Fish and flaxseed oil pills contain omega-3 fatty acids or precursors to omega-3 fatty acids. The omega-3s in these pills help to fight inflammation in the body, which can have beneficial effects on your heart and overall health. Another reason why you may wish to take omega-3 supplements is to reduce inflammation in the joints. While the omega-3 supplements can help your body, knowing their side effects can help to determine an appropriate dosage.
How Omega-3s Work
Inflammation is present in many forms in the body. When you experience a rash after being exposed to an allergen, this is an inflammatory response. Other inflammatory responses include pain, redness, swelling and warmth. Omega-3 fatty acids help to fight negative reactions in the body, which can reduce inflammatory reactions like pain and swelling. This is why researchers theorize omega-3 fatty acids may be beneficial in treating joint pain, which is often the result of inflammatory conditions.
Research
A 2004 study conducted at the University of Pittsburgh measured the effects of taking omega-3 fatty acids in 120 patients who experience neck and lower back pain, according to Pittsburgh's "The Tribune-Review." The study found that 59 percent of patients reported decreased joint pain while 68 percent ceased using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Also, 86 percent of the patients reported they intended to continue taking omega-3 supplements following the study. While more research should be conducted, the study shows some promise in using omega-3 fatty acids as an alternative to traditional pain medications.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a form of arthritis that causes your body's immune system to attack itself, resulting in increased incidence of swollen, painful joints. Much of the research regarding reduction in joint pain and omega-3 fatty acids is in regards to the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Taking omega-3 fatty acids in the form of fish oil supplements has been shown in some studies to reduce the incidence of joint pain and stiffness. However, omega-3 fatty acids are shown to help reduce symptoms, not treat the underlying causes, associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
Warning
Dosage recommendations for omega-3 fatty acids can vary based on your overall health condition. Talk to your physician about the right dosage for you because taking excess amounts of supplements like fish oil can increase your risk for bleeding. Omega-3 supplements also can interact with certain medications, including high blood pressure and birth control pills. Talk to your physician about risks for potential interactions before beginning to take omega-3 supplements.
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