Scientists have uncovered further evidence that cod liver oil can be used to reduce the pain of arthritis.
The research, published in the journal Rheumatology, was conducted by academics at Dundee University and the city's Ninewells Hospital. The study showed that nearly 40% of rheumatoid arthritis sufferers taking cod liver oil were able to cut their daily dose of anti-inflammatory drugs with no apparent worsening of their symptoms.
Many patients with arthritis take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve the symptoms of their condition, but these have been linked to a wide range of side-effects including the increased risk of heart attacks, strokes or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Researcher Professor Jill Belch said: "This study offers hope to many patients for whom cod liver oil can offer a natural pain treatment without the harmful side-effects associated with anti-inflammatory drugs.
"It reinforces previous research that has shown cod liver oil, and its high contact of omega-3 essential fatty acids, to have significant anti-inflammatory properties in patients with rheumatoid arthritis."
Previous research has shown the benefits of fish oils in staving off heart disease, cancer, depression and Alzheimer's disease in the elderly.
The research, published in the journal Rheumatology, was conducted by academics at Dundee University and the city's Ninewells Hospital. The study showed that nearly 40% of rheumatoid arthritis sufferers taking cod liver oil were able to cut their daily dose of anti-inflammatory drugs with no apparent worsening of their symptoms.
Many patients with arthritis take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve the symptoms of their condition, but these have been linked to a wide range of side-effects including the increased risk of heart attacks, strokes or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Researcher Professor Jill Belch said: "This study offers hope to many patients for whom cod liver oil can offer a natural pain treatment without the harmful side-effects associated with anti-inflammatory drugs.
"It reinforces previous research that has shown cod liver oil, and its high contact of omega-3 essential fatty acids, to have significant anti-inflammatory properties in patients with rheumatoid arthritis."
Previous research has shown the benefits of fish oils in staving off heart disease, cancer, depression and Alzheimer's disease in the elderly.
