Omega-3 supplements: potent anti-inflammatory action that reduces C-reactive protein levels by 16%

Have you ever heard of C-reactive protein (CRP)? It is the thermometer that measures the degree of inflammation in your body: a high PCR level can signal several health conditions to be monitored, from heart disease to arthritis.

Fish oil may be the key to quenching these inflammations.

From fish, the weapon against inflammation

A study from the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center and the University of Washington in Seattle published in the pages of the American Journal of Epidemiology confirms this: regular intake of fish oil counteracts inflammation by reducing levels of C-reactive protein, an immune system molecule produced in large quantities by the liver precisely when inflammation is underway, by 16 percent.

This is because, according to the authors, fish oil produces protective effects against chronic diseases. Responsible for its valuable anti-inflammatory action are the fatty acids Omega-3, "essential" for the body. Essential because our body, on its own, is unable to produce them even though it absolutely needs them. 

More specifically, our body needs two Omega-3s: the EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These are synthesized from alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). This conversion, however, is very inefficient, which is why the best strategy to ensure that our bodies have adequate levels of essential fats is to take them in through sources (such as oily fish and fish oil) that directly contain EPA and DHA.

Omega-3s in action

What happens to our bodies when we take Omega-3? These molecules go into action and participate in several processes that are important for our mental and physical well-being. In particular, essential fatty acids promote the accumulation of molecules that counteract inflammatory processes and, in doing so, protect the health of the cardiovascular system and other tissues, such as intestinal tissues. 

Studies to date show that in addition to preventing the occurrence of disease, fish oil (rich in Omega-3) is also a safe health product. 

Cultivate your curiosity, nourish your well-being. And don't forget: fish oil can be your ally against inflammation!

Source: Kantor ED, Lampe JW, Vaughan TL, Peters U, Rehm CD, White E, "Association between use of specialty dietary supplements and C-reactive protein concentrations," Am J Epidemiol. 2012 Dec 1;176(11):1002-13. doi: 10.1093/aje/kws186