What is it?
Omega-3s are a type of fatty acid, the building blocks of fat in our bodies.
The importance of omega-3 for the immune system was learned in the 1980s, when it was discovered Eskimos with high omega-3 diets had exceptionally low rates of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases such as diabetes, asthma, multiple sclerosis, and psoriasis.
How does it help improve / prevent me from getting arthritis?
Omega-3 is thought to prevent or improve arthritis by lowering inflammation in the joint lining and dampening the auto-immune response.
Am I getting this already from my diet?
Your body can’t make omega-3s, so you must get them from your diet.
Omega-3s are found in nuts, seeds and cold-water white fish.
Omega-3s come in several forms, depending on the food source.
Fish oil is abundant in two forms of omega-3: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)
Flaxseed is rich in a third type called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
As many as 95% of adults do not get enough omega-3.
The Arthritis Foundation states that supplements are the best source to get a therapeutic dose of omega-3.
Has it been tested?
- A 2018 analysis of 20 clinical trials found that consumption of omega-3 fatty acids significantly improved pain, stiffness and grip strength in rheumatoid arthritis patients
- A 2020 review investigating natural supplements for rheumatoid arthritis found that supplementation with fatty acids (including omega-3) significantly improved health, function and quality of life
We only use the best available evidence in our analysis. Click here to learn more.
How much do I need to take?
Omega-3s are available in capsules, soft gels, chewable tablets or liquid.
Studies suggest that arthritis patients should take omega-3 fatty acids in doses of between 2.5 and 5 grams per day for 12-52 weeks.
Does it have any side effects?
Over 20 rheumatoid arthritis studies have reported no side effects with omega-3 supplementation.
There is some concern that higher doses of omega-3 may interfere with blood clotting and increase your risk of bleeding.
As with any supplement, it’s best to talk with your healthcare provider before adding omega-3 supplements to your diet.
Is there anything else I need to know?
Premium omega-3 products contain at least 30% EPA / DHA.
Omega-3s have also shown to be effective for lupus, psoriasis, depression and Raynaud’s phenomenon.
Where is the best place to buy Omega-3?
For the UK & EU, our Omega-3 product recommendation is ‘Triple Strength Omega-3’ from simplysupplements.com – each capsule contains 1000mg of Omega-3 (55% EPA / DHA) isolated from sustainable sources! We recommend 2-3 capsules daily for at least 12 weeks.
For the USA, our Omega-3 product recommendation is ‘Nature’s Bounty Fish Oil’ from Nature’s Bounty – each serving contains 720mg of Omega-3. We recommend 2-3 capsules daily for at least 12 weeks.
Not sure if this supplement is for you?
Click the button below to take our 2-minute quiz and receive a personalized supplement recommendation!
Sign up to our newsletter!
Join our mailing list to gain early access to new articles and exclusive offers