Inflammation in a normal immune system is a reaction that helps repair damages in the body tissues as well as protecting the body from infections. However, this auto-immune response may become overactive leading to tissue damage; this can cause certain types of inflammatory diseases. These kinds of diseases include a wide array of disorders and conditions characterized by chronic inflammation. Some of these conditions include allergic reactions, asthma, hepatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, autoimmune diseases and transplant rejection.

Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fats that are incredibly important for the body. They have a variety of health benefits for the body including the brain. There are two major types of dietary omega-3 fatty acids. These include alpha-linoleic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. Alpha linoleic acid is converted to eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid in the body. Omega-3 can inhibit the active processes that cause inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids are converted to resolves which inhibit the inflammatory response by the immune system. They help reduce inflammation throughout the body and have been shown to improve heart health, brain function and diabetes. The following are some of the inflammatory conditions which can be improved by taking omega-3 fatty acids.

Heart disease

Prolonged inflammation causes irritation of blood vessels. It also promotes the growth of plaques, loosen plaque in blood vessels and can trigger blood clots. This is the primary cause of heart attacks and strokes.Omega-3 fatty acids are well known for their heart health promoting properties. Studies have shown that regular consumption of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and problems.

Cognitive health

Studies show that people with conditions associated with chronic inflammation such as obesity or Alzheimer’s are at a higher risk of cognitive and mental health problems. The risk of cognitive impairment also increases with aging. A diet rich in omega-3 has been shown to slow down the development of changes in the brain associated with conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. Taking omega-3 supplements also reduces mental fatigue and improves cognitive function.  

Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that inhibits the body’s ability to process blood glucose. If this condition is not managed carefully, it can lead to an accumulation of sugars in the blood. This increases the risk of dangerous complications such as stroke or heart disease.Type-2 diabetes reduces the body’s sensitivity to insulin resulting in insulin resistance and chronic inflammation. A vicious cycle may then result with more inflammation causing more insulin resistance and vice versa. Eating a diet rich in omega-3 reduces the risk of developing type-2 diabetes as it reduces blood sugar levels and slow down the development of the disease.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks the lining of the membranes that surround joints. This causes an inflammation which thickens this membrane and eventually damages the cartilage and bone within the joint. Taking omega-3 fatty acids has been shown to rebalance the body's inflammatory factors and are thus is able to battle inflammatory diseases such as arthritis.