According to research recently published in Rheumatology consuming fish oils may decrease the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as EPA and DHA may suppress antibodies that regulate the immune system.

We all know about essential fatty acids' (EFAs) anti-inflammatory properties and their benefits in autoimmune disease. However in this study researchers wanted to determine if patients with higher intakes of omega-3 fatty acid would have a lower risk for developing RA.

The research team analyzed data on omega-3 consumption for 30 patients who had positive cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibodies for RA and 47 control patients with negative antibodies. A CCP antibody test is commonly ordered along with rheumatoid factor (RF) to help diagnose rheumatoid arthritis. Patients that test positive for the CCP antibody are more likely to have early RA or develop RA in the future. The CCP antibody is more specific for RA and tends to be associated with a more rapidly progressive and severe form of the disease.

According the study only 6.7% of the patients who had positive CCP antibodies reported taking an omega-3 supplement compared to 34.4% in the control group. In addition RBC fatty acid levels showed significantly lower omega-3 fatty acids in those with positive CCP antibodies compared to the control patients.

This study suggests that EPA and DHA may be effective in suppressing CCP antibodies which regulate the intensity as well as the duration of the immune response.

This is the first study to demonstrate an association between omega-3 fatty acids and the autoantibodies that lead to RA among patients who are at risk but have not yet developed the disease. Autoantibodies appear in the blood years before patients show symptoms to RA. It is important to screen antibodies just as one assesses metabolic markers in patients who may be at risk as it provides a mean to take preventative action and not a "˜wait and see' approach.

These results indicate a protective property of omega-3 fatty acids against RA by preventing its development before symptoms actually emerge.

The researchers recommend taking 1-3 grams of fish oil daily for those that may be at risk for RA or other inflammatory diseases.

Autoimmunity can occur in a few different ways. It is important to look at any environmental triggers such as food sensitivities nutrient status toxins and gut health. Each person's biochemical individuality exerts a major influence on his or her health. The level of nutrient intake lifestyle choices and environmental exposures filtered through genetic predisposition are major factors in the expression of disease and a successful treatment approach must investigate these factors.

By Michael Jurgelewicz DC DACBN DCBCN