Overview
Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition that affects the joints. Characterized by pain, swelling and inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the thin layer of tissue that lines the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is a progressive condition and if untreated can eventually destroy the joints. Although there is no cure for this condition, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs help to keep symptoms under control and slow disease progression. Fish oil may also help to reduce joint stiffness and inflammation, although it should not be used in place of medical treatments. Get medical clearance before adding it your treatment program.
Properties and Potential Benefits
Fish oil is derived from the flesh of oily fish and is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. A type of polyunsaturated fatty acid, omega-3 fatty acids are sometimes referred to as "good" fats and may play a role of the treatment of numerous ailments including asthma, high cholesterol, cancer, depression and schizophrenia. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that omega-3 fatty acids may also help to relieve joint tenderness in rheumatoid arthritis patients, but adds that there is little evidence to suggest they can prevent or treat joint damage.
Administration
Fatty fish such as tuna, halibut or cod liver is a rich source of fish oil. However, many people find taking fish oil capsules more convenient. UMMC notes that up to 2.6 of fish oil may be taken daily to help reduce inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.This is only a guideline. Check with your doctor that this dose is safe and appropriate for you.
Effectiveness
The results of a clinical study published in the February 2005 issue of "Nutrition" show that fish oil helps to relieve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Specifically, fish oil helped to alleviate joint pain, improved hand-grip strength and reduced the duration of morning stiffness. The findings of an earlier study, published in the October 2007 issue of the "Journal of Rheumatology" also found that fish oil supplements improve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Safety Considerations
Fish oil may cause side effects including bad breath, nausea, loose stools and nose bleeds although taking fish oil in capsules can help to minimize these effects. Don't take more than 3 g daily except under your doctor's guidance; high doses may have a blood thinning effect and may make you more prone to bleeding. High doses might also reduce your immunity. Bear in mind that fish oil capsules may interact with other medicines you may be taking including the weight loss drug, orlistat, and the birth control pill.
source : livestrong.com
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