Fish oil for arthritis pain relief.

Fish oil.

The presence of omega-3 essential fatty acids in fish oil plays a key role in relieving arthritis. Omega-3s display anti-inflammatory properties, which is the main reason why usage of fish oil is found to be effective in treating arthritis. It is observed that cytokines (type of protein) in arthritis trigger an inflammatory response. Rheumatoid arthritis patients tend to suffer from overproduction of cytokines, which initiate the inflammatory process. Omega-3s in fish oil help lower these cytokine levels, which work to alleviate arthritis pain and inflammation. Its ability to inhibit release of cytokines relieves stiffness and pain in the joints. It has been proved that EPA considerably inhibits the effect of inflammatory cytokines, that is known to induce cartilage degeneration.

Laboratory studies have shown that the body uses DHA in fish oil to make resolvin D2, a compound that displays anti-inflammatory activity. So, this compound, with its potent anti-inflammatory action, contributes to reduce arthritis-related joint pain. This study published in Nature, a scientific journal, and conducted by researchers from both the United States and England, revealed how the body utilizes fish oil to inhibit the inflammatory process in arthritis.

Clinical studies that researched the role of omega-3 supplements in managing rheumatoid arthritis, found that, the supplemental dosage did improve the condition of the joints. It was observed that the joints were less tender, and they weren't as stiff as they used to be. Also, the dependency on anti-inflammatory medications reduced drastically with the intake of omega-3 supplements. As if this was not enough, laboratory studies indicate that a diet providing adequate omega-3s may help ease the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

In one such study, participants who were given a 3g combined dose of EPA and DHA, for at least 3 months, reported less joint stiffness, swelling, and tenderness. In another preliminary study, over 250 people affected with osteoarthritis, who were treated with similar fish oil dosage, showed substantial decrease in arthritis pain, and moreover, some of the patients completely stopped taking NSAIDs recommended for this inflammatory condition.