Inflammation

It is widely known that Omega-3 EPA and DHA provide an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. Research has also discovered that EPA and DHA are precursors to a separate class of bioactive lipids called specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs). These molecules actively turn off the inflammatory response. Clinical studies have demonstrated that Omega-3 EPA and DHA supplementation increase the systemic levels of SPMs and reduce the risk of inflammatory disease.

Bone Health

Research has shown that diets high in Omega-3 EPA and DHA may be beneficial to bone health, this has mainly been associated with their anti-inflammatory effect, their effect on bone formation, bone resorption, and on serum calcium. As we get older our bones get more fragile due to increased activation of the inflammatory signalling pathways. Omega-3 EPA and DHA and lipid mediators derived from EPA and DHA have important physiological roles including bone metabolism. Studies have shown that supplementation with EPA and DHA increase bone mineral density (BMD), lower risk of hip fractures, and have a positive association with bone turnover markers in humans.

Joint Health Recent scientific reviews suggest that Omega-3 EPA and DHA supplementation has beneficial effect in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) patients and show some promise in other joint disorders with an inflammatory component. RA is characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints, and symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, as well as reduced mobility of the joints. To alleviate the discomfort of RA, prescription medication such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are generally prescribed. Several clinical trials using Omega-3 EPA and DHA on patients with RA have shown a decrease in morning stiffness, less joint pain and a decrease in the use of NSAIDS. There are some indications also that omega-3 EPA and DHA supplementation added to other therapy for RA is more beneficial for the patient.

Recommended Daily Intake

For good health, the general recommendation for daily intake is 250 mg of combined Omega-3 EPA and DHA. However, research have shown that an increase of the daily dose of Omega-3 DHA and EPA, up to 2700 mg, can reduce inflammation from arthritis as well as relieve joint pain and stiffness in a similar way to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).