Cod Liver and Arthritis

The oil found in cod liver may help to ease some of the symptoms associated with arthritis, and may even help halt the progression of the disease. Recent research links cod liver oil supplementation with reduced inflammation as well as a decrease in the degree of degeneration experienced in the cartilage of the afflicted joint. Speak to your doctor about cod liver if you have arthritis or if you are at risk of developing it.

Inflammation

Cod liver contains the essential omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA and docosahexaenoic acid, better known as DHA. According to Sabrina Candelaria, M.P.H., R.D., L.D.N., of the University of Miami Health Center, EPA and DHA generally reduce inflammation throughout the body, and this benefit also occurs within the joints. Since arthritis is an inflammatory condition, cod liver may provide arthritis patients a simple and effective means to reduce inflammation and decrease dependence on pain medication.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a less common form of arthritis; the most prevalent form is osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease wherein the immune system mistakes its own tissues as invaders and destroys them. Rheumatoid arthritis targets the inner lining of the joints and can result in severe disability. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the omega-3 fatty acids found in cod liver have demonstrated the ability to reduce the chronic pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Cartilege Degeneration

Cod liver may also slow the progression of arthritis. According to a 2004 study conducted by Welsh researchers and published online in "BBC News Health" and in the journal "Drug Discovery Today," 86 percent of arthritis patients who supplemented cod liver oil showed a reduction in the chemical levels associated with cartilage degeneration. This study suggests that cod liver taken early enough may retard the progression of arthritis and help patients maintain healthier joints and cartilage longer.

Sources

Cod liver can be sourced from oil or capsules. Farmed sources of cod tend to be lower in EPA and DHA, according to Candelaria, so stick to natural wild sources. Also, choose a source of cod liver that is low in mercury, and choose organic sources if possible. Seek medical clearance before you begin supplementing cod liver for arthritis.