Effects of modulation of inflammatory and immune parameters in patients with rheumatic and inflammatory disease receiving dietary supplementation of n‐3 and n‐6 fatty acids

To describe the rationale and status of n-3 and n-6 fatty acid dietary supplementation in patients with inflammatory disease. The most recent literature is reviewed with a focus on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as most investigations have described the use of n-3 supplements in this disease entity. Investigations from Europe, the United States, and Australia have described consistent improvement in tender joint scores with many investigators also observing improvements in morning stiffness. A meta analysis has confirmed the predictable improvement in tender joints. Recent studies also suggest that some patients with RA are able to discontinue nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) while receiving n-3 fatty acids. A large number of peer reviewed publications from around the world have established the utility of dietary supplementation with n-3 fatty acids in reducing tender joint counts and morning stiffness in patients with RA. Some patients are also able to discontinue NSAIDs while on these supplements.