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mbg Supplement Editor

By Morgan Chamberlain

mbg Supplement Editor

Morgan Chamberlain is a supplement editor at mindbodygreen. She graduated from Syracuse University with a Bachelor of Science degree in magazine journalism and a minor in nutrition.

Image by Javier Díez / Stocksy

March 16, 2023

Though their list of health benefits is long, omega-3 fatty acids are perhaps best known for their anti-inflammatory properties. But how, exactly, do these healthy fats help modulate and mitigate chronic inflammation? And what are some examples of symptoms and diseases that these anti-inflammatory benefits can help prevent?

• Acute inflammation is the immune system’s response to isolated body damage, such as a cut or injury. The body sends inflammatory cells and cytokines (i.e., small proteins that stimulate more inflammatory cells) to start healing the injured tissue. 
• Chronic inflammation occurs when the body continues to send inflammatory cells, even after the offending agent (such as a virus, bacteria, or a toxic chemical) is long gone. When left unchecked, chronic inflammation can lead to a number of diseases—including dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and even cancer.

• Direct immune white blood cells toward the source of inflammation, a process called leukocyte chemotaxis
• Regulate the interaction between leukocytes endothelial cells (i.e., vascular cells that line the entire cardiovascular system)
• Support the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and prostaglandins
• Give rise to inflammation-resolving mediators (e.g., resolvins, protectins, maresins) that help return tissues to health following an inflammatory response

Maintaining healthy omega-3 levels in cell membranes has been shown to help protect against chronic inflammation.

Although some EPA and DHA can be produced in the body endogenously via dietary ALA, the most effective way to increase your marine-derived omega-3 intake is by consuming more foods and/or supplements rich in EPA and DHA.

Consider adding omega-3-rich fatty fish (e.g., salmon, tuna, sardines, anchovies) to your diet multiple times a week to up your intake of EPA and DHA and achieve an optimal Omega-3 Index. 

Alternatively, you may want to consider a premium omega-3 supplement, such as a high-quality, sustainably sourced fish oil. Look for supplements that offer at least 1 gram of EPA plus DHA daily for optimal benefits. If you aren’t sure where to start, check out mindbodygreen’s guide to choosing the best omega-3 supplement for your unique health needs.