In 2008, Channel 7's national current affairs programme, Today Tonight, featured Blackmores Cod Liver Oil in a segment on arthritis pain relief, positively reinforcing the far-reaching benefits of fish oil.
According to Rheumatologist, Professor Ian McLeland of Royal Adelaide Hospital, new research shows that sufferers who take two teaspoons of cod liver oil can cut their reliance on pain killers by more than 30 per cent.
Referring to this new research, Professor McLeland said "it means that they (patients) can choose to take a fish oil for pain relief and that means they can reduce or avoid taking the analgesic anti-inflammatory drugs which have been shown to increase the risk for cardio-vascular events and for serious complications in the stomach."
Published in the journal, Rheumatology, this study shows that a daily intake of 10 g of cod liver oil may help reduce the need for pain killers in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.
The study concludes that rheumatoid arthritis patients supplementing their diet with fish oil may help them reduce their intake of non steroidal anti-inflammatories, which may help in reducing the risks of gastrointestinal and cardiovascular side-effects.
Alongside these results, Australian researchers at RMIT University have shown the benefits of omega-3 fatty acid derived from the green-lipped mussel in inhibiting leukotriene and cyclo-oxygenase (COX) activity. This activity is a contributor to inflammation.
Pam Stone, Blackmores Director of Education comments, "We've known of the far-reaching benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for many years now. The result of this research further reinforces the strong results we have seen elsewhere for the role of omega-3s in reducing the pain associated with arthritis."
Click here for Blackmores' nutritional oils range for arthritis.
For more information on Blackmores fish oil products, contact the Blackmores Naturopathic Advisory Service on 1800 803 760.
Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional.