Yes, fish oil is good for arthritis, especially inflammatory types like Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), as its omega-3s (EPA/DHA) reduce inflammation, pain, and stiffness, potentially lowering the need for NSAIDs and improving joint function, though it can take months to see results and you should consult a doctor first.
If inflammation is your main issue, fish oil or cod liver oil rich in omega 3 fatty acids is your best bet. If you have cartilage wear and tear, glucosamine may offer longer-term joint protection.
For the best, the most effective chance of results, the answer is both. Fish Oil and Turmeric can act as helpful allies in your battle towards joint pain relief! It is really important to understand that your pain can be improved, and with that your training at UFIT!
How long will it take to notice an effect? You may need to take fish oil supplements regularly at the recommended arthritis dose for two to three months before you notice improvements in your arthritis symptoms. If there is no change by then, the supplements are probably not effective for your arthritis.
Studies suggest fish oil supplements might help reduce pain, improve morning stiffness and relieve joint tenderness in people with rheumatoid arthritis. While relief is often modest, it might be enough to reduce the need for anti-inflammatory medications.
Taking more than 3 grams daily might increase the chance of bleeding. Fish oil side effects include heartburn, loose stools, and nosebleeds. Taking fish oil supplements with meals or freezing them can reduce these issues. Consuming high amounts of fish oil from DIETARY sources is possibly unsafe.
Several vitamins have been studied for their effects on arthritis, including the antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E, and vitamins D and K.
Yes, you can take fish oil every day, and it's generally safe for most adults up to 3,000 mg (3 grams) of combined EPA/DHA daily for general health, potentially offering benefits for heart, brain, and eye health, but higher doses (over 3g) might increase bleeding risk, and consulting a doctor is wise to check interactions with medications (like blood thinners) or underlying conditions.
Rosemary. Rosemary is a common choice for arthritis pain, and some research suggests its anti-inflammatory powers may be legit. A 2022 systematic review in Molecules found that in lab animals, rosemary essential oil produced anti-inflammatory activity over an average course of 21 days.
While there's no single "strongest," Omega-3 fatty acids (from fatty fish) and curcumin (from turmeric) are consistently cited as highly potent natural anti-inflammatories, alongside powerful antioxidants from fruits and vegetables like blueberries, plus herbs like ginger and garlic, all working to reduce inflammation pathways. A comprehensive anti-inflammatory diet emphasizes these foods, though Omega-3s and curcumin often stand out for their significant impact.
Here are seven simple ways to keep your joints lubricated as you get older.
You should also be careful of taking fish oil along with other medications that can increase risk of bleeding, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen. Supplement interactions: Taking high doses of fish oil with herbs that slow blood clotting (including Ginkgo bilboa) may cause bleeding.
If you have rheumatoid arthritis the recommended daily intake of omega-3 in fish oil is at least 2.7 g. This is the same as taking between 6 and 9 capsules or 1–3 teaspoons of liquid per day. Serious side effects from fish oil supplements are rare at these doses but minor side effects may include nausea and a rash.
The best fish oil in Australia depends on your needs, but top-rated options known for purity and potency include Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega, BioCeuticals UltraClean EPA/DHA Plus, and Herbs of Gold Triple Strength Omega-3, with quality markers being high EPA/DHA content, third-party testing, and sustainability certifications like MSC or Friend of the Sea. For value, consider high-dose liquids like Blackmores Liquid Fish Oil, while Fusion OceanPure offers an odourless choice, and Therapeia provides algae-based omega-3 for vegans/pregnant women.
Best anti-inflammatory foods for joint pain
How to put the brakes on arthritis progression
Arthritis pain relief involves a mix of medications (like OTC NSAIDs or acetaminophen, prescription meds), at-home therapies (heat/cold, massage, gentle exercise), topical treatments (creams/gels), and complementary options (acupuncture, TENS) to manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility, always consulting a doctor for personalized plans.
Excess consumption of omega-6s can trigger the body to produce pro-inflammatory chemicals. These fatty acids are found in oils such corn, safflower, sunflower, grapeseed, soy, peanut, and vegetable; mayonnaise; and many salad dressings.
A Cochrane review found that diclofenac or Voltaren, ibuprofen and ketoprofen gels are the most effective. Topical NSAIDs are less likely to cause GI issues or liver damage. Still, all NSAIDs may increase the risk of heart disease, so talk to your doctor.
Omega-3 deficiency can lead to various health issues, affecting skin, joints, and mood. Insufficient intake of these essential fatty acids, found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, can result in dry skin, joint pain, mood swings, and fatigue.
Fish oil supplements may interact with certain medications or supplements. Do not take them without your doctor's approval if you are on any medications (especially blood thinning drugs) or have chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, or any disorder of the pancreas.
Starting omega-3s helps reduce inflammation, improves heart health by lowering triglycerides, blood pressure, and clot risk, supports brain function and mood, and can benefit skin and joint health, but consistency is key, with benefits like better skin/sleep appearing over weeks to months, while digestive upset can occur initially.
Omega-3 fatty acids
This healthy fat is found in foods such as fish, nuts and in dietary supplements such as fish oil. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and stiffness. Studies show that those who ate omega-3 rich foods or took a fish oil supplement had a reduction in joint pain.
Arthritis flare-ups are triggered by overexertion, stress, infections, or changes in medication, but can also stem from poor sleep, weather shifts, injury, and certain foods, leading to increased joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Common culprits include pushing joints too hard, emotional stress, illness (like a cold or strep throat), skipping meds, and even changes in barometric pressure, with triggers varying slightly between arthritis types.
The Role of Vitamin D
Furthermore, some research suggests that vitamin D deficiency may be linked to an increased risk and severity of osteoarthritis, a common cause of joint pain. Ensuring adequate vitamin D levels through sunlight exposure, diet, or supplementation can be a crucial step in managing joint discomfort.