Does Fish Oil Help Joints?

Walking, working out, and running errands can be challenging when you have joint pain. There is a natural remedy that is worth considering before turning to over-the-counter medicines to help with joint pain.

Supplements containing fish oil are a well-liked choice for people with joint pain. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are present in it, have anti-inflammatory qualities. Many of the joints in your body benefit from the pain alleviation that these fatty acids offer.

Does Fish Oil Help Joints?

Numerous research indicates that fish oil may be helpful for arthritis sufferers. For instance, fish oil was found to lessen joint pain linked to arthritis in one study. Additional research on fish oil’s effects on joints is still being conducted.

Fish oil is recognised to boost your heart health, improve brain function, and eye health, among other aspects of your health. This has been linked to fish oil’s omega-3 content, which may prevent some forms of inflammation.

According to studies, fish oil benefits people with psoriasis, lupus, and many types of arthritis by reducing inflammation throughout the body, reducing morning stiffness, and decreasing morning stiffness.

The benefits of omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil on arthritis or joint discomfort are covered in this article. Additionally, it describes the various kinds of fish oils, the recommended dosage, and any possible negative effects.

Fish Oil: What Is It?

Fish oil is a dietary supplement made from the liver of other fish like cod or the oil of fatty fish like anchovy, herring, mackerel, and tuna. Fish oil is abundant in omega 3 fatty acids as well as vitamin A and D.

Oily fish, such as sardines and salmon, contain molecules called omega-3 fatty acids that reduce inflammation and relieve joint pain. These compounds are also present in flaxseed and nutritional supplements.

Arthritis And Fish Oil

The omega 3 fatty acids from fish oil have been shown in studies to be able to partially block a number of components of inflammation, which can help with some types of arthritis.7

Omega 3 fatty acids are a nutrient that must be gained from diet and/or supplements because the body cannot create them on its own. Salmon, anchovy, and tuna are good sources of EPA and DHA, two essential fatty acids which are proven to reduce inflammation.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory condition that damages the joint lining in the hands, wrists, and knees.

Omega-3 fatty acids may lessen the impact of the autoimmune inflammation in people with RA, improving their clinical condition, according to studies.11

Clinical studies revealed that omega 3 fatty acids are helpful in RA. To assess the long-term benefits of omega-3 on persons with RA, more research is required.

Does Fish Oil Help Joints?

Osteoarthritis

The most prevalent kind of arthritis is osteoarthritis (OA). Osteoarthritis develops when the tissues inside the joints begin to deteriorate over time; it is more prevalent with ageing. 

More research and patient clinical trials are required to identify the extent to which fish oil is advantageous for persons with OA. 

Studies indicate that EPA as well as DHA in fish reduces inflammation and increases joint lubrication. According to studies, fish oil may help elderly, obese OA patients feel less pain.

Gout

A form of inflammatory arthritis that impacts one or even more joints is gout (see also “How To Remove Gout Crystals From Joint“). Pain, inflammation, redness, and heat are the symptoms that are most frequently found inside the big toe joint. The disorder is brought on by an excessive buildup of uric acid in the joint.

According to one study, those with gout who ate more omega-3 fatty acids and reduced their intake of foods like corn syrup, offal, alcohol, and seafood—all of which are known to cause uric acid levels to rise—had a lower likelihood of experiencing gout attacks again. 

There was no decrease when omega-3 was given alone. To understand if fish oils specifically assist those with gout, more research must be done.

When Should Fish Oil Not Be Taken?

Because fish oils have a history of raising blood sugar levels (see also “Curb Your Sugar Cravings For Good With These 7 Supplements“), people with diabetes should talk to their doctor about the best course of action.

There are certain drugs known to interact possibly with fish oils. To talk about possible drug-fish oil supplement interactions, (see also “Do Collagen Supplements Interact With Medications?“) get in touch with your doctor.

What Is The Difference Between Fish Oil And Cod Liver Oil?

Fish oil is general, but one that is specifically derived from livers of codfish, is cod liver oil. Fish oil and cod liver oil both have comparable nutritional and flavour qualities, however cod liver oil has a higher concentration of vitamin A and D.

What Dosage Of Fish Oil Is Recommended For Arthritis?

10 grams of fish oil per day was utilised in studies indicating fish oil to be helpful for patients with arthritis or joint pain.15 If you experience joint pain, don’t exceed the recommended amount without first consulting your healthcare professional.

Can You Take Omega-3 And Fish Oil Supplements Together?

The answer is no, you shouldn’t use omega-3 pills along with fish, krill, or cod liver oils. You might ingest excessive amounts of omega-3s as a result, and this has been associated with an increase in adverse effects and perhaps lowered immune function.

Fish Oil Vs. Krill Oil

Omega-3-rich supplements come in two main forms: fish oil or krill oil. While krill oil is derived from Antarctic krill, which are tiny shrimp-like crustaceans, fish oil is derived from fish.

Fish oil and krill oil differ in the following ways:

  • The antioxidant astaxanthin gives krill oil its scarlet hue.
  • The colour of fish oil is golden.

Final Thoughts

Your general health may benefit from the addition of fish oil. Before including any vitamin, mineral, or supplement in your diet, it’s crucial to talk to your doctor. They can provide you with the correct advice on the kind of fish oil to take and the dosages that will promote your health.

Clark Ruffington
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