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Omega 3 Pills & Joint Pain

Omega-3 fatty acids are a good form of fat found in fish. They are used to treat multiple conditions, from diabetes to osteoporosis, that affect a range of body systems. Arthritis and joint pain can be treated with omega-3 pills.

  1. Omega-3 Properties

    • Omega-3 fatty acids are an important component for good health, but because they are not produced by the body, they must be obtained through foods and supplements. These fatty acids work as an anti-inflammatory within the body and fight against chronic and end-of-life diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol, and various cancers. According to the University of Maryland, omega-3 fatty acids may also decrease symptoms of mental health conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, although more research and studies are needed in this area before a definite link is claimed.

    Omega-3 Pills

    • People who eat a diet rich in fish and nuts should be able to obtain enough omega-3 fatty acids through their regular diet. Others who are not able to eat this type of diet on a regular basis need to seek out their omega-3 fatty acids in the form of pills, also known as dietary supplements. These supplements are widely marketed and available in the form of fish oil capsules. They can be purchased without a prescription and are found at most pharmacies and all health supplement specialty stores.

    Omega-3 and Arthritis

    • Omega-3 pills are taken to relieve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis due to their anti-inflammatory properties. These pills can cut down on the swelling incurred in arthritic joints, thereby cutting down on the pain and discomfort associated with the condition. The University of Maryland also reports that omega-3 fatty acids may slow the destruction of cartilage in those with osteoarthritis. A regular regimen of omega-3 pills can decrease joint pain and swelling and give individuals increased mobility and range of motion, while also potentially allowing them to cut down on the amount of prescription and over-the-counter medications they take to manage the disease.

    Dosage

    • Dosages of omega-3 pills are dependent upon how much concentrated eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids a manufacturer contains within one pill. These smaller components of omega-3 fatty acids are more important than the actual amount of fish oil present, as they are the active ingredients in the supplement. Read the labels carefully and consult with your physician for the dosage that is optimal for you.

    Precautions

    • Only purchase omega-3 pills that have been made by a reputable manufacturer. Some manufacturers do not have high standards of production, and their products may contain trace amounts of harmful chemicals and other questionable substances. Consult with your doctor to ensure that omega-3 pills will not negatively interact with any of the medications you may already be taking for your joint pain. This includes medications used to treat blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and multiple other conditions.

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