Introduction
Fish oil can potentially alleviate joint discomfort associated with this arthritis (Saidane et al., 2019). Patients should only be given fish oil as a supplement when they are altering their diet to a healthier one. There is some speculation that fish oil, containing omega-3 fatty acids, may benefit individuals with arthritis (Saidane et al., 2019). For example, it can alleviate joint discomfort associated with this condition (Saidane et al., 2019). Omega-3 fatty acids include eicosatetraenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, and alpha-linolenic acid (Cordingley & Cornish, 2022). Patients should receive fish oil supplements only when they are improving their diet.
Rationale for the Choice
Many people rely on fish oil to achieve a healthy diet without consulting a health expert. Nonetheless, taking fish oil without proper medical advice can have side effects, such as increasing blood sugar levels and interacting with medication (Kostoglou-Athanassiou et al., 2020). Due to its detrimental impacts on patients, particularly older adults, this study examines whether omega-3 fish oil is recommended for individuals with arthritis.
Search History
During the Google Scholar search process, a limited number of sources appeared. The majority of the articles focused on the effects of dietary shifts on managing arthritis, which was the primary motivation for the search. Also, it included studies with data addressing the use of omega-3 acids. Ultimately, seven recent sources were identified for review.
Summary and Critical Analysis of Results
In light of Cordingley and Cornish (2022), fish oil contains anti-inflammatory properties that may alleviate mild inflammation and inhibit cartilage catabolism and infection growth. The findings are summarized: dietary treatments with an anti-inflammatory foundation may be a viable option for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis seeking additional therapy that can improve certain parameters (Raad et al., 2021). The study type was a systematic review, and the sample size was 15 cross-country studies.
In light of Kostoglou-Athanassiou et al. (2020), clinical investigations have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can influence disease activity, specifically the number of swollen and painful joints. According to Peterson et al. (2018), dietary supplements, such as fish oil, play a vital role in treating arthritis conditions. Nonetheless, they must be utilized when prescribed in a non-dietary intervention, such as sufficient pharmacotherapy.
Based on Saidane et al. (2019), evidence-based practice identifies omega-3 fatty acids as a dietary element capable of altering the course of rheumatoid arthritis, particularly in the preclinical phases of the disease. The administration of large dosages of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids resulted in a reduction in rheumatoid arthritis disease activity and a decreased risk of pharmacotherapy failure in RCTs (Philippou et al., 2021). However, long-term trials with adequate power to assess the influence of an omega-3 fatty acid-rich diet on the development of the illness are required. Some dietary treatments can significantly improve symptoms, while others exacerbate them. The primary focus of future research should be on the influence of dietary modifications on arthritic pain.
Discussion
Over the last five years, no quantitative studies have demonstrated a distinct disease dynamic in symptom reduction with or without the use of fish oil supplements. However, it is hard to state with certainty what generated such a dynamic omega-3 effect: individual features, dietary changes, or arthritic course factors. All researchers agree on the current research gap: there is a lack of relevant evidence base for real improvements in patients with arthritis who take fish oil.
Based on these data, it is difficult to advocate using fish oil supplements for a specific patient (Kostoglou-Athanassiou et al., 2020). If utilized, omega-3 should be integrated with the primary treatment rather than in place (Kostoglou-Athanassiou et al., 2020). However, the scientific question of whether Omega-3-FA is beneficial in treating arthritis remains unresolved. Increased Omega-3 consumption may be suggested to patients without contraindications, but only as part of transitioning to a better diet.
Conclusion
It is unknown what factor affected the improvement in patients using fish oil. Fish oil cannot be advised as a therapy for people living with arthritis at this time. Extensive quantitative analyses are needed to rule out the potential for reciprocal impact. Currently, dietary adjustments to increase omega-3 consumption may be recommended for individuals with arthritis, unless contraindications exist, in most studies.