Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsWhat it IsUse for ArthritisEating FishDosageRisksFrequently Asked Questions
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
What it Is
Use for Arthritis
Eating Fish
Dosage
Risks
Frequently Asked Questions
Fish oil forarthritisis a popular home remedy, and several studies suggest it may be beneficial. This is likely due to the presence of omega-3 fatty acids, which may block some sources of inflammation.
Omega-3 fatty acids have also been found to supportcardiovascular health, brain health, and eye health for this reason. They may also help to reduce symptoms ofpsoriasisandlupus.
This article discusses the benefits of taking fish oil for arthritis and joint pain. It also explains the different types of fish oil supplements, the proper dosage, and potential side effects.
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What Is Fish Oil?
Fish oil is a nutritional supplement derived from the oil of fatty fish, such as anchovies, herring, mackerel, and tuna, or the liver of other fish, such as cod. In addition to being rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil is also high in vitamins A and D.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are compounds found in oily fish, including sardines and salmon, that fight inflammation associated with joint pain.They are also found in flaxseed and in dietary supplements.
Omega-3 fatty acids include:
EPA and DHA are the two fatty acids that may be beneficial for people with arthritis.You can get omega-3 fatty acids from food, soft gels, tablets, liquid, or capsules.
Krill Oil vs. Fish OilFish oil and krill oil are two different types of omega-3–rich supplements. While fish oil comes from fish, krill oil comes from tiny crustaceans similar to shrimp known as Antarctic krill.There are some differences between krill and fish oil:Krill oil has a reddish color due to the antioxidant astaxanthin.Fish oil is golden in color.
Krill Oil vs. Fish Oil
Fish oil and krill oil are two different types of omega-3–rich supplements. While fish oil comes from fish, krill oil comes from tiny crustaceans similar to shrimp known as Antarctic krill.There are some differences between krill and fish oil:Krill oil has a reddish color due to the antioxidant astaxanthin.Fish oil is golden in color.
Fish oil and krill oil are two different types of omega-3–rich supplements. While fish oil comes from fish, krill oil comes from tiny crustaceans similar to shrimp known as Antarctic krill.
There are some differences between krill and fish oil:
Fish Oil and Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis(RA) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease that affects the joints in the wrists, knees, and hands, causing damage to the joint lining.Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the effect of the autoimmune inflammatory response in patients with RA, resulting in clinical improvements in the condition.
Clinical trials showed that omega-3 fatty acids have a beneficial role in RA.More research needs to be conducted to evaluate the long-term effects of omega-3 on people with RA.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis(OA) is the most common type of arthritis. More common with aging, osteoarthritis occurs when tissues in the joints start to break down over time.
Some studies suggest that EPA and DHA in fish oils reduce inflammation and increase joint lubrication, but more studies and human clinical trials need to be conducted to determine whether or not fish oil is beneficial to people with OA.
Studies have also found that fish oil could relieve pain in older OA patients who are living with obesity.
Gout
Goutis an inflammatory type of arthritis that affects one or more joints. Most common in the big toe joint, symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and heat. The condition occurs due to excessive uric acid deposition in the joint.
In one study, patients with gout who consumed omega-3 and adjusted their intake ofcertain foods(high fructose corn syrup, organ meat, alcohol, and seafood) that are known to raise uric acid levels had a lower risk of recurring gout flares. When omega-3 was taken alone, there was no reduction.More research needs to be conducted to determine whether fish oils specifically help people with gout.
How Eating Fish Compares
Eating fish is also a good way to include fish oil in your diet. A supplement that provides about 1,000 mg of fish oil equals about 3 ounces of fatty fish. Some types of fish high in omega-3 fatty acids include:
In general, healthcare providers typically advise consuming nutrients through food sources, if possible, rather than supplements. That said, most research into the effects of fish oil on the joints has focused on supplements, finding that they may improve arthritis.
Note that supplements are often free of mercury or have very limited amounts compared to fish.However, they may contain other contaminants of concern.
While there’s not as much research on how eating fish affects the joints, one study from 2017 found a link between fish consumption and arthritis pain. The researchers found that the more fish study participants ate, the better their arthritis symptoms. However, this study only showed an association between the two and doesn’t mean that eating fish caused reduced arthritis symptoms.
You can get the benefits of fish oils through foods and supplements.
The reference daily intake (RDI) of omega-3 fatty acids is 1,600 mg for men and 1,100 mg for women. The RDI for EPA and DHA is 200 mg to 500 mg.
If taking a supplement, read the label to determine how much EPA and DHA the product contains. The National Institutes for Healthprovides informationabout how many grams per serving of EPA and DHA are in a variety of fish.
What to Look for in a Fish Oil SupplementWhen shopping forfish oil supplements, look for supplements that have a seal of purity from the Global Organization for EPA and DHA omega-3s (GOED). Discuss options with your healthcare professional.
What to Look for in a Fish Oil Supplement
When shopping forfish oil supplements, look for supplements that have a seal of purity from the Global Organization for EPA and DHA omega-3s (GOED). Discuss options with your healthcare professional.
Risks and Side Effects
Fish oil supplements are generally safe when used as directed and only produce mild side effects, if any.
The risks, side effects, and overdose symptoms include the following:
Some studies have linked higher levels of omega-3s with an increased risk of prostate cancer, but other research has found the opposite. The reason for the discrepancy isn’t clear.
Who Should Not Take Fish Oil
Fish oils are also known to increase blood sugar levels, so individuals with diabetes should contact their healthcare provider before taking fish oil.
Fish oils are also known to potentially interact with some medications. Contact your healthcare provider to discuss the potential interaction of medications and fish oil supplements.
Summary
Fish oil is an oil found in fatty fish like herring, mackerel, and tuna. It contains omega-3 fatty acids, which may help reduce inflammation and pain in people with different kinds of arthritis. Fish oil is available as a supplement, but you can also get it from eating fatty fish.
Side effects of fish oil supplements are typically mild, but fish oil may increase blood sugar levels or interact with medications you’re taking. It’s always best to ask your healthcare provider before taking fish oil or any other supplement.
Cod liver oil is a fish oil, but one that specifically comes from the livers of codfish. Cod liver oil and fish oil have similar taste and nutrition profiles, but cod liver oil contains more vitamins A and D.
No, you should not take omega-3 supplements if you are also taking fish oil, krill oil, or cod liver oil. Doing so can cause you to consume excessive doses of omega-3s, which has been linked to an increase in side effects and possibly lower immune function.
20 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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