Reduce osteoarthritis symptoms with omega-3 fatty acids

A recent study at the University of Bristol has shown for the first time that omega-3s can “substantially and significantly” reduce osteoarthritis symptoms.

Guinea pigs who were fed a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids had their osteoarthritis symptoms reduced by 50 percent compared to guinea pigs fed a regular diet.

While there have been many anecdotal reports about omega-3s’ effectiveness against osteoarthritis, researchers say that this study represents a major step in applying their findings to humans. They claim that omega-3 can help to prevent the disease and slow its progress.

Fish oil appears to be the best source of omega-3 fatty acids, but vegetarians can use flaxseed oil as an omega-3 rich alternative.

Food sources of omega-3s
Some of the best food sources of omega-3 fatty acids are cold water fish, plants, and nut oils. Add these foods to your diet for an omega-3 boost:

• salmon, halibut, mackerel, sardines, tuna, and herring
• flaxseeds and flaxseed oil
• soybeans and soybean oil
• pumpkin seeds and pumpkin seed oil
• walnuts and walnut oil

Omega-3s have been shown to lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides; and keep skin smooth and supple.