Understanding how your body benefits from eating omega-3 fatty acids is an important part of understanding why you should eat them. But, until recently, no one really knew what made omega-3s so beneficial. Researchers, however, have uncovered the secret of omega-3 fatty acids. A study at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston revealed that omega-3s actually convert into compounds that are 10,000 times more potent than the original fatty acids themselves. So what does this mean to us? The new compounds include resolvins, which help bring the inflammatory response to an end, says the study’s lead researcher, Charles Serhan, PhD, director, Center for Experimental Therapeutics and Reperfusion Injury at Harvard Medical School, Boston.
In a healthy immune system, the normal inflammatory process repairs damage and protects the body from infections. But in arthritis and inflammatory diseases, an overactive immune response leads to tissue degradation. Serhan’s research showed that the same pathway that signals the start of inflammation also includes an off switch. Omega-3s convert into these more powerful compounds, putting the brakes on this active process and causing it to screech to a halt, says Serhan.
What is not yet known is how much omega-3s are needed to optimize the body’s conversion from omega-3s into resolvins, says Serhan. Both Serhan and the American Dietetic Association, however, recommend food over supplements to reap omega-3 benefits. The best source: fish.
To learn more about omega-3 fatty acid benefits and other helpful nutrients for arthritis, check out the Arthritis Today Supplement Guide. (http://www.arthritis.org/at-supplement-guide.php)
Text Size
|
|
Fatty Acid Benefits: How Omega-3s Reduce Inflammation
Researchers have long known omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation. Now they know how
By Linda Richards
Within 2 years it was difficult to walk in the morning unless I slowly stretched my ankles by gripping my toes on the edge of the steps and bending my ankles downwards for 5-10 minutes. This worked for awhile but it became apparent this wasn't enough and I started using ibuprofen which was effective but played havoc with my stomach.
I started searching for more 'natural' solutions and started using omega 3 capsules and I now take 2 200:400 (1065mg) capsules in the mornings and I function well. The residence time is short lived; within three days of not taking them my pain returns but leaves within a couple of days of taking them again.
I've tried different brands and haven't found any difference - as long as they are molecularly distilled or sieved they will work. I should note that I am now 50 and I can now cycle regularly, walk the golf course, play volleyball in the winter 2 times a week - all without any arthritic consequences.
I have had osteoarthritis for 2 years, have alot of pain, have an autoimmune disease and have to take celebrex 2 times daily but I cannot stress enough exercise daily. I am a long distance runner, I do bootcamp, alot of weight training and drills, yeah Im in pain but my doctor states I do so well due to my advanced level. So try it!
Shes sometimes very weak and in pain what else can I give her?? Im worried about her school performance and is sometimes depressed.
visit: www.ardysslife.com/daphneenmon Look in the Nutrition Section.
I was just diagnosed. I will try the turmeric Curcumin!
Leave a Comment