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Fish Oil and Joint Pain

In people who eat less than 1-2 servings of fish per week, fish oil supplements may be useful in reducing joint stiffness.

  • Fish oil supplements contain the concentrated tissue oils of fish.
  • Two of these oils are omega-3 fatty acids, called DHA and EPA
  • DHA and EPA can be beneficial in reducing morning joint stiffness.

Things to look for in a supplement

  • High levels of DHA and EPA
  • No mercury 

Possible side effects

  • Diarrhea
  • Fishy burps
  • Reflux or queasiness
  • Bruising

How to take fish oil

  • Aim for 1000 mg or more of DHA and EPA combined per day
    • Usually this means taking at least TWO soft gels daily
    • Watch serving sizes!  Most serving sizes are TWO soft gels
  • 1000 mg of fish oil does not always mean 1000 mg of DHA and EPA.
    • It is important to look at the amount of DHA and EPA in each supplement
  • Take with food
    • If tolerating well, can increase dose gradually up to 3000-4000 mg of DHA and EPA daily
    • If not tolerating well, can decrease dose to 500 mg of DHA and EPA daily

Where to store it

  • Cool, dark cabinet
  • Check label for storage requirements
  • Some recommend storage in a refrigerator after opening
  • Stable room temperature
    • Bathrooms generally not ideal

Where to get it

Kellogg Outpatient Pharmacy 847.570.1130: 2650 Ridge Ave, Rm G400, Evanston, IL 60201

Potential Products:

  • Ultimate Omega (Nordic Naturals)
    In TWO soft gels: EPA 650 mg/DHA 450 mg/Other 180 mg (Total 1280 mg)

Wellness Shoppe (847-657-3542): 2400 Chestnut Ave, Glenview, IL 60026

Potential Products:

  • EPA-DHA Extra Strength® Enteric-Coated (Metagenics)
    In TWO soft gels: EPA 600 mg/DHA 400 mg (Total 1000 mg)
  • EPA-DHA High Concentrate Liquid (Metagenics)
    In 5 mL (one teaspoon): EPA 1400 mg/DHA 925 mg/Other 475 mg (Total 2800 mg)
  • Ultimate Omega (Nordic Naturals)
    In TWO soft gels: EPA 650 mg/DHA 450 mg/Other 180 mg (Total 1280 mg)

References

Natural Products Database

Goldberg RJ & Katz J. A meta-analysis of the analgesic effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation for inflammatory joint pain. Pain; 129:210-233, 2007.