Arthritis Relief: How Omega-3 Fatty Acids Can Ease Joint Discomfort

According to the NHS, millions of people in the UK suffer from Arthritis conditions. There are several different types of arthritis but all cause pain and inflammation in the joints.

The two main types of Arthritis are: Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Osteoarthritis: 

The most common kind of arthritis in the UK, this condition develops when the protective cartilage in our joints breaks down. This causes joint pain and stiffness, swelling & tenderness.

The exact cause is unknown but there are several things that are thought to increase your risk of developing the condition, including:

• Joint injuries- Not resting properly after an injury can damage the joint cartilage.
• Age- Risk increases as we get older.
• Family history- Osteoarthritis can run in families.
• Obesity- Being overweight puts excess strain on the joints.
• Gender- Osteoarthritis is more common in women.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: 

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a long-term condition that causes many of the same symptoms as osteoarthritis: pain, swelling, stiffness in the joints.

Unlike osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, and is caused by the immune system attacking the cells that line the joints. Over time this can cause damage to the joints, cartilage and bones.

There is an increased risk of developing this condition if you are: female, have a family history of the condition, are a smoker.

Living with Arthritis:

Even though there is no cure for these conditions, there are ways to ease and manage symptoms.

Leading a healthy and active lifestyle can make a huge difference for people who suffer with joint conditions like Arthritis.

See Your Comprehensive Guide to Joint Health for an overview of how a few simple life changes could help you or someone you know suffering with a joint condition.

Omega-3:

Omega-3 refers to a group of fatty acids that our bodies need to function, they also have numerous health benefits including supporting brain, heart & joint health.

There are three main kinds of Omega-3’s:

• Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) (mainly found in fish)
• Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (mainly found in fish)
• Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) (found in plant-based sources)

How can Omega-3 Fatty Acids help with Arthritis?

Reducing Inflammation:

Research suggests that the anti-inflammatory properties of Omega-3’s may benefit those with some inflammatory forms of Arthritis, such as Rheumatoid arthritis. There is also some evidence that Omega-3’s may help manage symptoms of Osteoarthritis.

Improves Joint Health: 

Omega-3 is suggested to help with maintaining joint health by promoting the formation of healthy joint cartilage and maintaining joint lubrication. This may help to slow the progression of joint conditions and alleviate arthritis symptoms.

Reducing Pain Sensitivity: 

Studies have suggested that Omega-3 might decrease sensitivity to pain. Omega-3 can affect certain neural pathways involved in pain signalling and reduce the perception of joint pain.

Improving Blood Flow: 

Omega-3 fatty acids may help improve blood flow, which can aid in reducing inflammation and supporting the body’s natural healing process within the joints.

Sources of Omega-3:

Incorporating Omega-3 into your diet is really easy, even if you’re vegetarian or don’t eat fish. Here are a few widely available sources of Omega-3 that you might try:

• Oily Fish- Salmon, Mackerel, Sardines, Anchovies, etc.
• Nuts- Particularly Walnuts
• Flax Seed & Flax Seed Oil
• Chia Seeds
• Soybeans
• Green leafy vegetables.

Omega-3 Supplements:

If none of these foods appeal to you, or you’re unsure how to incorporate them into your current diet, then you may wish to try Omega-3 Supplements instead.

Read Omega-3 Supplements for Joint Pain: What Science Says for more information on Omega-3 Supplements and our favourites at XMiles.