Fish Oil Improves Active Lupus Symptoms

Omega-3 fish oils may benefit lupus activity as well as cardiovascular effects for patients with lupus, according to research presented at the American College of Rheumatology Annual Scientific Meeting, held in Boston from November 6-11, 2007. Systemic lupus erythematosus -- also called SLE or lupus -- is a chronic inflammatory disease that can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, lungs, nervous system, and other organs of the body. Patients with lupus may also develop premature cardiovascular disease.

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Researchers randomly assigned 60 patients with lupus in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to determine the effect of dietary supplementation with omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on disease activity and endothelial function. The endothelium is the thin layer of cells that line the interior surface of blood vessels, forming an interface between circulating blood in the lumen and the rest of the vessel wall. During the 24-week study, researchers measured lupus disease activity and studied endothelial function and cell damaging free radical molecules.

Study results revealed that study participants who had been taking omega-3 fish oil showed significant improvement in all areas of measurement, including improved blood vessel function and a reduction in cell damaging molecules -- resulting in potential cardiovascular benefits. There was also a significant improvement in a number of the symptoms related to active lupus.

More Related Resources:

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