Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Dietary fats can influence inflammation, a major factor in rheumatoid arthritis. This is the type of arthritis that occurs as a result of the body’s immune system mistakenly launching an attack on the joints. Omega-3 rich fish oil may show some benefit in inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
They can cause unpleasant stomach and intestinal side effects, are high in calories and rather expensive. In addition, an excess of omega-3 fatty acids potentially can lower the amount of omega-6 fatty acids from sources such as corn, safflower and cottonseed oils. This imbalance actually may promote inflammation.
It is too soon to know if foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids also will be helpful. However, these foods have other health benefits, especially in the prevention of heart disease. The best sources are from fish such as salmon, sardines, mackerel, herring and tuna. Other omega-3 sources (less potent than fish, however) include ground flax, flaxseed oil, walnuts and, to a limited degree, green leafy vegetables.