From the Guidelines
You can consider taking omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil supplements to help with poor peripheral circulation and stiff joints, as they have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow, with a typical dosage ranging from 1,000-2,000 mg of combined EPA and DHA daily, as supported by recent research 1. When it comes to managing poor peripheral circulation and stiff joints, omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil supplements can be a useful addition to your treatment plan.
- They are not typically prescribed as a first-line treatment, but rather recommended by doctors and purchased over-the-counter.
- The active components in omega-3s, EPA and DHA, work by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow, which can help alleviate joint stiffness and improve circulation.
- To get the most benefit from omega-3 supplements, look for high-quality products that specify the EPA and DHA content, rather than just total fish oil.
- It's also important to combine omega-3 supplements with regular physical activity, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking to see the best results.
- If you have bleeding disorders or take blood thinners, be sure to consult your healthcare provider before starting omega-3 supplements, as they can have mild anticoagulant effects, as noted in previous studies 1. Some key benefits of omega-3 fatty acids include:
- Reducing inflammation and improving blood flow
- Decreasing the risk of arrhythmias and thrombosis
- Lowering triglyceride and remnant lipoprotein levels
- Improving endothelial function and slightly lowering blood pressure
- Reducing inflammatory responses, as outlined in the American Heart Association's recommendations 1.
From the Research
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Fish Oil for Poor Peripheral Circulation and Stiff Joints
- Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, have been studied for their potential benefits in reducing inflammation and improving symptoms associated with poor peripheral circulation and stiff joints 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- A meta-analysis of 17 randomized, controlled trials found that supplementation with omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids for 3-4 months reduces patient-reported joint pain intensity, minutes of morning stiffness, and number of painful and/or tender joints 2.
- Another study found that 59% of patients with nonsurgical neck or back pain discontinued their prescription NSAID medications for pain after taking fish oil supplements, and 60% reported improved overall pain and joint pain 3.
- A randomized clinical trial found that high-dose eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplementation improved physical function, increased exercise, and reduced joint replacement in patients with coronary artery disease 4.
- Omega-3 fatty acids have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which may help prevent and/or treat chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and neurodegenerative diseases 5.
- A study found that EPA supplementation reduced vascular inflammation, a critical mediator of atherosclerosis, and may provide a rationale for the cardiovascular benefit observed with high-dose omega-3 fatty acid administration 6.
Potential for Prescription
- While omega-3 fatty acids and fish oil supplements are available over-the-counter, it may be possible to get a prescription for them if you have a medical condition that could benefit from their use, such as poor peripheral circulation and stiff joints.
- It's best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil supplements are right for you and to discuss the potential benefits and risks of taking them.