Taking fish oil for arthritis has been recommended for hundreds of years. Recently, researchers have established that the oils do have anti-inflammatory activity. This is due primarily to the omega-3 content, but other factors are involved, as well.
Omega3s are what we call a group of essential fatty acids. There are two groups of fats that are essential to the human diet; omega6 and 3. They are necessary for the body to make a wide variety of molecules that perform numerous functions in the human body.
Many of the molecules have anti-inflammatory activity. Some affect mood and behavior. Others protect against neurological diseases. They affect cellular signaling, either positively or negatively, depending on the type. They also act on DNA, either activating or inhibiting transcription factors that are related to pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Cytokines are involved in the formation and growth of cancerous cells.
Omega6s are precursors to more of the inflammatory molecules, while omega3s down regulate inflammation and have a positive effect on the cells. The diet in Western societies (particularly the US) provides too many omega6s and not enough omega3s. It is for this reason that researchers began to look at the fish oil arthritis connection, as the condition is very common in the US.
There is also evidence indicating that long-term inadequate intake of omega3s increases the risk of osteoporosis, which often accompanies age-related arthritis. Osteoporosis is a thinning of the bones. It is the primary cause of hip fractures and other bone breaks in the elderly.
So, taking fish oil for arthritis may also reduce your risk of osteoporosis. But, it is important to evaluate the quality of a supplement, before you buy it. The manufacturer should guarantee purity and potency. They should provide proof that the oils are free of mercury, lead and cancer-causing chemicals like PCBs.
If precautions are not taken, a supplement can be bad for your long-term health, instead of good. The oils should be checked for oxidation, because oxidized oils may contain free radicals. Free radical molecules contribute to aging and disease.
There should be a high percentage of omega3 fats in each capsule. The best supplements provide a minimum of 50% omega3 and very little omega6. As mentioned, you are probably getting too many omega6s, already.
Laboratories can test for a compounds anti-inflammatory activity. Testing has been conducted in order to verify the fish oil arthritis benefits. It has been shown that oils with a high concentration have only about half of the anti-inflammatory activity that accompanies aspirin. But, the natural triglyceride form has a higher level, nearly equivalent to that of aspirin.
The best supplements contain 500mg of natural triglycerides and 500mg of concentrated esters in order to provide the highest amount of omega3s and the highest degree of anti-inflammatory activity. The manufacturer can voluntarily have their products tested for anti-inflammatory activity. But, it is not a requirement.
Taking fish oil for arthritis can be highly beneficial. Numerous studies have shown reduced pain, stiffness and necessity for pain meds. There are many other benefits that you might be interested in, too.
Check my website for more on the benefits of fish oil for arthritis and many other health benefits as well.
Carol P. Lawrence is a health and nutrition researcher and passionate about preventative health care. Visit her website: Omega 3 Fish Oil Supplements today.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carol_P_Lawrence
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment