Omega-3s in fish oil help heal bedsores
Pressure ulcers: omega-3 can help heal them
The intake of fish oil rich in omega-3 promotes the healing of pressure ulcers affecting patients forced to spend long periods sitting or lying in the same position. The effect improves wound condition by up to 25% and reduces both the pain endured by those with these lesions and the risk of possible infections. These benefits of fish oil were discovered by a group of Israeli experts led by Pierre Singer, professor at the Sackler Faculty of Medicine at Tel Aviv University, with their studies published in the American Journal of Critical Care.
Ulcers and sores: an oxygen deficiency problem
Ulcers and pressure sores are a frequent problem for those who, due to illness (especially severe), must remain immobile for long periods, lying in bed or sitting. Besides causing pain, sores and ulcers easily become infected and must be properly treated. The causes of their formation include both skin moisture and reduced blood flow in the affected area, where tissues experience a state of oxygen deficiency.
8 grams of fish oil in 3 weeks
Based on previous studies showing that fish oil can increase oxygen levels in the tissues of severely ill patients, Singer and colleagues decided to test whether this omega-3 rich fish oil supplement could also promote healing of pressure ulcers. To verify this potential, the expert team involved 40 intensive care patients already presenting significant ulcers on their bodies.
Half the participants were given the hospital's usual diet, while the other half received the same menu supplemented with 8 grams per day of fish oil. Three weeks after the start of the experiment, experts evaluated pain related to pressure ulcers using a specific scale, finding that taking the omega-3 supplement reduced pain and discomfort by 20-25%. Moreover, already within the first 14 days, inflammation levels in patients taking fish oil significantly decreased, while their immune system was more efficient. In particular, Singer and colleagues observed a reduction in blood levels of C-reactive protein, a molecule associated with inflammation, infections (both viral and bacterial), rheumatic diseases, tissue damage, and necrosis, the premature death of cells.
White blood cells and omega-3
According to Singer, the beneficial effect of fish oil could depend on observed changes in molecules that enable leukocytes, a specific type of white blood cells, to reach the wound. Whatever the activated mechanism, these initial results are encouraging both in terms of wound healing and inflammation reduction. To stay updated on the latest scientific news about Omega-3, subscribe to our newsletter.
Source Theilla M, Schwartz B, Cohen J, Shapiro H, Anbar R, Singer P, “Impact of a nutritional formula enriched in fish oil and micronutrients on pressure ulcers in critical care patients”, Am J Crit Care. 2012 Jul;21(4):e102-9
