If you have an inflammatory type of arthritis including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you’ve probably heard of omega-3 fatty acids. They help reduce inflammation throughout the body, and studies have shown benefits for pain relief, heart health, brain function and diabetes.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), fish oil is the most commonly used dietary supplement in the United States. A study published in the Annals of Rheumatic Disease found that when a high-dose fish oil supplement is added to so-called triple therapy for rheumatoid arthritis (methotrexate, sulfasalazine and hydroxychloroquine), patients achieved better outcomes: they were far less likely to “fail” treatment and twice as likely to reach remission than those who did not take a supplement.
According to the results of at least 13 studies involving more than 500 participants, people with RA who took omega-3 supplements had a reduction in joint pain – but not in joint damage. Other studies suggest that omega-3s may help RA patients lower their dose of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). And according to information from NIH, administering fish oil by IV reduces swollen and tender joints in people with RA.
Until somewhat recently, no one really knew what made omega-3s so beneficial. Researchers, however, believe they have uncovered the secret of omega-3 fatty acids. A study at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston revealed that omega-3s actually convert into compounds that are 10,000 times more powerful than original fatty acids. These compounds include resolvins, which help bring an inflammatory response in the body to an end.
In a healthy immune system, the normal inflammatory process repairs damage and protects the body from infections. But in inflammatory types of arthritis and related diseases, an overactive immune response leads to tissue destruction. This research showed that the same pathway that signals the start of inflammation also includes an “off switch.” Omega-3s convert into these more powerful compounds, putting the brakes on this active process causing it to come to a halt.
Unfortunately, many people can’t tolerate fish oil. Either because they find it difficult to take or they dislike the fishy aftertaste. There is another solution. Krill oil is a powerful antioxidant that can be 300% more effective and easy to absorb than over-the-counter fish oil. Krill oil is 44% more efficient in reducing bad cholesterol and lowering blood sugar than fish oil, with no burps or smells. Plus, krill oil contains astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant critical to fighting free radical damage that causes premature aging and disease. So, if you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory conditions, consult your physician, and consider adding a high-quality krill supplement to your diet.
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