Omega-3 Supplements: A Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Action That Reduces C-Reactive Protein Levels by 16%
Have you ever heard of C-reactive protein (CRP)? It’s the thermometer that measures the level of inflammation in your body: a high CRP level can signal various health conditions to watch, from heart disease to arthritis.
Fish oil might be the key to reducing this inflammation.
From fish, a weapon against inflammation
A study from the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center and the University of Washington in Seattle, published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, confirms it: regular fish oil intake reduces inflammation by lowering C-reactive protein levels by 16%. CRP is an immune system molecule produced in large amounts by the liver precisely when an inflammatory process is underway.
This happens because, according to the authors, fish oil has protective effects against chronic diseases. The valuable anti-inflammatory action is due to Omega-3 fatty acids, “essential” for the body. Essential because our body cannot produce them on its own but absolutely needs them.
More precisely, our body needs two Omega-3s: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These are synthesized from alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). However, this conversion is very inefficient: therefore, the best strategy to ensure adequate levels of essential fats is to take them through sources (like fatty fish and fish oil) that directly provide EPA and DHA.
Omega-3s in action
What happens in our body when we take Omega-3s? These molecules act and participate in various important processes for our physical and mental well-being. Specifically, 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 the intestines.
Studies so far show that in addition to preventing diseases, fish oil (rich in Omega-3s) is also a safe product for health.
Cultivate your curiosity, nurture 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
