Many people worldwide suffer from joint discomfort. In some cases, that discomfort may lead to arthritis* or osteoporosis*. There is something that can help relieve some irritation. It is a supplement called Fish Oil. One-to-three grams of fish oil daily can help lower the intensity of joint symptoms like morning stiffness, tenderness, swelling, and discomfort. The omega-3 fatty acids present in this amount can also increase blood flow throughout the body during exercise, which can help reduce swelling.
There are two common types of arthritis, both of which can cause joint discomfort, stiffness, and mobility complications. These are:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): An inflammatory joint disease caused by a problem in the immune system.
- Osteoarthritis (OA): A degenerative condition that affects joint cartilage and bones.
Cod liver oil and fish oil contain high levels of two types of omega-3 fatty acids: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). Scientists have discovered that EPA and DHA both decrease swelling.
The role of fatty acids in reducing inflammation indicates that they may help reduce symptoms of RA*. Researchers have also investigated whether fish oil may play a role in the treatment of OA*. This is what they discovered thus far:
The review found that there was reliable evidence that EPA and DHA from naval sources had a positive effect on joint swelling and distress. It also found that these omega-3 fatty acids assisted to improve morning stiffness in the joints, another symptom of RA*.
On other studies, taking fish oil supplements can help to reduce side effects associated with osteoporosis*. It has not been found as a cure, only to help with the stiffness and discomfort.
Fish oil is a dietary supplement made from oily fish, including:
- mackerel
- tuna
- herring
- salmon
- cod liver
It also contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals, including:
- iron
- calcium
- vitamins B, A, and D
Fish oil and cod liver oil are not considered to be the same thing, which contains oil from pressed cod livers only. Cod liver oil contains much greater volumes of vitamins A and D than fish oil. These vitamins are usually healthful but can be harmful if consumed in large quantities**. Please consult with your physician before taking these supplements if you suffer from any of the above. People consuming fish oil or cod liver oil for arthritis* need large amounts of it to acquire enough omega-3 fatty acids for them to be useful. Perse, fish oil is a better resource of omega-3 than cod liver oil, as people can take large doses without bringing in harmful levels of vitamins A and D.
Fish oil supplements can be taken as:
- capsules
- pastilles
- chewable tablets
- liquid
According to the Arthritis Foundation, eating a 3-6 ounce serving of one of these fish mentioned above, between two and four times every week helps reduce inflammation.
It is essential that people consider the mercury content of fish they eat, as consuming too much mercury is not good for you.
