Fish Oils & Cytokines

Cytokines are small molecules made by immune cells that affect how other cells behave or interact with each other. This type of signalling molecule, usually a small protein, plays an important role in triggering inflammation that occurs when your body fights off disease. Inflammation also occurs in some disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, tendinitis or bursitis. Fish oil contains healthy fats called omega-3 fatty acids that may help prevent or diminish cytokine production and inflammation. Consult your doctor to discuss whether you should consume fish oil or omega-3 fatty acid supplements.

Cytokines

Cytokines, sometimes called chemokines, make up a large group of proteins made by many different types of immune cells. Examples include interleukins, which control interactions between white blood cells, tumor necrosis factor, which triggers early events in inflammation, and interferon, which activates many classes of immune cells. When these chemicals are released, they increase blood flow to an area and cause redness and swelling. This may result in further irritation, producing pain and discomfort.

Fish Oil

Some types of fish contain oil that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, a healthy form of fat that the body must obtain from food. These fats are polyunsaturated and good for your cardiovascular system, including your heart. Omega-3 fatty acids lower levels of triglycerides, a type of unhealthy fat that circulates in your blood. They may also help suppress cytokines and the inflammation they cause.

Fish Oil and Cytokines

Fish oil may lower your immune system's output of certain cytokines that are involved in inflammation. In a study published in "Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine" in 2011, men untrained in exercise consumed either omega-3 fatty acids or a placebo before taking part in a strenuous training program for 60 days. Their blood levels of several cytokines, including interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha, were measured before and during the exercise program. The subjects who took omega-3 fatty acids had less elevation in these cytokines than did the subjects who took the placebo. These are promising results, although larger studies of fish oil and cytokines in human subjects are still needed.

Food Sources

Fatty fish that live in cold water are excellent sources of this healthy oil. Good examples include mackerel, tuna, bluefish, salmon, sardines, herring and trout. Avoid shark and king mackerel as these fish may contain high levels of mercury.

Supplements

Supplements containing fish oil are also available from most health food stores and are generally considered safe. The maximum recommended dose of fish oil supplements is 3 gm or less per day, in divided doses. The oil may interact with some medications, including blood thinners and diabetes medicines. Do not take fish oil if have liver disease and discuss its use with your doctor to be sure it is a good choice for you.