a heart attack or stroke.
Getting Your Omega-3's
Most people can safely take up to 3 grams of fish oil daily. However, fish oil is not your only option when it comes to these essential fatty acids. UMMC reports that simply eating fish twice a week is enough for general health. If you are not a fish fan, you can also increase the amount of other omega-3-rich foods in your diet by cooking with olive oil and snacking on soybeans. While fish oil and other omega-3's are considered healthy and safe for most people, it is possible to overdo it. If you do opt for supplements, do not exceed your daily amount unless advised to do so by your doctor.
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