Hello, folks!
I promised an update on my fish oil journey. I have discussed it on my YouTube video, link here.
First, fish oil at high doses has been found in a randomized control trial to reduce the progression of rheumatoid arthritis for people who are already on standard rheumatoid arthritis treatment. I believe it equates to about 6 fish oil capsules daily.
In addition, another trial suggested individuals who combine fish oil plus glucosamine have slower progression of joint destruction in the setting of osteoarthritis. Now glucosamine used to be recommended for osteoarthritis, felt to help about 40 to 50% of people. With newer studies, the data is less clear. The medical databases report that glucosamine is considered very safe but, with conflicting data, not routinely recommended. However, the authors of the current guidance do not discourage people from trying it if they want to.
Interestingly, I have had osteoarthritis in my knees for several years that show up when I squat and sometimes walk up stairs or hills/mountains. So I decided to start taking glucosamine, and I do feel like my knee pain is better. Granted, that could be placebo effect, but since I have started taking it I have found multiple family members also take it in benefit. Actually, years ago, the family dog got better when they took glucosamine. This piqued my interest in the first place.
So here is my update: While I have patients who swear by high dose fish oil for arthritis, I did not notice much difference in my own middle-age creaking is/joint aches and pains on high-dose fish oil. I undertook two 2 week trials. So I am back down to taking 1 fish oil daily for brain health, as recommended at the lifestyle medicine conference by The Brain Docs. For now I will stay on the glucosamine.
It’s always a journey. I’m glad you’re here with me.
-Dr. Joe
