What are the Immunomodulatory Effects of Fish Oil?

The benefits of fish oil supplements are numerous, which is why their use has become almost as common as multivitamin supplementation, according to healthnewsdigest.com. Although fish oil is known to reduce cholesterol levels and promote cardiovascular health, it also has other positive---and even some negative---effects on immune system function.

Fish Oil Identification

• Fish oil provides omega-3 fatty acids in pill form. These fatty acids are typically found in foods such as fish and seaweed, which are not common staples in all Western diets. Therefore, fish oil supplements are often recommended to introduce omega-3 fatty acids into diets already heavy in omega-6 fatty acids, which are found in cereals, margarine and fried foods.

Uses and Benefits

• In addition to providing overall balance to diets and supporting general health, fish oil has been proven to help those suffering from many ailments, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, psoriasis and heart disease. Additionally, it is said to relieve the symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Immunomodulatory Effects

• As noted above, fish oil is an effective treatment for the inflammation associated with disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis. This is because fish oil actually suppresses certain functions of the immune system. In experiments with mice conducted at the University of Missouri-Columbia, those treated with fish oil were able to fight off infections for a longer period of time. Another study, however, indicated that fish oil may compromise the strength of an infant's immune system.
  Scientists and medical researchers continue to study the exact causes of fish oil's immunomodulatory effects. In the meantime, don't throw out your fish oil, because the general consensus is that it does not merely weaken the immune system, but rather that it balances it when taken in the appropriate dosages. For example, babies who are breastfed have stronger immune responses, since breast milk is higher in omega-3 fatty acids than formula. For this reason it is recommended that breastfeeding and pregnant mothers take a daily fish oil supplement. Additionally, fish oil strengthens the protective lubricant of the skin, called the sebum, which can help in repelling harmful bacteria.

Prevention/Solution

• To prevent negative effects to your body's ability to fight infection, never take fish oil in large doses. Those with impaired immune systems should especially avoid overusing fish oil, although according to scientific studies, normal doses are not dangerous and actually encourage proper immune functioning. Other adverse side effects of excessive fish oil use include weight gain, heightened cholesterol levels, mild nosebleeds or bruising, and heightened blood sugar levels. If you notice any of these symptoms, lower your dosage or discontinue use.

Considerations

• In addition to taking fish oil supplements, consider increasing daily intake of omega-3 rich foods. These include avocados, nuts and fish, as well as flaxseed and canola oils. Adding these natural sources of fatty acids will help moderate the immune system, and unless you are prone to binging on avocados or salmon fillets you won't have to worry about overdosing.