Scientists have proven that Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids can reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis. The research was published in the journal nutrients.
Previous studies have shown that high intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) may affect the risk of osteoarthritis. However, it was unclear whether this was due to the direct effects of these substances or other factors. For example, it is possible that high consumption of omega-3 fatty acids is generally characteristic of people who are more health-conscious or earn more and therefore have access to quality healthcare.
In the new study, researchers tested the cause-and-effect relationship between PUFAs and the risk of knee and hip osteoarthritis using mutations previously associated with high or low PUFA intake, not participants’ actual PUFA levels. This allowed doctors to rule out environmental influences.
Genetic data were obtained from the UK Biobank. MRI images were used to determine the risk of osteoarthritis. Scientists have found convincing evidence that omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids reduce the risk of osteoarthritis, especially in the knee. Further studies including larger numbers of patients are needed to confirm these results.
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