Fish Oil
Fish oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. Several studies revealed that omega-3 fatty acids help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. In addition, a recent review stated that omega-3 fatty acids could improve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, although the authors want to conduct further studies to validate the findings.
The beneficial fatty acid sources include cold-water fish, such as sardines, tuna, salmon, and seeds and nuts. Various research near the end of the 20th century found fish oil has more omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and arthritis.
Fish oil contains docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). These two omega-3 fatty acids fight inflammation that causes pain and swelling. A study in 2016 revealed that DHA enhances the body’s immune function and is more capable of inflammation reduction, but the two fatty acids work in tandem.
Aside from the benefits fish oil gives people with arthritis, DHA and EPA help prevent heart attacks by making it harder for blood clots to form. The fatty acids also help lower blood pressure and triglyceride levels. In addition, taken with statin medication, EPA becomes more effective in reducing arteriosclerosis-induced inflammation.
