Diet Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids May Help Decrease Aches and Pains
Researchers Believe Diet Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids May Help Decrease Aches and Pains Associated With Arthritis
June 14, 2004 - (HealthNewsDigest.com)...Arthritis is the leading cause of physical disability in the United States, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. One of the most common forms of the disease is rheumatoid arthritis, which causes inflammation in the lining of the joints and afflicts more than two million Americans - mostly women.
A growing body of research indicates that adding omega-3 fatty acids to the diet, such as those found in fatty fish like herring, salmon and tuna, may play an important role in alleviating the painful symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.(1) Scientists believe that omega-3 fatty acids may not only reduce the symptoms of the disease and potentially facilitate individuals taking lower doses of anti-inflammatory drugs, omega-3s also appear to help preserve overall joint function.
Scientists first made the omega-3 connection with joint disease by observing populations like Greenland's Inuits. This indigenous population consumes eight to 12 grams of omega-3s a day and demonstrate a significantly lower incidence of arthritic symptoms, as compared to Americans.
However, getting enough omega-3s from eating fish can be a challenge for Americans who don't have access to fatty fish, are worried about fish contamination or simply don't prefer the taste.
A recent survey of US households, conducted by ICR Survey Research Group, found that Americans are less likely to eat fresh fish than many other foods.
Nearly half (48%) of those surveyed said their number one reason for avoiding fresh fish was the fear of contaminants like mercury or PCBs.
"The benefits of omega-3s for arthritic symptoms such as joint pain and stiffness are well documented," said Dr. Morten Bryhn, M.D., Ph.D, medical director for Pronova Biocare, the world's top producer of marine-based omega-3 fatty acids. "In order to gain these benefits, Americans need to increase their intake of omega-3s by regularly including fatty fish in their diets or by taking a highly concentrated omega-3 fish oil supplement, with at least 70% omega-3s."
Those interested in taking an omega-3 supplement are advised to look for a supplement that contains both EPA and DHA, the most important of the omega-3 fatty acids. They should also make sure that the fish oil they choose is highly concentrated and purified, providing at least 70% omega-3s.
Reference
(1) Fortin PR et al. Validation of a meta-analysis: the effects of fish oil in rheumatoid arthritis. J Clin Epidemiol 1995;48:1379-1390.
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