Omega-3 fish oil and rheumatoid arthritis (RA):
The effects of the consumption of fish oil supplements and consumption of oily fish on the risk of RA and inflammation of the joints was tested in this population-based case-controlled study. Relevant dietary data was obtained from 1,889 individuals with RA and 2,145 control subjects without RA in Sweden from 1996 to 2005. Compared with subjects who never or seldom consumed oily fish, individuals who consumed oily fish 1-7 times per weeks had a 20% reduced risk of developing RA. Results were similar among individuals consuming oily fish 1-3 times a month. There was no difference in the consumption of fish oil supplements between the treatment or control group. (7) A review of trials using omega-3 fatty acids for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or osteoarthritis (OA) was performed by Rosenbaum. Researchers reviewed 16 clinical trials, one meta-analysis and one review article in order to evaluated supplements in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or osteoarthritis (OA). Multiple studies reported that omega-3 fatty acids might help treat RA. Studies have used combinations of EPA and DHA for treatment of RA. Most studies showed improved clinical symptoms in patients including the number of tender joints, duration of morning stiffness, and/or physician pain assessment score. Total EPA/DHA omega-3 fatty acids combined daily doses ranged from 1.04 g to 7.1g (mean, 3 g). Treatment periods ranged from 12 to 52 weeks (mean, 16 wks). NSAIDs and slow-acting anti-rheumatic drugs were continued throughout the trials with EPA/DHA. Overall, a trend was seen toward a benefit of improved symptoms. (8)