Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 14 Researches
7.3
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 2 Reviews
8.5
Top Medical Research Studies
9
We set out to investigate how docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a fatty acid known for its health benefits, can affect osteoarthritis (OA), a common degenerative joint disease, particularly among older adults. Using both human chondrocyte models stimulated by IL-1β and rat models created through surgical methods, we aimed to understand DHA's potential to impact chondrocyte behavior and cartilage health.
Our observations revealed that DHA significantly promotes the growth of chondrocytes while reducing cell death, which is a key concern in OA. Notably, we found an increase in autophagosomes—structures that help break down cellular waste—within cells treated with DHA, suggesting enhanced cell health.
In comparing groups, those treated with DHA exhibited healthier cartilage characterized by thickened tissue and a decrease in degeneration when compared to the untreated OA group. We also noted an increase in collagen production, vital for maintaining joint structure. The biochemical analysis indicated that DHA potentially exerts its effects by inhibiting certain pathways associated with cell growth and stress responses, thus enhancing chondrocyte proliferation and survival.
Overall, our findings contribute valuable insights into how DHA can be leveraged as a therapeutic approach for OA, emphasizing its role in protecting and restoring cartilage health.
Our observations revealed that DHA significantly promotes the growth of chondrocytes while reducing cell death, which is a key concern in OA. Notably, we found an increase in autophagosomes—structures that help break down cellular waste—within cells treated with DHA, suggesting enhanced cell health.
In comparing groups, those treated with DHA exhibited healthier cartilage characterized by thickened tissue and a decrease in degeneration when compared to the untreated OA group. We also noted an increase in collagen production, vital for maintaining joint structure. The biochemical analysis indicated that DHA potentially exerts its effects by inhibiting certain pathways associated with cell growth and stress responses, thus enhancing chondrocyte proliferation and survival.
Overall, our findings contribute valuable insights into how DHA can be leveraged as a therapeutic approach for OA, emphasizing its role in protecting and restoring cartilage health.
Read More
8
We explored how docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a marine omega-3 fatty acid, impacts fibroblast-like synovial cells from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In our investigation, we found that DHA treatment triggered cell death in these cells through a process called apoptosis—a form of programmed cell death— and this effect increased with higher doses of DHA.
DHA not only induced apoptosis but also reduced the levels of proteins associated with inflammation, specifically MMP-9 and IL-1β. Interestingly, we observed that DHA prompted the activation of stress markers in the cells, indicating a response to abnormal stress conditions. Two key players in this process were identified: CHOP and death receptor 5 (DR5). When we reduced the expression of CHOP or DR5, the cells showed improved survival and less apoptosis, highlighting their roles in this pathway.
Additionally, DHA led to an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), compounds that can cause damage to cells. By using an antioxidant called Tiron, we discovered that it could prevent the effects of DHA, including the induction of CHOP and DR5, and reduce the cell death triggered by DHA. This protective effect boosted cell viability and diminished markers typically associated with apoptosis.
All of our findings in the lab were corroborated by results from human primary synovial cells from RA patients. This suggests that DHA may hold promise as a therapeutic agent for RA by harnessing oxidative stress and CHOP to promote cell death in the inflamed tissues of the joints.
DHA not only induced apoptosis but also reduced the levels of proteins associated with inflammation, specifically MMP-9 and IL-1β. Interestingly, we observed that DHA prompted the activation of stress markers in the cells, indicating a response to abnormal stress conditions. Two key players in this process were identified: CHOP and death receptor 5 (DR5). When we reduced the expression of CHOP or DR5, the cells showed improved survival and less apoptosis, highlighting their roles in this pathway.
Additionally, DHA led to an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), compounds that can cause damage to cells. By using an antioxidant called Tiron, we discovered that it could prevent the effects of DHA, including the induction of CHOP and DR5, and reduce the cell death triggered by DHA. This protective effect boosted cell viability and diminished markers typically associated with apoptosis.
All of our findings in the lab were corroborated by results from human primary synovial cells from RA patients. This suggests that DHA may hold promise as a therapeutic agent for RA by harnessing oxidative stress and CHOP to promote cell death in the inflamed tissues of the joints.
Read More
8
Fish oil aids arthritis inflammation
We conducted a study to see how over-the-counter fish oil supplements, specifically those rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), impacted individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) compared to those without the condition. By analyzing a diverse group of 104 participants—some taking the supplements and some not—we aimed to understand the role of omega-3 fatty acids in their health.
Our findings revealed that individuals taking fish oil supplements, regardless of having RA, had significantly higher blood levels of essential fatty acids like EPA and DHA. Moreover, they also showed elevated levels of certain specialized pro-resolving mediators, which are important for reducing inflammation. This suggests that taking fish oil may help both RA patients and healthy individuals enhance their stores of beneficial fatty acid metabolites.
Interestingly, the study demonstrated that patients with RA can benefit from the same fish oil supplementation as those without RA, potentially improving their inflammatory response through the increase of these key lipid mediators. This could be an encouraging advancement for those seeking natural ways to support their arthritis management.
Our findings revealed that individuals taking fish oil supplements, regardless of having RA, had significantly higher blood levels of essential fatty acids like EPA and DHA. Moreover, they also showed elevated levels of certain specialized pro-resolving mediators, which are important for reducing inflammation. This suggests that taking fish oil may help both RA patients and healthy individuals enhance their stores of beneficial fatty acid metabolites.
Interestingly, the study demonstrated that patients with RA can benefit from the same fish oil supplementation as those without RA, potentially improving their inflammatory response through the increase of these key lipid mediators. This could be an encouraging advancement for those seeking natural ways to support their arthritis management.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Ankle pain reduced
5 people found this helpful
In reference to my recent purchase of Doctor's Best DHA 500 from Calamari 500mg: I was taking regular fish oil, but since using the Doctor's Best Calamari Gel Caps, I no longer have pain in my ankle from an old rodeo injury. The arthritis pain in my hands and fingers has also diminished. I really like Dr's Best DHA 500 Calamari. Thank you.
Read More
7.5
Improves hip pain
4 people found this helpful
Showing definite results. I have knee and hip arthritis, which is not uncommon at my age. I've relied on fish oil, aspirin, and exercise. I should be more active, which is part of the problem. Having used half of my first bottle of DHA, I can honestly say it's noticeably improving the pain in my hips and knees. My blood pressure has also dropped from 130 systolic to 120. Dr. Steven Sinatra speaks highly of DHA in his books; I recommend them, as well as his supplements, even though they can be pricey.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 14 Researches
7.3
- All Researches
9
Docosahexaenoic acid reduces arthritis
We examined the effects of lipid mediators derived from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on arthritis, particularly focusing on rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The study utilized a model involving mice with collagen antibody-induced arthritis (CAIA) and RAW264.7 cells to investigate the role of these mediators in reducing inflammation and joint damage.
The lipid mediators were produced by soybean lipoxygenase from DHA and included substances known for their anti-inflammatory properties. We found that these mediators significantly reduced symptoms in CAIA mice, evidenced by decreased paw swelling and reduced progression of arthritis. In the cellular studies, these mediators inhibited the formation of bone-resorbing cells called osteoclasts, while also downregulating key inflammatory markers.
Following treatment, there were notable improvements in serum cytokine levels, with a decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6, and an increase in the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Additionally, joint inflammation and damage were reduced, hinting at a complex relationship involving various signaling pathways.
These findings indicate that lipid mediators derived from DHA may offer a promising approach to alleviating symptoms of RA, though the precise individual contributions of DHA alone are difficult to isolate due to the presence of other components in the intervention.
The lipid mediators were produced by soybean lipoxygenase from DHA and included substances known for their anti-inflammatory properties. We found that these mediators significantly reduced symptoms in CAIA mice, evidenced by decreased paw swelling and reduced progression of arthritis. In the cellular studies, these mediators inhibited the formation of bone-resorbing cells called osteoclasts, while also downregulating key inflammatory markers.
Following treatment, there were notable improvements in serum cytokine levels, with a decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6, and an increase in the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Additionally, joint inflammation and damage were reduced, hinting at a complex relationship involving various signaling pathways.
These findings indicate that lipid mediators derived from DHA may offer a promising approach to alleviating symptoms of RA, though the precise individual contributions of DHA alone are difficult to isolate due to the presence of other components in the intervention.
Read More
9
We set out to investigate how docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a fatty acid known for its health benefits, can affect osteoarthritis (OA), a common degenerative joint disease, particularly among older adults. Using both human chondrocyte models stimulated by IL-1β and rat models created through surgical methods, we aimed to understand DHA's potential to impact chondrocyte behavior and cartilage health.
Our observations revealed that DHA significantly promotes the growth of chondrocytes while reducing cell death, which is a key concern in OA. Notably, we found an increase in autophagosomes—structures that help break down cellular waste—within cells treated with DHA, suggesting enhanced cell health.
In comparing groups, those treated with DHA exhibited healthier cartilage characterized by thickened tissue and a decrease in degeneration when compared to the untreated OA group. We also noted an increase in collagen production, vital for maintaining joint structure. The biochemical analysis indicated that DHA potentially exerts its effects by inhibiting certain pathways associated with cell growth and stress responses, thus enhancing chondrocyte proliferation and survival.
Overall, our findings contribute valuable insights into how DHA can be leveraged as a therapeutic approach for OA, emphasizing its role in protecting and restoring cartilage health.
Our observations revealed that DHA significantly promotes the growth of chondrocytes while reducing cell death, which is a key concern in OA. Notably, we found an increase in autophagosomes—structures that help break down cellular waste—within cells treated with DHA, suggesting enhanced cell health.
In comparing groups, those treated with DHA exhibited healthier cartilage characterized by thickened tissue and a decrease in degeneration when compared to the untreated OA group. We also noted an increase in collagen production, vital for maintaining joint structure. The biochemical analysis indicated that DHA potentially exerts its effects by inhibiting certain pathways associated with cell growth and stress responses, thus enhancing chondrocyte proliferation and survival.
Overall, our findings contribute valuable insights into how DHA can be leveraged as a therapeutic approach for OA, emphasizing its role in protecting and restoring cartilage health.
Read More
9
We observed a fascinating case involving a 22-year-old woman with juvenile idiopathic arthritis who was put on a very low calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD). This diet included high-biological-value protein preparations that featured docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid known for its potential health benefits.
The woman saw improvements in her overall weight and health after four months on this diet, including a noticeable reduction in joint pain and headaches. Laboratory tests indicated that her inflammatory markers returned to normal levels, suggesting that the dietary changes—including DHA—might have played a positive role in her experience.
However, it’s essential to note that while DHA is included in the treatment regimen, the isolated effect of DHA on her arthritis symptoms is challenging to determine definitively. This case highlights the potential benefits of dietary interventions for inflammatory conditions but also points to the need for further research to isolate the effects of specific dietary components like DHA.
The woman saw improvements in her overall weight and health after four months on this diet, including a noticeable reduction in joint pain and headaches. Laboratory tests indicated that her inflammatory markers returned to normal levels, suggesting that the dietary changes—including DHA—might have played a positive role in her experience.
However, it’s essential to note that while DHA is included in the treatment regimen, the isolated effect of DHA on her arthritis symptoms is challenging to determine definitively. This case highlights the potential benefits of dietary interventions for inflammatory conditions but also points to the need for further research to isolate the effects of specific dietary components like DHA.
Read More
8
Dietary Compliance and DHA Impact
We evaluated how well participants adhered to the dietary guidelines in the ADIRA trial, particularly focusing on the role of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in managing arthritis. The trial involved 50 patients with rheumatoid arthritis, who were assigned either to an intervention diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and seafood, or a control diet high in meat and dairy for ten weeks, before switching diets during a wash-out phase.
Our analysis included not only self-reported food intake through food records but also objective measures with dietary biomarkers. These biomarkers provided insights into the intake of key dietary components like seafood, which is rich in DHA. While the compliance to overall diet components, including seafood and the quality of fats, was generally good, the precise impact of DHA on arthritis symptoms wasn’t distinctly separate from other dietary factors.
Thus, although DHA is a known anti-inflammatory component, our findings did not clarify its isolated effect on arthritis, leaving some uncertainty about its individual benefits in this context. We did observe that while intake of certain foods improved, the participants were less compliant with fruit and vegetable recommendations, which is essential for a well-rounded anti-inflammatory diet.
Our analysis included not only self-reported food intake through food records but also objective measures with dietary biomarkers. These biomarkers provided insights into the intake of key dietary components like seafood, which is rich in DHA. While the compliance to overall diet components, including seafood and the quality of fats, was generally good, the precise impact of DHA on arthritis symptoms wasn’t distinctly separate from other dietary factors.
Thus, although DHA is a known anti-inflammatory component, our findings did not clarify its isolated effect on arthritis, leaving some uncertainty about its individual benefits in this context. We did observe that while intake of certain foods improved, the participants were less compliant with fruit and vegetable recommendations, which is essential for a well-rounded anti-inflammatory diet.
Read More
8
Fish oil aids arthritis inflammation
We conducted a study to see how over-the-counter fish oil supplements, specifically those rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), impacted individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) compared to those without the condition. By analyzing a diverse group of 104 participants—some taking the supplements and some not—we aimed to understand the role of omega-3 fatty acids in their health.
Our findings revealed that individuals taking fish oil supplements, regardless of having RA, had significantly higher blood levels of essential fatty acids like EPA and DHA. Moreover, they also showed elevated levels of certain specialized pro-resolving mediators, which are important for reducing inflammation. This suggests that taking fish oil may help both RA patients and healthy individuals enhance their stores of beneficial fatty acid metabolites.
Interestingly, the study demonstrated that patients with RA can benefit from the same fish oil supplementation as those without RA, potentially improving their inflammatory response through the increase of these key lipid mediators. This could be an encouraging advancement for those seeking natural ways to support their arthritis management.
Our findings revealed that individuals taking fish oil supplements, regardless of having RA, had significantly higher blood levels of essential fatty acids like EPA and DHA. Moreover, they also showed elevated levels of certain specialized pro-resolving mediators, which are important for reducing inflammation. This suggests that taking fish oil may help both RA patients and healthy individuals enhance their stores of beneficial fatty acid metabolites.
Interestingly, the study demonstrated that patients with RA can benefit from the same fish oil supplementation as those without RA, potentially improving their inflammatory response through the increase of these key lipid mediators. This could be an encouraging advancement for those seeking natural ways to support their arthritis management.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 2 Reviews
8.5
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Ankle pain reduced
5 people found this helpful
In reference to my recent purchase of Doctor's Best DHA 500 from Calamari 500mg: I was taking regular fish oil, but since using the Doctor's Best Calamari Gel Caps, I no longer have pain in my ankle from an old rodeo injury. The arthritis pain in my hands and fingers has also diminished. I really like Dr's Best DHA 500 Calamari. Thank you.
Read More
7.5
Improves hip pain
4 people found this helpful
Showing definite results. I have knee and hip arthritis, which is not uncommon at my age. I've relied on fish oil, aspirin, and exercise. I should be more active, which is part of the problem. Having used half of my first bottle of DHA, I can honestly say it's noticeably improving the pain in my hips and knees. My blood pressure has also dropped from 130 systolic to 120. Dr. Steven Sinatra speaks highly of DHA in his books; I recommend them, as well as his supplements, even though they can be pricey.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
No FAQs are available for this product and symptom.
References
- Gowler PRW, Arendt-Tranholm A, Turnbull J, Jha RR, Onion D, et al. Monocyte eukaryotic initiation factor 2 signaling differentiates 17-hydroxy-docosahexaenoic acid levels and pain. iScience. 2025;28:111862. doi:10.1016/j.isci.2025.111862
- Franks SJ, Gowler PRW, Dunster JL, Turnbull J, Gohir SA, et al. Modelling the role of enzymatic pathways in the metabolism of docosahexaenoic acid by monocytes and its association with osteoarthritic pain. Math Biosci. 2024;374:109228. doi:10.1016/j.mbs.2024.109228
- Su Y, Han Y, Choi HS, Lee GY, Cho HW, et al. Lipid mediators obtained from docosahexaenoic acid by soybean lipoxygenase attenuate RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation and rheumatoid arthritis. Biomed Pharmacother. 2024;171:116153. doi:10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116153
- Yu H, Gong Z, Wang G, Cao R, Yin H, et al. DHA attenuates cartilage degeneration by mediating apoptosis and autophagy in human chondrocytes and rat models of osteoarthritis. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim. 2023;59:455. doi:10.1007/s11626-023-00781-3
- Wadell AT, Bärebring L, Hulander E, Gjertsson I, Landberg R, et al. Dietary biomarkers and food records indicate compliance to study diets in the ADIRA (Anti-inflammatory Diet In Rheumatoid Arthritis) trial. Front Nutr. 2023;10:1209787. doi:10.3389/fnut.2023.1209787
- Léger T, Brun A, Lanchais K, Rigaudière JP, Briat A, et al. Docosahexaenoic acid and etanercept could reduce functional and metabolic alterations during collagen-induced arthritis in rats without any synergistic effect. Life Sci. 2023;327:121826. doi:10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121826
- Rondanelli M, Patelli Z, Gasparri C, Mansueto F, Ferraris C, et al. Very low calorie ketogenic diet and common rheumatic disorders: A case report. World J Clin Cases. 2023;11:1985. doi:10.12998/wjcc.v11.i9.1985
- Marchand NE, Choi MY, Oakes EG, Cook NR, Stevens E, et al. Over-the-counter fish oil supplementation and pro-resolving and pro-inflammatory lipid mediators in rheumatoid arthritis. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2023;190:102542. doi:10.1016/j.plefa.2023.102542
- Jeong M, Shin JI, Cho J, Jeon YJ, Kim JH, et al. DHA Induces Cell Death through the Production of ROS and the Upregulation of CHOP in Fibroblast-like Synovial Cells from Human Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24. doi:10.3390/ijms24021734
- Xie R, Zhang Y. Association between 19 dietary fatty acids intake and rheumatoid arthritis: Results of a nationwide survey. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2023;188:102530. doi:10.1016/j.plefa.2022.102530
- Feng L, Yang Z, Li Y, Hou N, Yang B, et al. Malat1 attenuated the rescuing effects of docosahexaenoic acid on osteoarthritis treatment via repressing its chondroprotective and chondrogenesis activities. Biomed Pharmacother. 2022;154:113608. doi:10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113608
- Oppedisano F, Bulotta RM, Maiuolo J, Gliozzi M, Musolino V, et al. The Role of Nutraceuticals in Osteoarthritis Prevention and Treatment: Focus on n-3 PUFAs. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2021;2021:4878562. doi:10.1155/2021/4878562
- Chang CK, Chen PK, Chen CC, Chang SH, Chen CH, et al. Increased Levels of Omega-3 Fatty Acids and DHA Are Linked to Pain Reduction in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Treated with Janus Kinase Inhibitors. Nutrients. 2021;13. doi:10.3390/nu13093050
- Christmann U, Hancock CL, Poole CM, Emery AL, Poovey JR, et al. Dynamics of DHA and EPA supplementation: incorporation into equine plasma, synovial fluid, and surfactant glycerophosphocholines. Metabolomics. 2021;17:41. doi:10.1007/s11306-021-01792-5
