Omega-3 Fatty Acids, also known as essential fatty acids (EFA), have the ability to change very easily and to be used by the body for a number of different functions. Arthritis is commonly mentioned as a result of a deficiency in one or more EFAs. In recent years, asthmatic patients have shown significant deficiencies in some of these same essential nutrients. Past treatments of both these afflictions has been to reduce and control the symptoms. Current treatment modalities are turning more to the prevention of or stopping the progression of these two problems that affect nearly half of the American population at some point in their lives.
Most nutritionists agree that both omega-6 fatty acids and omega-3 fatty acids be included in a balanced treatment program and diet. Omega-6 sources are principally found in vegetable sources and seeds. Omega-3 sources are found primarily in fish oil or in the some tree nuts and seeds. However, the omega-3 sources found in these plant sources must be converted by the body and the body is very inefficient in this process making these poor sources from which to get EFA. In order to be useful in reducing the total inflammatory response of the body both types of EFA must be balanced. The optimal balance (general guidelines as set by the Alternative & Complementary Therapies Association) should be 4 omega-6 fats to 1 omega-3 fat (4:1).
It is important to maintain this balance so that the EFAs can perform their functions most efficiently. These functions include the production and protection of cell membranes along with the ability of the body to metabolize prostaglandin. Many estimates claim that the nutritional balance of these fats is at least 10:1 while other agencies (including the American Heart Association) believe that the imbalance is as high as 20:1. Natural healers believe this is probably the biggest reason for the increase in asthma and arthritis in the last 20 years.
A study conducted by the Department of Epidemiology and Preventative Medicine at Monash Medical School in Victoria, Australia found that a diet high in marine fatty acids (fish oil) reduced the incidence of both rheumatoid arthritis and asthma. Over 9 different studies they found that some patients were able to reduce the medication that reduced pain for arthritic patients and increased air flow for the asthmatic patients. The studies included both dietary changes and supplementation. In all the studies positive results were shown with no adverse effects noted.
Additionally, recent studies have shown that the addition of fish oil to the patients diet, either through diet or supplementation, reduces the chemical reactions in the body that produce increased joint and airway inflammation. EPA has been proven once again to provide protection on a level with or greater than current over-the-counter and prescription NSAID medication. Especially where adverse side effects are experienced by the patients. Many times the side effects of the medications used to treat these two afflictions cause more discomfort than the actual symptoms patients experience.
The dosage required to prevent and protect against the inflammatory process is much higher than the generally accepted dosage for general and cardiac health. The recommended dosage for most people is between 1 and 4 grams per day depending on the general health of the individual. The FDA notes that dosages as high as 3 grams per day are safe. However, results for those in crises or already suffering from these two diseases required much higher doses in order to show positive effects. The need for extremely high doses of fish oil requires that patients wishing to try this therapy do so only under the care of a medical profession. Fish oil shows great promise in this field but requires supervision to ensure the safety of the patient.
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