Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids are known and
understood to be essential fats since they are generally obtained by
ingesting foods. (As opposed to "processed" or saturated fats.) What is
important for you to understand is that your body needs Omega 3 and 6.
So
what does that mean to those who suffer from osteoarthritis? Your body
converts saturated fats into PG2, which has an inflammatory effect on
your body. On the other hand, both Omega 3 (PG3) and Omega 6 (PG1) have
an anti-inflammatory effect on your body. By now you should all be
aware that part of your pain problems associated with osteoarthritis
results from inflammation.
An interesting
observation was made in some clinical studies in the mid-1990's that is
noted in Dr. Atkins' Diet Revolution. (Avon books) The doctor suggests
that a principal ingredient in the fight against all arthritis should
be Omega-3 fatty acids. And why is that? Because this essential acid
clearly demonstrates that Omega-3 relieves both pain and inflammation.
What
may be most interesting about Dr. Atkin's recommendation is that
clinical studies have confirmed that the use of Omega-3 standing alone
dramatically reduced the pain suffered by those with Rheumatoid
Arthritis allowing them to lessen their dependence on other drugs.
This
leads us full circle back to some of the other methods of successfully
beating arthritis pain. Namely, that diet in general also plays a
significant role in the overall picture. If we eat less saturated fats,
we are in effect taking away one of our body's means of producing
inflammation. Conversely, by increasing our intake of Omega-3 and
Omega-6 we are assisting and encouraging our body to produce
anti-inflammatory defence mechanisms.
Are there any other benefits that we might gain through he use of Omega-3 and Omega-6? The answer is clearly "yes."
Arteriosclerosis
is cited as the greatest factor in deaths in this country today.
(Thickening in the lining of artery walls, which lead to heart
disease.) The ingestion of Omega-3 and Omega-6 therefore benefits our
bodies in still one more way. We actually reduce the risk of developing
heart disease and suffering cardiac arrest.