How Fish Oil Helps Arthritis Sufferers

Let's face it: arthritis is such a difficult condition. It is painful and uncomfortable, it is permanent, and can set it anytime. There are actually over a hundred types of arthritis, but it is generally safe to assume that arthritis is an inflammation or swelling of the joints, and causes an insurmountable amount of pain and immobility to the joints.

It has been found that omega 3 fatty acids in fish oil can provide tremendous relief from arthritis, especially if you are suffering from rheumatoid or osteoarthritis. Before we move onto finding out how these omega 3 acids help, let us familiarize ourselves with these dietary fats and the connection between omega 3 fatty acids in fish oil and arthritis.

There are actually two kinds of polyunsaturated fats that play significant roles for inflammation: omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. It has been found that most people, especially those who suffer from arthritis, get too much of omega-6's in their diet than omega-3's. The abundance of omega-6 has been found to be detrimental to arthritis sufferers.

You see, omega-6 fatty acids help produce inflammatory agents called eicosanoids or prostaglandins. These compounds have significant roles to play in the body and are linked to important functions, including the relaxation and contraction of smooth muscles. Getting just enough of omega-6 in the diet (sourced from vegetable oils, sweets, crackers and even junk food) can be helpful, but higher doses are not and can lead to many health problems, including the production of pro-inflammatory agents - those that enhance inflammation rather than prevent them.

Omega-3 fatty acids, on the other hand, richly found in fish oil, are also converted into eicosanoids. The interconversion happens at a much slower rate, and anti-inflammatory eicosanoids (not the "pro" ones) are involved. The chemicals released by omega-3 alleviate inflammation and stops it right at the very core.

Fish oil for arthritis: better than NSAIDs

For the longest time, NSAIDS have been the only relief available for rheumatoid arthritis sufferers. Sure, they work, but compromise health because it brings about higher risk for heart attack, stomach bleeding, among many others. Intake of NSAIDs for a prolonged period of time actually lead to more harm than good. As an alternative, fish oil supplementation does not only reduce your pain naturally, but also brings you a multitude of health benefits as well: including promotion of heart and brain health, better focus and memory, and overall better health.

Fish oil naturally stops inflammation

Omega-3 fish oil can effectively heal the pain of arthritis sufferers. Since these essential fatty acids also encourage better cardiovascular function, which means that systemic inflammation is not just reduced, you can have a shot at permanently waving your pain goodbye. For arthritis sufferers, fish oil does not only offer alleviation from the pain and the swelling, it does so naturally that there are no unwanted side effects to expect.