Reduce inflammation with omega 3 fatty acids, more evidence.

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t has been known for a long time that omega 3 fatty acids, the kind you find in fish and flax seeds, have the ability to reduce inflammation.

A recent study where the participants were young women between 18-23 years provides even more evidence (Murakami K, et al, 2008). The researchers documented that the inflammatory marker C-reactive protein (CRP) went down as the intake of omega 3 fat went up.

The easiest and most effective way to increase your omega 3 fatty acid intake is to take fish oil. Flax seed oil also contains omega 3 fat, but the fat from flax has to be metabolized to EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid).

Fish oil already comes as EPA and DHA. For that reason you can take less of the fish oil compared to flax oil to get the same amount of EPA and DHA. Just be sure the fish oil you use is of high quality because omega 3 fat oxidizes easily and fish oil can be contaminated from other toxins as well.

Reference:

Murakami K, et al. Total n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid intake is inversely associated with serum C-reactive protein in young Japanese women. Nutr Res. 2008 May; 28(5):309-14.