Multiple Sclerosis 5- Omega 3 Fatty Acids

The point of this series on MS is not to provide alternatives to conventional management.  Rather, we need to identify all the options that are complementary.  This article states that the complementary therapies, "most frequently used include diet, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants." Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2010 May;6(3):381-95.

You may find it interesting that modalities that are often attributed to simply being part of a healthy lifestyle are now considered to be a therapy.  We have come to the point where a healthy diet is now considered "therapy" rather than being a mainstream, commonplace habit.  

Many people, even those without disease, use omega 3 fatty acids.  Their heart and brain-protective effects have been well documented.   They are also well accepted as being a potent anti-inflammatory agent.  As inflammation is so common in a variety of diseases, omega 3s may be helpful in conditions ranging from fatty liver disease, depression, osteoporosis, and of course.... multiple sclerosis.

One study examined the therapeutic use of omega 3 fatty acids on several immune markers.  The researchers found that one particular indicator of immune activity, matrix metalloproteinase-9, was reduced after 3 months of aggressive supplementation (9.6 grams/day.  Many experts recommend 1 g/day for general health purposes).  The authors conclude that  "omega-3 FA may have a potential therapeutic role in RRMS (relapsing-remitting MS) patients." Prostaglandins Leukt Essent Fatty Acids 2009 Feb-Mar;80(2-3):131-6. Epub 2009 Jan 25.

Several animal studies also show promise in the use of omega 3s in MS management.  DHA, a component of fish oil, was shown to calm the immune response in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, the animal model of MS.  Given the promise of modulating the immune response (and therefore the attack on myelin), researchers continue to actively investigate the possible use of MS.  Currently, the use of fish oil is not a standard of care in MS management. Results of many other scientific studies have been mixed.

But while researchers figure this out, what will you do? One option is to wait another 10 years for more conclusive data to emerge.  Another option is to recognize that sick or healthy, omega 3 fatty acids are necessary for ideal physiological outcomes.  Omega 3s are not a magic pill that will cure MS.  Perhaps taken alone, they may have minimal effect.  But what if omega 3s calmed inflammation, vitamin D helped modulate the immune response & probiotics restored normal gut activity?  Could there be a synergistic effect that will take decades for science to quantify? (I mention these 3 because these were mentioned in previous posts. There are, of course, other options).

I will admit that figuring out the appropriate dosage of omega 3s can be tricky.  As mentioned, many people take 1 g/day while the therapeutic dose used in some trials is over 9 grams.  But working with your physician, you should be able to monitor levels through simple blood tests that serve as a guideline. 

Pregnancy- Essential Fats

Many people have heard of omega 3 fatty acids.  We see these advertised on infant formula, supermarket eggs and more.  Food manufacturers have begun fortifying many foods with this essential fat as it plays crucial roles in heart health, brain health, and in reducing inflammation.  You can easily find a bottle of fish oil (or an actual fish) in any supermarket.  Omega 3's are among the best researched nutritional supplement available and in our generally fish-deprived culture, a good supplement for most of us to take.

Omega 3s are especially important for the pregnant woman.  Supplementing with omega 3 fatty acids is a great idea, but women of child-bearing years should pay attention long before they get pregnant.  Experts believe that women consuming a traditional Western diet do not consume sufficient amounts of omega 3s to nourish the developing child. 

In late pregnancy, many women consuming contemporary Western diets may not be able to meet the fetal demand for n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) from the diet alone.  Annu Rev Nutr 2010 Aug 21; 30: 237-55

In fact, much of the omega 3 available to the growing baby comes from Mom's fat tissue.  As Mom consumes omega 3 fatty acids, some are immediately utilized and other are stored in her fat tissue.   This becomes available to the growing baby throughout pregnancy and especially in the latter months.  The baby then utilizes some and stores some in his fat.  He will use these fats during the first few months of life. 

Omega 3 supplements should be a part of every woman's prenatal care.  Just as you would take a good prenatal vitamin with sufficient folate, omega 3s should also be included.